Class 12

Punjab State Board PSEB 12th Class History Book Solutions Source Based Questions and Answers.

PSEB 12th Class History Source Based Questions

Physical Features of Punjab and their Influence on Its History:

Note: Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions that follow :

1. The holy land of Punjab, the territory of five rivers has, undoubtedly, contributed to a great extent in diversified fields, not only to India but to the world also. About love to five thousand years ago, the Indus Valley Civilisation or Harappa civilisation was born, in areas around Punjab which were one of the oldest civilisations of the world. The great characters of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata belonged to Punjab. The great Mahabharata war was also fought on this land and Lord Krishna delivered his spiritual message i.e. the Gita here.

This land has the honour of giving birth to great scholars like Kautilya, Charka and Panin the great Sanskrit scholar. Due to the economic position of Punjab, most of the foreign invaders invaded Punjab through the North-West frontier Chandragupta Maurya and Harsh Vardhana had started these campaigns in Punjab and were able to establish a vast empire.

1. Harappan civilisation was born at which place?
2. The characters of which epics were related to Punjab?
3. Lord Krishna gave the message ……………….. at which place?
4. The foreign invaders who attacked India came from which side of Punjab?
5. Panini was the scholar of which subject?
Answer:
1. Harappan civilisation was born in areas around Punjab.
2. The great characters of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata were related to Punjab.
3. Lord Krishna gave the message of Gita in the land of Punjab.
4. The foreign invaders who invaded India came from the North-West frontier of Punjab.
5. Panini was a great Sanskrit scholar.

2. Punjab has been known by various names during different periods of history. It was called ‘Sapta Sindhu’ in the Rigvedic period, on the basis of the seven rivers that flowed in this land. They were : Sindhu (Indus), Vitasta (Jhelum), Asikni (Chenab), Parushni (Ravi), Vipasha (Beas), Sutudri (Sutlej) and Saraswati. The rivers Sindhu and Saraswati were the outer boundaries of Punjab. It is called ‘Panchnada’ in the Epics and the Puranas. ‘Panchnada’ means the land of five rivers. The Greeks named it ‘Pentapotamia’ ‘Penta’ means five and ‘Potamia’ means river. So, the Greeks also called it the land of five rivers. The territory of Afghanistan and Baluchistan were annexed to Punjab during the Maurya period. Thus its north-western boundary stretched up to the Hindukush. As Tak’ tribe ruled this vast land for centuries, therefore Punjab was called Tak Desh’.

1. By what name Punjab was known during the Rigvedifc Age?
2. What is meant by Panchnada?
3. Who gave the name of Pentapotamia to Punjab?
4. Why was Punjab called ‘Tak Desh’?
5. Which of the following river flows from Punjab?

• Beas
• Ganga
• Yamuna
• None of the above.

Answer:
1. Punjab was known by the name of Sapta Sindhu during the Rigvedic Age.
2. Panchnada means the land of five rivers.
3. The name of Pentapotamia was given to Punjab by the Greeks.
4. Punjab was called Tak Desh because it was ruled by the Tak tribe for centuries.
5. Beas.

3. The Himalayas are situated to the north of Punjab. ‘Himalaya’ means ‘abode of snow5. Its tops remain covered with snow throughout the year. It stretches from Assam in the east to Afghanistan in the west. Its length is 2500 kilometres and the breadth ranges from 240 kilometres to 320 kilometres. On the basis of its height, the Himalayas can be divided into three parts. The first part, the Greater Himalayas, consists of those high peaks whose height is 20,000 ft. or above. Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak. Its height is about 29,028 feet or 8848 metres.

1. What is meant by the Himalayas?
2. What is the length and breadth of the Himalayas?
3. Which is the highest peak of the Himalayas?
4. Write any one advantage of the Himalayas.
5. The height of Mount Everest is a metre.
Answer:
1. the Himalayas means the abode of snow.
2. The length of the Himalayas is 2500 kilometres and the breadth ranges from 240 kilometres to 320 kilometres.
3. The highest peak of the Himalayas is Mount Everest.
4. It acted as a watchman both for the Punjab and India for centuries.
5. 8848.

4. The Plains constitute the largest and most important region of Punjab. It is rightly called Virtual Punjab. This part is located between the rivers of Indus and Jamuna. It is considered one of the best fertile plains in the world. Its average height from the sea level is less than 1000 feet. Five great rivers of Punjab (Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Chenab, Jhelum) flow in this very part. The land of this area is very fertile, it receives ample rainfall and the means of transport are fairly developed. So, the population of this area is very dense.
1. Where are the Plains of Punjab located?
2. Which is considered the best fertile plains in the world?
3. Name the rivers of Punjab.
4. Why the population of Punjab is very dense?
5. The population of Punjab is very
Answer:
1. The Plains of Punjab is located between the rivers Indus and Jamuna.
2. The best fertile Plain in the world is Punjab Plains.
3. The five great rivers of Punjab are Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Chenab and Jhelum.
4. It land is very fertile.
5. dense.

5. As a result of its geographical location, the Punjab has been the gateway of India for many centuries. There are a number of passes (Khyber, Koorram, Tochi, Bolan etc.) in the nerth-west of the Punjab which were easy to cross. So, the foreign invaders kept attacking by entering through these passes for centuries. The Aryans, Iranians, Greeks, Kushanas, Hunas, Turks, Mughals and Durranis invaded India crossing through these passes. First of all these invaders had to fight with the people of the Punjab. They could go further only after defeating the Punjab. So, the Punjab has been called the gateway of India.

1. Why is Punjab called as the gateway of India?
2. Which is the most important pass -located in the north-west of the Punjab?
3. Why the foreign invaders kept invading India through the passes?
4. Which foreign invaders invaded Punjab first of all?
5. Which foreign invaders were the first to invade Punjab?

• Iranians
• Aryans
• Greeks
• Kushanas.

Answer:
1. Punjab is called as the gateway of India because the foreign invaders invaded Punjab first of all.
2. Khyber is the most important pass located in the north-west of the Punjab.
3. Because it was easy to cross the passes.
4. The Aryans, Iranians, Greeks, Kushanas, Hunas, Turks, Mughals and Durranis were the first to invade Punjab.
5. Aryans.

Sources of the History of the Punjab:

Note : Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions that follow :

1. A good knowledge of the sources of the history of a country is in dispensable for a thorough understanding of its history. This knowledge is as much essential for the students of history as are surgical instruments for a doctor to undertake an operation. However, we had many difficulties regarding the sources of the history of Punjab. The Punjab remained the arena of battles in the 18th century. That is why, even the Sikhs could not have any time for writing their own history in this period of anarchy and confusion as they were fighting a battle of life and death for their very existence. Thus, most of the available sources of the history of the Punjab relate to the nineteenth century when Maharaja Ranjit Singh established an independent Sikh kingdom.

1. Why are the sources indispensable for the students of history?
2. Which problems do we confront while writing the history of Punjab? Mention any one.
3. In which century did Punjab became an arena of battles?
4. In which century did Maharaja Ranjit Singh establish an independent Sikh Kingdom?
5. The most of the available sources of the history of the Punjab relate to the ………….
Answer:
1. The sources are indispensable for the students of history to know the culture and civilisation of any country.
2. The available sources of the history concerning the period of the Gurus are very few.
3. The Punjab remained the arena of battles in the 18th century.
4. Maharaja Ranjit Singh established an independent Sikh Kingdom in Punjab in the 19th century.
5. 19th Century.

2. The Adi Granth Sahib Ji is the most sacred and authentic scripture of Sikhism. Guru Aijan Dev Ji compiled this great holy scripture in 1604 A.D. In it the hymns of the first five Sikh Gurus are compiled. Later on during the times of Guru Gobind Singh Ji the hymns of Guru Teg Bahadur Ji were also included in it and Adi Granth Sahib Ji was given the status of Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Although the Adi Granth Sahib Ji or Guru Granth Sahib Ji was not compiled for any Historical purpose, yet its thorough study gives us most valuable information regarding the political, religious, social and economic life of the people of those days.

1. When was Adi Granth Sahib Ji was compiled?
2. The Adi Granth Sahib Ji was compiled by ……………
3. Which Guru Sahib gave the status of Guru Granth Sahib to Adi Granth Sahib Ji?
4. The Banis of how many Guru Sahibs are given in Guru Granth Sahib Ji?
5. Write any one significances of Adi Granth Sahib Ji.
Answer:
1. Adi Granth Sahib Ji was compiled in 1604 A.D.
2. Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
3. Adi Granth Sahib Ji was given the status of Guru Granth Sahib Ji by Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
4. The Bams of six-Guru Sahibs are given in Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
5. It gives the message of universal brotherhood of mankind.

3. Dasam Granth Sahib Ji is another holy scripture of Sikhism. It is the compilation of the writings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his court poets. This holy scripture was compiled by Bhai Mani Singh Ji in 1721 A.D. The Dasam Granth was primarily compiled to awaken heroic sentiments among the Sikhs so that they were able to fight against political injustice and religious intolerance. It is a work of 18 compositions of which ‘Jaap Sahib’, ‘Akal Ustat’, ‘Chandi Di Var’, ‘Chaubis Avtar’, ‘Shabad Hazare’, ‘Shastra Nama’, ‘Bachitar Natak’ and ‘Zafamama’ are worth noting. ‘Bachitar Natak’ and ‘Zafamama’ are the most significant firom the historical point of view. ‘Bachitar Natak’ is the autobiography of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. ‘Zafamama’ (letter of victory) was written by Guru Gobind Singh Ji at Dina. It is a letter written by Guru Gobind Singh Ji to the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in Persian language.

1. By whom was Dasam Granth Sahib compiled?
2. When was Dasam Granth Sahib compiled?

• 1604 A.D.
• 1701 A.D.
• 1711 A.D.
• 1721 A.D.

3. What is Bachitar Natak?
4. What is the name of letter written by Guru Gobind Singh Ji to Aurangzeb?
5. What is written by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in Zafamama?
Answer:
1. Dasam Granth Sahib was compiled by Bhai Mani Singh Ji.
2. 1721 A.D.
3. Bachitar Natak is the name of autobiography of Gum Gobind Singh Ji.
4. The name of the letter written by Gum Gobind Singh Ji is Zafamama.
5. In it the account of the atrdCmes of Aurangzeb is given.

4. Bhai Gurdas Ji was the son of Bhai Datar Chand Bhalla, a brother of Guru Amar Das Ji. He was a contemporary of Guru Arjan Dev Ji and Guru Hargobind Ji. He composed 39 Vars. These Vars are considered the key to understand Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The Vars Nos. 1 and 11 are considered important from the historical point of view. The first Var contains a very detailed description of the life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Besides, we get a glimpse of Guru Angad Ji, Guru Amar Das Ji, Guru Ram Das Ji, Guru Arjan Dev Ji and Guru Hargobind Ji’s life from this Var. In the eleventh Var, we get information of the important Sikhs and places connected with the first six Gurus.

