Topic: 3 (History)

Mcqs
3(a)(i) Name the son of Isa Khan who challenged the Mughals. (line 2)

Musa Khan

3(a)(ii) Which son did Shah Jahan appoint a Viceroy of Bengal?

Suja

3(a)(iii) Which part of the Empire did Muhammad Azam rule?

Gujrat

3(a)(iv) Who succeeded Aurangzeb as ruler of the Mughal Empire?

Muazzem / Shah Alam 1

3(a)(v) Who was appointed Viceroy of Bengal in 1705? (line 11)

Murshid Quli Zafar Khan

Above 2019

3(a)(i) Name Jahangir’s capital city.

Lahore, Jahangir Nagar

3(a)(ii) What did Jahangir have built in memory to his wife, Nur Jahan?

The sandstone mausoleum in Lahore.

3(a)(iii) Under whose rule had Baro Bhuiyans been Governors of Bengal?

Delhi Sultans

3(a)(iv) Where was Sir Thomas Roe's factory built?

Surat

3(a)(v) What did Britain provide for the Mughal Empire in return for this agreement?

European goods/gifts

Above 2018

3(a)(i) Who was Akbar’s father? (line 3)

Humayan
3(a)(ii) When did Akbar become Emperor of Delhi? (line 3)
1556
3(a)(iii) Who accepted the right to be overlord of Bengal in 1564?
Sulaiman Kararni
 3(a)(iv) Who took the right to rule Bengal after 1572?
Daud Khan

3(a)(v) Which battle of 1576 led to Bengal becoming part of the Mughal Empire?

Rajmahal

Above 2017

3 (a) (i) Name Aurangzeb’s father. [1]

Shah Jahan

(ii) Which brother did Aurangzeb defeat at Khajwa (now Uttar Pradesh)? [1]

Suja

(iii) Who was made Viceroy of Bengal for his support of Aurangzeb at Khajwa? [1]

Mir Jumla

(iv) Who led the Persian army against the Mughal Empire? [1]

Ahmed Shah Abdali

(v) Name one of the areas settled in by the British as a result of the success of the 1688 blockade. [1]
Bombay, Madras or Bengal.

Above 2016

2 (a)

(i) Who was Humayan’s father? (line 1) [1]

Babur

ii) When did Sher Shah capture Gaur? (line 2) [1]

1538

(ii) What was the name of the Sultan overthrown by Sher Shah? (line 3) [1]
Mahmud Shah
(iii) Where was Humayan defeated? (line4) [1]
Chausa, near Boxer

(v) Where did Humayan flee to? (line 5) [1]

Persia

Above 2015

(i) Who was Jahangir’s viceroy who established control over Bengal? (line 2)
Islam Khan
(ii) When did Jahangir die?
1627
(iii) Under Shah Jahan, which area of Bengal was taken from Portugal?
Hugli

(iv) Who was Shah Jahan’s son who was viceroy of Bengal? (line 4)
Prince Suja or Suja
(v) Where was the capital moved to? (line 4)
Rajmahal

Above 2013
3 (a)
(i) When did Aurangzeb die? [1]
1707
(ii) Name an area annexed by Aurangzeb in the Deccan. [1]
Golcunda or Bijapur
(iii) Who were driven to oppose Aurangzeb by the annexation of Marwar? [1]
Rajputs
(iv) Who defeated the Mughal Empire at Panipat? [1]
Ahmed Shah Abdali of Persia
(v) In the reign of which Mughal emperor had the British been given permission in 1620
to build forts and to trade? [1]
Jahangir
Above 2012
(i) Which ‘Sultan of Delhi was defeated in the Battle of Panipat’? (line 1) [1]
Ibrahim Lodi
(ii) How did Nusrat Shah die? [1]
Assassinated
(iii) Which Mughal emperor did Sher Shah win ‘a great victory over’ in 1539? (line
4) [1]
Humayun
(iv) When was ‘the death of Aurangzeb’? (lines 7–8) [1]
1707
(v) Which Mughal emperor ‘granted the British trade concessions in 1620’? (lines
8–9) [1]
Jahangir
Above 2010

(i) Which ‘great victory’ did Babur win in 1526? (line 1) [1]
Panipat.
(ii) Which Sultan of Bengal did Babur force to ‘conclude a treaty promising not to
oppose’ the Mughals? (line 2-3) [1]
Nusrat Shah.
(iii) Which Mughal emperor did Sher Shah force to ‘flee to Persia’? (line 5) [1]
Humayun.
(iv) Which ‘new Mughal governor brought Bengal under control?’ (lines 7-8) [1]
 Islam Khan.
(v) Where was the ‘new capital’ the new governor established? (line 8) [1]
Dhaka/Jahangir Nagar.

