Modern History Set 45 | MROY Class

Modern History Set 45 – Questions & Answers

The Treaty of Ryswick, concluded in September 1697, restored Pondicherry to the French. However, the Dutch garrison held onto it for how much longer? – Two more years
During the War of Spanish Succession in the early 18th century, the French East India Company had to abandon its factories at Surat, Bantam, and which other location? – Masulipatnam
Francois Martin, who developed Pondicherry into the most important French settlement in India, died on which date? – December 31, 1706
Following the recall of Joseph Francis Dupleix, the new French governor Godeheu adopted a policy of negotiations and concluded a treaty with the English. Both parties agreed not to interfere in the quarrels of whom? – The native princes
According to H.H. Dodwell’s observation on the Third Carnatic War, the English could constantly strengthen themselves by receiving supplies from Bengal by sea. In contrast, how did the French receive their supplies? – Laboriously by land
The Danish East India Company was established in 1616. In which year did they successfully found a factory at Tranquebar on the eastern coast of India? – 1620
In 1635, a rival English company was formed by Sir William Courteen after receiving a license from King Charles I. What was this company later called? – The Assada company
The final amalgamation of the rival English East India Companies took place in 1708. Which British noble arbitrated this amalgamation? – The Earl of Godolphin
According to historian Jon Wilson, during Nader Shah’s 57-day rule in Delhi, what became the most effective tool for creating new centers of wealth instead of negotiation? – Plunder
In 1758, the Rohilla chief Najib-ud-Daula, who had been appointed as Mir Bakhshi by Ahmad Shah Abdali, was expelled from Delhi by which Maratha chief? – Raghunath Rao
The Afghan invader Ahmad Shah Abdali continuously harassed the Mughals and invaded India several times. In which year did his last invasion occur? – 1767
Which Mughal historian or chronicler bestowed the title of “Shah-i-Bekhabar” upon the emperor Bahadur Shah I? – Khafi Khan
Which Mughal emperor is noted in the text for officially abolishing the Jaziya tax during his brief reign from 1712 to 1713? – Jahandar Shah
Following the death of Rafi-ud-Darajat, the Sayyid brothers placed Rafi-ud-Daula on the throne under what imperial title? – Shah Jahan II
The Mughal emperor famously known as ‘Rangeela’ due to his luxurious lifestyle ascended the throne under the name Muhammad Shah. What was his original name before becoming emperor? – Raushan Akhtar
During the reign of the incompetent Ahmad Shah Bahadur (1748–1754), state affairs were left in the hands of the ‘Queen Mother’ Udham Bai. She ruled with the help of which notorious eunuch? – Javid Khan
The decisive Battle of Plassey was fought in June 1757 during the reign of which Mughal emperor, who was later assassinated? – Alamgir II
After the Battle of Buxar, the Marathas took Emperor Shah Alam II to Delhi in 1772. Until what year did he live there before again accepting English protection? – 1803
Mughal Emperor Akbar Shah II (ruled 1806–37) conferred the title of ‘Raja’ upon which prominent Indian social reformer? – Rammohan Roy
The last Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah II (Zafar), was captured by the English after the Revolt of 1857. In which year did he die in Rangoon? – 1862
The Mughal Empire legally came to an end on November 1, 1858, through a formal declaration issued by whom? – Queen Victoria
In his work The Agrarian System of Mughal India, historian Irfan Habib argues that the collapse of the Mughal Empire was primarily driven by what factors? – Economic and administrative causes
Which historian observed that the Mughal Empire fell because of the “rottenness at the core of Indian society,” highlighting the political and military helplessness? – J.N. Sarkar
According to historian Sidney Owen, Aurangzeb struck the first mortal blow to the Mughal Empire by reimposing the jizya, which turned which group into “deadly and persistent enemies”? – The Rajputs
Murshid Kuli Khan founded the independent state of Bengal and ruled until 1727. Who succeeded him as the ruler of Bengal? – Shuja-ud-din
In 1708, the Mughal ruler Bahadur Shah I was forced to march against which Rajput leader, who had formed an alliance with Jai Singh II and Durgadas Rathor? – Ajit Singh
The first major rebellion by the agriculturist Jat settlers against the oppressive policies of Aurangzeb occurred in Mathura district in 1669. Who led this revolt? – Gokula
After initial setbacks in the 17th century, the Jat kingdom of Bharatpur was successfully set up in the 18th century by Churaman and which other leader? – Badan Singh
According to Sikh tradition, which Sikh guru supported the rights of Kashmiri Pandits and protected them against persecution by the Mughals, leading to his execution in 1675? – Guru Tegh Bahadur
Following the death of Guru Gobind Singh, who assumed the leadership of the Sikhs in 1708 and led a revolt against the Mughals? – Banda Bahadur

MROY Class

Modern History Set 45

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📌 European Penetration • French East India Company

Q.1) The Treaty of Ryswick, concluded in September 1697, restored Pondicherry to the French. However, the Dutch garrison held onto it for how much longer?

Ans > Two more years

The Treaty of Ryswick (1697): Signed to end the devastating Nine Years’ War in Europe, this treaty mandated the mutual restitution of captured colonial territories. Specifically, it legally required the Dutch to return the highly valuable settlement of Pondicherry back to the French East India Company.
The Dutch Capture and Delay: The Dutch, commanded by Laurens Pit and heavily backed by local native allies, had fiercely captured Pondicherry in 1693. Despite the treaty signed in 1697, the heavily armed Dutch garrison stalled the handover and maintained physical control of the fort for two additional years.
Return of Francois Martin: It was only in September 1699 that the Dutch finally vacated the premises. Upon regaining total control, the French immediately reinstated Francois Martin as the governor.
Rapid Expansion: Under Martin’s renewed leadership, Pondicherry was rapidly transformed. He immediately upgraded the fortifications, established a garrison of over 700 European soldiers, and laid down a massive commercial grid, officially making it the nerve center of the French empire in India.

📌 European Penetration • Trade Rivalries

Q.2) During the War of Spanish Succession in the early 18th century, the French East India Company had to abandon its factories at Surat, Bantam, and which other location?

Ans > Masulipatnam

The War of Spanish Succession (1701–1714): This massive European conflict caused immense financial and military distress across the French empire. The war effectively severed the crucial umbilical cord of state funding and naval protection to the French East India Company in India.
Financial Bankruptcy: The company fell deeply into debt and simply lacked the working capital to purchase Indian textiles or maintain their sprawling, unprofitable trading outposts. This financial collapse forced a massive, humiliating strategic contraction across the Indian subcontinent.
Abandonment of Key Factories: Consequently, the French were forcefully compelled to abruptly abandon their commercial factories at Surat, Bantam, and Masulipatnam. The Surat factory, which was once their premier and oldest commercial hub, was left to rot as the French concentrated all remaining resources purely on defending Pondicherry.
Decades of Isolation: This total abandonment isolated the French from the highly lucrative Mughal trade networks in Gujarat and the Coromandel coast. The company remained in a severe state of poverty and stagnation until it was radically reorganized and refunded in the 1720s under governors Lenoir and Dumas.

