Plus Two History Previous Year Question Papers and Answers PDF HSSlive: Complete Guide (2010-2024)

Are you searching for Kerala Plus Two History previous year question papers and answers in PDF format from HSSlive? You’ve come to the right place! As an experienced History teacher from Kerala, I’ve compiled this comprehensive resource to help you ace your History board exams.

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History requires both conceptual understanding and systematic practice. HSSlive.co.in offers the most reliable collection of Plus Two History question papers that:

• Help you master the exact Kerala Higher Secondary Board examination pattern
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• Develop effective time management strategies
• Build confidence through targeted practice
• Identify your strengths and weak areas in different historical periods

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1. Visit the official HSSlive website: www.hsslive.co.in
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4. Choose “History” from the subject list
5. Download the PDF files for different years (2010-2024)

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Kerala Plus Two History Exam Pattern (Important for HSSlive PDF Users)

Understanding the exact question paper structure will help you extract maximum value from HSSlive PDFs:

Section	Question Type	Marks per Question	Number of Questions
Part A	Very Short Answer	1 mark	8 questions
Part B	Short Answer	2 marks	10 questions
Part C	Short Essay	3 marks	9 questions
Part D	Long Essay	5 marks	3 questions
Total		60 marks	30 questions

15 Plus Two History Previous Year Question Papers with Answers (HSSlive PDF Collection)

Plus Two History Previous Year Question Papers with Answers (2010-2024)

1. March 2024 History Question Paper with Answers

Question 1: Who introduced the Subsidiary Alliance system in India? (1 mark) Answer: Lord Wellesley

Question 2: Explain the causes and significance of the Revolt of 1857. (3 marks) Answer: Causes of the Revolt of 1857:

• Political causes: Doctrine of Lapse, annexation policies
• Economic causes: Heavy taxation, destruction of traditional industries
• Social and religious causes: Fear of conversion, interference with customs
• Military causes: Discriminatory practices, greased cartridges issue

Significance:

• End of East India Company rule; transfer of power to British Crown
• Change in British policies toward Indian princes and traditions
• Growth of nationalism and awareness among Indians
• Reorganization of the Indian Army

Question 3: Discuss the emergence of nationalism in India and analyze the role of Mahatma Gandhi in the Indian National Movement. (5 marks) Answer: Emergence of Indian Nationalism:

• Impact of Western education and ideas
• Economic exploitation under colonial rule
• Formation of Indian National Congress in 1885
• Partition of Bengal (1905) and Swadeshi Movement
• Home Rule Movement by Annie Besant and Tilak

Role of Mahatma Gandhi:

• Introduction of non-violence and satyagraha as political tools
• Champaran Satyagraha (1917): First civil disobedience movement
• Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22): Mass mobilization
• Civil Disobedience Movement (1930): Salt Satyagraha
• Quit India Movement (1942): Final push for independence
• Gandhi’s emphasis on moral and ethical principles in politics
• Success in uniting diverse sections of Indian society

2. March 2023 History Question Paper with Answers

Question 1: Name the viceroy who partitioned Bengal in 1905. (1 mark) Answer: Lord Curzon

Question 2: Describe the features of the Harappan civilization. (2 marks) Answer: Features of Harappan Civilization:

• Urban planning with grid pattern streets and drainage systems
• Advanced architectural techniques using burnt bricks
• Great Bath and Granary as significant structures
• Evidence of trade with Mesopotamia
• Script with around 400 pictographic characters (still undeciphered)
• Use of standardized weights and measures
• Religious practices including worship of Mother Goddess and Pashupati

Question 3: Analyze the causes, course, and consequences of the Cold War. (5 marks) Answer: Causes of Cold War:

• Ideological differences between capitalism and communism
• Power vacuum in Europe after World War II
• Mutual suspicion and mistrust between the USA and USSR
• Truman Doctrine and Marshall Plan versus Soviet expansion
• Arms race and nuclear weapons development

Course of Cold War:

• Division of Germany and Berlin Blockade (1948-49)
• Formation of military alliances: NATO (1949) and Warsaw Pact (1955)
• Korean War (1950-53) and Vietnam War (1955-75)
• Cuban Missile Crisis (1962): Bringing the world to the brink of nuclear war
• Détente period in the 1970s
• Second Cold War in the 1980s under Reagan

Consequences:

• Creation of bipolar world order
• Decolonization influenced by superpower competition
• Military expenditure and arms race
• Proxy wars in Asia, Africa, and Latin America
• Fall of Soviet Union and end of Cold War (1991)
• Emergence of USA as the sole superpower

3. March 2022 History Question Paper with Answers

Question 1: What was the main objective of the Hunter Commission of 1882? (1 mark) Answer: The main objective of the Hunter Commission of 1882 was to review the progress of education in India since Wood’s Despatch of 1854 and suggest measures for further expansion of primary education.

