UPSC Mains Answer PYQ 2023: History Paper 2 (Section- A) | History Optional for UPSC (Notes) PDF Download

Section - A

Q1: Critically examine the following statements in about 150 words each:  (10x5=50)
(a) “Colonialism had a twisted logic of its own for commercialization. It emerges on analysis to have been often an artificial and forced process.”   (10 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
Colonialism, as a system of exploitation and dominance, had a complex and often coercive approach to commercialization. The economic agenda of colonial powers was driven by their own interests, often at the expense of indigenous economies.

Twisted Logic of Colonial Commercialization:

1. Forced Monoculture and Plantation Economy:

• Example - Indigo Cultivation: The British compelled Indian farmers to grow indigo for export, even though it was detrimental to local agriculture. This was a clear instance of the forced restructuring of the agrarian economy.

2. Dismantling Traditional Industries:

• Example - Indian Textile Industry: The flourishing Indian textile industry, known for its quality and diversity, was deliberately undermined by British policies like the imposition of tariffs on Indian textiles, leading to deindustrialization.

3. Imposition of Heavy Taxation:

• Example - Land Revenue Policies: The British introduced exploitative revenue systems like the Permanent Settlement in Bengal, which imposed exorbitant land taxes, often leading to impoverishment of farmers.

4. Suppression of Indigenous Trade Practices:

• Example - Destruction of Indian Maritime Trade: The British systematically dismantled Indian maritime trade networks, causing a decline in traditional trading practices and the rise of exploitative colonial trade.

5. Disruption of Socio-Economic Structures:

• Example - Zamindari System: The introduction of the Zamindari system resulted in the concentration of landownership in the hands of intermediaries, often leading to tenant exploitation and economic distress.

Conclusion: 
The process of commercialization under colonialism was driven by the interests of the colonizers, often resulting in the artificial restructuring of indigenous economies to serve colonial needs. This led to long-lasting economic repercussions for the colonized nations.

(b) After 1857, “the peasants emerged as the main force in agrarian movements.”  (10 Marks)
Ans:
Introduction: 
The aftermath of the Indian Rebellion of 1857 witnessed significant agrarian unrest across India. Peasants emerged as a formidable force in these movements, driven by their grievances against oppressive colonial policies.

Role of Peasants in Agrarian Movements:

1. Impact of Economic Exploitation:

• Heavy Taxation and Revenue Demands: The burdensome revenue demands imposed by the British, coupled with exploitative taxation, directly affected the economic well-being of peasants.

2. Resistance against Land Revenue Policies:

• Opposition to Zamindari System: The imposition of the Zamindari system led to widespread discontent among peasants, as it often resulted in exorbitant land taxes and tenant exploitation.

3. Protest against Indigo Cultivation:

• Indigo Revolt (1859-60): Peasants in Bengal rose against the forced cultivation of indigo, which was detrimental to their livelihoods. This revolt symbolized peasant resistance to colonial economic policies.

4. Struggles for Land Rights:

• Santhal Uprising (1855-56): The Santhal community in Bihar and Bengal revolted against land alienation by moneylenders and landlords, demanding land rights.

5. Leadership by Peasant Leaders:

• Leaders like Baba Ramchandra: Figures like Baba Ramchandra in the Deccan played a crucial role in mobilizing peasants and leading agrarian movements against oppressive policies.

Conclusion: 
Peasants played a pivotal role in the agrarian movements that followed the 1857 Rebellion. Their resistance was driven by economic grievances and a desire for land rights, making them a formidable force against colonial exploitation.

(c) “Awakened political consciousness of Indian masses, bound with dishonourable and cowardly insults of the British led to the movement of Non-Cooperation.” (10 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
The Non-Cooperation Movement, initiated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920, was a significant phase in India's struggle for independence. It was motivated by a combination of factors, including the awakening of political consciousness and British acts of disrespect.

Awakening of Political Consciousness:

• Impact of World Events: Post-World War I Scenario: The aftermath of World War I led to a global awakening of nationalistic sentiments, which influenced India's political landscape.