📌 Personalities • Francois Martin

Q.3) Francois Martin, who developed Pondicherry into the most important French settlement in India, died on which date?

Ans > December 31, 1706

The True Architect of French Power: Francois Martin is universally acknowledged by historians as the true founder, architect, and visionary of French imperial power in India. He served as the highly effective Governor of Pondicherry, steering the company through extreme financial and political crises.
Building Fort Louis: Under his meticulous leadership, Pondicherry evolved from a vulnerable, swampy coastal village into a thriving, heavily fortified commercial metropolis. He designed and constructed the formidable Fort Louis, and by 1706, the settlement boasted a prosperous population of over 40,000 residents.
Diplomatic Masterclass: Martin established crucial, long-lasting diplomatic alliances with regional native rulers. By carefully navigating relations with Sher Khan Lodi and the invading Marathas, he secured vital commercial monopolies, tax exemptions, and military protection for the French merchants.
A Dark Age Follows: He passed away on December 31, 1706. His death created a massive leadership vacuum that plunged the French East India Company into a prolonged “dark age” of stagnation, extreme poverty, and administrative incompetence that lasted until the major corporate restructuring of 1720.

📌 Carnatic Wars • French Politics

Q.4) Following the recall of Joseph Francis Dupleix, the new French governor Godeheu adopted a policy of negotiations and concluded a treaty with the English. Both parties agreed not to interfere in the quarrels of whom?

Ans > The native princes

The Fall of Dupleix: Joseph Francois Dupleix was suddenly and disgracefully recalled to France in 1754. The French government and company directors were absolutely terrified by the massive financial ruin, endless military expenditures, and plummeting stock prices caused by his aggressive Carnatic Wars.
Godeheu’s Mission of Peace: Charles Godeheu was dispatched to India as a special commissioner to replace Dupleix. He arrived armed with incredibly strict orders from Paris to immediately halt all hostilities, abandon imperial expansion, and negotiate a lasting peace treaty with the British East India Company.
The Treaty of Pondicherry (1754): The resulting treaty established a fragile but necessary ceasefire. The most crucial and defining clause explicitly prohibited both the English and French companies from ever interfering in the internal political disputes, succession crises, and dynastic quarrels of the native Indian princes.
The Strategic Disaster: This treaty essentially erased Dupleix’s grand imperial vision overnight. It severely weakened French political influence and prestige in South India, while ironically allowing the British vital breathing room to consolidate their military forces just in time for their conquest of Bengal at Plassey.

📌 Carnatic Wars • Logistics

Q.5) According to H.H. Dodwell’s observation on the Third Carnatic War, the English could constantly strengthen themselves by receiving supplies from Bengal by sea. In contrast, how did the French receive their supplies?

Ans > Laboriously by land

Global Conflict Context: The Third Carnatic War (1758–1763) was the Indian theater of the global Seven Years’ War. This conflict expanded the fierce Anglo-French rivalry across multiple continents, demanding massive logistical support.
British Naval Supremacy: British control of the seas proved absolutely decisive. The Royal Navy dominated the Bay of Bengal, ensuring the English at Madras received constant, uninterrupted reinforcements, money, and supplies directly from their newly conquered, incredibly wealthy territories in Bengal.
French Logistical Nightmare: Conversely, the French navy suffered catastrophic defeats under Admiral d’Aché. As explicitly noted by historian H.H. Dodwell, this total loss of sea control forced the French army, commanded by the Comte de Lally, to receive supplies laboriously by land routes.
The Road to Defeat: This overland supply chain was incredibly slow, severely limited in capacity, and highly vulnerable to guerrilla ambushes. The logistical starvation ultimately crippled the French war machine, leading directly to their crushing and final defeat at the Battle of Wandiwash in 1760.

📌 European Settlements • Danes

Q.6) The Danish East India Company was established in 1616. In which year did they successfully found a factory at Tranquebar on the eastern coast of India?

Ans > 1620

Establishment of the Company: The Danish East India Company was formally chartered in 1616 by King Christian IV of Denmark. Their primary objective was to bypass existing monopolies and capitalize on the highly lucrative spice and textile trade in the Asian markets.
Securing Tranquebar: In 1620, the Danish admiral Ove Gjedde successfully negotiated a vital treaty with the Nayak of Tanjore, Raghunatha Nayak. This treaty granted the Danes the coastal village of Tranquebar (Tharangambadi) on the Coromandel coast.
Fort Dansborg: At Tranquebar, they constructed the formidable Fort Dansborg, which instantly became the administrative, military, and commercial nerve center of all Danish operations in India, facilitating their trade in pepper, cardamom, and highly prized Indian cotton textiles.
Missionary and Cultural Legacy: Unlike the heavily militarized English and French, the Danes maintained a relatively peaceful, non-expansionist presence. They are most historically famous for establishing the very first Protestant printing press in India and pioneering extensive educational and missionary work in the region.

📌 British East India Company • Corporate Rivals

Q.7) In 1635, a rival English company was formed by Sir William Courteen after receiving a license from King Charles I. What was this company later called?

Ans > The Assada company

Breaking the Royal Monopoly: The English East India Company (EIC) held a strict royal monopoly on Asian trade since 1600. However, in 1635, King Charles I blatantly violated this long-standing monopoly by granting a special trading license to a rival mercantile group.
Formation of Courteen’s Association: This rival faction was initially organized by Sir William Courteen and Endymion Porter, and was famously known as Courteen’s Association. Their specific aim was to heavily exploit trade routes and ports that the original EIC was allegedly neglecting.
The Assada Settlement: The group later established a major, strategic settlement on the island of Assada off the coast of Madagascar. Due to this prominent base of operations, the rival faction was formally renamed and incorporated as the Assada Company.
Disastrous Rivalry and Merger: This intense inter-corporate rivalry proved highly disastrous. The Assada merchants engaged in piracy, severely damaged English diplomatic prestige in Mughal India, and caused massive financial losses for both entities until parliamentary intervention forced a reluctant merger in 1649.

📌 British East India Company • Mergers

Q.8) The final amalgamation of the rival English East India Companies took place in 1708. Which British noble arbitrated this amalgamation?

Ans > The Earl of Godolphin

The Whig Challenge: Following the Glorious Revolution of 1688, powerful Whig politicians deeply opposed the old London Company’s monopoly. In 1698, the British Parliament officially sanctioned the creation of a massive rival entity known as the “English Company Trading to the East Indies.”
A Era of Ruinous Competition: This political move created a chaotic era of cutthroat competition. The two rival companies fiercely bid against each other in Indian markets, wildly driving up the purchase prices of Indian textiles while simultaneously crashing the selling prices in European markets.
Government Intervention: Realizing that this suicidal, zero-sum competition was destroying British trade and hurting state revenues, the British government heavily intervened. In 1708, the prominent statesman Sidney Godolphin, the 1st Earl of Godolphin, acted as the chief arbitrator to permanently resolve the crisis.
The United Company: Godolphin’s Award successfully and legally amalgamated the two warring factions into a single, highly unified monopoly officially named “The United Company of Merchants of England Trading to the East Indies,” which would eventually go on to conquer the entire Indian subcontinent.