Question 2: Discuss the impact of the Great Depression on Indian economy. (3 marks) Answer: Impact of Great Depression on Indian Economy:

• Sharp decline in agricultural prices, severely affecting farmers
• Fall in export of raw materials and manufactured goods
• Currency crisis due to Britain’s abandonment of gold standard
• Increase in land revenue and taxes despite economic hardship
• Rise in peasant indebtedness and landlessness
• Intensification of anti-colonial sentiment and nationalist movement
• Strengthened demand for economic self-sufficiency (Swadeshi)

Question 3: Trace the developments leading to the formation of the United Nations. Evaluate its role in maintaining world peace. (5 marks) Answer: Developments leading to UN formation:

• Failure of League of Nations to prevent World War II
• Atlantic Charter (1941): Commitment to international cooperation
• Declaration by United Nations (1942): Allied powers pledging to continue fighting Axis powers
• Moscow and Tehran Conferences (1943): Discussing post-war organization
• Dumbarton Oaks Conference (1944): Framework for the new organization
• Yalta Conference (1945): Agreement on voting procedures
• San Francisco Conference (April-June 1945): Drafting and signing the UN Charter
• Official establishment on October 24, 1945

Role in maintaining peace:

• Successful interventions: Korean War, Suez Crisis, Congo Crisis
• Peacekeeping operations in conflict zones
• Mediation and conflict resolution efforts
• Disarmament initiatives and nuclear non-proliferation
• Humanitarian assistance in war-torn regions

Limitations:

• Veto power of permanent Security Council members
• Lack of independent military force
• Financial constraints and dependence on member contributions
• Inability to prevent conflicts in Rwanda, Bosnia, Syria, etc.
• Growing challenges of terrorism and non-state actors

4. March 2021 History Question Paper with Answers

Question 1: Who was the founder of the Servants of India Society? (1 mark) Answer: Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Question 2: Examine the major causes of the decline of the Mughal Empire. (3 marks) Answer: Major causes of Mughal decline:

• Weak successors after Aurangzeb lacking administrative skills
• Wars of succession draining treasury and weakening central authority
• Aurangzeb’s religious policies alienating non-Muslims
• Expansion of empire beyond manageable limits
• Rise of regional powers like Marathas, Sikhs, and Jats
• Economic strain due to continuous warfare
• Foreign invasions like Nadir Shah (1739) and Ahmad Shah Abdali
• Administrative inefficiency and corruption
• Decline of military power compared to European technology

Question 3: Discuss the major developments in the cultural field during the post-independence period in India. (5 marks) Answer: Cultural developments in post-independence India:

• Literature:
  • Growth of regional literature with national themes
  • Emergence of writers like R.K. Narayan, Mulk Raj Anand, Khushwant Singh
  • Establishment of Sahitya Akademi (1954) to promote literature
• Visual Arts:
  • Progressive Artists’ Group led by F.N. Souza, M.F. Husain
  • Blend of traditional Indian and Western modernist influences
  • Establishment of Lalit Kala Akademi (1954)
• Cinema:
  • Golden age of Indian cinema (1950s-60s)
  • Parallel cinema movement led by Satyajit Ray, Ritwik Ghatak
  • Establishment of Film and Television Institute (1960)
• Music and Dance:
  • Revival and institutionalization of classical traditions
  • Establishment of Sangeet Natak Akademi (1953)
  • Popularization of folk forms on national platforms
• Architecture:
  • Modernist urban planning by Le Corbusier (Chandigarh)
  • Blend of traditional and modern elements in public buildings
• Education and Research:
  • Establishment of national institutions like IITs, IIMs, UGC
  • Promotion of scientific research through CSIR, ICHR, ICSSR

5. March 2020 History Question Paper with Answers

Question 1: Who was the first woman president of the Indian National Congress? (1 mark) Answer: Annie Besant

Question 2: Explain the circumstances leading to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. (2 marks) Answer: Circumstances leading to Jallianwala Bagh massacre:

• Implementation of repressive Rowlatt Act (1919) despite Indian opposition
• Nationwide protests against the Act led by Mahatma Gandhi
• Arrest of prominent leaders Dr. Saifuddin Kitchlew and Dr. Satya Pal in Punjab
• Growing unrest in Amritsar and other parts of Punjab
• General Dyer’s harsh military measures to suppress protests
• Gathering of about 10,000 people at Jallianwala Bagh on April 13, 1919 (Baisakhi day)
• Without warning, General Dyer ordered troops to fire on unarmed civilians
• Resulted in hundreds of deaths and injuries, sparking nationwide outrage
• Led to Non-Cooperation Movement and intensification of freedom struggle

Question 3: Discuss the philosophy and methods of Mahatma Gandhi’s Satyagraha. (5 marks) Answer: Philosophy of Satyagraha:

• Based on the power of truth (Satya) and non-violence (Ahimsa)
• Belief that moral strength is superior to physical force
• Faith in the inherent goodness of opponents
• Aim to convert, not coerce, the opponent through self-suffering
• Distinction between the evil and the evil-doer
• Emphasis on means being as important as ends

Methods of Satyagraha:

• Non-cooperation: Withdrawal of support to unjust laws and practices
• Civil disobedience: Deliberate breaking of unjust laws
• Fasting: As a means of self-purification and appeal to conscience
• Constructive programs: Khadi, village industries, communal harmony
• Mass mobilization through simple, understandable symbols
• Peaceful picketing and demonstrations