• Discontent with Rowlatt Act: Rowlatt Act (1919): The repressive Rowlatt Act, which allowed detention without trial, sparked widespread discontent and fueled the demand for political rights.

British Acts of Dishonour and Insult:

• Jallianwala Bagh Massacre: April 13, 1919: The brutal massacre of hundreds of unarmed civilians in Amritsar by British troops deeply outraged the Indian populace, leading to widespread protests.

• Khilafat Movement: Solidarity with Khilafat: The Khilafat Movement, a pan-Islamic movement against the dismantling of the Ottoman Caliphate, provided a platform for Muslims to join the non-cooperation movement in solidarity.

• Boycott of British Institutions: Return of Titles: Indians, in a symbolic act of protest, renounced titles and honors bestowed by the British government.

Conclusion: 
The Non-Cooperation Movement was a pivotal phase in India's struggle for independence. It was fueled by the awakening of political consciousness among the masses, coupled with acts of disrespect and brutality by the British. This movement marked a turning point in India's fight for self-determination.

(d) When Gandhiji launched the Civil Disobedience Movement he was “desperately in search of an effective formula.”  (10 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
The Civil Disobedience Movement, launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930, was a significant step in India's struggle for independence. It represented Gandhi's evolving strategies and a search for an effective formula to mobilize the masses.

Factors Influencing the Civil Disobedience Movement:

• Impact of Previous Movements: Non-Cooperation and Khilafat Movements: The experiences and lessons learned from earlier movements played a crucial role in shaping Gandhi's approach.

• Desire for Mass Participation: Inclusivity and Mass Mobilization: Gandhi aimed to involve a broader section of society, including women and peasants, in the movement.

• Targeting Salt Monopoly: Salt March (Dandi March): Gandhi's march to the Arabian Sea to produce salt symbolized nonviolent defiance against an unjust British salt tax, resonating with the masses.

• Emphasis on Constructive Work: Promotion of Khadi and Village Industries: Gandhi's emphasis on self-reliance through khadi (hand-spun cloth) and village industries aimed to empower local communities.

• Nonviolence and Satyagraha: Commitment to Nonviolent Resistance: Gandhi's unwavering commitment to nonviolence and satyagraha (truth-force) remained central to his strategy.

Outcome and Legacy:

• Partial Success and Broader Impact: While the Civil Disobedience Movement did not immediately achieve its objectives, it had a profound impact on India's political landscape and contributed to the eventual attainment of independence.

Conclusion: 
The Civil Disobedience Movement exemplified Gandhi's continuous search for an effective formula in India's struggle for independence. His strategic innovations, emphasis on mass participation, and commitment to nonviolence played a crucial role in shaping the movement's impact and legacy.

(e) “If abdication of British responsibility at the time of transfer of power was callous, the speed with which it was done made it worse.” (10 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
The process of transferring power from British colonial rule to independent India was marked by what some critics consider a hasty and callous abdication of British responsibility.

Factors Leading to Abdication:

• Post-World War II Realities: Exhaustion from World War II: The economic and political toll of World War II weakened Britain's capacity to maintain its colonial possessions.

• Global Anti-Colonial Sentiment: Rise of Anti-Colonial Movements: The global anti-colonial sentiment, coupled with movements for independence across colonies, exerted pressure on Britain to decolonize.

• Labour Government's Policy Shift: Atlee's Government (1945-1951): The Labour government in Britain, under Prime Minister Clement Atlee, adopted a policy of decolonization and recognized the need for granting independence to colonies.

Speed and Challenges of Transfer:

• Partition and Communal Riots: Complexity of Partition: The partition of India in 1947 was a hastily executed process, leading to widespread violence, displacement, and communal tensions.

• Incomplete Institutional Framework: Lack of Preparedness: India's administrative and political institutions were not adequately prepared to take over governance, leading to challenges in the initial years.

• Legacy of Divide and Rule: Long-Term Impact: The British policy of divide and rule left a legacy of communal tensions, which continued to pose challenges even after independence.