📌 Foreign Invasions • Nader Shah

Q.9) According to historian Jon Wilson, during Nader Shah’s 57-day rule in Delhi, what became the most effective tool for creating new centers of wealth instead of negotiation?

Ans > Plunder

The Defeat at Karnal: In 1739, the brilliant Persian military commander and emperor Nader Shah utterly crushed the massive but deeply disorganized Mughal army at the Battle of Karnal, successfully capturing the reigning Mughal Emperor Muhammad Shah.
The Delhi Massacre: Nader Shah triumphantly entered Delhi and initially attempted to negotiate a massive financial indemnity. However, a false rumor of his death sparked a sudden civilian riot that killed hundreds of Persian soldiers. In ruthless retaliation, Nader Shah ordered a horrific general massacre (Qatl-e-Aam) of Delhi’s civilian population.
Plunder as Statecraft: Historian Jon Wilson specifically notes that during his 57-day occupation of the capital, extreme violence and systematic plunder completely replaced any institutional negotiation. The invaders meticulously extorted immense wealth from nobles, merchants, and common citizens alike through brutal torture.
The Spoils of War: The total wealth extorted was staggering, estimated at over 70 crore rupees. He stripped the Mughal treasury bare, famously taking the legendary Peacock Throne, the Koh-i-Noor diamond, and the Darya-i-Noor, which enabled him to totally abolish taxation in Persia for three years.

📌 Later Mughals • Maratha Ascendancy

Q.10) In 1758, the Rohilla chief Najib-ud-Daula, who had been appointed as Mir Bakhshi by Ahmad Shah Abdali, was expelled from Delhi by which Maratha chief?

Ans > Raghunath Rao

The Rise of Najib-ud-Daula: The Rohilla chief Najib-ud-Daula emerged as a highly powerful and cunning political figure in North India. He heavily aligned himself with the invading Afghan warlord Ahmad Shah Abdali to aggressively counter the rapidly rising power of the Marathas.
Appointed as Imperial Agent: When Abdali departed India in 1757, he officially appointed Najib-ud-Daula as the Mir Bakhshi (Paymaster General) and the supreme political agent of the Afghan empire in Delhi, effectively making him the de facto ruler over the weak Mughal emperor.
The Maratha Offensive of 1758: In 1758, a massive Maratha expeditionary force commanded by Raghunath Rao (Raghoba) stormed into the North. They successfully besieged Delhi, dismantled the Afghan administration, and violently expelled Najib-ud-Daula from the capital, driving him into exile in Rohilkhand.
Prelude to Panipat: This aggressive Maratha expansion into Punjab and Delhi was a direct, humiliating challenge to Afghan authority. Najib-ud-Daula relentlessly urged Abdali to return and seek absolute revenge, directly setting the stage for the catastrophic Third Battle of Panipat in 1761.

📌 Foreign Invasions • Ahmad Shah Abdali

Q.11) The Afghan invader Ahmad Shah Abdali continuously harassed the Mughals and invaded India several times. In which year did his last invasion occur?

Ans > 1767

The Durrani Invasions: Ahmad Shah Abdali, the fierce founder of the Durrani Empire in Afghanistan, launched a devastating series of eight major military invasions into Northern India between 1748 and 1767, severely crippling the already dying Mughal state and plundering massive wealth.
Victory and Failure: His most famous incursion culminated in the Third Battle of Panipat (1761), where he utterly annihilated the grand Maratha army. However, he totally failed to consolidate his political rule over the Punjab region due to constant logistical issues and severe troop mutinies.
The Final Campaign of 1767: His eighth and final invasion took place in 1767. This massive campaign was specifically aimed at crushing the rapidly rising, fiercely independent Sikh Misls who had taken absolute military control of the Punjab region in his absence.
Defeat by the Khalsa: Despite his unmatched military genius, Abdali was completely exhausted and outmaneuvered by the relentless guerrilla tactics (Dal Khalsa) of the Sikh warriors. Unable to permanently subdue them, he retreated to Afghanistan for the last time, leaving Punjab entirely and permanently in Sikh hands.

📌 Later Mughals • Bahadur Shah I

Q.12) Which Mughal historian or chronicler bestowed the title of “Shah-i-Bekhabar” upon the emperor Bahadur Shah I?

Ans > Khafi Khan

A Late Ascension: Bahadur Shah I, originally named Prince Mu’azzam, ascended the fiercely contested Mughal throne in 1707 at the highly advanced age of 63. His ascension followed a massive, bloody war of succession after the death of his father, the orthodox Emperor Aurangzeb.
The Title of Shah-i-Bekhabar: The contemporary Mughal historian Khafi Khan, author of the famous Muntakhab-al Lubab, bestowed the highly critical title “Shah-i-Bekhabar” (The Heedless King) upon him. This was a direct condemnation of his severe lack of administrative diligence and blind negligence of state finances.
Financial Ruin Through Appeasement: In a desperate attempt to buy the loyalty of treacherous nobles and pacify regional rebellions, Bahadur Shah blindly granted massive jagirs (land grants) and high promotions without ever checking the treasury reserves, rapidly accelerating the empire’s financial collapse.
A Capable but Flawed Ruler: Despite this financial negligence, he was arguably the last capable Mughal emperor. He successfully negotiated a temporary, pragmatic peace with the Rajputs and Marathas, though he totally failed to crush the fierce Sikh uprising led by the warrior Banda Bahadur.

📌 Later Mughals • Tax Policies

Q.13) Which Mughal emperor is noted in the text for officially abolishing the Jaziya tax during his brief reign from 1712 to 1713?

Ans > Jahandar Shah

The Era of Kingmakers: Jahandar Shah became the Mughal Emperor in 1712, heavily relying entirely on the military and political muscle of his incredibly powerful Wazir (Prime Minister), Zulfiqar Khan. This officially marked the dark era where nobility manipulated puppet emperors in Delhi.
Reversing Aurangzeb’s Policies: Zulfiqar Khan astutely realized that saving the crumbling empire required the absolute support of the alienated Hindu aristocrats. Under his direct influence, Jahandar Shah officially and permanently abolished the deeply unpopular Jaziya (poll tax on non-Muslims) which Aurangzeb had violently reimposed.
The Disaster of Ijarah: His brief reign also saw the rapid, destructive expansion of the “Ijarah” (revenue farming) system. The state began auctioning the right to collect taxes to the highest bidder, leading to brutal, unchecked economic exploitation of the vulnerable peasantry.
A Brief and Scandalous Reign: Jahandar Shah’s reign was exceptionally brief and highly scandalous due to the immense political influence of his favorite concubine, Lal Kunwar. He was violently deposed, imprisoned, and executed in 1713 by his own nephew, Farrukhsiyar, with the help of the Sayyid brothers.