Applications in Indian freedom struggle:

• Champaran Satyagraha (1917): Against indigo plantation system
• Kheda Satyagraha (1918): Tax resistance during crop failure
• Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22): Against British colonial policies
• Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-34): Salt Satyagraha
• Quit India Movement (1942): Final mass struggle for independence

Impact:

• Transformed Indian national movement into mass movement
• Influenced civil rights movements worldwide
• Established ethical dimension in political struggle

 

More Plus Two History Previous Year Question Papers with Answers (HSSlive PDF Collection)

6. March 2019 History Question Paper with Answers

Question 1: Who was the President of the Constituent Assembly of India? (1 mark) Answer: Dr. Rajendra Prasad

Question 2: Explain the significant features of the Mauryan administration. (2 marks) Answer: Features of Mauryan administration:

• Centralized bureaucratic system with the king as the supreme authority
• Empire divided into provinces governed by royal princes or high officials
• Well-organized civil service with different ranks of officials
• Elaborate spy system to monitor administration and public opinion
• Comprehensive revenue system with land tax as the main source of income
• Strong military organization with permanent standing army
• Public works department for maintaining roads, irrigation systems
• Detailed regulations for trade, commerce, and urban administration as described in Arthashastra

Question 3: Analyze the circumstances that led to the rise of nationalist consciousness in India during the 19th century. (5 marks) Answer: Circumstances leading to nationalist consciousness:

• Political Unification: British rule united India politically for the first time, enabling Indians to see themselves as one nation
• Western Education: Introduction of English education exposed Indians to liberal, democratic ideas and concepts of liberty, equality, nationalism
• Press and Literature: Growth of newspapers in English and vernacular languages spread nationalist ideas
• Modern Communications: Railways, telegraph, postal services connected different regions
• Rediscovery of India’s Past: Works of scholars like Max Mueller, William Jones restored pride in India’s cultural heritage
• Racial Discrimination: British policies of racial discrimination created a sense of shared grievance
• Economic Exploitation: Economic drain theory by Dadabhai Naoroji exposed colonial exploitation
• Social and Religious Reform Movements: Movements led by Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Dayanand Saraswati, and others created social awakening
• Early Political Associations: Precursors to the Indian National Congress like the East India Association, Indian Association
• International Influences: Examples of nationalist movements in Italy, Germany, and Japan inspired Indian leaders
• Administrative Unity: Common laws, administrative system created shared political experience

7. March 2018 History Question Paper with Answers

Question 1: Which treaty formally ended the First World War? (1 mark) Answer: Treaty of Versailles

Question 2: Discuss the major features of the Indus Valley Civilization. (3 marks) Answer: Major features of Indus Valley Civilization:

• Urban Planning: Grid-patterned cities with well-planned streets and drainage systems
• Architecture: Sophisticated structures including Great Bath, Granary, Citadel
• Technology: Knowledge of metallurgy (copper, bronze), standardized weights and measures
• Agriculture: Evidence of well-developed farming, irrigation systems
• Trade: Commercial links with Mesopotamia, use of seals for trade
• Crafts: Advanced pottery, bead-making, terracotta figurines
• Script: Pictographic script (still undeciphered) with around 400 symbols
• Religion: Worship of Mother Goddess, proto-Shiva figure, animal worship
• Social Structure: Apparent social stratification based on house sizes and burial practices
• Decline: Gradual abandonment of cities possibly due to climate change, floods, or invasion

Question 3: Trace the development of science and technology in post-independence India. (5 marks) Answer: Development of science and technology in post-independence India:

Institutional Framework:

• Establishment of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) labs
• Creation of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) starting with Kharagpur in 1951
• Formation of Department of Atomic Energy (1954) and Space Commission (1972)
• University Grants Commission (UGC) for higher education development

Atomic Energy Program:

• Under leadership of Homi Bhabha, development of nuclear program
• First research reactor ‘Apsara’ (1956)
• Peaceful nuclear explosion at Pokhran (1974)
• Three-stage nuclear power program utilizing thorium reserves

Space Program:

• Establishment of ISRO under Vikram Sarabhai (1969)
• First satellite Aryabhata launched (1975)
• Indigenous satellite launch vehicles: SLV, ASLV, PSLV, GSLV
• Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) in 2014 – first successful mission by an Asian country
• Chandrayaan missions for lunar exploration

Agriculture:

• Green Revolution: High-yielding varieties, modern farming techniques
• Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) initiatives
• Development of agricultural universities and research stations

Information Technology:

• Establishment of software technology parks in 1990s
• Rise of IT industry after economic liberalization
• Emergence of Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune as IT hubs
• Growth of companies like TCS, Infosys, Wipro

Defense Technology:

• Development of IGMDP (Integrated Guided Missile Development Program)
• Creation of missiles like Prithvi, Agni, Akash, Nag
• Indigenous development of tanks, aircraft, naval vessels

Challenges and Achievements:

• Self-reliance in critical sectors despite economic constraints
• Jugaad innovation – developing solutions with limited resources
• Bridging traditional knowledge systems with modern technology