Conclusion: 
While the abdication of British responsibility in transferring power was driven by various geopolitical and domestic factors, the speed at which it was executed had profound consequences. The partition and its aftermath, along with the challenges faced by the newly independent India, highlight the complexities and repercussions of decolonization.

Q2:
(a) The Carnatic Wars, the Anglo-Mysore Wars and the Anglo-Maratha Wars had virtually eliminated the French from the contest of supremacy in South India. Discuss.  (20 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
The Carnatic Wars, Anglo-Mysore Wars, and Anglo-Maratha Wars were pivotal conflicts that significantly weakened French influence in South India. These wars reshaped the power dynamics in the region, ultimately diminishing the French presence.

Factors Leading to French Decline:

1. Carnatic Wars (1746-1763):

   • Conflict for Carnatic Supremacy: The Carnatic Wars were a series of conflicts primarily between the British East India Company and the French East India Company for control over the Carnatic region.
   • British Ascendancy: The British emerged victorious, gaining territorial and political dominance in the Carnatic, thereby reducing French influence.

2. Anglo-Mysore Wars (1767-1799):

   • Clash with Tipu Sultan: The Anglo-Mysore Wars were a series of conflicts between the British and the Kingdom of Mysore, ruled by Tipu Sultan.
   • French Support to Tipu Sultan: While the French provided limited support to Tipu Sultan, their involvement was not enough to counter the combined strength of the British and their allies.

3. Anglo-Maratha Wars (1775-1818):

   • Conflicts with Maratha Confederacy: The Anglo-Maratha Wars were a series of conflicts between the British East India Company and the Maratha Empire.
   • Diminished French Influence: The Marathas' defeat in these wars also weakened the French, as they had earlier sought to establish alliances with Maratha factions.

Outcome:

1. Loss of Key Territories: The French gradually lost control of strategic territories in South India, including Pondicherry, Mahe, and Karaikal.

2. Treaty of Paris (1814): The Treaty of Paris in 1814 confirmed the British control over various French-held Indian territories, solidifying their dominance in the region.

Conclusion: The series of conflicts, including the Carnatic Wars, Anglo-Mysore Wars, and Anglo-Maratha Wars, culminated in the decline of French influence in South India. These wars reshaped the geopolitical landscape and consolidated British dominance in the Indian subcontinent.

(b)  While introducing the Indian Councils Bill of 1861, the British thought that the only Government suitable for India ‘is a despotism controlled from home’. Comment.   (20 Marks)
Ans:
Introduction: 
The Indian Councils Act of 1861 was a significant legislative move by the British to centralize power and establish a form of controlled despotism in the governance of India.

Key Elements of the Act:

• Introduction of Legislative Councils: The Act expanded the powers of the Governor-General's Executive Council by including non-official, nominated members. However, the majority of members were still appointed by the British Crown.

• Limited Legislative Authority: While the Act introduced limited legislative functions, the final authority still rested with the Governor-General and the British authorities.

British Perspective on Despotism:

• Need for Centralized Control: The British believed that a centralized and authoritative form of government was necessary to manage the complex and diverse Indian society.

• Assertion of Imperial Supremacy: They saw India as a vast and diverse territory that required firm control from the imperial center to maintain order and extract resources.

• Perception of British Superiority: The notion of 'despotism controlled from home' reflected a paternalistic view of British superiority, assuming that the Indian populace needed strong guidance from their colonial masters.

Impact and Legacy:

• Limited Representation: The Act provided a semblance of representation but maintained a top-down power structure with ultimate authority resting in British hands.

• Frustration and Growing Dissent: The Act led to growing discontent among Indian leaders who sought a more meaningful role in governance, eventually fueling the demand for greater political rights.

Conclusion: 
The British introduction of the Indian Councils Act of 1861 reflected their belief in a form of controlled despotism, where ultimate authority remained firmly in British hands. This approach to governance laid the groundwork for growing Indian discontent and the eventual demand for self-rule.

(c) The root of the whole question behind the Indigo Revolt ‘is the struggle to make the raiyats grow indigo plants without paying them the price of it’. Analyse.   (10 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
The Indigo Revolt (1859-1860) was a significant peasant uprising against the oppressive system of indigo cultivation imposed by British planters in Bengal. At its core, the revolt was a struggle for the rights and livelihoods of the raiyats (peasant cultivators).