📌 Later Mughals • Sayyid Brothers

Q.14) Following the death of Rafi-ud-Darajat, the Sayyid brothers placed Rafi-ud-Daula on the throne under what imperial title?

Ans > Shah Jahan II

The Sayyid Dictatorship: By 1719, the Sayyid brothers (Abdullah Khan and Husain Ali Khan) had seized absolute control over the Mughal Empire. Functioning as ruthless, undisputed kingmakers, they had just deposed, brutally blinded, and murdered Emperor Farrukhsiyar for attempting to assert his independence.
The Rapid Succession: They first placed a highly sickly prince, Rafi-ud-Darajat, on the throne. When he rapidly died of severe tuberculosis (consumption) within three months, the Sayyids immediately fetched his elder brother from the royal prison to fill the imperial vacuum.
The Grand Title: This brother, Rafi-ud-Daula, was crowned emperor under the incredibly grandiose imperial title of “Shah Jahan II.” This title was a deeply tragic irony given his absolute lack of power, wealth, or basic freedom inside the heavily guarded walls of the Red Fort.
A Prisoner on the Throne: Shah Jahan II’s reign was entirely a facade. He was treated essentially as a captive, not even allowed to attend Friday prayers or speak to nobles without the Sayyid brothers’ explicit permission. He too succumbed to tuberculosis just months later in September 1719.

📌 Later Mughals • Muhammad Shah

Q.15) The Mughal emperor famously known as ‘Rangeela’ due to his luxurious lifestyle ascended the throne under the name Muhammad Shah. What was his original name before becoming emperor?

Ans > Raushan Akhtar

Ascension to the Throne: Born with the original name Raushan Akhtar, he was placed on the Mughal throne in 1719 by the Sayyid brothers following the rapid, consecutive deaths of his two sickly predecessors. He formally assumed the grand imperial title of Muhammad Shah.
Assassination of the Kingmakers: He eventually allied with the powerful noble Nizam-ul-Mulk and successfully orchestrated the assassination of the Sayyid brothers, briefly raising hopes of an imperial revival. However, he quickly proved completely devoid of any administrative capabilities, military leadership, or political vision.
The ‘Rangeela’ Lifestyle: He earned the historical moniker “Rangeela” (the joyous or colorful one) because he entirely abandoned statecraft. He dedicated his entire life to wine, poetry, animal fights, lavish parties, and patronizing courtesans, musicians, and artists inside the decaying Red Fort.
The Dismemberment of the Empire: His exceptionally long but disastrous reign (1719–1748) witnessed the fatal dismemberment of the empire. Independent regional states like Awadh, Bengal, and Hyderabad officially broke away, and the Persian invader Nader Shah completely devastated and looted Delhi in 1739.

📌 Later Mughals • Palace Politics

Q.16) During the reign of the incompetent Ahmad Shah Bahadur (1748–1754), state affairs were left in the hands of the ‘Queen Mother’ Udham Bai. She ruled with the help of which notorious eunuch?

Ans > Javid Khan

An Incompetent Ruler: Ahmad Shah Bahadur ascended the throne in 1748. He was a notoriously weak, uneducated, and incompetent ruler, totally absorbed in sensual pleasures. He possessed no military experience and allowed the central administration to collapse into total anarchy and bankruptcy.
The Power of Udham Bai: Real political power was instantly hijacked by the ‘Queen Mother’ (Rajmata) Udham Bai. Originally a public dancing girl before marrying Emperor Muhammad Shah, she was highly ambitious but completely lacked administrative intellect, political vision, or diplomatic tact.
The Rule of the Eunuch: She governed the empire heavily through her paramour, the deeply corrupt and highly unpopular eunuch superintendent Javid Khan. He was given the unprecedented, massive title of Nawab Bahadur and completely dominated the imperial court, dictating state policy and promotions.
Assassination and Civil War: Javid Khan’s immense arrogance and massive corruption deeply alienated the hereditary nobility. The political tension culminated in a bloody palace coup where the Wazir, Safdar Jang, had Javid Khan brutally assassinated in 1752, plunging the Mughal court into a devastating civil war.

📌 Later Mughals • Battle of Plassey

Q.17) The decisive Battle of Plassey was fought in June 1757 during the reign of which Mughal emperor, who was later assassinated?

Ans > Alamgir II

A Puppet on the Throne: Alamgir II was elevated to the Mughal throne in 1754 by the ruthless, highly ambitious Wazir, Imad-ul-Mulk, who had just violently blinded and deposed the previous emperor, Ahmad Shah Bahadur. Alamgir II was a tragic, helpless puppet.
Total Lack of Power: Alamgir II had absolutely zero military power, no control over the rapidly emptying treasury, and was essentially a heavily guarded prisoner of his own Prime Minister inside the crumbling walls of the Red Fort, forced to rubber-stamp the Wazir’s decrees.
The Era of Plassey: It was during his nominal reign that the historic Battle of Plassey was fought in June 1757. Here, Robert Clive defeated the Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah, effectively transferring control of the incredibly wealthy Bengal province to the British East India Company.
A Brutal Assassination: Fearing that Alamgir II was secretly conspiring with the formidable Afghan invader Ahmad Shah Abdali to regain his independence, the paranoid Wazir Imad-ul-Mulk had the emperor lured to a fake meeting and brutally assassinated in 1759, unceremoniously dumping his body in the Yamuna river.

📌 Later Mughals • Shah Alam II

Q.18) After the Battle of Buxar, the Marathas took Emperor Shah Alam II to Delhi in 1772. Until what year did he live there before again accepting English protection?

Ans > 1803

Exile in Allahabad: After being severely defeated by the British at the decisive Battle of Buxar in 1764, Emperor Shah Alam II was forced to live as a humiliated, powerless pensioner of the East India Company in the city of Allahabad for several years.
Restoration by the Marathas: Desperate to reclaim his ancestral throne in Delhi, he abandoned British protection. He was triumphantly escorted back into the capital in 1772 by the powerful, undefeated Maratha general, Mahadji Scindia, who became his formal protector and the empire’s de facto ruler.
The Ghulam Qadir Tragedy: In 1788, he suffered a horrific tragedy when the vicious, vengeance-seeking Rohilla leader Ghulam Qadir briefly captured Delhi. Qadir mercilessly tortured the imperial family and physically gouged out Shah Alam II’s eyes with a dagger, leaving the emperor completely blind.
The British Capture of Delhi: He remained a blind, powerless figurehead under Maratha protection until 1803. During the Second Anglo-Maratha War, British forces under Lord Lake defeated the Marathas and captured Delhi, permanently reducing Shah Alam II and the Mughal dynasty to mere pensioners of the British Crown.