Above 2009
(i) Name one of the ‘three sons’ of Aurangzeb who fought to succeed him after
his death (lines 6–7). [1]
One of: Muazzam, Muhammad Azam, Muhammad Kar Baksh
(ii) What was Aurangzeb’s view of religious toleration? [1]
He opposed it
(iii) Name one of the groups against which Aurangzeb was fighting in ‘northern
India’ (line 8). [1]
The Marathas or the Rajputs
(iv) What were mansabdars (line 9)? [1]
Official nobility
(v) Which Persian leader plundered Delhi in 1739? [1]
Nader Shah
Above 2007

(i) Who was ‘the first Mughal Emperor’ (line 4)? [1]

Babur

(ii) How did ‘Nusrat Shah’ die (line 5)? [1]

He was assassinated.
(iii) Who did Sher Shah defeat in 1539 to establish ‘Afghan control’ in
Bengal (lines 5–6)? [1]
Humuyan
(iv) After which battle in July 1576 did Bengal finally become ‘an integral
part of the Mughal Empire’ (line 7)? [1]

Rajmahal

(v) Name one of the leaders of ‘the Baro Bhuiyans’ (lines 8–9). [1]

(i) Musa Khan Masnad-i-Ala, (ii) Ataul Khan, (iii) Abdullah Khan, (iv)
Mahmud Khan, (v) Bahadur Ghazi, (vi) Sona Ghazi, (vii) Anwar Ghazi,
(viii) Shaikh Pir, (ix) Mirza Mimin, (x) Madhav Rai, (xi) Binode Rai, (xii)
Pahlwan, (xiii) Haji Shamsuddin Bagdadi.

Above 2006

Part Bs

3(b)(i) Describe the relationship between the Mughals and the Marathas.
One mark is awarded for each explained fact.

E.g.
• They came into conflict as Aurangzeb extended his Empire northwards.
• The battle fought against the Deccan was the most costly to the Mughals.
• 1665 saw Shiva captured and brought to Agra, but he escaped and continued to challenge
Aurangzeb.
• By 1691 Marathas had become strong enough to consolidate their positions in N India and
develop their Empire. They had strong cavalry.
• These wars were a great drain on the Empire’s treasury.

3(b)(ii) Explain how the Mughal Empire was administered in the seventeenth century.
Level 1: [1–2 marks]
Answers which offer very simple generalisations.
E.g. He made new laws that took much enforcing.
Level 2: [3 marks] Answers which explain ONE element
Level 3: [4–5 marks] Answers which explain TWO OR MORE elements
E.g.
• Laws on morality, length of beards, and against the consumption of alcohol required systems
to enforce them at local levels – the mansabdars were created and oversight of this was one of
their roles. Taxation was high because of the costs of wars – the mansabdars oversaw the
collection them.
• Corruption grew as the Emperor was away from home.
• As the empire grew, communication became difficult and emperors found it difficult to
respond well to information that they received, which was out of date by that time anyway.
• Mansabdars were expected to provide the Emperor with soldiers.

• To avoid costly wars after his death, Aurangzeb divided the Empire between his three sons
during his lifetime.

Above 2019

3(b)(i) What caused Sir Thomas Roe’s amazement at the Court of Jahangir?
One mark is awarded for each explained fact
e.g. The wealth that was visible from, for example, the throne and jewels, the depth of
ceremony expected and offered, the roles at court, the way that he was treated.
Also that Jahangir was willing to create a treaty with Roe, helping him to build a factory at
Surat.
3(b)(ii) What were Jahangir’s views on religion?
Level 1 [1–2 marks] Answers which offer very simple generalisations
e.g. He was Muslim.
Level 2
[3 marks] Answers which explain one element
Level 3
[4–5 marks] Answers which explain two or more elements
e.g.
 Some of his wives were Hindu.
He told Sir Thomas Roe that he was not a believer in gods.
He was interested in all religions.

Above 2018
3(b)(i) Describe how Prince Suja changed the way that Viceroys ruled Bengal.