8. March 2017 History Question Paper with Answers

Question 1: Who founded the Brahmo Samaj? (1 mark) Answer: Raja Ram Mohan Roy

Question 2: Explain the major social reform movements in 19th century India. (2 marks) Answer: Major social reform movements in 19th century India:

• Brahmo Samaj: Led by Raja Ram Mohan Roy, opposed idolatry, advocated monotheism, worked against sati, child marriage, and for women’s education
• Arya Samaj: Founded by Swami Dayanand Saraswati, promoted Vedic learning, opposed idol worship, worked for women’s rights and against child marriage
• Ramakrishna Mission: Established by Swami Vivekananda, aimed at spiritual regeneration and social service
• Theosophical Society: Introduced by H.P. Blavatsky and Colonel Olcott, promoted universal brotherhood and revived interest in ancient Indian texts
• Aligarh Movement: Led by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, focused on modern education for Muslims
• Satya Shodhak Samaj: Founded by Jyotiba Phule, worked for rights of lower castes and women
• Social Service League: Started by Gopal Krishna Gokhale for promoting education and social service

Question 3: Analyze the causes and consequences of the First World War. (5 marks) Answer: Causes of First World War:

Immediate Cause:

• Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria in Sarajevo on June 28, 1914

Long-term Causes:

• Alliance System: Division of Europe into two hostile groups – Triple Alliance (Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy) and Triple Entente (Britain, France, Russia)
• Militarism: Arms race and expansion of standing armies
• Imperialism: Competition for colonies and markets in Asia and Africa
• Nationalism: Growth of aggressive nationalism, especially in Balkans
• Economic Rivalries: Industrial and commercial competition between Britain and Germany
• Previous Crises: Moroccan Crises (1905, 1911), Bosnian Crisis (1908-09), Balkan Wars (1912-13)

Consequences:

Political Consequences:

• Collapse of four empires: German, Austro-Hungarian, Ottoman, Russian
• Creation of new nation-states: Poland, Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia
• Redrawing of map of Europe and Middle East
• League of Nations established for international cooperation

Social Consequences:

• Massive loss of life: About 10 million military deaths, 20 million wounded
• Civilian suffering and displacement
• Change in social structure and women’s roles
• Rise of social welfare measures

Economic Consequences:

• Enormous war debts, especially for European powers
• Economic devastation of Europe
• Shift in economic power to United States
• Reparations imposed on Germany

Ideological Impact:

• Rise of communism with Russian Revolution
• Seeds of fascism in defeated nations
• Disillusionment with pre-war values
• Anti-colonial movements strengthened in Asia and Africa

Long-term Impact:

• Created conditions for Second World War
• Accelerated decline of European dominance
• Nationalistic movements in colonies
• Emergence of new international order

9. March 2016 History Question Paper with Answers

Question 1: Name the author of the book ‘Poverty and Un-British Rule in India’. (1 mark) Answer: Dadabhai Naoroji

Question 2: Examine the main features of the Permanent Settlement introduced by Lord Cornwallis. (3 marks) Answer: Main features of Permanent Settlement (1793):

• Zamindars (landlords) recognized as hereditary owners of land
• Fixed land revenue demand in perpetuity (no future increases)
• Zamindars responsible for collecting revenue and paying to British
• Revenue amount set very high initially (10/11th of rental income)
• Strict measures for revenue collection – lands auctioned if payment defaulted
• Creation of a class of loyal zamindars supportive of British rule
• No protection for actual cultivators (peasants)
• Commodification of land as a saleable asset
• Introduced in Bengal, Bihar, Orissa, parts of Madras Presidency

Consequences:

• Created a new class of absentee landlords
• Led to subdivision and transfer of land holdings
• Increased exploitation of peasants through high rents
• Land became a commodity that could be bought and sold
• Zamindars had no incentive to improve agriculture
• Stable revenue source for British administration

Question 3: Describe the circumstances leading to the integration of princely states into the Indian Union. (5 marks) Answer: Integration of Princely States:

Background:

• 562 princely states existed at independence, covering 40% of territory
• British paramountcy lapsed with independence, states free to join India or Pakistan
• Lord Mountbatten advised rulers to accede to appropriate dominion
• Congress worked for integration while some states considered independence
• States Department established under Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and V.P. Menon

Methods of Integration:

• Persuasion: Patel and Menon negotiated with rulers, appealing to patriotism
• Pressure: Popular movements in states, economic incentives, threat of force
• Instrument of Accession: States first acceded in matters of defense, foreign affairs, communications
• Standstill Agreements: Continuing existing arrangements temporarily
• Privy Purses: Financial compensation to rulers for integration

Challenging Cases:

• Hyderabad: Nizam wished to remain independent, supported by Razakars (militias)
  • Operation Polo (Police Action) in September 1948 led to accession
• Junagadh: Muslim ruler acceded to Pakistan despite Hindu majority population
  • Popular uprising and Indian intervention led to referendum and accession
• Kashmir: Hari Singh initially hesitated, signed Instrument of Accession after Pakistani tribal invasion
  • Led to first Indo-Pak war and continuing dispute
• Travancore and Jodhpur: Initially resistant but eventually acceded