Key Elements of the Indigo System:

• Indigo Cultivation as a Cash Crop: British planters promoted indigo cultivation as a cash crop, given its demand in the global market for dyeing textiles.

• Coercive Contracts: Planters imposed exploitative contracts on raiyats, compelling them to cultivate indigo on a significant portion of their land.

• Forced Labor and Low Payment: Raiyats were often subjected to coercive methods, including forced labor (tied labor) and low payments for their indigo crops.

Root Cause:

• Economic Exploitation: The British planters sought to maximize their profits by compelling raiyats to grow indigo without providing fair compensation, leading to economic hardship for the peasantry.

• Lack of Agency for Raiyats: Raiyats had little to no say in the choice of crops they cultivated, as they were forced into contracts that favored the planters.

Revolt and Resistance:

• Organized Opposition: The raiyats organized themselves under leaders like Dinabandhu Mitra and protested against the oppressive indigo system.

• Boycott and Non-Cooperation: Raiyats boycotted indigo cultivation and engaged in acts of non-cooperation to resist the coercive practices of the planters.

Impact and Legacy:

• Abolition of Indigo Cultivation: The Indigo Revolt drew widespread attention and led to the eventual decline of indigo cultivation in Bengal, as British authorities were forced to intervene.

• Empowerment of Peasant Movements: The revolt served as an inspiration for future peasant movements in India, highlighting the collective strength of the marginalized against exploitative practices.

Conclusion: 
The Indigo Revolt was a seminal moment in the struggle for the rights of Indian peasants. It exposed the exploitative practices of British planters and paved the way for future agrarian movements, emphasizing the importance of fair and just agricultural practices.

Q3:
(a) Do you agree that ‘the decline of traditional Indian artisan production was a fact, sad but inevitable’ ? Discuss.   (20 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
The decline of traditional Indian artisan production was a multifaceted process that unfolded during the colonial period. While it brought about significant changes, it is essential to analyze whether it was an inevitable outcome.

Factors Leading to Decline:

1. Impact of Colonial Economic Policies:

• British Economic Exploitation: British policies, such as deindustrialization, imposition of tariffs, and dismantling of indigenous industries, severely affected traditional artisans.

2. Technological Advancements:

• Introduction of Machinery: The advent of industrialization and the introduction of modern machinery gave rise to factory-based production, which outpaced the traditional artisanal methods.

3. Market Dominance of Machine-Produced Goods:

• Mass Production and Standardization: Machine-produced goods offered uniformity, volume, and cost-effectiveness, which traditional artisans struggled to match.

Sad but Inevitable Outcome:

• Displacement and Economic Hardship: Traditional artisans faced economic hardships and often had to abandon their crafts as they couldn't compete with mass-produced goods.

• Adaptation or Extinction: Some artisans managed to adapt to new technologies and markets, but many traditional crafts faced the risk of extinction.

Counterarguments - Potential Preservation:

• Revival of Handicrafts Movements: The 19th and 20th centuries saw efforts to revive traditional crafts through movements like the Arts and Crafts Movement and the Swadeshi Movement.

• Resilience of Artisan Communities: In certain regions, artisan communities managed to sustain their crafts by producing unique, high-quality goods that catered to niche markets.

Conclusion: 
While the decline of traditional Indian artisan production was a significant and widespread phenomenon, it is not entirely accurate to deem it as inevitable. Efforts to revive and sustain traditional crafts demonstrate that, with the right support and conditions, some forms of artisan production could have persisted alongside modern industrialization.

(b) The historical significance of tribal and peasant uprisings in India ‘lies in that they established strong and valuable traditions of resistance to British rule’. Discuss.   (20 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
Tribal and peasant uprisings played a crucial role in India's struggle against British colonial rule. Their significance lies not only in their immediate impact but also in the enduring legacy of resistance they established.