1. Who was Bhai Gurdas Ji?
2. How many vars are composed by Bhai Gurdas Ji?
3. The var contains very detailed description of the life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
4. Which is called the key of Guru Granth Sahib Ji?
5. What is the importance of Bhai Gurdas Ji?
Answer:
1. Bhai Gurdas, Ji was the son of Bhai Datar Chand Bhalla, a brother of Guru Amar Das Ji.
2. Bhai Gurdas Ji composed 39 vars.
3. First.
4. The vars of Bhai Gurdas Ji is called the key of Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
5. From these we get valuable imformation of the first six Gurus, important Sikhs and places.

5. The stories relating to the birth and life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji are called Janam Sakhis. Many such Janam Sakhis were written in the seventeenth and ‘ eighteenth centuries. They were written in the Punjabi language. They, were compiled for the faithful and not for students of history. Though they are a mixture of facts and fiction, yet they provide valuable information about the life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

1. What is meant by Janam Sakhis?
2. In which language Janam Sakhis were written?
3. Write the names of any two Janam Sakhis.
4. Write anyone demerit of Janam Sakhis.
5. Many Janam Sakhis were written in the ……………. and …………….
Answer:
1. By Janam Sakhis we meant the stories relating to the birth and life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
2. The Janam Sakhis were written in Punjabi language.
3. Puratan Janam Sakhi and Janam Sakhi of Bhai Mani Singh Ji.
4. The events narrated in them are not in chronological order.
5. 17th and 18th centuries.

6. Hukamnamas were those orders or proclamations that were issued by the Sikh Gurus or by the members of their families to the Sikhs from time to time. In majority of such Hukamnamas demands were made to supply grains for the Langar (common kitchen), to donate money for building religious places and to bring horses and arms for battles. These Hukamnamas were compiled by the famous historian Ganda Singh. 89 Hukamnamas are available upto this day. Of these, 34 Hukamnamas were issued by Guru Gobind Singh Ji and 23 Hukamnamas were issued by Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. These Hukamnamas provide very valuable information about the political, religious, economic and literary history of the period of the great Gurus.

1. What is meant by Hukamnamas?
2. Why were Hukamnamas issued?
3. Which famous historian of Punjab compiled Hukamnamas?
4. Give any one significance of Hukamnamas.
5. How many Hukamnamas are available upto this day? 1

• 23.
• 24
• 79
• 89.

Answer:
1. Hukamnamas were those orders or proclamations that were issued by the Sikh Gurus or by the members of their families to the Sikhs from time to time.
2. Hukamnamas were issued to demand the supply of grains for the Langar, to donate money for construction of religious places and to bring horses and arms for battles.
3. Ganda Singh.
4. We get valuable information about Guru Sahibs.
5. 89.

Political, Social and Economic Conditions of the Punjab in the Beginning of the 16th Century:

Note : Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions that follow :

1. After the death of Bahlol Lodhi, his son Sikandar Lodhi succeeded to the throne of Delhi Sultanate. He ruled upto 1517 A.D. The Muslim historians speak very highly of Sikandar’s love of justice, wisdom and benevolence. However, his kindness and love of justice was confined, to the Muslims only. He hated the Hindus. He adopted a very harsh and cruel policy towards them. He demolished many famous Hindu temples and built mosques over them. He forbade the barbers to shave the beards and heads of the Hindus. He started converting them to Islam by force. He got a Brahman named Bodhan murdered because he had described Hinduism as good as Islam.

1. Who was Sikandar Lodhi?
2. When did Sikandar Lodhi sit on the throne?

• 1485 A.D.
• 1486 A.D.
• 1487 AJX
• 1489 A.D.

3. How was Sikandar Lodhi in the eyes of Muslim historians?
4. Which one step was taken by Sikandar Lodhi against the Hindus?
5. Why was a Brahman named Bodhan was murdered?
Answer:
1. Sikandar Lodhi was the Stdtan of Delhi. He ruled from 1489 A.D. to 1517 A.D.
2. 1489 A.D.
3. He was a justice-loving and benevolent Sultan.
4. He had demolished many Hindu temples.
5. He had described Hinduism as good as Islam.

2. In the beginning of the sixteenth century the condition of the subjects was also very deplorable. The rulers used to indulge in luxuries and merry-making. Extravagant parties had become a daily routine of the court. As a cousequence none had time to take care of the public. As a consequence of this, the government officials became corrupt. Bribery was common. Not to speak of the Sultan, even Qazis and Ulemas took bribe and delivered justice accordingly. All sorts of atrocities were let loose on the Hindus. They were being converted to Islam by force. Those who refused were put to death.

1. What was the condition of subjects in the beginning of the 16th century?
2. What was the character of the government officials in the beginning of the 16th century?
3.. How did Sultan, Qazis and Ulemas deliver justice in the beginning of the 16th century?
4. What was the policy adopted against the Hindus in the beginning of the 16th century?
5. In the 16th century the ruling class used to indulge in ……………. and …………….
Answer:
1. In the beginning of the 16th century the condition of subjects was very pitiable.
2. At that time the government officials had become very corrupt.
3. At that time Sultan, Qazis and Ulemas deliver justice by taking bribe.
4. At that time all sorts of atrocities were let loose on the Hindus.
5. Luxuries, merry-making.

3. The social condition of the Punjab in the beginning of the sixteenth century was also very deplorable. The society was divided into two major classes, namely the Hindus and the Muslims. The Muslims enjoyed many privileges,1 because they belonged to the ruling class. On the other hand, the Hindus, who formed the majority of population, were deprived of almost all the rights. They were called ‘Kafirs’ and ‘Zimmies’. Jaziya and the pilgrimage tax were forcibly charged from the Hindus. The Muslims subjected the Hindus to so much atrocity that a large number of them were compelled to embrace Islam. The condition of women in the society was not good. The moral character of the public had fallen to the lowest ebb.

1. Why was the social condition of Punjab in the beginning of the 16th century was called deplorable?
2. Who were deprieved of their rights in the beginning of the 16th century?
3. Who were called ‘Kafirs’?
4. What was Jaziya?
5. The Muslims belonged to the …………… class.
Answer:
1. The social condition of Punjab in the beginning of the 16th century
was called deplorable because the muslims let loose atrocities on the Hindus and the condition of women was pitiable.
2. Hindus were deprieved of their rights in the beginning of the 16th century.
3. All Non-Muslims were called Kafirs.
4. Jaziya was a tax imposed upon the Hindus.
5. ruling.

4. No remarkable progress was made in the field of education in the beginning of the sixteenth century. Ulemas and Maulvis taught the Muslims. They held classes in mosques, maktabs and madarasas. The government gave them grants. Primary education was given in the mosques and maktabs whereas higher education was provided in the madarasas. Madarasas were usually situated in cities. Lahore and Multan were the well-known centres of education for the Muslims in the Punjab.

1. Why no remarkable progress was made in the field of education in the beginning of the 16th century?
2. Whether the Maulvis taught the Muslims?
3. Where was elementary education given to the Muslims?
4. Which was the one famous centre of education of the Muslims in the beginning of the 16th century?
5. Madarasas were usually situated in ……………..
Answer:
1. Because it was not the responsibility of the government to provide education to the public.
2. Yes, the Maulvis used to provide education to the Muslims.
3. The elementary education to the Muslims was provided in the mosques and maktabs.
4. In the beginning of the 16th century the one famous centres of education was Lahore.
5. cities.

5. In the beginning of the 16th century, this sect had become very popular. The Sufi saints were known as Shaikhs or Pirs. They believed in the Allah. They did not repose faith in any other power except Allah. According to them, Allah is omnipotent and omni- present. One could realise Allah only through Pir or Guru. They did not believe in fake externalities. They started the tradition of Qawalis. They considered service of mankind as service to God. They did not believe in caste-system. They respected other faiths.

1. To which sect Sufism was related Shaikhs?
2. By which other name Sufi Shaikhs were known?
3. What is the ideology of Sufi Shaikhs called?
4. Write any one principle of Sufism.
5. According to Sufis one could realise Allah through.

• Pir
• Qawali
• Dargah
• All of the above.

Answer:
1. Sufism was a sect related with Islam.
2. Sufi Shaikhs are also known as Pirs.
3. The ideology of Sufi Shaikhs is called as Tasawnf.
4. They believed in one Allah.
5. Pir.

Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Life and his Teachings:

Note: Read the following passages carefully and answer the Questions that follows:

1. Guru Nanak Dev Ji was the founder of Sikhism1. At the time of his birth in the fifteenth century A.D., there was chaos all around. People had become very -’’pprstitious. They were stumbling in the darkness of ignorance. Impiety, falsehood and corruption were rampant everywhere. People had forgotten the essence of religion and it had been reduced to mere rituals and vain show. The rulers and the officials had no longer any concern about public welfare and remained busy in merry-making. In such a deplorable state of affairs, Guru Nanak Dev Ji showed a path of truthfulness and knowledge to the humanity.

1. Who was the founder of Sikhism?
2. What was the condition of society at the time of the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji?
3. What was the attitude of rulers and the officials towards subjects at the time of birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji?
4. Which path was shown to the humanity by Guru Nanak Dev Ji?
5. People had forgotten the of religion.
Answer:
1. Guru Nanak Dev Ji was the founder of Sikhism.
2. At that time people had become very superstitious.
3. At the time of birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji the attitude of rulers and the officials towards subjects was atrocitious.
4. Guru Nanak Dev Ji showed the path of truthfulness and knowledge to the humanity.
5. essence.

2. After attaining enlightenment in 1499 A.D., Guru Nanak Dev Ji did not stay for a long time at Sultanpur Lodhi. So, he set out on long travels in India and in foreign countries. He spent about 21 years in these travels. These travels of Guru Nanak Dev Ji are known as Udasis because he wandered like an Udasi (unconcerned, unattached) during these years and renounced his home and family. We had to face some difficulties regarding the Udasis of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

1. Where did Guru Nanak Dev Ji attain enlightenment?
2. What is meant by Udasis?
3. Which was the one difficulty being faced regarding the Udasis of Guru Nanak Dev Ji?
From where did Guru Nanak Dev Ji start his Udasis? , When did Guru Nanak Dev Ji attained enlightenment?

• 1469 AJD.
• 1479 A.D.
• 1489 A.D.
• 1499 A.D.

1. Guru Nanak Dev Ji attained enlightenment at Sultanpur Lodhi.
2. By Udasis we meant the travels of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
3. We get no contemporary sources regarding Udasis.
4. Guru Nanak Dev Ji started his Udasis from Saidpur.
5. 1499 A.D.

3. When Guru Nanak Dev Ji reached Saidpur at the end of 1520 A. D., Babar attacked this town with a view to occupy it. The Mughal army put to death thousands of innocent people during this attack. Saidpur was looted heavily and the houses were set on fire. Women were dishonoured. Thousands of men, women and children were taken prisoners. Guru Nanak Dev Ji was also arrested along with them. But when Babar came to know that Guru Nanak Dev Ji was a great saint, he himself came for his Darshan. He was so much impressed by Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s personality that he set free not only Guru Nanak Dev Ji but many other prisoners also. Guru Nanak Dev Ji writes about the cruelties of Babar in Babar Vani.