One mark is awarded for each explained fact.

e.g.
He was appointed for a long period 21 years.
He moved the capital to Rajmahal.
Being the Emperor’s son, he showed the importance of the area to the Mughals.
The new capital was on border land that supported conquest:
Looking at Bihar.
Able to control all parts of the Empire e.g. Kamrup (NE).
3(b)(ii) Explain how the Viceroys handled challenges to their rule during the reign of Shah
Jahan.
Level 1 [1–2 marks] Answers which offer very simple generalisations.
e.g.
There was opposition.
They fought.
Level 2 [3 marks] Answers which explain ONE element.
Level 3 [4–5 marks] Answers which explain TWO OR MORE elements.
e.g.
Hugli was captured from the Portuguese.
Assam rose against Viceroys Azam Khan and Islam Khan Mashadi.
The Mughals occupied Darang in Assam and set up headquarters in Gauhati.
Arakan rose against Islam Khan Mashadi, causing him to be returned to become Prime Minister,
Prince Suja replacing him.

Above 2017

(b) (i) How was Bengal ruled in the early 18th century? [5]
One mark is awarded for each explained fact.
e.g. Appropriate features from Aurangzeb’s later years such as the weak hold over the Empire as
his sons fought for his place. e.g. There was a Viceroy to represent the Mughal Emperor. Local
provincial rulers, or Diwan (revenue administrators), were expected to follow his Firman and to
pay tribute to the Emperor. Murshid Quli Khan was appointed both Diwan and Subahdar, this
becoming hereditary after his death and took the right to a throne, or masnad. Successors of the
masnad of Bengal took the title Nawab (or successor) and became independent of the Emperor,
even though they paid tribute and received sanad (vice regal patent).
ii) Explain how religious policy weakened Aurangzeb’s Empire. [5]
Level 1: Answers which offer very simple generalisations.
e.g. He was not tolerant of religions other than his own. 1–2 marks
Level 2: Answers which explain ONE element. 3 marks
Level 3: Answers which explain TWO OR MORE elements.
e.g. He was ruler of the Muslims only, fasting on Fridays and during the period of Ramadan. He
ate no meat. Nor did he wear forbidden clothes. He had mosques built throughout his Empire.
e.g. He caused unrest amongst the Hindu population. He introduced tax on nonbelievers, Jizia.
He banned sati, the Hindu tradition of sacrifice of widows. He removed Hindu temples.
Above 2016
(b) (i) Describe how Akbar restored the authority of the Mogul Emperor 1556–1605. [5]
One mark is awarded for each explained fact e.g. Fought a number of battles to consolidate
power in north and south of India; personally marched against Daud Khan in 1574; left an army
of 20,000 to continue confronting the Afghans; defeated and killed Daud Khan at Rajmahal
1576; sent Raja Mansingh to be governor of Bengal against resistance. Defeated Kedar Rai.
(ii) Explain how Sher Shah was able to defeat the Emperor Humayan. [5]
The following levels are used:
Level One: Answers which offer very simple generalizations. (e.g. He was a good leader) 1–2
marks
Level Two: Answers which explain ONE element
(e.g He did not confront the Emperor in 1538 because of the huge army that Humayan had, but
withdrew into Bihar
This allowed him to occupy the territory between Bihar and Delhi, cutting the Emperor’s
communication.
He took advantage of the Emperor’s mistake in celebrating in Gaur and delaying too long in
Bengal
Sher Khan blocked the emperor’s march on Agra at Chausa)
3 marks
Level Three: Answers which explain TWO OR MORE elements 4–5 marks
Above 2015
Part (b): This question tests your knowledge and understanding.
(i) Describe the succession struggle which brought Aurangzeb to the throne. [5]
(ii) Explain how Bengal developed under Aurangzeb’s viceroy Mir Jumla. Part (b): This
question tests your knowledge and understanding.
(i) Describe the succession struggle which brought Aurangzeb to the throne. [5]
(ii) Explain how Bengal developed under Aurangzeb’s viceroy Mir Jumla.
(b) (i) 1 mark for each explained fact about the struggle for succession (to max of 5).
One mark is awarded for each explained fact about the struggle for succession, up to a
maximum of five marks.
• Shah Jehan fell ill in September 1657 and this caused a struggle for power between his four
sons.
• Dara Shiko, Suja, Aurangzeb and Murad. The main contest was between Aurangzeb and Dara.
• On 29 May 1658, Dara was defeated at Samugar.
• Aurangzeb occupied Agra and imprisoned his father in Agra Fort and also imprisoned Murad.
• At Khajwa, Aurangzeb’s army defeated that of Suja.
• Aurangzeb had his brother Dara beheaded.
 • In 1660, Suja was defeated by Aurangzeb’s general Mir Jumla.
• Suja and his family were killed by the ruler of Arakan.
(ii) Level 1: Answers which write about Mir Jumla generally without reference to Bengal’s
development or offer very simple generalisations. 1–2 marks
e.g. He was a very important viceroy who became a powerful ruler. He expanded Bengal. He is
important for the development of Dhaka.
Level 2: Answers which explain ONE development. 3 marks
Level 3: Answers which explain TWO OR MORE developments.
4–5 marks
He moved the capital from Rajmahal to Dhaka to emphasise a new authority over Bengal. He
extended the territory of Bengal by adding Kuch Bihar and Assam and for a while was in charge
of Orissa. He raised the authority of the Viceroy’s position and was awarded the title Khan-e-
Khanam. It was Mir Jumla who contributed greatly towards development of Dhaka. He built Mir
Jamal's Gate. Two important roads, Dhaka-Tongi and Dhaka-Fatulla, were laid out.
Above 2013
(b) (i) Describe the struggles for the Mughal throne between Aurangzeb’s sons. [5]
One mark for each fact. Maximum 5 marks.
 There was a war of succession following his death in 1707 between three sons.
• The sons had been allowed to become powerful regional rulers in Aurangzeb’s lifetime and
wanted to take overall power.
• They got the support of rival nobles.
• Their names were Muazzam, Muhammad Azam and Muhammad Kam Baksh (one mark for
two names, 2 marks for all three).
• They ignored their father’s direction to divide the empire peacefully.
• In the fighting, two sons (Azam and Muhammad) died.
• Muazzam took the title Bahadur Shah/Alam I but died in 1712.