Establishment of Traditions of Resistance:

• Challenges to Colonial Authority: Uprisings like the Santhal Rebellion (1855-1856) and the Munda Ulgulan (The Great Uprising) (1899-1900) challenged British dominance in tribal regions.

• Peasant Movements and Land Rights: Movements like the Deccan Riots (1875-1877) and the Bardoli Satyagraha (1928) addressed agrarian issues, highlighting the struggles for land rights and fair treatment of peasants.

Legacy of Resistance:

• Inspiration for Later Movements: The sacrifices and determination of these uprisings inspired subsequent generations of freedom fighters and social reformers.

• Formation of Political Consciousness: These movements contributed to the political awakening of the Indian masses, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose against colonial oppression.

Shift in British Policies:

• Policy Revisions: In response to these uprisings, the British administration was compelled to reevaluate certain policies, leading to concessions in some cases.

• Rise of Indian Leadership: The uprisings provided platforms for emerging Indian leaders, helping them gain prominence in the national struggle for independence.

Conclusion: 
Tribal and peasant uprisings in India were not only localized acts of resistance but also foundational events that shaped the course of India's struggle against British rule. Their legacy continues to be celebrated as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Indian people in their fight for freedom.

(c) To accomplish the aims of education, ‘political propaganda and formation as well as propagation of nationalist ideology’, the press became the chief instrument. Comment.   (10 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
During the colonial period, the press emerged as a powerful tool for education, political propaganda, and the dissemination of nationalist ideology among the Indian populace.

Role of Press in Education:

• Dissemination of Knowledge: Newspapers and journals became mediums for spreading knowledge on a wide range of subjects, from politics and governance to literature and social issues.

• Literacy Promotion: The availability of printed materials encouraged literacy, enabling a broader section of society to access information and ideas.

Political Propaganda and Formation:

• Fostering Political Awareness: Nationalist newspapers like 'Bengal Gazette' and 'The Hindu' played a pivotal role in fostering political consciousness among Indians, highlighting the injustices of colonial rule.

• Exposing British Exploitation: The press served as a platform to expose the exploitative policies of the British government, galvanizing public opinion against colonial oppression.

Propagation of Nationalist Ideology:

• Advocacy for Swadeshi and Boycott Movements: Newspapers promoted the Swadeshi and Boycott movements, advocating for the use of indigenous products and non-cooperation with British goods.

• Mobilizing Masses: The press provided a means to mobilize the masses, disseminating nationalist ideals and rallying public support for the freedom struggle.

Legacy and Impact:

• Continued Role in Independent India: Post-independence, the press retained its significance as a vehicle for education, political discourse, and the propagation of democratic values.

• Shaping Political Narratives: The press continues to play a critical role in shaping public opinion and influencing political debates in contemporary India.

Conclusion: 
The press was indeed the chief instrument for education and the propagation of nationalist ideology during the colonial period. It played a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual and political landscape of India, ultimately contributing to the nation's struggle for independence.

Q4:
(a) The universalist perspective of socio-religious reform movements was not a ‘purely philosophic concern; it strongly influenced the political and social outlook of the time’. Examine.  (20 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
Socio-religious reform movements in 19th and early 20th century India aimed to challenge regressive practices and promote social equality. The universalist perspective, which emphasized the unity of humanity beyond religious boundaries, had a profound impact not only on philosophy but also on the political and social fabric of the time.

Influence on Political and Social Outlook:

1. Caste Eradication and Social Equality:

   • Reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Jyotirao Phule advocated for the abolition of caste distinctions and promoted the idea of universal human dignity.

2. Women’s Rights and Empowerment:

   • Leaders like Pandita Ramabai and Begum Rokeya championed women’s education and rights, transcending religious barriers to promote gender equality.

3. Interfaith Dialogue and Harmony:

   • Swami Vivekananda’s call for religious tolerance and his famous speech at the Parliament of World Religions in Chicago (1893) highlighted the universal essence of all religions.

4. Influence on Nationalism:

   • The idea of a united India, irrespective of religious affiliations, became a central tenet of the Indian National Congress, uniting people across various faiths in the fight against colonialism.