1. When did Babar attack Saidpur?
2. What did the army do at Saidpur?
3. Was Babar imprisoned Guru Nanak Dev Ji at Saidpur?
4. What did Babar do when he came for the Darshan of Guru Nanak Dev Ji?
5. How did the army of Babar treat the women in Saidpur?

• It illtreated the women
• It respected the women.
• It imprisoned the women.
• None of the above.

Answer:
1. Babar attacked Saidpur in 1520 A.D.
2. The army of Babar sacked Saidpur on an extensive way.
3. Yes, Babar did imprison Guru Nanak JDev Ji at Saidpur.
4. When did Babar have the Darshan of Guru Nanak Dev Ji he was greatly impressed. So he ordered the release of Guru Nanak Dev Ji along with other prisoners.
5. It illtreated the women.

4. Guru Nanak Dev Ji founded a town named Kartarpur (the abode of God) at the banks of the Ravi river in 1521 A.D. and spent the last 18 years of his life at this place. He started the institutions of ‘Sangat’ and ‘Pangat’ during this period. ‘Sangat’ meant the congregation held daily to listen to the Bani (hymns) of Guru Ji. Everybody could join it without any consideration of caste or sex. The ‘Name’ of only one God was recited in it. Similarly ‘Pangat’ meant to sit in a queue and to partake langar (food). No discrimination of any kind regarding caste or religion, high or low was made in the ‘langar’. These two institutions proved very helpful in spreading the message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Besides, he composed 976 Sabads, which also proved extremely helpful for the spread and development of Sikhism.

1. What is meant by Kartarpur?
2. Which two institutions were founded by Guru Nanak Dev Ji at Kartarpur?
3. How many hymns were composed by Guru Nanak Dev Ji?
4. Write the names of any two main Banis of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
5. When was Kartarpur founded by Guru Nanak Dev Ji?

• 1501 A.D.
• 1511 A.D.
• 1521 A.D.
• 1531 A.D.

Answer:
1. Guru Nanak Dev Ji founded Kartarpur in 1521 A.D.
2. Guru Nanak Dev Ji founded two institutions named Sangat and Pangat.
3. Guru Nanak Dev Ji composed 976 hymns.
4. The two main Banis composed by Guru Nanak Dev Ji are Japji Sahib and Asa di Var.
5. 1521 A.D.

Development of Sikhism Under Guru Angad Deli Ji, Guru Amar Das Ji and Guru Ram Das Ji:

Note : Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions that follow :

1. Before meeting Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Bhai Lehna Ji used to visit Jawalamukhi ‘ (in Kangra district) every year along with a group of devotees (Jatha) but his search for truth did not culminate in success. One day he heard in Khadur Sahib, the recitation of ‘Asa Di Var’ from Bhai Jodha Ji, who was a devotee of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Bhai Lehna Ji was so much impressed by it that he decided to meet Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Thus, when he set out for the pilgrimage of Jawalamukhi with his group of devotees next year,he stopped on the way at Kartarpur to meet Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He was so much overwhelmed by the great personality and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji that he became a follower of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He spent his life in the service of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

1. Bhai Lehna Ji was the devotee of which goddess before he met Guru Nanak Dev Ji?
2. At Khadur Sahib Bhai Lehna Ji heard the recitation of Asa Di Var from whom?
3. What did Bhai Lehna Ji decide after he heard the recitation of Asa Di Var?
4. Why did Bhai Lehna Ji became the follower of Guru Nanak Dev Ji?
5. At which place Bhai Lehna Ji met Guru Nanak Dev Ji?

• At Kartarpur
• At Jawalamukhi
• At Kiratpur
• At Amritsar.

Answer:
1. Bhai Lehna Ji was the devotee of Mata Durga before he met Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
2. At Khadur Sahib Bhai Lehna Ji heard the recitation of Asa Di Var from Bhai Jodha Ji.
3. After listening the recitation of Asa Di Var Bhai Lehna Ji decided’to meet Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
4. Bhai Lehna Ji was greatly impressed by the personality and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
5. At Kartarpur.

2. It is true that Gurmukhi existed before Guru Angad Dev Ji, but anybody could be confused very easily by reading it. Therefore, Guru Angad Dev Ji improved and polished it. Now it became very easy even for common people to understand it. All the religious books of Sikhism were written in it. Its very name ‘Gurmukhi’ (an utterance of words frem the Guru’s mouth) reminded the Sikhs of their duties towards the Guru and constantly kept alive in their minds the consciousness that they were something distinct from the common mass of Hinduism. This script was also instrumental-in rapid spread of education, among the Sikhs. Besides, the introduction of this script gave a severe blow to the Supremacy of the Brahmans, who recognised Sanskrit as the only religious language.”

1. Gurrmukhi script was popularised by which Guru Sahib?
2. Which script wa prevalent before Gurnukhi script?
3. What is meant by Gurmukhi?
4. What is the importance of Gurmukhi script?
5. All the reIigius books of Sikhism were written in …………….
Answer:
1. Gurmukhi script was popularised by which Guru Sahib?
3. By Gurmukhi we meant the utterance of words from the Gurus mouth.
4. It led to the rapid spread of education among the Sikhs.
5. Gurmukhi.

3. The construction of a Baoli at Goindwal Sahib was started in 1552 A.D. and it was completed in 1559 A.D. Guru Ji had two objectives in its construction. First, he wanted to give the Sikhs a separate place of pilgrimage so that they could be separated from the Hindus. Secondly, he wanted to solve the water problem of the people of that place. Eighty four steps were built to reach the Baoli. After its construction was over. Guru Amar Das Ji declared, “Whoever would attentively and reverently repeat the Japji on every step after a bath in the baoli would escape from the wandering in the wombs of the 84 lakhs of living creatures.”

The construction of Baoli Sahib proved a very important step in the development of Sikhism.

1. Which Guru Sahib had constructed the Baoli at Goindwal Sahib?
2. When was the construction of the Baoli at Goindwal Sahib started?

• 1552 A.D.
• 1559 A.D.
• 1562 A.D.
• 1569 A.D.

3. How many years were spent in building Baoli at Goindwal Sahib?
4. How many stairs were built to reach at the bottom of the Baoli at Goindwal Sahib?
5. How did the Baoli at Goindwal Sahib prove an important step in the consolidation of Sikhism?
Answer:
1. The Baoli at Goindwal Sahib was constructed by Guru Amar Das Ji.
2. 1552 A.D.
3. Total of 7 years were spent in building Baoli at Goindwal Sahib.
4. A total of 84 stairs were built to reach at the bottom of Baoli.
5. It gave a. new boost to Sikhism.

4. The establishment of Manji system was one of the most important works of Guru Amar Das Ji. During his Guruship, the number of the followers of Sikhism had increased considerably. Thus, it became impossible for Guru Amar Das Ji to reach every Sikh. So, he established twenty two Manjis to convey the message of Sikhism living in far off areas. The head of every Manji was called Manjidar. This post was given only to a very pious Sikh. The area of propaganda of the Manjidar was not limited to any specific area. He could visit any place for propaganda at his will.

1. By which Guru Sahib Manji system was established?
2. How many Manjis were established?
3. Who was the head of Manji?
4. What was the one main function of the Manjidar?
5. The area of ‘propaganda of the Manjidar was not limited to any specific ……………..
Answer:
1. Manji system was established by Guru Amar Das Ji.
2. A total of 22 Manjis were established.
3. Manjidar was the head of Manji.
4. He used to preach Sikhism.
5. area.

5. The most important contribution of Guru Ram Das Ji towards the Sikh Panth was the foundation of Ramdaspura. After assuming the Guruship, he himself settled here. In 1577 A.D. he founded Ramdaspura. He settled fifty two other traders, belonging to different trades, at this place in order to make it popular and attract people. It soon became a famous trade centre. Guru Ram Das Ji planned to construct two sarovars (tanks) Amritsar and Santokhsar at Ramdaspura. The digging of Amritsar sarovar was started first. Baba Buddha Ji was entrusted to look after this project. Later on the name of Ramdaspura came to be known as Amritsar.

1. Ramdaspura was established by which Guru Sahib?
2. Ramdaspura was later on came to known by which other name?
3. What was the name given to the market for the traders of Ramdaspura?
4. What was the importance of Ramdaspura?
5. When was Ramdaspura founded?

• 1571 A.D.
• 1573 A.D.
• 1575 A.D.
• 1577 A.D.

Answer:
1. Ramdaspura was established by Guru Ram Das Ji.
2. Ramdaspura later on came to be known as Amritsar.
3. ‘Guru Ka Bazaar’ was given the name for the traders of Ramdaspura.
4. It gave the Sikhs their most sacred religious place.
5. 1577 A.D.

Guru Arjan Dev Ji and his Martyrdom:

Note: Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions that follow :

1. The foremost achievement of Guru Arjan Dev Ji for the consolidation of Sikhism was the construction of Harmandir Sahib. Guru Ram Das Ji had started the digging of Amrit Sarover and it was completed by Guru Arjan Dev Ji. After this, he started the construction work of Harmandir Sahib (Temple of God) in Amrit Sarovar. Its foundation was laid on 13th January, 1588 A.D. by a very famous Sufi saint, named Mian Mir. According to Sikh tradition, the Sikhs suggested to Guru Arjan Dev Ji that the temple should be higher than the surrounding buildings. But Guru Sahib said, “He who is humble shall be exalted.” That is why the building of the temple was kept lower as compared to the other buildings. Another distinguishing feature of Harmandir Sahib was that it has four doorways, one on each side.

1. By which Guru Sahib Ha rmandir Sahib was constructed?
2. Who laid the foundation of Harmandir Sahib?
3. The foundation of Harmandir Sahib was laid in ………………
4. How many doors were kept for the entry in the Harmandir Sahib?
5. What wais the importance of Harmandir Sahib?
Answer:
1. Harmandir Sahib was constructed by Guru Aijan Dev Ji.
2. The foundation of Raima p dir Sahib was laid by Sufi Saint Mian Mir.
3. 1588 A.D.
4. Four doors were kept for the entry in the Harmandir Sahib.
5. It gave the Sikhs their most sacred religious place.

2. Development of Masand system was one of the greatest achievements of Guru Aijan Dev Ji. This system was founded by Guru Ram Das Ji. The word Masand has been derived from the Persian word ‘Masnad’ which means high place. As the representatives of Guru Ji used to sit on a higher place than others, so they were called as Ms sands. With the passage of time, the number of Sikhs had increased considerably. As a consequence, Guru Ji needed money for Langar and other development programmes. It was enjoined upon every Sikh to give Daswandh of his total income to Guru Sahib. For collecting this money from Sikhs, he appear red very responsible persons called Masands.

1. Which Guru Sahib had founded the Masand System?
2. Masand is the word of which language?
3. What is meant by Daswandh?
4. What was the importance of Masand system?
5. During whose Guru pontificate the development of Masand system took place?

• Guru Ram Dss Ji
• Guru Arjan Dev Ji
• Guru Hargobmd Ji
• Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Answer:
1. The Masand system was founded by Guru Ram Das Ji.
2. Masand is the word of Persian language.
3. Daswandh means l/10th of the total income.
4. It spread the message of Sikhism far and wide.
5. Guru Aijan Dev Ji.