(ii)Why did Aurangzeb’s policies weaken his empire? [5]

Level One: Answers which write about policies/aspects with no explanation.

[1–2]
Level Two: Answers which explain ONE reason. [3–4]
Level Three: Answers which explain TWO OR MORE reasons. [5]

Religious policy seemed unfair to Hindus and weakened unity of empire (e.g.
reimposed Jizia and banned Suti).

Annexation of Golcunda and Bijapur in the Deccan – lost an opportunity to gain

allies against Maharas and made empire too vast and unwieldy.

Alienated Rajpuis by annexing Marwar. Lost valuable allies and their opposition
turned into a major uprising and prolonged war.
Above 2012
(i) Write what you know about the Bara Bhuiyans. [5]
(ii) Why was Aurangzeb’s religious policy unpopular?
(b) (i) One mark is awarded for each explained fact up to a maximum of
five marks.
(ii) The following levels are used:
Level One: Answers which write about Aurangzeb with no explanation
or list reasons rather than explain them. 1–2 marks
Level Two: Answers which explain ONE reason. 3–4 marks
Level Three: Answers which explain TWO OR MORE reasons. 5 marks
Above 2010
(i) Write what you know about how Aurangzeb became emperor. [5]
(ii) Why was Aurangzeb’s rule unpopular with some of his subjects? [5]
(b) (i) One mark is awarded for each explained fact up to a maximum of
five marks.
(ii) The following levels are used:
e.g. Reasons why Aurangzeb’s rule was unpopular could be: religious
conservativism and Jizia tax; Deccan policy over-extends empire;
corruption, lax discipline.
Level One: Answers which write about Aurangzeb with no explanation
or list reasons rather than explain them. [1–2 marks]
Level Two: Answers which explain ONE reason. [3–4 marks] Level Three:
Answers which explain TWO OR MORE reasons. [4–5 marks]
Above 2009
(i) Write what you know about Aurangzeb’s actions in the
Deccan. [5]
(ii) Why did the weak character of the nobility hasten the
downfall of the Mughal Empire? [5]
(b) (i) One mark is awarded for each explained fact (to a
maximum of five marks).
(ii) The following levels are used:
Level 1: Answers which write about the designated topic with
no explanation or list reasons rather than explain them. [1-2
marks]
Level 2: Answers which explain ONE reason. [3-4 marks]
Level 3: Answers which explain TWO OR MORE REASONS. [4-5
marks]
Above 2007
Part (b)
(i) Write what you know about the history of the Baro
Bhuiyans under the Mughals. [5]
(ii) Why were the Afghans able to establish control over
Bengal in the mid-sixteenth century? [5]
 (b) (i) One mark is awarded for each explained fact up to a
maximum of five marks.
(ii) The following levels are used:
Level One: Answers which write about the designated topic
with no explanation or list reasons rather than explain them. [1-
2 marks]
Level Two: Answers which explain ONE reason. [3-4 marks]
Level Three: Answers which explain TWO OR MORE reasons. [5
marks]
Above 2006
Part c s

