Worksheet Solutions: Paths to Modernisation | History Class 11 - Humanities/Arts PDF Download

Fill in the Blanks

Q1: Japan's physical landscape is characterized by over 50% of mountainous terrain and its location in an active earthquake zone. There is no major ______________ system.
Ans: river system
The text mentions that Japan lacks a major river system, and more than 50% of the land area is mountainous, making rivers less prominent in the geography.

Q2: The Meiji government imposed a new administrative structure by altering old village and domain boundaries to integrate the nation, effectively abolishing ______________.
Ans: feudalism
The Meiji government's administrative reforms involved changing old village and domain boundaries and essentially abolishing the feudal system, as stated in the text.

Q3: The ______________ movement was launched in China in 1958 to galvanize the country to industrialize rapidly.
Ans: Great Leap Forward
The text highlights that the Great Leap Forward was a policy to rapidly industrialize China, which matches the provided answer.

Q4: The Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution led to a period of turmoil in China, weakening the Communist Party and severely disrupting the economy and educational system. This period emphasized ______________ over professional knowledge.
Ans: ideology
The Cultural Revolution, as mentioned in the text, emphasized ideology over professional knowledge, causing turmoil and disruption.

Q5: Deng Xiaoping introduced a socialist market economy in China in 1978 and declared the goal of the Four Modernizations in the areas of science, industry, agriculture, and defense. The Fifth Modernization advocated for ______________.
Ans: Democracy
The text mentions that the Fifth Modernization was Democracy, highlighting the emphasis on political reform alongside economic and technological advancement.

Q6: Taiwan was a Japanese colony until the end of World War II. The ______________ Declaration in 1943 and the ______________ Proclamation in 1949 restored sovereignty to China over Taiwan.
Ans: Cairo Declaration, Potsdam Proclamation
The Cairo Declaration and Potsdam Proclamation played a role in transferring sovereignty over Taiwan back to China, as indicated in the text.

Q7: Japan's physical landscape is characterized by over 50% of mountainous terrain and its location in an active earthquake zone. There is no major ______________ system.
Ans: river system
This is a repeated statement from the first question. Japan's geography, as mentioned in the text, lacks a major river system.

Q8: The Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution in China was initiated in 1965 and led by ______________.
Ans: Mao Zedong
The text states that the Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution was led by Mao Zedong, confirming the answer.

Match the Column

Q1: Match the elements from the left column with the correct descriptions in the right column.

Ans: 1. Meiji Restoration - B. Chinese Communist Party leader who organized peasants during the Japanese colonization.
This matches Mao Zedong's role in organizing peasants during the Japanese colonization.
2. Zaibatsu - D. Large business families that dominated the Japanese economy.
Zaibatsu refers to these large business families, as mentioned in the text.
3. Guomindang - H. A major CCP leader who based his revolutionary program on the peasantry.
This matches Mao Zedong's role in basing his program on the peasantry.
4. New Democracy - G. The alliance of all social classes under the People's Republic of China.
New Democracy in the context of China refers to the alliance of all social classes, as stated in the text.
5. Mao Zedong - C. Movement to establish a democratic government and regulate capital in China.
This matches Sun Yat-sen's role in advocating for democratic government and regulating capital.
6. Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution - E. A period of turmoil in China, emphasizing ideology over professional knowledge.
The Cultural Revolution emphasized ideology over professional knowledge and caused turmoil, as mentioned in the text.
7. Chiang Kai-shek - A. Movement to end age-old inequalities and dispel foreigners in China.
Chiang Kai-shek was a part of the movement to end age-old inequalities and dispel foreigners.
8. New Democracy - F. Japanese government's policy with the slogan 'rich country, strong army' to develop the economy and build a strong army.
New Democracy in the context of China is not related to Japan's policy of 'rich country, strong army,' so this does not match.

Assertion and Reason Based

Q1: Assertion: The Meiji Restoration is considered one of the most significant events in Japanese history.
Reason: It marked the beginning of Japan's transformation into a modern, industrialized nation.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but the Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but the Reason is true.
Ans: (a)
The Meiji Restoration is indeed a significant event in Japanese history, and it marked the beginning of Japan's transformation into a modern, industrialized nation. The Reason correctly explains the Assertion.

Q2: Assertion: The Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution in China had a lasting impact on the country.
Reason: It emphasized the importance of professional knowledge and expertise.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but the Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but the Reason is true.
Ans: (b)
The Cultural Revolution did have a lasting impact on China, but it did not emphasize professional knowledge and expertise; instead, it emphasized ideology and led to turmoil.