3. Jahangir was a fanatic Sunni Muslim. So, he could not bear to see any other religion more prosperous than Islam. He could not tolerate the growing popularity of Sikhs in Punjab. So, he was looking for a chance to hamper their development. He wanted to put a stop to all this. In his book Tuzak-i-Jahangiri, he has himself written, “In Goindwal on the banks of the river Beas lived a Hindu named Arjan in the garb of‘Pir’ or ‘Shaikh’.

By his ways and manners he captured the fancy of many of the simple hearted Hindus and even many ignorant Muslims. He had loudly sounded the drum of his being Pir and a holy person. They called him Guru and from all sides innocent and foolish people crowded to manifest their complete faith in him. For three or four generations they had kept their shop warm. Many times I thought of putting a stop to this vain affair or to bring him
to Islam.”

1. What was the name of autobiography of Jahangir?
2. Why was Jahangir against Guru Arjan Sahib?
3. To whom did Jahangir call the shop of liar?
4. When Guru Arjan Dev Ji was martyred?
5. Guru Arjab Dev Ji was martyred at …………………
Answer:
1. Tuzak-i-Jahangiri was the name of autobiography of Jahangir.
2. He was not ready to tolerate the spread of Sikhism day by day.
3. Jahangir’called the peachings of Guru Arjan Dev Ji as the shop of liar.
4. Guru Arjan Dev Ji was martyred on 30th May, 1606 A.D.
5. Lahore.

Guru Hargobind Ji and Transformation of Slkhism:

Note : Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions that follow :

1. At the time of assuming Guruship, Guru Hargobind Ji decided to wear the swords of Miri and Piri. The sword of Miri was a symbol of temporal power and the sword of Piri a symbol of religious leadership. It meant that henceforth, Guru Hargobind Ji would lead his followers in temporal matters in addition to the religious matters. Guru Hargobind ji enjoined on his Sikhs to recite the name of God on one hand, and to wear arms for self-defence on the other. In this way, Guru Hargohind Ji turned the Sikhs into saint soldiers. This policy of Miri and Piri as adopted by Guru Hargobind Ji exercised a deep impact on the Sikh History.

1. When did Guru Hargobind Ji sat on Gurgaddi?
2. Which title was assumed by Guru Hargobind Ji?
3. Miri sword was the symbol of which power?
4. Piri sword was the symbol of …………. power.
5. Which Guru Sahib had declared the Sikhs as Saint Soldier? 1
Answer:
1. Guru Hargobind Ji sat on Gurgaddi in 1606 A.D.
2. Guru Hargobind Ji assumed the title of Sacha Padshah.
3. The sword of Miri was the symbol of temporal power, religious.
4. Guru Hargobind Ji had declared the Sikhs as Saint Soldier.

2. The construction of Akal Takht proved very helpful in the evolution of the New Policy. In fact, it was a great task of Guru Hargobind Ji. The construction of Akal Takht was begun by Guru Hargobind Ji in front of Harmandir Sahib in 1606 A.D. This stupendous task was completed in 1609 A.D. Inside it was built a -12 feet high rostrum, which was like a throne. Guru Hargobind Ji used to guide the political and military affairs of the Sikhs by occupying the throne.

1. What is meant by Akal Takht?
2. In which city Akal Takht Sahib was built?
3. Why was Akal Takht Sahib built?
4. What functions were carried by Guru Hargobind Ji at Akal Takht Sahib? Write any one. ”
5. When was the construction of Akal Takht Sahib started?

• 1605 A.D.
• 1606 A.D.
• 1607 A.D.
• 1609 A.D.

Answer:
1. Akal Takht meant seat of the Almighty.
2. Akal Takht Sahib was built in Amritsar.
3. Akal Takht Sahib was built to guide the political and military affairs of the Sikhs.
4. Guru Hargobind Ji gave military training to the Sikhs.
5. 1606 A.D.

3. Soon after the battle of Amritsar, second battle was fought between the Mughals and the Sikhs at a place called Lahira (near Bathinda). The immediate cause of this battle was two horses named Dilbag and Gulbag. Two Masands named Bakht Mai and Tara Chand were bringing these horses from Kabul to present them to Guru Hargobind Sahib. On the way the Mughals dispossessed them of these horses and sent them to the royal stable.

Bhai Bidhi Chand Ji, a devotee of Guru Ji could not tolerate it. He went in disguise of a grass cutter and brought out both the horses from the royal stable and sent them to Guru Hargobind Ji. When Shah Jahan heard this news, he became very angry. He immediately sent a large army under the command of Lala Beg and Qamar Beg to crush the power of the Sikhs. A fierce battle was fought between the Mughals and the Sikhs at a place called Lahira. The Mughals had to suffer a heavy loss of life and both their commanders were killed.

1. When was the battle of Lahira took place between Guru Hargobind Ji and the Mughals?
2. Write the names of those two horses which led to the battle of Lahira.
3. Which Sikh devotee brought out both the horses from the royal stable?
4. Which two Mughal commanders were killed in the battle of Lahira?
5. The Mughals had to suffer a heavy loss of ……………
Answer:
1. The battle of Lahira took place between Guru Hargobind Ji and the Mughals in,1634 A.D.
2. Dilbagh and Gulbagh were those two horses which led to the battle of Lahira.
3. Bhai Bidhi Chand Ji was the name of Sikh devotee who brought out both the horses from the royal stable.
4. Lala Beg and Qamar Beg were the two commanders who were killed in the battle of Lahira.
5. life.

Guru Har Rai Ji and Guru Har Krishan Ji:

Note: Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions that follow :

1. Guru Har Rai Ji remained on Gurgaddi from 1645 to 1661 A.D. His pontificate is considered peaceful in Sikh History. In order to preach Sikhism, Guru Har Rai Ji travelled to different parts of the Punjab i.e. Jalandhar, Amritsar, Kartarpur, Gurdaspur, Ferozepur, Patiala, Ambala, Kamal and Hissar. Besides, he sent his preachers outside Punjab. During his journey to the Malwa region, Guru Sahib blessed Phul that he would become great and his descendants would rule. This prophecy of Guru Sahib turned out to be true. Dara Shikoh, the elder son of Shah Jahan was a devoted follower of Guru Har Rai Ji. In 1658 A.D. he was defeated by Aurangzeb. Thereafter, Dara Shikoh visited Guru Har Rai Ji to seek his blessings.

Guru Heir Rai Ji boosted his morale. After Aurangzeb firmly established himself on the throne he summoned Guru Har Rai Ji to Delhi. Guru Har Rai Ji sent his elder son Ram Rai to Delhi. In order to save himself from Aurangzeb’s wrath he wrongly interpreted a hymn of Adi Granth Sahib. Consequently, the Guru Ji declared Ram Rai unfit for Guruship and nominated his younger son Har Krishan Ji as the next successor of the Sikhs.

1. When Guru Har Rai Ji ascended the Gurgaddi?
2. Which places of Punjab were visited by Guru Har Rai Ji for preaching Sikhism? Name any two.
3. Name the devotee who was blessed by Guru Har Rai Ji.
4. Who was nominated the successor of Guru Har Rai Ji?
5. Who was the oldest son of Shah Jahan?

• Dara
• Shujha
• Aurangzeb
• Murad

Answer:
1. Guru Har Rai Ji ascended the Gurgaddi in 1645 A.D.
2. The four places of Punjab visited by Guru Har Rai Ji for preaching Sikhism were Jalandhar and Amritsar.
3. Guru Har Rai Ji blessed his devotee Phul that his descendants would rule.
4. Guru Har Rai Ji nominated Guru Har Krishan Ji as his successor.
5. Dara.

2. Guru Har Krishan Ji was the younger son of Guru Har Rai Ji. His pontificate began in 1661 A.D. Thus, he became the 8th Guru of the Sikhs. At the time of his assumption of Guruship he was only five years old. That is why Guru Har Krishan Ji is also known as the Child Guru (Bal Guru) in Sikh History. Ram Rai, the elder brother of Guru Har Krishan Ji stoutly opposed him. He considered himself to be the real claimant of Guruship. He tried his best to wrest Guruship from his brother but when he did not succeed, he sought help from Aurangzeb, who called Guru Har Krishan Ji to Delhi. Guru Har Krishan Ji went to Delhi in 1664 A.D. He stayed at the house of Mirza Raja Jai Singh. Cholera and small pox had broken out in Delhi in those days. Guru Har Krishan Ji devoted himself to the help of the sick, the poor and the orphAnswer: He himself became a victim of sma – pox and was taken ill. He breathed his last on March 30, 1664 A.D., but befo v that he uttered the words Baba Bakala’ which meant that his successor would found at Bakala.

1. Who was the eighth Guru of the Sikhs?
2. Guru Har Krishan Ji sat on Gurgaddi in ……………
3. Why is Guru Har Krishan Ji called as ‘Ral Guru’?
4. Who was Ram Rai?
5. Which service was rendered by Guru Har Krishan Ji in Delhi?
Answer:
1. Guru Har Krishan Ji was the eighth Guru of the Sikhs.
2. 1661 A.D.
3. Because he was only of .five years when he ascended the Gurgaddi.
4. Ram Rai was the elder brother of Guru Har Krishan Ji.
5. In those days cholera and small-pox had broken out in Delhi. Guru Har Krishan Ji served the Sikhs, the poor and the orphans with open heart.

Guru Tech Bahadur Ji and his Martyrdom:

Note : Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions that follow :

1. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was the ninth Sikh Guru. He held the Guruship from 1664 A.D. to 1675 A.D. Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib undertook tours to various places in and outside Punjab, to spread Sikhism and to remove prevalent blind faiths and superstitions among the masses. At that time, Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb ruled over India. He was a staunch Sunni Muslim. He had spread terror in the whole country with a view to convert Hindus into Muslims. Kashmiri Pandits were the worst sufferers of his persecutions. For the protection of Hindu religion, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji courted martyrdom on 11th November, 1675 A.D. at Delhi. This unique martyrdom of Guru Sahib had far reaching impacts.

It marked the beginning of a new era, not only in the history of Punjab, but also in the history of India. The martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji kindled such a spark, which soon assumed the shape of a big flame, which eventually reduced the powerful Mughal empire to ashes. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji gave his martyrdom for the protection of the Hindu religion Therefore he is known in History as ‘Hind Di .Chadar’.

1. When dud Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji ascend the Gurgaddi?
2. What were the objectives of the travels of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
3. Which Mughal emperor gave order to martyr Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji?
4. Where was Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was Martyred?

• Lahore
• Delhi
• Amritsar
• None of the above.

5. Why is Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji called ‘Hind Di Chadar’?
Answer:
1. Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji ascended the Gurgaddi in 1664 A.D.
2.

• To preach Sikhism.
• To remove superstitious prevalent among the people.

3. Mughal emperor Aurangzeb gave order to martyr Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
4. Delhi.
5. Because Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji gave his martyrdom for the protection of Hindu religion so he is called as ‘Hind Di Chadar’.