📌 Later Mughals • Akbar Shah II

Q.19) Mughal Emperor Akbar Shah II (ruled 1806–37) conferred the title of ‘Raja’ upon which prominent Indian social reformer?

Ans > Rammohan Roy

A Sovereign in Name Only: Akbar Shah II ascended the throne in 1806. By this time, the Mughal Empire was purely a legal fiction. His actual political and military authority did not extend an inch beyond the massive red sandstone walls of the Red Fort in Delhi.
Financial Desperation: The East India Company heavily restricted his movements, dictated his daily protocol, and paid him a meager monthly stipend. This pension was drastically insufficient to maintain the massive imperial household, forcing the royal family to live in a state of humiliating poverty.
Conferring the Title of Raja: Desperate for a significant financial increase, Akbar Shah II decided to petition the British Crown directly. To ensure his envoy had sufficient aristocratic legitimacy in London, he officially conferred the noble title of ‘Raja’ upon the brilliant Bengali intellectual and social reformer, Rammohan Roy.
The Mission to England: Raja Rammohan Roy sailed to England in 1830, becoming the very first educated Indian of high standing to cross the seas. He successfully presented the Emperor’s massive grievances before the King, securing a slight increase in the imperial pension before his sudden death in Bristol.

📌 Later Mughals • End of Empire

Q.20) The last Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah II (Zafar), was captured by the English after the Revolt of 1857. In which year did he die in Rangoon?

Ans > 1862

The Last Emperor: Bahadur Shah II, popularly known by his highly melancholic poetic pen name “Zafar,” was the last Mughal emperor. He was a highly accomplished Urdu poet, a brilliant calligrapher, and a Sufi mystic, but he utterly lacked any military or political capability.
Figurehead of the 1857 Revolt: During the massive Sepoy Mutiny of 1857, the rebellious soldiers stormed Delhi and forcibly proclaimed the reluctant 82-year-old Zafar as the symbolic Emperor of Hindustan, forcing him to become the figurehead of the massive anti-British uprising.
Capture and the End of the Bloodline: When British forces brutally recaptured Delhi in September 1857, Zafar took refuge in Humayun’s Tomb. He surrendered to Major William Hodson, who subsequently stripped the emperor and executed his remaining sons in cold blood to permanently extinguish the royal bloodline.
Exile and Death in Rangoon: Zafar was subjected to a highly publicized military trial for treason and mutiny. He was found guilty, stripped of all imperial titles, and exiled to Rangoon (Yangon, Burma), where he lived in total squalor, heavily guarded, and died in captivity in November 1862.

📌 British Crown • Administration

Q.21) The Mughal Empire legally came to an end on November 1, 1858, through a formal declaration issued by whom?

Ans > Queen Victoria

The Aftermath of the Mutiny: Following the massive trauma, bloodshed, and near-collapse of British power during the Revolt of 1857, the British Parliament passed the sweeping Government of India Act 1858, fundamentally changing how the vast subcontinent was to be ruled.
Liquidation of the East India Company: This historic act officially liquidated the highly controversial, deeply corrupt British East India Company. It formally transferred the immense administrative, military, and revenue powers of India directly to the British Crown, operating through a Secretary of State for India.
The Queen’s Proclamation: On November 1, 1858, Lord Canning, the very first Viceroy of India, formally read Queen Victoria’s Proclamation at a grand Durbar in Allahabad, publicly announcing this massive transfer of power to the assembled Indian princes and subjects.
The End of an Era: The proclamation explicitly abandoned the aggressive policy of territorial annexation, promised absolute religious freedom, and legally extinguished the 300-year-old Mughal Empire, formally establishing Queen Victoria as the supreme, undisputed paramount power over the entire Indian subcontinent.

📌 Historiography • Decline of Mughals

Q.22) In his work The Agrarian System of Mughal India, historian Irfan Habib argues that the collapse of the Mughal Empire was primarily driven by what factors?

Ans > Economic and administrative causes

A New Historiographical Perspective: Professor Irfan Habib, a highly prominent Marxist historian, fundamentally challenged the traditional colonial view that religious bigotry or weak personalities caused the Mughal collapse. He focused instead on deep structural economics in his masterpiece “The Agrarian System of Mughal India.”
The Parasitic Military State: He strongly argues that the empire was essentially an insatiable, highly parasitic military machine. It survived solely by ruthlessly extracting maximum agricultural surplus from the peasantry through the highly complex, heavily bureaucratic Mansabdari and Jagirdari systems.
The Jagirdari Crisis: In the later 17th century, the rapid, unpredictable transferability of jagirs (land grants) made the nobles highly insecure. Consequently, they aggressively squeezed the peasants for maximum immediate revenue without investing a single rupee in agricultural improvement or local infrastructure.
Armed Agrarian Rebellions: This unchecked, hyper-exploitation triggered a massive, systemic agrarian crisis, leading to mass peasant flight and total agricultural breakdown. Ultimately, this economic ruin fueled heavily armed, grassroots rebellions (like the Jats, Satnamis, and Sikhs) that fatally bled the massive Mughal state to death.

📌 Historiography • Social Decay

Q.23) Which historian observed that the Mughal Empire fell because of the “rottenness at the core of Indian society,” highlighting the political and military helplessness?

Ans > J.N. Sarkar

The Pioneer of Mughal History: Sir Jadunath Sarkar, the absolute foremost pioneer of modern Mughal historiography, meticulously analyzed the empire’s tragic downfall in his monumental, multi-volume works, primarily “History of Aurangzib” and “Fall of the Mughal Empire.”
Focus on Moral Degeneration: Unlike Marxist historians who heavily focused on structural economics, Sarkar heavily emphasized the profound moral, cultural, and political degeneration of the Mughal aristocracy. He famously described this internal decay as a fundamental “rottenness at the core of Indian society.”
The Loss of Martial Vigor: He passionately argued that the later Mughal nobility completely lost their traditional martial vigor, administrative discipline, and patriotic loyalty. They became utterly absorbed in petty court intrigues, immense luxury, and treacherous factionalism, especially the deadly rivalry between the Irani and Turani blocs.
Helplessness Against Invaders: This internal social decay left the state utterly hollow. Sarkar explicitly notes that when foreign invaders like Nader Shah and Ahmad Shah Abdali attacked, this morally bankrupt leadership was completely helpless, totally incapable of organizing any unified, effective national defense.

📌 Historiography • Religious Policies

Q.24) According to historian Sidney Owen, Aurangzeb struck the first mortal blow to the Mughal Empire by reimposing the jizya, which turned which group into “deadly and persistent enemies”?