Reorganization Process:

• Formation of unions of states and chief commissioners’ provinces
• Integration of administrations and legal systems
• States Reorganization Commission (1953) led to reorganization on linguistic basis in 1956

Significance:

• Prevented balkanization of Indian subcontinent
• Created unified political and economic space
• Ended feudal systems in princely territories
• Considered Patel’s greatest contribution to nation-building
• Completed the geographical unification of India

10. March 2015 History Question Paper with Answers

Question 1: What was the ‘August Offer’? (1 mark) Answer: The August Offer was a proposal made by Viceroy Lord Linlithgow in August 1940, promising dominion status to India after the Second World War and expansion of the Viceroy’s Executive Council with Indian representatives, while assuring that no future constitution would be imposed on India without consent from minorities.

Question 2: Examine the role of Subhas Chandra Bose in India’s freedom struggle. (3 marks) Answer: Role of Subhas Chandra Bose in freedom struggle:

• Joined Non-Cooperation Movement and worked under Chittaranjan Das in Bengal
• Elected President of Indian National Congress twice (1938, 1939)
• Formed Forward Bloc in 1939 after ideological differences with Gandhi
• Advocated aggressive resistance against British rule
• Escaped from house arrest in 1941, reached Germany seeking support against British
• Formed Indian Legion with Indian POWs in Germany
• Established Azad Hind Government in Singapore (October 1943)
• Reorganized Indian National Army (INA) with Japanese support
• Led INA in battles against British forces at Imphal and Kohima
• Gave famous slogan “Give me blood, I’ll give you freedom”
• Developed alternative strategy to non-violence with his militant nationalism
• INA trials after war sparked nationwide protests, accelerating freedom struggle
• Created strong patriotic sentiment with his charismatic leadership

Significance:

• Demonstrated possibility of armed resistance against British rule
• Weakened loyalty of Indian soldiers in British Army
• Pushed British to consider Indian independence more seriously
• Highlighted international dimension of India’s freedom struggle
• Inspired later generations with his uncompromising patriotism

Question 3: Describe the major developments in Indian agriculture during the British rule. (5 marks) Answer: Developments in Indian agriculture during British rule:

Land Revenue Systems:

• Permanent Settlement (1793): Fixed revenue in Bengal, Bihar, parts of Madras
• Ryotwari System: Direct settlement with cultivators in Madras, Bombay
• Mahalwari System: Village community as unit for revenue in North-Western Provinces
• High revenue demands leading to peasant indebtedness and land alienation

Commercialization of Agriculture:

• Shift from food crops to cash crops (cotton, indigo, jute, tea, opium)
• Production for market rather than subsistence
• Integration with world market and vulnerability to price fluctuations
• Increased dependence on moneylenders and traders

Plantation Agriculture:

• Development of tea plantations in Assam and West Bengal
• Coffee plantations in South India
• Rubber plantations in Kerala
• Harsh working conditions and exploitation of labor

Technological Changes:

• Limited mechanization mostly in plantations
• Introduction of new crops from Americas (potato, maize)
• Establishment of agricultural research institutes and farms
• Expansion of irrigation works, especially canal systems

Impact on Peasantry:

• Increasing stratification among peasantry
• Growth of landless agricultural laborers
• Recurring famines (1876-78, 1896-97, 1943 Bengal Famine)
• Peasant movements against exploitation (Indigo revolts, Deccan riots)

Institutional Changes:

• Disruption of traditional village communities
• New property rights in land
• Growth of intermediaries between state and cultivator
• Development of agricultural credit systems

Colonial Legacy:

• Stagnation in agricultural productivity
• Regional imbalances in development
• Commercialization without modernization
• Foundation for post-independence land reforms

11. March 2014 History Question Paper with Answers

Question 1: Name the vernacular newspaper started by Bal Gangadhar Tilak. (1 mark) Answer: Kesari

Question 2: What was the Civil Disobedience Movement? Explain its course and significance. (2 marks) Answer: Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-34):

Background:

• Launched by Gandhi after Lahore Congress (December 1929) demanded Purna Swaraj
• British government’s failure to respond to demands in Nehru Report
• Gandhi’s Eleven Points ultimatum to government

Course:

• Started with Dandi March (March 12, 1930) to break Salt Laws
• Gandhi and 78 followers marched 240 miles from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi
• Widespread civil disobedience – salt manufacturing, forest law violations, boycott of foreign goods
• Massive participation including women, students, merchants, peasants
• Repression by government – 90,000 arrested including Gandhi
• Gandhi-Irwin Pact (March 1931) led to temporary suspension
• Second phase (1932-34) after failure of Second Round Table Conference
• Movement suppressed by 1934

Significance:

• First nationwide mass movement involving all sections of society
• Strengthened nationalist sentiment and challenged British authority
• Women’s active participation in large numbers
• Demonstrated effectiveness of non-violent resistance
• Forced British to recognize Congress as representative of Indian people
• Led to Government of India Act 1935
• Strengthened Gandhi’s leadership within national movement
• Prepared ground for future struggles leading to independence