3(c)(i) Explain the importance of the following in weakening the rule of the Mughals in the
seventeenth century:
• British Naval power
• British trading ambitions.
Level 1: [1–4 marks] Answers which do no more than describe.
E.g. The British were interested in spices; the British navy was superior to that of the Mughal
Empire
Level 2: [5–8 marks]
Answers which explain the importance of the elements given. Up to two marks for each
element assessed. Therefore: One explained = 5–6 marks. Two explained = 7–8.
British naval power:
E.g. As Aurangzeb had not kept his navy strong, the British were able to approach the
unprotected coastline. 1688 saw the blockade of Bombay and other ports and the capture of
many Mughal ships. However, there was a strong response from the Emperor and the ships
were returned by a treaty of 1690. This included a licence to trade and a payment to the
Emperor. Using their navy, the British established themselves in Bombay, Madras and Bengal.
British trading ambitions:
E.g. The Portuguese and Dutch had already taken control of the spice islands, so India became
the target for the expansion of trade by the British. The British government gave rights to trade
to the East India Company (EIC). Spices, silk and cotton were such profitable commodities that
the EIC gave scant attention to the effects they were having on the people of India and Bengal.
To support their trade the EIC went to war against the Portuguese, the Dutch and the French,
and even against Aurangzeb. Eventually the British government had to intervene to protect the
people of India.
3(c)(ii) Which of these was more responsible for the growth of British interest in Bengal in the
seventeenth century? Explain your answer.
No marks for simply identifying one or for additional description. 1 mark for an undeveloped
statement 2 marks for explaining the statement.
E.g. Had trading ambitions been less important, then the British might not have allowed the EIC
to develop such a strong military force
Above 2019
3(c)(i) Explain how Islam Khan ended conflict with the Baro Bhuiyans by:
 introducing new military tactics
 the application of diplomacy.
Level 1 [1–4 marks]
Answers which do no more than describe
e.g. He extended his military.
Level 2 [5–8 marks]
Answers which explain the importance of the elements given Up to two marks for each
element assessed.
Therefore one explained = 5–6 marks, two explained = 7–8 marks.
Introducing new military tactics:
e.g. He bought guns, artillery and warships and added an increased number of forces to
show strength. A new Dirwan and a new admiral of the fleet joined him at Rajmahal.
3(c)(i) The application of diplomacy:
e.g. He offered the two positions above to Baro Bhuiyans, and offered the Raja
Pratapaditya of Jessore land and patronage. In this way the power of Musa Khan was
broken up. When diplomacy did not produce agreements that were adhered to, he was
harsh, e.g. the Raja accepted the overlordship of Islam Khan but failed to send support
for his army. As a result, he was imprisoned and his lands annexed.
3(c)(ii) Which of these was more effective in extending Mughal control over Bengal?
Explain your answer.
No marks for simply identifying one or for additional description. One mark for an
undeveloped statement, two marks for explaining the statement.

e.g. Had the show of strength from increased forces not been in evidence, perhaps
diplomacy would have been less effective.

Above 2018
3(c)(i) Explain the importance of the following aspects of Shah Jahan’s rule:
 architecture
 religious tolerance
Level 1 [1–4 marks]
Answers which do no more than describe.
e.g. His subahdars built in marble. The Taj Mahal was built. Hindus built temples.
Level 2 [5–8 marks]
Answers which explain the importance of the elements given.
Up to two marks for each element assessed.
herefore: one explained = 5–6 marks, two explained = 7–8.
Architecture
e.g. ‘He found cities of stone and left them of marble.’ (Percy Brown) The Taj Mahal was
built in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is recognised for its symmetry, its use of
inlaid jewels, marble and formal gardens. Jama Masjid, the Red Fort was built along with
 the Peacock throne. These showed the wealth of his administration for all to see.
Religious tolerance
e.g. Many of his generals were Hindus, and his great minister, Sa’d-Allah, though
converted, was a Hindu by birth. He allowed Jesuit missionaries to labour at Agra, where
they had a large church and burial grounds. This limited conflict, brought visitors and let
his missions abroad bring commercial benefits to Bengal.
3(c)(ii) Which of these aspects most earned Shah Jahan’s rule its reputation as the era
of the arts? Explain your answer.
No marks for simply identifying one or for additional description.
1 mark for an undeveloped statement.
2 marks for explaining the statement.