Ans > The Rajputs

Reversing Akbar’s Legacy: British historian Sidney Owen specifically highlights the disastrous political consequences of Aurangzeb’s deeply orthodox religious policies. Aurangzeb orchestrated a stark, aggressive reversal of Emperor Akbar’s highly successful, inclusive framework of secular governance that had united the subcontinent.
The Reimposition of Jizya: In 1679, heavily influenced by orthodox Islamic clerics and a desperate need to rally orthodox support, Aurangzeb violently reimposed the Jizya. This was a highly discriminatory poll tax levied exclusively on non-Muslim subjects, which Akbar had wisely abolished a century earlier.
Alienating the Rajputs: Owen notes this singular, aggressive act struck a “mortal blow” to the empire because it deeply insulted and completely alienated the proud, martial Rajputs. Historically, the Rajputs had served as the most loyal, fearless, and effective military pillar of the Mughal state.
Turning Allies into Enemies: The reimposition of Jizya, combined with interference in Marwar’s succession, directly triggered the massive, protracted Rathor and Sisodia rebellions in Rajputana. This fatally turned former loyal allies into “deadly and persistent enemies,” draining vital Mughal resources and permanently crippling the empire’s internal stability.

📌 Regional States • Bengal

Q.25) Murshid Kuli Khan founded the independent state of Bengal and ruled until 1727. Who succeeded him as the ruler of Bengal?

Ans > Shuja-ud-din

The Rise of Murshid Kuli Khan: Murshid Kuli Khan, initially appointed as the highly efficient Diwan of Bengal by Emperor Aurangzeb, masterfully exploited the extreme weakness of the central Mughal authority to carve out a highly prosperous, practically independent regional state in Bengal.
A Seamless Succession: Upon his death in 1727, a brief succession dispute occurred, but it was decisively and swiftly won by his highly capable son-in-law, Shuja-ud-din Muhammad Khan, who seamlessly assumed the powerful title of Nawab of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa.
Administrative Reorganization: Shuja-ud-din ruled with great administrative efficiency and diplomatic tact until 1739. He heavily reorganized the complex territorial divisions of Bengal, firmly integrating Bihar and Orissa into his vast domain, easily making it the wealthiest and most stable province in the subcontinent.
Prosperity and Facade of Loyalty: His reign is highly noted for maintaining strict internal peace, patronizing arts, and ensuring enormous agricultural prosperity. He cleverly maintained a facade of absolute loyalty to Delhi by sending regular, massive tributes, while ruling as a totally absolute sovereign in reality.

📌 Regional States • Rajputs

Q.26) In 1708, the Mughal ruler Bahadur Shah I was forced to march against which Rajput leader, who had formed an alliance with Jai Singh II and Durgadas Rathor?

Ans > Ajit Singh

The Post-Aurangzeb Vacuum: Immediately following the death of the orthodox Emperor Aurangzeb in 1707, the powerful Rajput states of Rajasthan seized the golden opportunity to violently overthrow Mughal suzerainty and aggressively reclaim their absolute, historical independence from Delhi.
The Rajput Triple Alliance: Maharaja Ajit Singh of Marwar (Jodhpur) spearheaded this fierce resistance. He formed a highly formidable, unprecedented Rajput Triple Alliance with the brilliant Sawai Jai Singh II of Amber and the legendary, undefeated military commander Durgadas Rathor.
The Imperial March: This powerful coalition forcefully expelled Mughal faujdars, captured Jodhpur, and openly defied imperial authority. Deeply alarmed by this massive, coordinated insurrection, Emperor Bahadur Shah I was forced to march personally into Rajputana with a massive imperial army in 1708.
A Pragmatic Peace: Realizing the immense financial cost and sheer futility of a prolonged desert war, especially while facing severe threats from the rising Marathas and Sikhs, Bahadur Shah pragmatically negotiated peace. He formally pardoned the leaders, restoring Ajit Singh and Jai Singh to their ancestral thrones.

📌 Regional Rebellions • Jats

Q.27) The first major rebellion by the agriculturist Jat settlers against the oppressive policies of Aurangzeb occurred in Mathura district in 1669. Who led this revolt?

Ans > Gokula

The Agrarian Roots of the Rebellion: The massive Jat rebellion of 1669 in the Mathura region was the very first major, violent armed uprising of the peasantry against the highly oppressive, financially ruinous agrarian policies of Emperor Aurangzeb and his corrupt local officials.
The Tyranny of Abdun-Nabi: The immediate, explosive trigger was the brutal religious and economic extortion executed by Abdun-Nabi, the ruthless Mughal faujdar of Mathura. He systematically destroyed newly built Hindu temples and extracted exorbitant, crushing agricultural taxes from the local farmers.
The Rise of Gokula: Driven to sheer desperation, the Jat peasant settlers, heavily supported by other local agricultural and marginalized castes, rallied fiercely behind a brave local zamindar and charismatic leader named Gokula (Gokul Singh) of the village of Tilpat.
A Brutal Suppression: In the ensuing incredibly violent clash, the highly motivated rebels successfully killed Abdun-Nabi. However, Aurangzeb immediately dispatched a massive, heavily armed imperial army to crush the revolt. Gokula was captured and brutally hacked to pieces, but his martyrdom ignited a permanent spirit of fierce Jat resistance.

📌 Regional States • Bharatpur

Q.28) After initial setbacks in the 17th century, the Jat kingdom of Bharatpur was successfully set up in the 18th century by Churaman and which other leader?

Ans > Badan Singh

The Evolution of Jat Resistance: Despite the brutal execution of Gokula and later Rajaram, the Jat resistance against the Mughals heavily intensified. In the early 18th century, leadership passed to Churaman, who heavily militarized the Jat peasantry, transforming them into a formidable, highly mobile fighting force.
The Architect of the State: After Churaman’s death, his highly capable nephew, Badan Singh, took absolute control. Badan Singh is universally recognized by historians as the true political architect, visionary, and founder of the sovereign Jat princely state of Bharatpur.
From Rebels to Rulers: Unlike earlier rebel leaders who focused on banditry, Badan Singh proved to be a masterful diplomat and state-builder. He systematically unified the highly fractured and quarrelsome Jat clans, transforming a scattered, localized peasant rebellion into a deeply structured, powerful regional kingdom.
Building Impregnable Fortresses: He heavily fortified his newly acquired territories by constructing massive, nearly impregnable forts at Deeg, Kumher, and Bharatpur. These strongholds laid the unshakeable foundation for the Jat empire, which would later reach its absolute zenith and maximum territorial extent under his legendary successor, Maharaja Suraj Mal.

📌 Regional Rebellions • Sikhs

Q.29) According to Sikh tradition, which Sikh guru supported the rights of Kashmiri Pandits and protected them against persecution by the Mughals, leading to his execution in 1675?