Question 3: Examine the circumstances that led to the Partition of India in 1947. (5 marks) Answer: Circumstances leading to Partition:

Historical Background:

• Growth of communal politics since late 19th century
• Separate electorates introduced in Morley-Minto Reforms (1909)
• Formation of Muslim League (1906) to protect Muslim interests
• Two-Nation Theory propounded by Muhammad Ali Jinnah

British Policy:

• Divide and Rule strategy encouraging communal divisions
• Communal Award of 1932 extending separate electorates
• British support for Muslim League during World War II
• Wavell’s simla Conference (1945) recognizing League as representative of Muslims
• Mountbatten’s hurried partition plan with fixed deadline

Political Developments:

• Failure of Cripps Mission (1942) to resolve constitutional deadlock
• Muslim League’s Lahore Resolution (1940) demanding separate Muslim states
• League’s electoral success in 1945-46 provincial elections
• Direct Action Day (August 16, 1946) leading to communal violence
• Failure of Cabinet Mission Plan (1946) for united India with grouping of provinces
• Interim Government tensions between Congress and League

Leadership Factors:

• Jinnah’s uncompromising stance on Pakistan demand
• Congress leadership’s fatigue after long struggle
• Sardar Patel and Nehru’s acceptance of partition to prevent civil war
• Gandhi’s opposition but inability to prevent partition
• Mountbatten’s push for quick solution before British withdrawal

Immediate Factors:

• Increasing communal riots in Punjab, Bengal, Bihar
• Administrative machinery breakdown in many areas
• Fears of civil war if power transferred to united India
• British desire for quick withdrawal after World War II
• 3 June Plan (1947) accepted by both Congress and League
• Indian Independence Act (July 1947) providing legal framework

Consequences:

• Creation of two dominions: India and Pakistan
• Massive population transfer (14-16 million)
• Communal violence claiming 500,000-1,000,000 lives
• Refugee crisis and property disputes
• Kashmir problem leading to first Indo-Pak war
• Long-term tension in South Asian geopolitics

12. March 2013 History Question Paper with Answers

Question 1: Who was the founder of the Servants of India Society? (1 mark) Answer: Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Question 2: What was the Swadeshi Movement? Discuss its impact on Indian national movement. (3 marks) Answer: Swadeshi Movement (1905-11):

Background:

• Started as protest against Partition of Bengal by Lord Curzon (1905)
• Initially centered in Bengal, later spread to other regions
• Led by leaders like Aurobindo Ghosh, Bipin Chandra Pal, Lala Lajpat Rai

Main Features:

• Boycott of British goods and institutions
• Promotion of indigenous products (swadeshi)
• National education system outside British control
• Self-reliance in economic and cultural spheres
• Passive resistance against colonial policies

Impact on National Movement:

• First mass movement with widespread participation
• Economic nationalism with emphasis on self-reliance
• Development of indigenous industries and enterprises
• Revival of Indian cultural identity and pride
• Emergence of extremist leadership challenging moderate approach
• Use of traditional cultural symbols for national mobilization
• Women’s participation in public political action
• Spread of movement beyond educated elites to masses
• Method of boycott became permanent feature in later movements
• Influenced future leaders including Gandhi
• Demonstrated potential of mass mobilization against colonial rule

Question 3: Analyze the foreign policy of independent India under Jawaharlal Nehru. (5 marks) Answer: Nehru’s Foreign Policy (1947-64):

Core Principles:

• Non-alignment: Remaining independent of major power blocs
• Panchsheel: Five principles of peaceful coexistence
• Anti-colonialism and anti-racism
• International peace and cooperation
• Support for United Nations

Relations with Major Powers:

• USSR: Diplomatic and economic ties without military alliance
  • Soviet economic aid for industrialization
  • Support on Kashmir issue in UN
  • Indo-Soviet Treaty of Peace and Friendship (1955)
• USA: Initially cordial relations deteriorated during Cold War
  • US military aid to Pakistan created tensions
  • American disapproval of non-alignment
  • Food aid under PL-480 program
• China: Hindi-Chini Bhai Bhai policy initially
  • Recognition of Communist China in 1949
  • Agreement on Tibet (1954)
  • Border disputes leading to 1962 War

Regional Relations:

• Pakistan: Series of disputes over Kashmir, canal waters
  • First Kashmir War (1947-48)
  • Indus Waters Treaty (1960)
• Smaller Neighbors: Generally cordial relations
  • Special relationship with Nepal, Bhutan
  • Friendship treaty with Burma

Role in International Forums:

• Founding member of Non-Aligned Movement (1961)
• Active role in UN peacekeeping missions (Congo, Korea)
• Mediation in Korean War and Indochina
• Strong stance against apartheid in South Africa
• Support for decolonization movements in Asia and Africa
• Commonwealth membership while maintaining republican status

Challenges and Achievements:

• Projected India as moral force in world politics
• Gained respect despite limited economic and military power
• Enhanced India’s international stature beyond its material capabilities
• Kashmir issue remained unresolved
• Border conflict with China revealed strategic limitations
• Established framework for India’s foreign policy that continues with modifications

13. March 2012 History Question Paper with Answers

Question 1: What is meant by ‘Drain of Wealth’? (1 mark) Answer: ‘Drain of Wealth’ refers to the continuous flow of India’s wealth and resources to Britain during colonial rule through various means like home charges, unrequited exports, profits of British companies, high salaries of British officials, and interest on foreign debt, as analyzed by nationalist economists like Dadabhai Naoroji.

