Question
Discuss the social and economic achievements of the Mughal Empire during the reign of Akbar.
▶️Answer/Explanation
Ans:
Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of the social and economic achievements of the Mughal Empire during the reign of Akbar. Social achievements discussed may include the abolition of the Jizya and Pilgrims tax, equal treatment of minorities and the promotion of social justice and welfare. There were also many cultural developments in the arts and literature. Economic achievements discussed may include the stimulation of trade through low custom duties, new coinage and agricultural developments. Candidates may also argue that there were many limitations to Akbar’s achievements and to support this argument they may discuss the discontent felt amongst many Muslim subjects towards Akbar’s religious tolerance and the economic strain caused by high military costs.
Question
“The policies of Aurangzeb began the decline of the Mughal Empire.” Discuss with reference to the period up to 1712.
▶️Answer/Explanation
Ans:
Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that Aurangzeb’s policies contributed to the decline of the Empire. Candidates may refer to other factors and discuss the importance of Aurangzeb’s policies in the wider context of the decline of the Mughal Empire. While other relevant factors may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain on the issue raised in the question. Candidates may agree, partly agree or disagree with the statement, but their opinions or conclusions will be supported by appropriate evidence. Aurangzeb’s policies discussed may include his policies of religious persecution against the Hindus and the Shias. Candidates may also discuss the prolonged war against the Marathas which ruined the finances of the state and the impact of the Deccan Policy. Other factors discussed may include the unmanageable size of the empire and the impact of the arrival of the British/French in India.
Question
Evaluate the contribution of Babur and Humayun to the rise of Mughal power.
▶️Answer/Explanation
Ans:
Candidates will make an appraisal of the contribution of both Babur and Humayun to the rise of Mughal power. Candidates may adopt a chronological approach that outlines the rule of Babur followed by that of Humayun and which may identify the wars fought to consolidate each of their power bases as well as the nature of each administration. Alternatively, candidates may choose a thematic approach and address the contribution of both rulers in areas such as power struggles, geographical supremacy and the cultural nature of Mughal rule. Candidates may offer a comparison of both men or they may identify a progression from one to the other, but the focus must be on the rise of Mughal power.
Question
Examine the reasons for, and effects of, domestic opposition to Shah Jahan I.
▶️Answer/Explanation
Ans:
Candidates will consider the interrelationship between reasons for and the effects of domestic opposition to Shah Jahan I. Candidates may adopt a chronological approach that identifies instances of opposition to Shah Jahan I, why they occurred and then directly addresses the outcomes. Alternatively, candidates may choose a thematic approach and examine the reasons for, and effects of, domestic opposition in areas such as dynastic power struggles, geographical supremacy, imposition of Sharia law, religious intolerance, cultural matters and the bureaucratic nature of his administration. While candidates may also reflect on other factors concerning the success or otherwise of Shah Jahan I’s rule, the focus of the response must be on the domestic opposition.