Ans > Guru Tegh Bahadur

The Ninth Sikh Guru: Guru Tegh Bahadur was the deeply revered ninth Guru of the Sikh religion, widely known for his extensive travels across India, his highly philosophical hymns included in the Guru Granth Sahib, and his staunch, unwavering advocacy for universal human rights.
The Kashmiri Pandit Delegation: During Aurangzeb’s highly orthodox reign, the Mughal state initiated a brutal policy of forced religious conversions in Kashmir. A desperate delegation of 500 Kashmiri Pandits, led by Pandit Kirpa Ram, approached the Guru at Anandpur Sahib seeking immediate protection from Mughal tyranny.
A Challenge to the Empire: Demonstrating unparalleled moral courage, Guru Tegh Bahadur publicly challenged the absolute power of the Mughal empire. He declared that the Hindus would only convert to Islam if the Mughals could first force him to convert, effectively making himself a human shield for total religious freedom.
The Supreme Martyrdom: Outraged by this blatant defiance, Aurangzeb ordered his immediate arrest. After repeatedly refusing to perform miracles or embrace Islam despite enduring horrific, unspeakable torture, the Guru was publicly beheaded at Chandni Chowk in Delhi in 1675. This supreme martyrdom fundamentally transformed Sikhism into a fiercely martial faith.

📌 Regional States • Sikhs

Q.30) Following the death of Guru Gobind Singh, who assumed the leadership of the Sikhs in 1708 and led a revolt against the Mughals?

Ans > Banda Bahadur

The Transformation of Madho Das: Banda Singh Bahadur was originally a Rajput ascetic named Madho Das. In 1708, shortly before his tragic assassination, Guru Gobind Singh met him at Nanded, initiated him into the Khalsa brotherhood, and commanded him to lead the Sikh political and military struggle in Punjab.
Igniting an Agrarian Revolution: Armed with the Guru’s hukamnamas (letters of authority), Banda Bahadur traveled to Punjab and orchestrated a massive, explosive agrarian uprising. He rallied thousands of oppressed peasants and lower castes to violently overthrow the highly tyrannical Mughal feudal landlords (zamindars).
The Sack of Sirhind: In 1710, he achieved a monumental military victory by capturing the heavily fortified city of Sirhind. He brutally executed Wazir Khan, the ruthless Mughal governor who was directly responsible for the cruel, highly controversial murder of Guru Gobind Singh’s two youngest sons.
The First Sikh State and Martyrdom: Banda Bahadur briefly established the very first sovereign Sikh state, minted official coins in the names of the Gurus, and formally abolished the oppressive zamindari system. He was eventually captured after a grueling, starvation-inducing siege at Gurdas Nangal and tortured to death in Delhi in 1716.

📌 Quick Summary — Modern History Set 45

Pondicherry Handover: The Dutch held Pondicherry for two years after the 1697 Treaty of Ryswick.
French Setbacks: The War of Spanish Succession forced the French to abandon Masulipatnam.
Francois Martin: The founder of Pondicherry died on Dec 31, 1706.
Godeheu Treaty: French and English agreed not to interfere in native princes’ quarrels.
French Logistics: During the Carnatic Wars, French supplies moved laboriously by land.
Danish Expansion: Founded a factory at Tranquebar in 1620.
Corporate Rivalry: Sir William Courteen formed the rival Assada Company in 1635.
EIC Amalgamation: The Earl of Godolphin arbitrated the merger of English companies in 1708.
Nader Shah’s Rule: Plunder became his primary tool in Delhi.
Maratha Power: Raghunath Rao expelled Najib-ud-Daula from Delhi in 1758.
Ahmad Shah Abdali: Launched his final invasion of India in 1767.
Bahadur Shah I: Bestowed the title “Shah-i-Bekhabar” by historian Khafi Khan.
Jahandar Shah: Abolished the Jaziya tax during his brief 1712-13 reign.
Sayyid Brothers: Placed Rafi-ud-Daula on the throne as Shah Jahan II.
Rangeela’s Identity: Muhammad Shah’s original name was Raushan Akhtar.
Udham Bai’s Paramour: Ruled alongside the notorious eunuch Javid Khan.
Battle of Plassey Era: Alamgir II was the reigning Mughal Emperor in 1757.
Shah Alam II: Restored to Delhi by Marathas and remained under them till 1803.
Akbar Shah II: Conferred the title of ‘Raja’ upon Rammohan Roy.
End of Zafar: Bahadur Shah II died exiled in Rangoon in 1862.
Crown Transfer: Queen Victoria formally ended the Mughal Empire in 1858.
Agrarian Crisis: Irfan Habib cites economic and administrative failure for Mughal collapse.
Moral Decay: J.N. Sarkar blamed the “rottenness at the core of Indian society”.
Rajput Alienation: Sidney Owen noted reimposing jizya turned Rajputs into deadly enemies.
Bengal Succession: Shuja-ud-din succeeded Murshid Kuli Khan.
Rajput Rebellion (1708): Bahadur Shah I marched against Marwar’s Ajit Singh.
Jat Revolt (1669): Led by the agriculturist leader Gokula in Mathura.
Bharatpur State: The Jat kingdom was successfully organized by Badan Singh.
Sikh Martyrdom: Guru Tegh Bahadur was executed for defending Kashmiri Pandits.
Sikh Ascendancy: Banda Bahadur took over military leadership in 1708.

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Modern History Set 45

Q.1) The Treaty of Ryswick, concluded in September 1697, restored Pondicherry to the French. However, the Dutch garrison held onto it for how much longer?

Q.2) During the War of Spanish Succession in the early 18th century, the French East India Company had to abandon its factories at Surat, Bantam, and which other location?

Q.3) Francois Martin, who developed Pondicherry into the most important French settlement in India, died on which date?

Q.4) Following the recall of Joseph Francis Dupleix, the new French governor Godeheu adopted a policy of negotiations and concluded a treaty with the English. Both parties agreed not to interfere in the quarrels of whom?

Q.5) According to H.H. Dodwell’s observation on the Third Carnatic War, the English could constantly strengthen themselves by receiving supplies from Bengal by sea. In contrast, how did the French receive their supplies?

Q.6) The Danish East India Company was established in 1616. In which year did they successfully found a factory at Tranquebar on the eastern coast of India?

Q.7) In 1635, a rival English company was formed by Sir William Courteen after receiving a license from King Charles I. What was this company later called?

Q.8) The final amalgamation of the rival English East India Companies took place in 1708. Which British noble arbitrated this amalgamation?

Q.9) According to historian Jon Wilson, during Nader Shah’s 57-day rule in Delhi, what became the most effective tool for creating new centers of wealth instead of negotiation?

Q.10) In 1758, the Rohilla chief Najib-ud-Daula, who had been appointed as Mir Bakhshi by Ahmad Shah Abdali, was expelled from Delhi by which Maratha chief?

Q.11) The Afghan invader Ahmad Shah Abdali continuously harassed the Mughals and invaded India several times. In which year did his last invasion occur?

Q.12) Which Mughal historian or chronicler bestowed the title of “Shah-i-Bekhabar” upon the emperor Bahadur Shah I?

Q.13) Which Mughal emperor is noted in the text for officially abolishing the Jaziya tax during his brief reign from 1712 to 1713?

Q.14) Following the death of Rafi-ud-Darajat, the Sayyid brothers placed Rafi-ud-Daula on the throne under what imperial title?

