Class 7 History Chapter 4 Question Answers - The Mughal Empire

Short Answer Questions

Q1: Who were the famous ancestors of the Mughals?
Ans: The Mughals traced their ancestry to Genghis Khan on their mother's side and Timur on their father's side.

Q2: What was the turning point that inspired Babur's expedition to India?
Ans: Babur's capture of Kabul in 1504 CE made him aware of India's fabulous wealth, inspiring his expedition.

Q3: What challenges did Humayun face after becoming the Mughal emperor?
Ans: Humayun faced hostility from the Afghans, notably Sher Shah Suri and Bahadur Shah, the ruler of Gujarat.

Q4: Who defeated Humayun in the battles of Chausa and Kannauj, and what were the consequences?
Ans: Sher Shah Suri defeated Humayun in both battles, which forced Humayun to flee to Persia.

Q5: Who was Akbar's regent when he became the emperor, and what is the significance of Hemu in his reign?
Ans: Bairam Khan was Akbar's regent. Hemu briefly took control of Delhi and Agra, but he was defeated by Bairam Khan in the Second Battle of Panipat.

Q6: What was Akbar's approach to the Rajputs, and why was it important for him?
Ans: Akbar pursued matrimonial alliances with the Rajputs, gave them high posts, and didn't interfere in their internal matters. This was important for building unity and support in his empire.

Q7: Explain Akbar's policy of 'sulh-i-kul.'
Ans: Akbar's 'sulh-i-kul' policy aimed for universal peace and religious tolerance. It included abolishing taxes on non-Muslims and promoting Hindu-Muslim unity.

Q8: Who was the builder of the Taj Mahal, and what were some of the major developments during his reign?
Ans: Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal. His reign saw the expansion of the Mughal Empire, European visitors, and significant architectural and artistic achievements.

Q9: What was unique about Aurangzeb's reign in terms of the Mughal Empire's territorial extent?
Ans: Under Aurangzeb, the Mughal Empire reached its zenith and covered almost the entire Indian subcontinent.

Q10: Describe the central features of the Mughal administration during this period.
Ans: The Mughal administration was centralized, with the emperor holding absolute power. It included the mansabdari system, provincial administration, and revenue collection.

Long Answer Questions

Q1: Explain the role of Babur in founding the Mughal Empire in India.
Ans: Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, captured Delhi in the First Battle of Panipat in 1526 CE. He further strengthened his rule by defeating Rana Sanga and expanding his territory. His rule marked the beginning of the Mughal dynasty in India.

Q2: Discuss the challenges faced by Humayun after ascending the throne and how he ultimately regained power.
Ans: Humayun faced hostility from Afghan rulers, including Sher Shah Suri. After a series of defeats, he sought refuge in Persia. With the help of Persian forces, he recaptured Delhi and Agra, ultimately regaining power.

Q3: Describe Akbar's policy of 'sulh-i-kul' and its significance in the context of religious tolerance.
Ans: Akbar's 'sulh-i-kul' policy aimed to promote universal peace and religious tolerance. It included abolishing taxes on non-Muslims, fostering Hindu-Muslim unity, and welcoming scholars from various religions for discussions. This policy was significant in creating an atmosphere of religious harmony in the empire.

Q4: Explain how Akbar strengthened his relations with the Rajputs and why this was important for his rule.
Ans: Akbar pursued matrimonial alliances, appointed Rajput chiefs to high posts, and followed a policy of non-interference in the Rajput states. This was crucial for gaining Rajput support and unity, ultimately strengthening his rule.

Q5: Discuss the major developments and achievements during Shah Jahan's reign, focusing on his role as a patron of art and architecture.
Ans: Shah Jahan expanded the empire, welcomed European visitors, and promoted art and architecture. His most famous achievement is the construction of the Taj Mahal in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, which exemplifies his role as a patron of art.

Q6: Explain the central features of the Mughal administration during this period, including the role of the emperor and the mansabdari system.
Ans: The Mughal administration was centralized, with the emperor holding absolute power. The mansabdari system was introduced to organize the ranks and responsibilities of military and administrative officials. The emperor was the chief authority, and provincial governance was carried out through appointed subahdars. Revenue collection was vital for the empire.