Question 2: Examine the policies adopted by Lord Curzon as Viceroy of India. (2 marks) Answer: Policies of Lord Curzon (1899-1905):

Administrative Reforms:

• Creation of North-West Frontier Province (1901)
• Police reforms through Police Commission (1902)
• Establishment of Agricultural Research Institute at Pusa
• Preservation of historical monuments through Ancient Monuments Preservation Act (1904)
• Educational reforms including Universities Act (1904)
• Creation of Department of Commerce and Industry

Controversial Policies:

• Partition of Bengal (1905) – most controversial decision
• Curbing powers of Indian universities through centralization
• Calcutta Corporation Act reducing Indian representation
• Official Secrets Act (1904) restricting press freedom
• Indian Coinage and Paper Currency Act (1899)
• Reduction in military expenditure affecting Indian soldiers

Impact:

• Administrative efficiency improved but at cost of Indian sentiments
• Bengal Partition sparked nationwide Swadeshi Movement
• Educational policies alienated educated Indians
• Perceived as arrogant and imperialistic by Indians
• Strengthened nationalist movement through reaction to his policies
• Left legacy of efficiency but also of heightened anti-British sentiment

Question 3: Analyze the nature and significance of the Russian Revolution of 1917. (5 marks) Answer: Russian Revolution of 1917:

Background:

• Autocratic Tsarist regime under Nicholas II
• Industrial backwardness with emerging working class
• Agrarian crisis with peasants demanding land
• Russian defeat in Russo-Japanese War (1904-05)
• Revolution of 1905 leading to limited reforms
• Impact of World War I – military defeats, economic crisis

February Revolution:

• Spontaneous uprising in Petrograd (February 23-27, 1917)
• Food shortages and strikes triggered mass protests
• Formation of Provisional Government under Kerensky
• Abdication of Tsar Nicholas II
• Dual power structure with Petrograd Soviet

October Revolution:

• Bolsheviks under Lenin’s leadership
• “April Theses” calling for Soviet power
• Growing disillusionment with Provisional Government
• Slogan of “Peace, Land, and Bread” winning popular support
• Bolshevik seizure of power (October 24-25, 1917)
• Establishment of Council of People’s Commissars

Aftermath:

• Civil War (1918-22) between Red Army and White forces
• War Communism followed by New Economic Policy
• Formation of USSR (1922)
• Stalin’s rise to power after Lenin’s death
• Transformation into one-party totalitarian state

Historical Significance:

• First successful socialist revolution in world history
• End of 300-year-old Romanov dynasty
• Established world’s first communist state
• New model of state-controlled economy
• Challenged capitalist world order
• Inspired revolutionary movements worldwide
• Creation of Communist International (1919)
• Fundamental impact on 20th century geopolitics
• Cold War origins in ideological division
• Demonstration of revolutionary potential of working class

14. March 2011 History Question Paper with Answers

Question 1: Name the president of Indian National Congress at the time of independence. (1 mark) Answer: J.B. Kripalani

Question 2: What was the Non-Cooperation Movement? Explain its impact on Indian national movement. (3 marks) Answer: Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22):

Background:

• Launched by Gandhi in response to Jallianwala Bagh massacre
• Khilafat movement alliance with Muslims
• Special Congress session at Calcutta (September 1920) adopted program
• Confirmed at Nagpur Congress (December 1920)

Program:

• Surrender of titles and honors conferred by British
• Boycott of government schools, colleges, courts
• Boycott of foreign goods and promotion of swadeshi
• Boycott of elections to legislative councils
• National schools and arbitration courts established
• Emphasis on Hindu-Muslim unity
• Popularization of khadi and charkha (spinning wheel)

Impact on National Movement:

• First truly mass-based national movement
• Transformed Congress from elite to mass organization
• Drew millions of peasants, workers, students into struggle
• Established Gandhi as undisputed leader of national movement
• Demonstrated power of non-violent resistance
• Created parallel institutions challenging British authority
• Strengthened Hindu-Muslim unity temporarily
• Boosted self-confidence of Indian people
• New leadership emerged at local and national levels
• Suspension after Chauri Chaura incident (February 1922) caused disappointment
• Lessons learned applied to future movements

Question 3: Discuss the socio-religious reform movements in modern India. (5 marks) Answer: Socio-Religious Reform Movements in Modern India:

Causes:

• Impact of Western education and ideas
• Colonial critique of Indian society
• Desire to counter Christian missionary criticism
• Need to reinterpret traditions for modern context
• Efforts to strengthen society against foreign rule

Bengal-Centered Movements:

• Brahmo Samaj (1828): Founded by Raja Ram Mohan Roy
  • Opposed idolatry, polytheism, caste restrictions
  • Advocated widow remarriage, women’s education
  • Under Keshab Chandra Sen, emphasized social reform
• Ramakrishna Mission: Established by Swami Vivekananda (1897)
  • Synthesis of various religious traditions
  • Service to humanity as worship of God
  • Revival of Vedantic philosophy with practical applications

Western India Movements:

• Prarthana Samaj: Founded by Atmaram Pandurang (1867)
  • Maharashtra-based reform movement
  • Focus on social service and women’s education
• Satya Shodhak Samaj: Established by Jyotiba Phule (1873)
  • Anti-Brahminical movement for lower castes
  • Focus on education and rights of marginalized groups

North Indian Movements:

• Arya Samaj: Founded by Swami Dayanand Saraswati (1875)
  • “Back to Vedas” approach
  • Opposition to idolatry, child marriage, caste by birth
  • Shuddhi movement for reconversion
  • Educational institutions including Dayanand Anglo-Vedic schools

Muslim Reform Movements:

• Aligarh Movement: Led by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan
  • Modern education for Muslims through MAO College (1875)
  • Reconciliation of Islam with modern science
• Deoband Movement: Founded by Muhammad Qasim Nanotvi (1866)
  • Orthodox school reviving classical Islamic learning
  • Initially opposed to Western education
• Ahmadiya Movement: Started by Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (1889)
  • Liberal interpretation of Islam
  • Peaceful propagation of faith

Sikh Reform Movement:

• Singh Sabha Movement (1873) and later Akali Movement
• Purification of religious practices and educational reforms

Parsi and Tribal Reforms:

• Rahnumai Mazdayasnan Sabha for Parsi reforms
• Tribal movements like Bhil movement, Kherwar movement

Women-Led Reforms:

• Pandita Ramabai’s Arya Mahila Samaj
• Ramabai Ranade’s work for women’s education

Impact:

• Helped eliminate social evils like sati, child marriage
• Promoted women’s education and rights
• Challenged caste hierarchies and untouchability
• Created foundation for nationalism
• Modernized religious practices while preserving traditions
• Established educational institutions that fostered national awakening

15. March 2010 History Question Paper with Answers

Question 1: Who founded the Azad Hind Fauj? (1 mark) Answer: The Azad Hind Fauj (Indian National Army) was first founded by Captain Mohan Singh in 1942, but it was reorganized and revitalized under the leadership of Subhas Chandra Bose in 1943.

Question 2: Discuss the development of education during the British rule in India. (2 marks) Answer: Development of education during British rule:

Early Phase (1757-1813):

• Little interest in education of Indians
• Establishment of Calcutta Madrasa (1781) and Sanskrit College at Banaras (1791)
• Charter Act of 1813 allocated sum for education

Orientalist Phase (1813-1835):

• Promotion of classical languages (Sanskrit, Arabic, Persian)
• Establishment of colleges teaching Oriental subjects
• Calcutta Sanskrit College (1824)

Anglicist Phase (After 1835):

• Macaulay’s Minute (1835) favoring English education
• Wood’s Despatch (1854) – “Magna Carta of English Education”
• Establishment of universities in Calcutta, Bombay, Madras (1857)
• Department of Public Instruction created
• Grant-in-aid system for private schools

Later Developments:

• Hunter Commission (1882) for primary education
• Indian Universities Act (1904) under Lord Curzon
• Government Resolution on Educational Policy (1913)
• Sadler Commission (1917) on university education
• Sergeant Plan (1944) for post-war educational development

Features of Colonial Education:

• Emphasis on English language and Western knowledge
• Downplaying of vernacular languages
• Limited access – educated small elite groups
• Gender and caste disparities in access
• Focus on humanities rather than technical education
• Designed primarily to create clerical staff for administration

Impact:

• Created Western-educated Indian elite
• Introduced modern ideas of democracy, liberalism, nationalism
• Disparities between English-educated and masses
• Neglect of mass education and technical training
• Laid foundation for modern educational system
• Introduction of print culture and textbooks
• New educational institutions became centers of nationalist thought

Question 3: Trace the evolution of the United Nations Organization. Evaluate its role in maintaining world peace. (5 marks) Answer: Evolution of United Nations Organization:

Origins and Formation:

• Predecessor: League of Nations (1919-1946)
• Atlantic Charter (1941) by Roosevelt and Churchill
• Declaration by United Nations (1942) – 26 Allied nations
• Moscow and Tehran

How to Make the Most of HSSlive Plus Two History Question Papers

1. Start Early: Begin your practice at least 3-4 months before the exam
2. Topic-wise Approach: First master individual topics, then attempt full papers
3. Timed Practice: Simulate exam conditions by solving papers within the allotted time
4. Self-Assessment: Compare your answers with the provided solutions
5. Focus on Weak Areas: Identify and work on topics where you score less
6. Regular Revision: Create summary notes of important events, dates, and personalities
7. Answer Writing Skills: Practice structuring your answers with proper introduction, body, and conclusion

Remember, consistent practice with HSSlive Plus Two History previous year question papers is the key to scoring high marks in your board exams. Best of luck with your preparation!