2. The Pandits living in Kashmir were firm believers in their religion and culture. The Hindus all over India revered them. Aurangzeb thought if these Kashmiri Pandits were converted to Islam the Hindus living in other parts of India would readily follow their example. With this object in view Aurangzeb appointed Sher Afghan as the Governor of Kashmir. Sher Afghan forced the Pandits to embrace Islam. He offered them the choice between Islam and death. They were tortured and brutally killed everyday in large numbers. When they found no way out to save their faith, a sixteen member deputation led by Pandit Kirpa Ram met Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at Chakk Nanaki, (Sri Anandpur Sahib) on 25th May, 1675 A.D. They sought Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s help.

1. Who was Sher Afghan?
2. Why was Sher Afghan infamous?
3. Under whose leadership a deputation of Kashmiri Pandits came to Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji for help?
4. At which place the Pandits of Kashmir met Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji

• Lahore
• Amritsar
• Chakk Nanaki
• Jalandhar.

5. What is the modern name of Chakk Nanaki?
Answer:
1. Sher Afghan was the governor of Kashmir.
2. He had inflicted great atrocities on Kashmiri Pandits.
3. A deputation of Kashmiri Pandits under the leadership of Pandit Kjrpa Ram had met Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at Chakk Nanaki for help.
4. Chakk Nanaki.
5. The modern name of Chakk Nanaki is Sri Anandpur Sahib.

Guru Gobind Singh Ji: The Foundation of Khalsa, his Battles and his Personality:

Note : Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions that follow :

1. The Battle of Bhangani was the first battle fought between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the Hill Chiefs. It took place on September 22, 1688 A.D. Many factors were responsible for this battle. Firstly, the Hill Chiefs were alarmed to see the military activities of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Their freedom seemed to be jeopardised. Secondly, the Hill Chiefs deemed the reforms of Guru Gobind Singh Ji an interference in their religious matters. Thirdly, these Hill Chiefs used to harass the Sikh Sangat. Fourthly, the Mughal government was also instigating these Chiefs to take steps against Gum Ji.

The allied forces of Hill Chiefs under the command of Bhim Chand, the ruler of Kahlur and Fateh Shah, the ruler of Kashmir attacked Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s army at Bhangani on September 22, 1688 A.D. Pir Buddhu Shah of Sadhaura rendered valuable help to Guru Gobind Singh Ji in this battle. The Sikhs bravely resisted the allied forces and became victorious in this battle. This victory boosted the morale of the Sikhs and Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s fame reached far and wide. The Hill Chiefs deemed it wise to shun Guru Ji’s opposition and establish amicable relations with him.

1. Which was the first battle to be fought between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the Hill Chiefs?
2. Write any one cause of the battle of Bhangani.
3. When was the battle of Bbangani fought?

• 1686 AD.
• 1687 A.D.
• 1688 AD.
• 1699 A.D.

4. In the battle of Bhangani who provided help to Guru Gobind Singh Ji?
5. What was the significance of the victory of Sikhs in the battle of Bhangani?
Answer:
1. The first battle to be fought between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the Hill Chiefs is the battle of Bhangani.
2. The Hill Chiefs were alarmed on seeing the war preparations of the Sikhs.
3. 1688 A.D.
4. In the battle of Bhangani Guru Gobind Singh Ji was provided help by Pir Buddhu Shah.
5. As a result of the victory of the Sikhs in the battle of Bhagani the fame of Gum Gobind Singh Ji spread far and wide.

2. On the day of Baisakhi in 1699 A.D. Guru Gobind Singh Ji held a congregation at Kesgarh at Sri Anandpur Sahib. 80000 Sikhs attended the congregation. When all the people sat down, Guru Ji appeared on the stage. With his sword unsheathed—he spoke, “Is there any Sikh who would sacrifice his life for Dharma?” His words numbed the audience. When Guru Sahib repeated his call for the third time, Bhai Daya Ram Ji offered himself for sacrifice.

Guru Ji repeated this process for four more times. Bhai Dharara Das Ji, Bhai Mohkam Chand Ji, Bhai Sahib Chand Ji and Bhai Himmat Rai Ji were thus selected. Guru Gobind Singh Ji selected the ‘Panj Payaras’, the five beloveds. Guru Sahib gave the Nectar of Immortality (Khande Ka Pahul) to the five beloved ones and then begged to be baptised by them. Guru Sahib gave the name of Khalsa i.e. pure to the love beloved ones. He said Khalsa is in Guru and the Guru is in Khalsa therefore, Guru Gobind Singh Ji is also called ‘Aape Gur Chela’. In this way, Guru Gobind Singh Ji laid the foundation of the Khalsa.

1. What is meant by Khalsa?
2. Who was the first to offer his head to the Guru?
3. Which was the unanimous name given to those who offered their heads?
4. Who is called ‘Aape Gur Chela’?
5. Which of the following offered his head?

• Dharm Das
• Mohkam Chand
• Sahib Chand
• All of the above.

Answer:
1. Khalsa meant pure.
2. Bhai Daya Ram Ji was the first to offer his head.
3. Five beloved ones.
4. Guru Gobind Singh Ji is called ‘Aape Gur Chela’.
5. All of the above.

3. After the creation of the Khalsa in 1899 A.D., people .in a large number had started adopting Sikh religion. This increasing strength of Guru Sahib gave sleepless nights to the Hill Chiefs. Raja Bhim Chand of Kahlur, in whose dominion Sri Anandpur Sahib fell, told Guru Gobind Singh Ji to vacate Sri Anandpur Sahib. Guru Sahib flatly refused to oblige him. He held the view that Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji had purchased that land by. .making proper payment for it. So, Bhim Chand in collusion with some other Hill Chiefs attacked the fort of Sri Anandpur Sahib in 1701 A.D.

The siege continued for days together. Although the number of the Sikhs inside the fort was very small yet they strongly resisted the joint forces of the Hill Chiefs. When the Hill Chiefs lost hope of victory, they compromised with Guru Sahib. This compromise was only a pretense on the part of the Hill Chiefs.

1. When was the first battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib fought?
2. Who was Bhim Chand’?
3. Write anyone cause of the first battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib.
4. Bhim Chand in collusion with some other Hill Chiefs attacked the fort of Sri Anandpur Sahib in …………….
5. What was the result of the first battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib?
Answer:
1. The first battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib was fought in 1701 A.D.
2. Bhim Chand was the ruler of Kahlur.
3. The Hill chiefs were not prepared to see the war preparation of the Sikhs.
4. 1701 A.D.
5. The Hill Chiefs had entered into a treaty with Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

4. The battle of Khidrana was the last decisive battle fought between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the Mughal forces. After facing many hardships in the forests of Machhiwara, Guru Sahib reached Khidrana. When the Mughal forces came to know of it, the Nawab of Sirhind Wazir Khan planned to attack Khidrana. On 29th December, 1705 A.D., Wazir Khan, under the command of a huge army attacked Guru Sahib at Khidrana. The Sikhs showed exemplary bravery in the battle. They inflicted a crushing defeat on the Mughal forces as a result of which they took to their heels.

In this way, Guru Sahib won a glorious victory in this last battle. In this battle, those 40 Sikhs also fell martyrs who had deserted Guru Sahib in the second battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib. Impressed by the sacrifice made by them, and on the request of their leader Maha Singh, who was struggling with life, Guru Sahib tore the Bedawa, which they had written at Sri Anandpur Sahib. He also gave them the boon of Mukti (salvation).

1. Which was the last battle to be fought between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the Mughals?
2. Who was the Nawab of Sirhind?
3. Which Sikhs had got martyrdom in the battle of Khidrana?
4. When was the battle of Khidrana fought?

• 1699 A.D.
• 1701 A.D.
• 1703 A.D.
• 1705 A.D.

5. What is the modern name of Khidrana?
Answer:
1. The last battle to be fought between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the Mughals was the battle of Khidrana.
2. The Nawab of Sirhind was Wazir Khan.
3. In the battle of Khidrana those 40 Sikhs were martyred who had given bed away to Guru Gobind Singh Ji in the second battle of Sri Anandpur Sahib.
4. 1705 A.D.
5. The modern name of Khidrana is Sri Muktsar Sahib.

5. Guru Gobind Singh Ji was a poet and laureate of exceptional order. His poetry is unexcelled for its freshness and vigour. It remains unsurpassed in any language in proclaiming the supreme holiness and majesty of God. The scenes of the battles are recaptured in a very vivid manner. For its intellectual sweep and rhythm, his poetry is so different from the literary creation of the period. In his compositions, Guru Gobind Singh Ji made use of languages like Arabic, Persian, Punjabi, Hindi, Sanskrit etc. Among his compositions Jaap Sahib, Bachitar Natak, Zafamama, Chandi Di Var and Akal Ustat are very prominent.

These compositions are so thrilling that they have the power to infuse a new life even among the dead. It gave the message of universal brotherhood of mankind. It also inspires to boldly face the prepetrators of cruelity.

1. Write the names of any four famous compositions of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
2. What is Bachitar Natak?
3. Which letter was written by Guru Gobind Singh Ji to Aurangzeb?
4. What was explained in Zafamama?

• The atrocities of Aurangzeb
• The battle between Aurangzeb and Dara.
• The religious policy of Aurangzeb.
• All of the above.

5. Write any one feature of the literature of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Answer:
1. The names of four famous compositions of Guru Gobind Singh Ji were Jaap Sahib, Bachitar Natak, Zafamama and Chandi Di Var.
2. Bachitar Natak is the name of autobiography of Gum Gobind Singh Ji.
3. The name of letter written by Gum Gobind Singh Ji to Aurangzeb was Zafamama.
4. The atrocities of Aurangzeb.
5. It gave the message of universal brotherhood of mankind to humanity.

Banda Singh Bahadur:

Note : Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions the follow :

1. Banda Singh Bahadur, whose first name was Lachhman Dev was a resident of Rajauri village in district Poonch of Kashmir. His father was a poor peasant. His heart was moved when he hunted down a pregnant she-deer. As a result he turned a bairagi. He changed his name from Lachhman Dev to Madho Das. He obtained teaching in occultism (Tantric Knowledge) from a saint of Panchvati, named Aughar Nath. Staying there for some time, Madho Das came to Nanded. It was at Nanded that a meeting took place between him and Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1708 A.D.

A discussion took place between Madho Das and Guru Gobind Ji. In this meeting Madho Das was so much impressed by the personality of Guru Gobind Singh Ji that he became his Banda (slave). Guru Gobind Singh Ji administered him Amrit and gave him a new name—Banda Singh Bahadur. In this way, Banda Bairagi became a Sikh.

1. What was the childhood name of Banda Singh Bahadur?
2. Which incident had a deep impact on the mind of Banda Singh Bahadur?
3. At which place the meeting between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and Banda Singh Bahadur were held?
4. When was a meeting held between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and Banda Singh Bahadur?

• 1705 A.D.
• 1706 A.D.
• 1707 A.D.
• 1708 A.D.

5. How did Banda Bairagi become a Sikh?
Answer:
1. The childhood name of Banda Singh Bahadur was Lachhman Dev.
2. By hunting she deer which was pregnant had a deep impact on the mind of Banda Singh Bahadur.
3. Guru Gobind Singh Ji and Banda Singh Bahadur had met at Nanded.
4. 1708 A.D.
5. Guru Gobind Singh Ji had baptised Madho Das. Thus Banda Bairagi had become a sikh.