e.g.
Religious tolerance brought trade with other countries and a focus on statesmanship
that brought peace and prosperity. Hindu, Christian and Muslim all sing his praises as
the paragon of monarchs.

Above 2017

(c) (i) Explain the importance of each of the following in bringing about the decline of the Mughal
Empire:

• Aurangzeb’s Deccan policy

• the condition of the Mughal army at the time of his rule

Maximum 4 if just one element is considered.

Level 1: Answers which do no more than describe.

e.g. He attacked the Deccan; the army grew weak. 1–4 marks

Level 2: Answers which explain the importance of the elements given.

Up to two marks for each element assessed.

Therefore: One explained = 5–6 marks. Two explained = 7–8 marks.

Aurangzeb’s Deccan policy:

e.g. The Deccan supported the Marathas, and so were opposed by Aurangzeb. Instead of negotiating
with Golcunda in 1686 and Bijapur in 1687 and winning their support against the Marathas, he attacked
them and annexed them. Failure to rule them meant that they continued to support the Marathas
seeking independence. Raids by Marathas weakened the Empire militarily and made it hard for taxes to
be collected

The condition of the Mughal army at the time of his rule:

e.g. Partaking of the wealth of India and its wine and comforts caused the deterioration of the
leadership of the army, the nobles. Weakening central control meant that nobles made use of the army
for their own benefit. Discipline became lax, even traitors not facing punishment. There was no
training/drill. Weapons had become outdated and were not replaced with more modern types.

(ii) Which of these was the more important in causing the decline of the Mughal Empire? Explain your
answer. [2]

No marks for simply identifying one or for additional description.

1 mark for an undeveloped statement.

e.g. A weak army meant they could be defeated.

2 marks for explaining the statement.

e.g. The probable answer will be short-term/long-term. In the short term, weakness of the military
prevented the defeat of enemies without the support of Deccan armies. However, longer term, the tax
loss caused by the attacks from the Marathas caused weakness to continue as there was no funding for
weapons, training or leadership.

Above 2016

(c) (i) Explain the importance of the following elements of Sher Shah’s rule 1540–45

• His measures to improve trade, communications and finance

• His religious and charitable work [8] Trade: reformed the currency; abolished some taxes on trade;
roads to help internal trade; shelters for traders (reform of government and law and order could be
relevant if linked to trade)

Communications: network of roads connecting Agra with outlying parts of empire (3000 mile road from
Sonargon to Multan) Relays of riders to communicate official orders and messages; Roadside stations for
relays of horses and shelters

Finance: Fixed tax system of a quarter of the gross produce of land with proper measurement of land;
reform of currency

Religion: founded mosques and madrasas; villages authorities enforced moral behaviour’ mosques and
temples at regular intervals along new roads. Charity: free public kitchens; gardens. hospitals

Level One: Answers which do no more than describe `1–4 marks (Up to 2 marks for each policy
described)

Level Two: Answers which explain the importance of the elements given.

5–8 marks Up to two marks for each element assessed. Therefore: One explained = 5–6 marks. Two
explained = 7–8 marks

Above 2015

Part (c): This question tests your understanding and judgement.

(i) Explain why each of the following was important for the Mughal Empire.
• Aurangzeb’s religious policies

• Aurangzeb’s policies in the Deccan

(ii) Explain which of these was more important, and why.