Q3: Assertion: Taiwan transformed into a democracy after the death of Chiang Kai-shek.
Reason: Chiang Kai-shek's repressive government forbade political opposition.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but the Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but the Reason is true.
Ans: (a)
Taiwan did transform into a democracy after Chiang Kai-shek's death, and his repressive government's actions are a correct reason for this transformation.

Q4: Assertion: The Japanese government's Meiji Reforms included constitutional changes.
Reason: The Meiji Constitution established a Diet and declared the emperor as the commander of the forces.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but the Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but the Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but the Reason is true.
Ans: (a)
The Meiji Reforms did include constitutional changes, and the Reason correctly explains that the Meiji Constitution established a Diet and declared the emperor as the commander of the forces.

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: Explain the significance of the Meiji Restoration in Japan in one sentence.
Ans: The Meiji Restoration in Japan marked the beginning of Japan's transformation into a modern, industrialized nation. It involved a series of reforms and modernization efforts.

Q2: What were the Four Modernizations introduced in China in 1978?
Ans: The Four Modernizations introduced in China in 1978 encompassed science, industry, agriculture, and defense. Additionally, the Fifth Modernization advocated for Democracy.

Q3: Briefly describe the key features of the Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution in China.
Ans: The Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution in China caused turmoil, emphasizing ideology over professional knowledge. It disrupted society, the economy, and education.

Q4: Who was Sun Yat-sen, and what were his Three Principles?
Ans: Sun Yat-sen was a prominent figure in China who advocated for the Three Principles: nationalism, democracy, and socialism. He aimed to overthrow foreign imperialists and establish a democratic government.

Q5: What are Zaibatsu in the context of Japan's history?
Ans: Zaibatsu in the context of Japan's history refers to large business families that dominated the Japanese economy.

Q6: How did Taiwan transform into a democracy?
Ans: Taiwan transformed into a democracy after the death of Chiang Kai-shek, as his repressive government forbidding political opposition came to an end.

Q7: Name the core principles of Sun Yat-sen's political philosophy.
Ans: Sun Yat-sen's political philosophy was based on the Four Great Needs: clothing, food, housing, and transportation, aimed at addressing the basic necessities of the people.

Q8: What was the significance of the Meiji Reforms in Japan's modernization?
Ans: The Meiji Reforms in Japan had significant significance in modernizing the country by introducing administrative, economic, industrial, agricultural, and constitutional reforms.

Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: Explain the key factors that contributed to Japan's successful modernization process during the Meiji period.
Ans: Japan's successful modernization during the Meiji period was attributed to several key factors:

• Political Reforms: The Meiji government introduced significant political changes. The imperial court regained power, centralizing authority and replacing the shogunate. A new constitution was established, creating a Diet and declaring the emperor as the commander of the forces.
• Economic Reforms: Japan's modernization involved the modernization of its economy. The government built railways, introduced modern banking institutions, and imported textile machinery. The zaibatsu, large business families, dominated the economy, contributing to industrial growth.
• Industrial Reforms: Textile machinery was imported from Europe, and foreign technicians were employed to train workers. This led to the growth of the manufacturing sector. Over half of those employed in modern factories were women, and the size of factories increased.
• Agricultural Reforms: Agricultural reforms included raising funds through an agricultural tax, and land surveys were conducted to identify owners and taxpayers. These reforms ensured a stable revenue base.
• Constitutional Reforms: The Meiji Constitution established a Diet and declared the emperor as the commander of the forces, contributing to the political modernization of Japan.

Q2: Discuss the main differences between the paths to modernization taken by Japan and China in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Ans: Japan and China followed different paths to modernization:

• Japan: Japan's modernization was marked by a strong central government, the Meiji government, that played a pivotal role in steering the nation toward modernity. Japan retained its independence and embraced Western ideas while preserving its traditional culture. Japan succeeded in building a modern, industrialized nation with political, economic, and societal reforms.
• China: China's path to modernization was characterized by challenges, including foreign imperialism, internal strife, and the struggle for sovereignty. The Qing dynasty's weakness and foreign intervention posed obstacles. Various movements and parties, such as the Guomindang and the Communist Party, played pivotal roles in China's evolution. The Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution brought significant social upheaval and ideological shifts.

Q3: Describe the major objectives and outcomes of the Great Leap Forward movement in China.
Ans: The Great Leap Forward, launched in 1958, aimed to galvanize China to industrialize rapidly and increase agricultural productivity. Its major objectives included:

• Rapid Industrialization: The movement aimed to accelerate industrialization through the establishment of small-scale, decentralized backyard furnaces for steel production.
• Agricultural Collectivization: It sought to collectivize agriculture, encouraging communes where land and labor were pooled for increased productivity.