2. Wazir Khan, the Faujdar of Sirhind had got the two younger sons, Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh, of Guru Gobind Singh Ji killed by bricking them alive in the wall. So, Banda Singh Bahadur wanted to teach him such a lesson which should be remembered by the Muslims for a long time. On May 12, 1710 A.D., Banda Singh Bahadur attacked the army of Wazir Khan at Chapar Chiri.

The Sikhs massacred the Muslims to such an extent that they shuddered at the very thought of it. Wazir Khan was killed and hanged on a tree upside down. Massacre stalked the whole Sirhind on May 14, 1710 A.D. This glorious conquest further boosted the morale of the Sikhs.

1. Who was Wazir Khan?
2. Why did Banda Singh Bahadur attack Sirhind?
3. At which place Wazir Khan was killed by the Sikhs?
4. When was the battle of Chapar Chiri fought?

• 1706 A.D.
• 1708 A.D.
• 1709 A.D.
• 1710 A.D.

5. Who became victorious in the battle of Chapar Chiri?
Answer:
1. Wazir Khan was the Nawab of Sirhind.
2. Banda Singh Bahadur wanted to avenge the martyrdom of two younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji who were bricked alive in a wall at Sirhind.
3. Wazir Khan was killed at Chapar Chiri by the Sikhs.
4. 1710 A.D.
5. The Sikhs became victorious in the battle of Chapar Chiri.

3. Abdus-Samad-Khan besieged Banda Singh Bahadur at Gurdas Nangal in April 1715 A.D. This siege continued for eight months. Gradually provisions ran out and condition of the Sikhs grew critical. At this juncture, Baba Binod Singh advised Banda Singh Bahadur to escape from the haveli but Banda Singh Bahadur refused to do so. So, Binod Singh escaped from the haveli with his companions. At last Banda Singh Bahadur had to give in on December 7, 1715 A.D.

1. Who was Abdus Samad Khan?
2. At Gurdas Nangal Banda Singh Bahadur had faced the Mughal forces from which Haveli?
3. For what time the battle of Gurdas Nangal lasted?
4. Which companion of Banda Singh Bahadur had left him during the battle of Gurdas Nangal?
5. When was Banda Singh Bahadur arrested?

• 1705 AJD.
• 1710 A.D.
• 1711 A.D.
• 1715 A.D.

Answer:
1. Abdus Samad Khan was the Subedar of Lahore.
2. At Gurdas Nangal Banda Singh Bahadur had faced the Mughal forces from the haveli of Duni Chand.
3. The battle of Gurdas Nangal lasted for 8 months.
4. During the battle of Gurdas Nangal Baba Binod Singh, a companion of Banda Singh Bahadur had left him.
5. 1715 A.D.

Abdus Samad Khan, Zakariya Khan and Mir Mannu: Their Relations with the Sikhs:

Note: Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions the follow:

1. After the issuance of the royal edict, Abdus Samad Khan had started torturing the sikhs in various ways. Hundreds of innocent Sikhs were daily arrested and brought to Lahore. They were tempted to embrace Islam in exchange for their life but the Guru’s Sikhs preferred death to this type of life. The executioners killed such Sikhs after subjecting them to untold tortures. In order to escape this bloody policy of Abdus Samad Khan, many Sikhs took shelter in the Lakhi jungles and in the Shivalik hills. There they had to face many hardships. They had to go without food for days together or feed on tree leaves and roots.

The Mughal officials started committing harshness on women and children, who were left behind. In this way during the early years of Abdus Samad Khan’s rule, this policy paid rich dividends. Feeling happy with him Farrukh Siyar honoured him with the title of “Sword of the State”.

1. Who was Abdus Samad Khan?
2. After the issuance of the royal edict …………… had started torturing the sikhs daily martyred?
3. Where were Sikhs daily martyred?
4. What steps were taken by the Sikhs to escape the tyranny of Abdus Samed Khan?
5. With which title Farrukh Siyar honoured Abdus Samed Khan?
Answer:
1. Abdus Samed Khan was the Subedar of Lahore.
2. Abdus Samad Khan.
3. The Sikhs were daily martyred at Lahore.
4. To escape the tyranny of Abdus Samad Khan the sikhs took shelter in Lakhi jungles and Shivalik Hills.
5. Farrukh Siyar had honoured Abdus Samad Khan with the title of ‘Sword of the State’.

2. Zakariya Khan was greatly disturbed due to the growing activities of the Sikhs. He raised the slogan of ‘Jihad’ to crush the Sikhs. As a result, thousands of Muslims gathered under his banner. The command of this army was entrusted to Inayatulla Khan. On the auspicious day of Id, they were given a Haidri flag and it was proclaimed that God would certainly bestow victory on those who fought under this flag. When the Sikhs learnt about it they once again went to their hideouts. One day about seven thousand Sikhs suddenly attacked these Ghazis and caused havoc in their ranks. Thousands of Ghazis were killed. Besides, the Sikhs plundered their possessions.

1. Who was Zakariya Khan?
2. What is meant by Jihad?
3. Who was given the command of Haidri flag?
4. Who was the Subedar of Punjab at the time of the incident of Haidri flag?

• Abdus Samad Khan
• Zakariya Khan
• Mir Mannu
• Ahmad Shah Abdali.

5. Where did the Sikhs took shelter?
Answer:
1. Zakariya Khan was the Subedar of Lahore.
2. Jihad meant religious war.
3. The command of Haidri flag was given to Inayatulla Khan.
4. Zakariya Khan.
5. The Sikhs took shelter in forests and hills.

3. The compromise with the Mughals gave the Sikhs a golden opportunity to organise their power. Nawab Kapoor Singh sent a message to the Sikhs that they should return to their homes from their hideouts in jungles and hills. Thus, the two decade old struggle between the Mughals and Sikhs came to an end. The Sikhs heaved a sigh of relief. In order to strengthen the power of the Sikhs Nawab Kapoor Singh organised them in two groups in 1734 A.D.

These groups were known as Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal. The Sikhs above the age of 40 were recruited in the Buddha Dal and below the age of 40 in the Taruna Dal. The Taruna Dal was further divided into five groups. Each group comprised 1300 to 2000 Sikhs and had its own leader and banner. The Buddha Dal looked after the religious places and the Taruna Dal fought with the enemies.

1. When was a pact signed between the Mughals and the Sikhs?
2. Who was the Subedar of Punjab when a pact was signed between the Mughals and the Sikhs?

• Ahmad Shah Abdali
• Mir Mannu
• Zakariya Khan
• None of these.

3. Who was Nawab Kapoor Singh?
4. When was Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal formed?
5. Who were recruited in the Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal?
Answer:
1. A pact was signed between the Mughals and the Sikhs in 1733A.D.
2. Zakariya Khan.
3. Nawab Kapoor Singh was a prominent sikh leader of the 18th centuiy.
4. Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal were formed in 1734 A.D.
5. The Sikhs above the age of 40 were recruited in the Buddha Dal and below the age of 40 in the Taruna Dal.

4. The martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji occupies a significant place in the Sikh History. Because of his matchless service to the Sikh Panth, he was greatly respected by the Sikhs. He had been the Head Priest of Harmandir Sahib since 1721 A.D. The Sikhs were greatly perturbed when the soldiers of Zakariya Khan occupied Harmandir Sahib and established army posts to prevent the entry of the Sikhs. In 1738 A-D. Bhai Mani Singh Ji requested Zakariya Khan to allow the Sikhs to enter the Harmandir Sahib on the Diwali festival, he would offer him Rs. 5000.

Zakariya Khan readily accepted the offer. In fact, he hatched a plan. According to this plan he wanted to attack suddenly and completely decimate the Sikhs who were supposed to gather at Amritsar on Diwali.

1. Who was Bhai Mani Singh Ji?
2. To whom Bhai Mani Singh Ji requested to give the Sikhs permission to celebrate Diwali at Amritsar?
3. Bhai Mani Singh Ji offered what amount to Zakariya Khan in case of allowing the Sikhs to enter Amritsar.

• Rs. 2000
• Rs. 3000
• Rs. 4000
• Rs. 5000.

4. When was Bhai Mani Singh Ji martyred?
5. What was the result of the martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji?
Answer:
1. Bhai Mani Singh Ji was the Head Priest of Harmandir Sahib from 1721 A.D.
2. He requested Zakariya Khan, the Subedar of Lahore.
3. Rs. 5000.
4. Bhai Mani Singh Ji was martyred in 1738 A.D.
5. It boosted the morale of the Sikhs.

5. With a view to decimate the Sikhs, Yahiya Khan and Lakhpat Rai raised a huge army. This army, unexpectedly, besieged 15,000 Sikhs at Kahnuwan. The Sikhs escaped from there and took shelter in the hills of Basoli. The Mughal soldiers gave them a hot chase. Here the Sikhs were trapped in a difficult situation. On one side there were high hills, while on the other the river Ravi was in full spate. The Mughal soldiers were chasing them from behind while in front they were faced by the Hill Chiefs and those people, who were their bitter enemies.

The Sikhs were short of food-stuffs. Owing to the shortage of fodder, the horses too were suffering from starvation. In this attack, 7000 Sikhs were martyred and 3000 arrested. These Sikhs were martyred at Lahore. It was the first occasion in Sikh history, when the Sikhs suffered such a heavy loss of life. That is why this event is known as first Ghallughara or small holocaust in history.

1. When did first holocaust take place?
2. Who was the Subedar of Lahore at the time of first holocaust?
3. How many Sikhs were martyred in the first holocaust?
4. Sikhs were arrested during the first holocaust.
5. The first holocaust was known by which other name?
Answer:
1. The first holocaust took place in May 1746 A.D.
2. At the time of the first holocaust Yahiya Khan was the Subedar of Lahore.
3. In the first holocaust 7000 Sikhs were martyred.
4. 3000
5. The first holocaust was known as chotta Ghallughara.

Rise of the Dal Khalsa and its Mode of Fighting:

Note: Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions that follow :

1. When the persecution of the Sikhs by Zakariya Khan failed to crush the power of the Sikhs, he compromised with the Sikhs in 1733 A.D. So the Sikhs got a golden opportunity to organise their power. In 1734 A.D. Nawab Kapoor Singh, by merging all small Jathas organised them into two chief Dais. These Dais were named Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal. In the Buddha Dal, Sikhs above 40 years of age were recruited. The function of this Dal was to look after the religious places and to propagate Sikh religion. The chief function of the Taruna Dal was to defend the community and to fight with the enemies.

The Taruna Dal was further divided into five Jathas and each Jatha was placed under an experienced Sikh Jathedar. Each Jatha comprised 1300 to 2000 young men. Each Jatha had its flag and drum. Although, Nawab Kapoor Singh was entrusted with the leadership of Buddha Dal, he acted as a common link between the two Dais. After having been united into two Dais the Sikhs were able to intensify their activities against the government.