(c )(i) Level 1: Answers which do no more than describe the policies given in the
question without considering their importance. 1–4 marks Up to 2 marks for each policy.
Religious Policies: He reimposed the Jizia on non-believers. He rejected the idea of
joining hands with the Hindus. He banned Sati. He favoured Muslims and caused
discontent. Aurangzeb was much more orthodox than Shah Jahan, going so far as to
outlaw music and other performances in 1668. Hindus were forbidden to sing, play
musical instruments or to dance – Aurangzeb also ordered the destruction of Hindu
temples. In addition, he ordered Christian missionaries to be enslaved.
Policies in the Deccan: Aurangzeb was driven into increasingly extensive military
commitment in the Deccan in response to opposition by the Maratha clans. In 1657,
Aurangzeb attacked Golconda and Bijapur. The Hindu leader Shivaji, using guerrilla
tactics, took control of three key forts. Shivaji took the leadership of many independent
Maratha clans. In 1659, Aurangzeb sent a force to the Deccan to recover lost forts
occupied by the Marathas. Shivaji drove the Muslims out. Aurangzeb ignored the rise of
the Marathas for the next few years as he was occupied with the rise of Sikhism. At last,
Aurangzeb sent forces to attack the Marathas. His Rajput general Jai Singh won the fort
of Purandar. Shivaji agreed to meet Aurangzeb but was imprisoned and then escaped
and was crowned Emperor of the Maratha Empire in 1674. While Aurangzeb continued
to send troops against him, Shivaji expanded Maratha control throughout the Deccan
until his death in 1680. Shivaji was succeeded by his son Sambhaji. Militarily and
politically, Mughal efforts to control the Deccan failed. He sent forces into the Deccan to
annex Golconda in 1686 and Bijapur in 1687. These were Shia states which had been
supportive to the Marathas. He did not attempt a friendly policy towards them. His
efforts to control the Deccan continued to fail. Aurangzeb was forced to contest every
inch of territory, at great cost in lives and treasure against organized forces. Even as
Aurangzeb drove west, deep into Maratha territory, the Marathas expanded their
attacks further into Mughal lands. Aurangzeb lost about a fifth of his army fighting in the
Deccan.

Level 2: Answers which explain the importance of the policies given.

5–8 marks Up to 2 marks for each policy assessed.
Therefore: One explained = 5–6 marks
Two explained = 7–8 marks.

e.g. The religious policies threatened traditional Hindu practices and increased the
financial burdens on non-Muslims, alienating them and dividing the Empire. The Deccan
policy adopted a forceful solution in the Deccan rather than a diplomatic one and
deprived Aurangzeb of potential allies against the Marathas who developed as the
strongest power in northern India and accelerated the disintegration of the Empire.
Both policies tended to divide and weaken the empire and the Deccan over-extended
military resources.
(ii) There are 2 marks for explaining the choice made. There is no credit for merely
saying ‘The most important is ...’
e.g. The Deccan policies could be seen as more important because they weaken the
political power of the Mughal Empire.
The religious policies could be seen as more important because they created serious
internal divisions in the Mughal Empire.
Answers might point to the links between intolerant internal policies and the
determination to crush the Marathas.
No set explanation is expected.
Above 2013

(c) (i) Explain why each of the following was important in causing Mughal decline after
1712. [8]
• The power of the nobles
• The weakness of the army
• Foreign invaders

Level One: Answers which do no more than describe the elements given in the question
without considering their importance. [1–4] Up to two marks for each example,
maximum of 4 marks.
Level Two: Answers which explain the importance of the elements given. [5–8]

Nobility only interested in increasing their power and influence. This led to civil wars.
Religious divisions – the Hindustani nobles aligned with Hindus; the Turrani were mostly
Sunni Muslims and the Irani were Shias. Linked to regional differences. The different
factors fought each other and emperors could not control them. So led to civil wars and
factions; increased religious differences; led to differences and war between different
regional groups. Misused state revenue, weakening the defence of the Empire.

Army Too much under control of selfish and corrupt nobles and out of control of the
Emperor and the central government. Too weakened by soft living and corruption to
defend the empire (e.g. from Persians in 1739). No standardised drill and uniformity in
use of weapons; discipline poor. Outdated weapons. This led to defeat by more efficient
Maratha cavalry. High ranking officers quarrelled and army became too linked to regions
and particular nobles to be a national army. Importance: weakened central authority,
allowed nobles too much power, opened the way to foreign invasions, e.g. Persia and
Britain.
Foreign Invaders 1739 Nader Shah opened up Persian invasions – decisive battle of
Panipat 1761. These invasions revealed the internal divisions of the Empire and the
weaknesses caused by civil wars. European established trading posts. Self-regulating
enclaves undermined the authority of the Emperors and weakened the prestige of the
Mughal rulers. The Dutch French and British recruited local support which weakened the
Empire. The defeat of the Nawab of Bengal at Plassey in 1757 showed how divisions in
the Empire had led to the richest province falling under foreign rule.