5. Impact on Constitutional Reforms:

   • The universalist perspective influenced the framing of the Indian Constitution, which enshrined principles of equality, freedom of religion, and social justice.

Example - Arya Samaj:

• Swami Dayananda Saraswati’s Arya Samaj sought to purify Hinduism and bring about social reforms. It advocated for monotheism, women’s education, and opposed idol worship, promoting a universalist interpretation of Vedanta.

Conclusion: The universalist perspective of socio-religious reform movements had a profound impact on the socio-political landscape of India. It not only challenged traditional norms and practices but also played a pivotal role in shaping the ethos of a united and inclusive India.

(b) The Congress Socialist Party agenda was not to cut off from the Congress, but ‘intended to give the Congress and the national movement a socialist direction’. Analyse.   (20 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
The Congress Socialist Party (CSP) was a faction within the Indian National Congress that aimed to infuse socialist ideals into the broader nationalist movement. Their agenda was not to break away from the Congress but to provide it with a socialist orientation.

A Socialist Agenda within the Congress:

• Economic Justice and Redistribution: The CSP advocated for land reforms, nationalization of key industries, and policies aimed at reducing economic disparities.

• Worker and Peasant Rights: It focused on empowering workers and peasants, demanding better working conditions, fair wages, and land rights.

• Opposition to Imperialism: The CSP vehemently opposed British colonial rule and sought to align the Congress with international anti-imperialist movements.

• Socialist Ideals in the Freedom Struggle: Socialist leaders like Jayaprakash Narayan and Acharya Narendra Dev played significant roles in the Quit India Movement (1942) and other nationalist campaigns.

Maintaining Congress Affiliation:

• Influence on Policy Debates: The CSP sought to influence Congress policies through internal debates and discussions, pushing for a more radical socio-economic agenda.

• Collaboration with Other Congress Factions: The CSP cooperated with other factions within the Congress to find common ground and promote socialist ideals within the broader nationalist movement.

Legacy of the CSP:

• The CSP’s efforts paved the way for the integration of socialist principles into the broader framework of the Indian National Congress, influencing policies post-independence.

Conclusion: 
The Congress Socialist Party played a crucial role in steering the Congress towards a socialist direction while maintaining its affiliation with the broader nationalist movement. Their agenda sought to address socio-economic inequalities and align the freedom struggle with socialist ideals.

(c)  How did the factionalised Dalit leadership in Hyderabad undergo a period of intense re-organization between 1948 and 1953 ?  (10 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
The period between 1948 and 1953 witnessed intense reorganization efforts within the Dalit leadership in Hyderabad, driven by the need for unity and effective representation.

Factors Driving Reorganization:

• Impact of Hyderabad’s Integration with India: The integration of Hyderabad into the Indian Union in 1948 created new opportunities and challenges for Dalit leadership.

• Diverse Dalit Interests: Different factions within the Dalit community had distinct interests and approaches, necessitating a cohesive platform.

Reorganization Efforts:

• Formation of Political Parties: Leaders like Rettamsetti Satyanarayana and Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil played key roles in forming political parties like the Republican Party of India (RPI) and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP).

• Advocacy for Political Representation: These parties aimed to provide a political platform for Dalits, advocating for their representation in governance structures.

• Emphasis on Socio-Economic Empowerment: Reorganized leadership focused on uplifting the socio-economic status of Dalits through education, employment, and land reforms.

• Example - Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil: Patil, a prominent Dalit leader, emphasized education as a means to uplift the Dalit community. He founded Rayat Education Society to promote education among marginalized groups.

Achievements and Challenges:

• Increased Political Participation: Reorganization efforts led to increased political participation and representation of Dalits in various spheres.

• Challenges of Caste Hierarchies: Despite efforts for unity, deep-seated caste hierarchies and divisions posed challenges to the cohesive mobilization of Dalits.

Conclusion: 
The reorganization of factionalized Dalit leadership in Hyderabad between 1948 and 1953 marked a significant step towards unity and effective representation. It paved the way for greater political and socio-economic empowerment of Dalits in the region. However, challenges related to caste-based divisions continued to persist.