1. Who was Zakariya Khan?
2. When was Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal formed?
3. Who formed Buddha Dal and Taruma Dal?

• Banda Singh Bahadur
• Nawab Kapoor Singh
• Guru Gobind Singh Ji
• None of these.

4. Who were included in the Taruna Dal?
5. Who led the Buddha Dal?
Answer:
1. Zakariya Khan was the Subedar of Lahore.
2. Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal was formed in 1734 A.D.
3. Nawab Kapoor Singh. 5:
4. In Taruna Dal the Sikhs below the age of 40 were included.
5. Buddha Dal was led by Nawab Kapoor Singh.

2. On 29th March, 1748 A.D. on the day of Baisakhi the Sikhs gathered at Amritsar. Nawab Kapoor Singh suggested that in view of the hard time ahead, there was a great need for unity and strength of the Panth, Keeping this objective in view, the Dal Khalsa was organised on this day. 65 Sikh Jathas were merged into 12 Jathas. Each Jatha had its own separate leader and flag. Sardar Jassa Singh Ahluwalia was appointed the Supreme Commander of the Dal Khalsa. Every Sikh, who had faith in the principles of Guru Gobind Singh Ji was considered to be the member of the Dal Khalsa.

It was imperative for every Sikh to join the Dal Khalsa to face the enemy. It was expected of every Sikh who joined the Dal Khalsa to be expert in both horse-riding and use of weapons. Every member of the Dal Khalsa was at full liberty to join any Jatha. At the time of war, one of the 12 Sardars was selected the Chief of the Dal Khalsa and the other Sardars complied
with his orders.

1. By whom was Dal Khalsa established?
2. When was Dal Khalsa established?

• 1733 A.D.
• 1734 A.D.
• 1738 A.D.
• 1748 A.D.

3. Who was S. Jassa Singh Ahluwalia?
4. Who could be recruited in the Dal Khalsa?
5. Write any one feature of the Dal Khalsa.
Answer:
1. Dal Khalsa was established by Nawab Kapoor Singh.
2. 1748 A.D.
3. S. Jassa Singh Ahluwalia was the Supreme Commander of the Dal Khalsa.
4. In Dal Khalsa every Sikh who had faith in the principles of Guru Gobind Singh Ji could join it.
5. Cavalry was the most important organ of the army of the Dal Khalsa.

Social and Economic Conditions of the Punjab under the Mughals:

Note : Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions the follow :

1. In the Mughal period, it wasnot the responsibility of the government to impart education to the people. The Hindus received their early education in the temples, while the Muslims received*! in the mosques. The pupils were also given education about their religions, ’JThe Hindus took more interest in education than the Muslims. No fee was charged from the students. After the completion of studies, the pupils would give some offerings to the teachers. There were centres of higher education at places like Lahore, Multan, Sialkot, Jalandhar, Sultanpur, Batala, Ambala, Sirhind in Punjab. The government would give them financial aid. Dining this period no attention was paid to women’s education. Only a few women of upper class families got education. Private arrangement for their education was made at homes.

1. Why was education not developed during the Mughal times?
2. During the Mughal period the Hindus and the Muslims get their early education from where?
3. Write any one feature of the prevelent education during the Mughal times.
4. During the Mughal times what was the status of women education.
5. During the Mughal times the pupils would give some to the teachers after the completion of their studies.
Answer:
1. Because it was not the responsibility of the government to provide education during the Mughal times.
2. During the Mughal times the Hindus ’got their early education in temples and the Muslims got their early education in mosques.
3. At that times no fee was charged from the students.
4. No attention was paid to the women education during the Mughal times.
5. offerings.

2. The chief occupation of the people of Punjab during the Mughal period was agriculture. 80% population of the Punjab was engaged in this occupation. The reason behind this was that the land of Punjab was very fertile and there was no shortage of means of irrigation. The Mughal emperors were well aware of the fact that the prosperity of the empire depended on the economic condition of the. farmers. So, they paid special attention to encourage agriculture. In 1581 A.D., ‘Zabti system’ was enforced in Punjab. Under this system the cultivable land in the Punjab was measured.

On the basis of its fertility, it was classified as Polz, Parauti, Chachar and Banjar. The government would determine its land revenue on the basis of the fertility of the soil, convenience of irrigation and average output of the previous decade. The maximum revenue of the government was one-third. The government collected its land revenue in kind or cash according to the convenience of the farmers.

1. What was the chief occuption of the people of Punjab during the Mughal period?
2. During the Mughal times what % of people depended upon agriculture?

• 50%
• 60%
• 70%
• 80%.

3. What is meant by Zabti system?
4. Write any two features of agriculture during the Mughal period.
5. How did the government collected its revenue from the farmers during the Mughal times?
Answer:
1. The chief occupation of the people of Punjab during the Mughal period was agriculture.
2. 80%.
3. Zabti system meant the measurement of the cultivated land.
4. The government would determine its land revenue on the basis of fertility of the soil, irrigational facilities and average output of the previous decade.
5. The government collected its land revenue either in kind or in cash taking int6 the convenience of the farmers.

3. Sikhism was founded during the Mughal period,, This religion was founded by Guru Nanak Dev Ji in the 15th century. Guru Nanak Dev Ji condemned the prevailing social evils of the times. He preached the worship of one God and delivered the message of universal brotherhood of*mankind. He founded Sangat and Pangat institutions. The doors of his religion were open for people of all castes and creeds. He showed the right path of knowledge to the people who were groping in the darkness. His nine successors carried forward his message!

The policy of religious tolerance of Mughal emperor Akbar provided a golden opportunity for the Sikh religion to prosper. Tension between the Mughals and the Sikhs started with accession of Mughal emperor Jahangir. The Sikhs were incited due to the martyrdom of Guru Aijan Dev Ji in 1606 A.D. and of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji in 1675 A.D. To confront the cruelties of the Mughals, Guru Gobind Singh Ji founded Khalsa Panth in 1699 A.D. The foundation of Khalsa started a new era in the history of Punjab.

1. During which period Sikhism was born?
2. Who was the founder of Sikhism?
3. What do you mean by ‘Sangat’ and ‘Pangat’?
4. When was Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji was martyred?

• 1605 A.D.
• 1606 A.D.
• 1665 A.D.
• 1675 A.D.

5. When was Khalsa Panth founded?
Answer:
1. Sikhism was founded during the Mughal period.
2. Guru Nanak Dev Ji was the founder of Sikhism.
3.

• Sangat means that congregation which listens to the hymns of the Guru.
• Pangat means a group of people sitting in a queue to partake langar.

4. 1675 A.D.
5. Khalsa Panth was founded in 1699 A.D. by Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali and Disintegration of Mughal rule in the Punjab:

Note: Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions the follow :

1. Ahmad Shah Abdali ruled from 1747 A.D. to 1772 A.D. He invaded Punjab eight times, during his rule from 1747 to 1767 A.D. In 1752 A.D. after defeating the Mughal Governor, Mir Mannu, he annexed Punjab to Afghanistan. Ahmad Shah Abdali and the Governors appointed by him committed innumerable atrocities on the Sikhs. In the big holocaust of 1762 A.D., Abdali brutally martyred a large number of Sikhs. Despite all this, the Sikhs stood firm like a rock.

Through guerilla warfare they never allowed any sigh of relief to Abdali. In 1765 A.D. the Sikhs took possession of Lahore and declared their independence. Despite his best efforts Abdali had failed to crush the power of the Sikhs.

1. Who was Ahmad Shah Abdali?
2. When did Ahmad Shah Abdali became the king of Afghanistan.

• 1747 A.D.
• 1748 A.D.
• 1752 A.D.
• 1767 A.D.

3. How many times Ahmad Shah Abdali invaded Punjab?
4. When did Wadda Ghallughara take place?
5. Why did Ahmad Shah Abdali fail to crush the Sikhs? Write any one cause.
Answer:
1. Ahmad Shah Abdali was the rdler of Afghanistan.
2. 1747 A.D.
3. Ahmad Shah Abdali invaded Pui\jab for the eight times.
4. Wadda Ghallughara take place in 1762 A.D.
5. The determination of the Sikhs was very strong.

2. Ahmad Shah Abdali reached Delhi in January 1757 A.D. None resisted Abdali in Delhi. In Delhi, he looted enormously. Afterwards, he looted Mathura and Brindaban. Then he marched towards Agra but owing to the outbreak of cholera in the army, he decided to go back to Kabul. On reaching Punjab, he made his son Timur Shah, the Governor of Punjab. He ordered Timur Shah to teach the Sikhs a lesson for their activities. In order to crush the power of the Sikhs, he sent an army to Amritsar under the command of Jahan Khan. A fierce battle was fought near Amritsar between the Afghans and the Sikhs. In this battle, the Sikh leader Baba Deep Singh Ji displayed unparalleled heroism.

As tradition goes, he continued to fight the enemy even after his head was severed. He breathed his last after reaching Harmandir Sahib on November 11, 1757 A.D. The martyrdom of Baba Deep Singh Ji infused a new spirit among the Sikhs. The Sikhs started looting the adjoining areas of Lahore. It frightened the Afghans, so much that the gates of Lahore city were closed an hour before nightfall.

1. In 1757 A.D. Ahmad Shah Abdali looted the which cities of India?
2. Why Ahmad Shah Abdali returned from Agra?
3. Who was Timur Shah?
4. When and where did Baba Deep Singh Ji got martydom?
5. The martyrdom of Baba Deep Singh Ji infused a new mong the Sikhs.
Answer:
1. In 1757 A.D. Ahmad Shah Abdali looted the Indian cities of Delhi, Mathura, Brindaban and Punjab.
2. Ahmad Shah Abdali had returned from Agra because cholera had spread in that city.
3. Timur Shah was the son of Ahmad Shah Abdali,
4. Baba Deep Singh Ji got martyrdom in 1757 A.D. at Amritsar.
5. spirit.

3. On 14 January, 1761 A.D. the Marathas attacked the army of Abdali. This was a fearful battle. At the beginning of the battle the Marathas seemed to have the odds in their favour. But when Vishwas Rao was killed by a bullet the whole situation was easily reversed. Sadashiv Rao Bhau got down from his elephant to express sorrow. When the Maratha soldiers saw his palanquin empty on the elephant they thought he had also been killed.

As a result panic spread amongst the Maratha soldiers. Abdali’s soldiers grabbed this golden opportunity and followed them and caused them heavy losses. In this battle nearly all important Maratha leaders and 28,000 Maratha soldiers were killed. Thousands of Maratha soldiers were wounded and thousands were taken prisoners.

1. When was the third battle of Panipat fought?
2. Between whom the third hattle of Panipat was fought?

• Sikhs and Marathas
• Marathas and Abdali
• Sikhs and Abdali
• None of these.

3. Who was Vishwas Rao?
4. Who was Sadashiv Rao Bhau?
5. Write any one result of the third battle of Panipat.
Answer:
1. The third battle of Panipat was fought on 14th January, 1761 A.D.
2. Marathas and Abdali.
3. Vishwas Rao was the son of Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao.
4. Sadashiv Rao Bhau was the commander in chief of the Marathas during the third battle of Panipat.
5. It resulted in the heavy loss of the Marathas in men and money.