The outcomes were mixed and included severe consequences:

• Economic Setbacks: Backyard steel production proved impractical and unusable for industrial purposes, leading to economic setbacks.
• Famine and Human Losses: The Great Leap Forward contributed to widespread food shortages and famine, resulting in significant human losses.
• Social Disruption: The movement disrupted society and the lives of ordinary citizens. The focus on ideology over expertise caused societal upheaval.

Q4: Compare and contrast the roles of Sun Yat-sen and Chiang Kai-shek in the Guomindang and China's political landscape.
Ans:

• Sun Yat-sen: Sun Yat-sen was a prominent figure in China's political landscape. He advocated for the Three Principles: nationalism, democracy, and socialism. His role was instrumental in popularizing Chinese nationalism, and he aimed to overthrow foreign imperialists, establish a democratic government, and regulate capital.
• Chiang Kai-shek: Chiang Kai-shek emerged as the leader of the Guomindang after Sun Yat-sen's death. He launched military campaigns to control regional warlords and eliminate the communists. Chiang promoted a secular and rational Confucianism, advocating for women's roles confined to the household.

Comparison: Both Sun Yat-sen and Chiang Kai-shek were associated with the Guomindang and aimed to unite China against foreign influence.
Contrast: Sun Yat-sen focused on democratic principles and nationalism, while Chiang Kai-shek emphasized military campaigns and traditional Confucian values.

Q5: Explain how Deng Xiaoping's economic reforms transformed China's economy and what the Five Modernizations referred to.
Ans: Deng Xiaoping's economic reforms transformed China's economy by introducing a socialist market economy.
The Five Modernizations referred to a set of goals:

• Science: Advancing scientific research and technological development.
• Industry: Modernizing industrial production and infrastructure.
• Agriculture: Increasing agricultural productivity and land reforms.
• National Defense: Strengthening China's defense capabilities.
• Democracy: Promoting political reform alongside economic modernization.

These reforms aimed to shift China toward a more pragmatic, market-oriented approach while maintaining political control. Deng's policies encouraged foreign investment, entrepreneurship, and the development of a market economy, leading to significant economic growth and modernization in China.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q1: Compare and contrast the Meiji Restoration in Japan and the establishment of the People's Republic of China regarding their political, economic, and social transformations. Highlight the key differences and similarities between these two historical events.
Ans: Meiji Restoration in Japan vs. Establishment of the People's Republic of China:

• Political Transformation:
  • Japan: The Meiji Restoration led to the centralization of power, replacing the shogunate with the emperor as the symbol of authority. A new constitutional framework was established.
  • China: The establishment of the People's Republic of China marked the end of the Qing dynasty, shifting from imperial rule to a communist regime led by the Chinese Communist Party.
• Economic Reforms:
  • Japan: Japan introduced modern banking, railway systems, and industrialization. The zaibatsu dominated the economy.
  • China: Economic reforms in China involved land redistribution, collectivization, and later, the introduction of a socialist market economy by Deng Xiaoping.
• Social Changes:
  • Japan: Japan's modernization saw a shift from a feudal society to a more centralized nation. It embraced Western ideas while preserving traditional culture.
  • China: The Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution in China brought about significant social upheaval and ideological shifts.

Q2: Analyze the role and impact of the Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution in China, including its consequences for the Chinese society, economy, and political landscape. Discuss the reasons behind its initiation and its lasting effects on China.
Ans: Impact of the Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution in China:

• Reasons for Initiation:
  • The Cultural Revolution was initiated in 1965 by Mao Zedong to reinforce ideological purity, suppress potential rivals, and regain his political authority.
  • It aimed to eliminate traditional customs, habits, and promote Maoist ideology.
• Societal Impact:
  • The movement created significant turmoil, as people were encouraged to denounce perceived enemies. Intellectuals, professionals, and artists faced persecution.
  • Education was disrupted, and schools were closed as students were sent to the countryside.
• Economic Impact:
  • Economic activity suffered due to the focus on ideology over expertise. Backyard steel production was impractical and led to economic setbacks.
  • The disruption caused economic hardships for ordinary citizens.
• Political Impact:
  • The Communist Party and the government weakened as factions formed and loyalty to Mao became the focus.
  • The Cultural Revolution's legacy left a profound impact on Chinese politics and society, leading to a more cautious approach to ideological movements.
  • Post-Cultural Revolution, the Party aimed to rebuild the economy and stabilize society.

The Cultural Revolution's effects were long-lasting, with China eventually transitioning to more pragmatic economic and political policies under Deng Xiaoping.