Q.15) The Mughal emperor famously known as ‘Rangeela’ due to his luxurious lifestyle ascended the throne under the name Muhammad Shah. What was his original name before becoming emperor?

Q.16) During the reign of the incompetent Ahmad Shah Bahadur (1748–1754), state affairs were left in the hands of the ‘Queen Mother’ Udham Bai. She ruled with the help of which notorious eunuch?

Q.17) The decisive Battle of Plassey was fought in June 1757 during the reign of which Mughal emperor, who was later assassinated?

Q.18) After the Battle of Buxar, the Marathas took Emperor Shah Alam II to Delhi in 1772. Until what year did he live there before again accepting English protection?

Q.19) Mughal Emperor Akbar Shah II (ruled 1806–37) conferred the title of ‘Raja’ upon which prominent Indian social reformer?

Q.20) The last Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah II (Zafar), was captured by the English after the Revolt of 1857. In which year did he die in Rangoon?

Q.21) The Mughal Empire legally came to an end on November 1, 1858, through a formal declaration issued by whom?

Q.22) In his work The Agrarian System of Mughal India, historian Irfan Habib argues that the collapse of the Mughal Empire was primarily driven by what factors?

Q.23) Which historian observed that the Mughal Empire fell because of the “rottenness at the core of Indian society,” highlighting the political and military helplessness?

Q.24) According to historian Sidney Owen, Aurangzeb struck the first mortal blow to the Mughal Empire by reimposing the jizya, which turned which group into “deadly and persistent enemies”?

Q.25) Murshid Kuli Khan founded the independent state of Bengal and ruled until 1727. Who succeeded him as the ruler of Bengal?

Q.26) In 1708, the Mughal ruler Bahadur Shah I was forced to march against which Rajput leader, who had formed an alliance with Jai Singh II and Durgadas Rathor?

Q.27) The first major rebellion by the agriculturist Jat settlers against the oppressive policies of Aurangzeb occurred in Mathura district in 1669. Who led this revolt?

Q.28) After initial setbacks in the 17th century, the Jat kingdom of Bharatpur was successfully set up in the 18th century by Churaman and which other leader?

Q.29) According to Sikh tradition, which Sikh guru supported the rights of Kashmiri Pandits and protected them against persecution by the Mughals, leading to his execution in 1675?

Q.30) Following the death of Guru Gobind Singh, who assumed the leadership of the Sikhs in 1708 and led a revolt against the Mughals?

📌 Quick Summary — Modern History Set 45

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Q.1) The Treaty of Ryswick, concluded in September 1697, restored Pondicherry to the French. However, the Dutch garrison held onto it for how much longer?

Q.2) During the War of Spanish Succession in the early 18th century, the French East India Company had to abandon its factories at Surat, Bantam, and which other location?

Q.3) Francois Martin, who developed Pondicherry into the most important French settlement in India, died on which date?

Q.4) Following the recall of Joseph Francis Dupleix, the new French governor Godeheu adopted a policy of negotiations and concluded a treaty with the English. Both parties agreed not to interfere in the quarrels of whom?

Q.5) According to H.H. Dodwell’s observation on the Third Carnatic War, the English could constantly strengthen themselves by receiving supplies from Bengal by sea. In contrast, how did the French receive their supplies?

Q.6) The Danish East India Company was established in 1616. In which year did they successfully found a factory at Tranquebar on the eastern coast of India?

Q.7) In 1635, a rival English company was formed by Sir William Courteen after receiving a license from King Charles I. What was this company later called?

Q.8) The final amalgamation of the rival English East India Companies took place in 1708. Which British noble arbitrated this amalgamation?

Q.9) According to historian Jon Wilson, during Nader Shah’s 57-day rule in Delhi, what became the most effective tool for creating new centers of wealth instead of negotiation?

Q.10) In 1758, the Rohilla chief Najib-ud-Daula, who had been appointed as Mir Bakhshi by Ahmad Shah Abdali, was expelled from Delhi by which Maratha chief?

Q.11) The Afghan invader Ahmad Shah Abdali continuously harassed the Mughals and invaded India several times. In which year did his last invasion occur?

Q.12) Which Mughal historian or chronicler bestowed the title of “Shah-i-Bekhabar” upon the emperor Bahadur Shah I?

Q.13) Which Mughal emperor is noted in the text for officially abolishing the Jaziya tax during his brief reign from 1712 to 1713?

Q.14) Following the death of Rafi-ud-Darajat, the Sayyid brothers placed Rafi-ud-Daula on the throne under what imperial title?

Q.15) The Mughal emperor famously known as ‘Rangeela’ due to his luxurious lifestyle ascended the throne under the name Muhammad Shah. What was his original name before becoming emperor?

Q.16) During the reign of the incompetent Ahmad Shah Bahadur (1748–1754), state affairs were left in the hands of the ‘Queen Mother’ Udham Bai. She ruled with the help of which notorious eunuch?

Q.17) The decisive Battle of Plassey was fought in June 1757 during the reign of which Mughal emperor, who was later assassinated?

Q.18) After the Battle of Buxar, the Marathas took Emperor Shah Alam II to Delhi in 1772. Until what year did he live there before again accepting English protection?

Q.19) Mughal Emperor Akbar Shah II (ruled 1806–37) conferred the title of ‘Raja’ upon which prominent Indian social reformer?

Q.20) The last Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah II (Zafar), was captured by the English after the Revolt of 1857. In which year did he die in Rangoon?

Q.21) The Mughal Empire legally came to an end on November 1, 1858, through a formal declaration issued by whom?

Q.22) In his work The Agrarian System of Mughal India, historian Irfan Habib argues that the collapse of the Mughal Empire was primarily driven by what factors?

Q.23) Which historian observed that the Mughal Empire fell because of the “rottenness at the core of Indian society,” highlighting the political and military helplessness?

Q.24) According to historian Sidney Owen, Aurangzeb struck the first mortal blow to the Mughal Empire by reimposing the jizya, which turned which group into “deadly and persistent enemies”?

Q.25) Murshid Kuli Khan founded the independent state of Bengal and ruled until 1727. Who succeeded him as the ruler of Bengal?

Q.26) In 1708, the Mughal ruler Bahadur Shah I was forced to march against which Rajput leader, who had formed an alliance with Jai Singh II and Durgadas Rathor?

Q.27) The first major rebellion by the agriculturist Jat settlers against the oppressive policies of Aurangzeb occurred in Mathura district in 1669. Who led this revolt?

Q.28) After initial setbacks in the 17th century, the Jat kingdom of Bharatpur was successfully set up in the 18th century by Churaman and which other leader?

Q.29) According to Sikh tradition, which Sikh guru supported the rights of Kashmiri Pandits and protected them against persecution by the Mughals, leading to his execution in 1675?

Q.30) Following the death of Guru Gobind Singh, who assumed the leadership of the Sikhs in 1708 and led a revolt against the Mughals?

📌 Quick Summary — Modern History Set 45

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

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