Up to two marks for each element explained.

One element explained = 5–6 marks.
Two elements explained = 7 marks.
Three elements explained = 8 marks. [N.B. Assessment must be fully explained and
supported to reach this level.

(ii)Explain which one of these was the most important, and why. [2]

A reason must be offered; merely saying that one element was most important will not
gain a mark.

If a reason is given and explained [1–2]

e.g. nobles were the most important factor. They weakened the empire which in turn
meant that foreigners could take advantage. They were responsible for leading the army
and they failed to do this because they were too intent on their selfish interests. Thus
the nobles are linked to the other factors and the most important reason.

No set answer is required. Marks awarded according to the number of reasons

compared and quality of support.

Above 2012

Which of the following do you think made the most important contribution to the
Mughal Empire? Explain your answer by writing about all three choices provided. [10]
• Babur
• Humayan
• Jahangir

(c) Level One: Answers which do no more than describe the rulers given in the question
without considering their importance. 1–4 marks Up to two marks for each ruler to a
maximum of 4 marks.
Level Two: Answers which assess the importance of the examples given. 5–8 marks Up
to two marks for each ruler assessed. Therefore:
One ruler assessed = 5–6 marks.
Two rulers assessed = 7 marks.
Three rulers assessed = 8 marks.
N.B. Assessment must be fully explained and supported to reach this level.
Level 3: Candidates who carry out a valid comparison between the choices (as opposed
to just writing about their contribution) 9–10 marks
Marks awarded according to the number of choices compared and quality of support.

Above 2010
Do you agree that the strength of the British was more important than the
weaknesses of the Mughals in bringing about the end of the Mughal Empire? Give
both sides of the argument in your answer. [10]

(c) Level One: Answers do no more than describe the downfall of the Empire. [1–4
marks]
e.g. In 1620 the British were given permission by Emperor Jahangir to conduct trade in
India. In time they came to take over the whole of the region.
Level Two: Answers which explain reasons for the downfall of the empire. [5–8 marks]
Possible reasons here are:
Moghul weaknesses: empire too large, succession problems, declining military
expertise, weak control, pleasure seeking.
British strengths: Military strength, technological developments determination,
political manoeuvring.

4–6 marks for either British strength OR Mughal weakness.

6–8 marks for both British strength AND Moghul weakness.
Level Three: Answers which attempt to prioritise the reasons. [9–10 marks]
e.g. In addition to Level 2, candidates will provide an argument that one of the reasons
is more important than the others (or, perhaps that they are of equal importance).
There is no correct answer and any valid attempt to compare should be rewarded at this
level.
Above 2009

Which of the following do you think was the most important reason for the decline of
the Mughal Empire? Explain your answer by writing about all three choices provided.
• a weak army
• powerful opponents in India
• the arrival of the British

(c) Level 1: Answers which do no more than describe the choice(s) given in the question
without considering their importance. [
1-4 marks] Up to two marks for each example (to a maximum of 4 marks).

Level 2: Answers which assess the importance of the choice(s) given. [5-8 marks]
Up to three marks for each example assessed. Therefore:
One example assessed = 5-6 marks
Two examples assessed = 6-7 marks
Three examples assessed = 7-8 marks.
NB Assessment must be fully explained and supported to reach this level.

Level 3: Candidates who carry out a valid comparison between the choices (as opposed
to just writing about their importance).
[9-10 marks] Marks are to be awarded according to the number of choices compared
and the quality of support.

Above 2007

Which of the following do you think was the greatest Mughal emperor? Explain your
answer by writing about all three emperors.
• Akbar
• Jahangir
• Aurangzeb
(c) Level One: Answers which do no more than describe the example(s) given in the
question without considering their importance. [1-4 marks] Up to two marks for each
example to a maximum of 4 marks.
Level Two: Answers which assess the importance of the examples given. [5-8 marks] Up
to three marks for each example assessed. Therefore:
One example assessed = 5-6 marks
Two examples assessed = 6-7 marks
Three examples assessed = 7-8 marks
N.B. Assessment must be fully explained and supported to reach this level.
Level 3: Candidates who carry out a valid comparison between the choices (as opposed
to just writing about their contribution).
[9-10 marks] Marks awarded according to the number of choices compared and quality
of support.

Above 2006