4. Ahmad Shah Abdali captured Lahore without any resistance. Then, he proceeded towards Jandiala. On reaching here, he received the information that the Sikhs had gone from there and gathered at a village Kup near Malerkotla. So, he hurriedly rushed towards Malerkotla. He ordered Zain Khan, the Governor of Sirhind, to reach there with his forces. These joint forces suddenly attacked the Sikhs at village Kup on 5th February, 1762 A.D. At that time the Sikhs were taking their families to some safe place. Their arms and rations were lying at village Garma, which was at a distance of 6 kilometres from there.

The Sikhs while forming a safety circle around their women and children started resisting Abdali’s soldiers. The Sikhs suffered heavy losses in the battle for want of arms. In this battle 25,000 to 30,000 Sikhs were massacred. This loss was too much for the Sikhs. That is why this incident is known as Wadda Ghallughara (Great Holocaust) in the Sikh history.

1. When and where did Wadda Ghallughara take place?
2. Who was responsible for Wadda Ghallughara?
3. Who was the Subedar of Sirhind at the time of Wadda Ghallughara?
4. What were the causes of heavy loss of the Sikhs during Wadda Ghallughara?
5. The Sikhs suffered in the battle.
Answer:
1. Wadda Ghallughara took place on 5th February, 1762 A.D. at Kup.
2. Ahmad Shah Abdali was responsible for Wadda Ghallughara.
3. Zain Khan was the Subedar of Sirhind at the time of Wadda Ghallughara.
4. The Sikhs had very few weapons with them.
5. Heavy losses.

Origin and Growth of the Sikh Misls and their nature of Organization:

Note: Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions the follow :

1. Nawab Kapoor Singh was the founder of the Faizalpuria Misl. First of all, he occupied a village named Faizalpur near Amritsar. The name of this village was changed into Singhpur. Therefore, Faizalpuria Misl is also known as Singhpuria Misl. Kapoor Singh was very brave and fearless. It was Bhai Mani Singh, who baptised him. Soon, he became a famous Sikh leader. In 1733 A.D., he received the title of Nawab and an estate which could fetch Rs. 1 lakh as annual income from the Mughal Governor of Punjab, Zakariya Khan. With a view to organise the Sikh power in .1734 A.D.

Nawab Kapoor Singh formed two ‘Jathas’ namely the Buddha Dal and the Taruna Dal. He led both the Dais very ably and intelligently. By founding the Dal Khalsa in 1748 A.D., he rendered a yeoman’s service to the Sikh Panth. In fact, the contribution of Nawab Kapoor Singh to the growth and organisation of the Sikh Panth is remarkable. He passed away in the year 1753 A.D.

1. Who was the founder of the Faizalpuria Misl?
2. By what other name Faizalpuria Mi$l was known?
3. In which year and from when S. Kapoor Singh received the title of Nawab?
4. Write any one achievement of Nawab Kapoor Singh.
5. Dal Khalsa was established in ………………
Answer:
1. The founder of the Faizalpuria Misl was Nawab Kapoor Singh.
2. Faizalpuria Misl was also known as Singhpuria Misl.
3. S. Kapoor Singh was given the title of Nawab in 1733 A.D. by Mughal Subedar Zakriya Khan.
4. He had organised the Buddha Dal and the Taruna Dal in 1734 A.D.
5. 1748 A.D.

2. The founder of the Ahluwalia Misl was Jassa Singh Ahluwalia. He was the inhabitant of Ahlu village near Lahore. So, this Misl came to be known as the Ahluwalia Misl. Jassa Singh was still very young when his father passed away. 3o, Jassa Singh’s maternal uncle, Bhag Singh brought him up. Nawab Kapoor Singh was greatly impressed by the personality of Jassa Singh. He kept Jassa Singh with him and brought him up as his own son.

Because of his qualities Jassa Singh soon became a famous leaded of the Sikhs. In 1739 A.D. under the leadership of Jassa Singh, the Sikhs attacked Nadir Shah’s army and robbed it of its wealth. In the small holocaust of 1746 A.D. Jassa Singh showed many feats of bravery. As a result, his name and fame spread, far and wide. When the Dal Khalsa was organised in 1748 A.D., Jassa Singh Ahluwalia was made its Commander-in-Chief. By leading the Dal Khalsa ably, he rendered a great service to the Sikh Panth.

Under the leadership of Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, the Sikhs conquered Lahore in 1761 A.D. It was the most significant conquest of the Sikhs. For this reason, the Khalsa Panth honoured S. Jassa Singh Ahluwalia by conferring on him the title of Sultan-ul-Quam. In 1762 A.D., at the time of Great Holocaust, Jassa Singh fought very bravely against the forces of Ahmad Shah Abdali. In 1764 A.D. Jassa Singh conquered Sirhind and put its ruler, Zain Khan to death. In 1778 A.D. Jassa Singh captured Kapurthala and made it the capital of the Ahluwalia Misl.

1. Who was Jassa Singh Ahluwalia?
2. Why was Ahluwalia Misl so called?
3. What was the name of the capital of Jassa Singh Ahluwalia?
4. Write any one achievement of Jassa Singh Ahluwalia.
5. When was Kapurthala occupied by Jassa Singh Ahluwalia?

• 1761 A.D.
• 1768 A.D.
• 1778 A.D.
• 1782 A.D.

Answer:
1. Jassa Singh Ahluwalia was the founder of Ahluwalia Misl.
2. Ahluwalia Misl was so called because Jassa Singh Ahluwalia belonged to village Ahlu.
3. Kapurthala was the capital of Jassa Singh Ahluwalia.
4. He had ably led the Dal Khalsa.
5. 1778 A.D.

3. Jassa Singh was the most famous leader of the Ramgarhia Misl. Under his leadership, this Misl reached the pinnacle of glory. Jassa Singh at first served under the Faujdar of Jalandhar Doab, Adina Beg. In October 1748 A.D. the forces of Mir Mannu and Adina Beg besieged 500 Sikhs in a surprise attack in the Ram Rauni fort. Jassa Singh’s blood boiled on seeing his brethren in trouble. He left Adina Beg’s job and came to the rescue of the Sikhs. The result of his co-operation was that the lives of 300 Sikhs could be saved. Pleased over it, the Sikhs handed over the Ram Rauni fort to Jassa Singh. Jassa Singh named the fort Ramgarh. From this the Misl came to be known as Ramgarhia Misl.

Taking advantage of the disturbed condition after the death of Mir Mannu in 1753 A.D., Jassa Singh captured Kalanur, Batala, Hargobindpur, Qadian, Urmur Tanda, Dipalpur, Kartarpur and Haripur. Thus, he largely expanded Ramgarhia Misl. He declared Sri Hargobindpur the capital of the Ramgarhia Misl. Jassa Singh did not have cordial relations with the Ahluwalia and tfie Sukarchakia Misls.

1. Who was Jassa Singh Ramgarhia?
2. What was the name given to Ram Rauni fort by Jassa Singh Ramgarhia?
3. What was the name of the capital of Jassa Singh Ramgarhia?
4. Write any one achievement of Jassa Singh Ramgarhia.
5. Mir Mannu died in ……………..
Answer:
1. Jassa Singh Ramgarhia was the most famous leader of the Ramgarhia Misl.
2. Jassa Singh Ramgarhia gave the name of Ramgarh to the Ram Rauni fort.
3. Sri Hargobindpur was the name of the capital of Jassa Singh Ramgarhia.
4. He saved the Sikhs during the seige of the Mughals of the Ram Rauni fort.
5. 1753 A.D.

4. Ala Singh was the founder of the Patiala House. He was very brave right from the beginning. In 1731 A.D. he gave a crushing defeat to the joint forces of the Faujdars of Jalandhar Doab and Malerkotla. Ala Singh made Bamala the centre of his activities. He founded villages like Longowal, Chhajli, Dirrba and Shoron. During Ahmad Shah Abdali’s first invasion in 1748 A.D., Ala Singh helped the Mughals against him. In view of his services, the Mughal emperor, Mohammad Shah Rangila, presented him a ‘Khillat’ (Robe of Honour). It added to the name and fame of Ala Singh. Soon, Ala Singh defeated the Bhatti brothers who were his bitter enemies and, took possession of their areas of Budhlada, Tohana, Bhattner and Jaimalpur.

In 1761 A.D., Ala Singh helped the Marathas against Ahmad Shah Abdali. Soon, in 1762 A.D. during his 6th invasion Ahmad Shah Abdali attacked Bamala and arrested Ala Singh. Ala Singh saved his life by giving Abdali a huge amount of money. In 1764 A.D. Ala Singh with other leaders of the Dal Khalsa attacked Sirhind. In 1765 A.D., Ahmad Shah Abdali appointed Ala Singh the Governor of Sirhind. The other members of the Dal Khalsa were annoyed with him over this compromise and told him to snap his ties with Ahmad Shah Abdali. But soon after, Ala Singh passed away.

1. Who was Ala Singh?
2. What was the name of the capital of Ala Singh?
3. When was Ala Singh arrested by Ahmad Shah Abdali?
4. Ahmad Shah Abdali had appointed Ala Singh the Subedar of which place?
When was Ala Singh made the Subedar of Sirhind?

• 1748 A.D.
• 1761 A.D.
• 1762 A.D.
• 1764 A.D.

Answer:
1. Ala Singh was the founder of Phulkian Misl in Patiala.
2. Bamala was the capital df, Ala Singh.
3. Ahmad Shah AbdaU had arrested Ala Singh in 1762 A.D.
4. Ahmad Shah Abdali had appointed Ala Singh as the Subedar of Sirhind.
5. 1764 A.D.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Career and Conquests:

Note : Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions the follow :

1. Maharaja Ranjit Singh was born in 1780 A.D. in the family of the Sukarchakia Misl Chief, Mahan Singh. Although Maharaja Ranjit Singh was illiterate yet he had acquired deftness in swordsmanship and horse-riding. He had begun to display feats of bravery right from his childhood. In 1797 A.D. when Ranjit Singh took over the reins of the Sukarchakia Misl, the political situation in the Punjab, was in a state of constant turmoil. It was passing through a dark age. By virtue of his ability and bravery Maharaja Ranjit Singh converted his small state into a vast and powerful empire. Ip this way, Maharaja Ranjit Singh translated the dream of Sikh empire into a reality.

1. Maharaja Ranjit Singh was born in ……………..
2. Maharaja Ranjit Singh belonged to which Misl?
3. What was the political condition of the Punjab in the 18th century?
4. Which werie the two important conquests of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
5. When did Maharcqa Ranjit Singh die?
Answer:
1. 1780 A.D.
2. Maharaja Ranjit Singh belonged to the Sukarchakia Misl.
3. The political condition of the Punjab in the 18th century was in a dwindling condition.
4. The two important conquests of Maharaja Ranjit Singh were Lahore, and Peshawar.
5. Maharaja Ranjit Singh had died in 1839 A.D.

2. When Ranjit Singh was only 12 years old, his father Mahan Singh died in 1792 A.D. Since Ranjit Singh was only a minor, the task of state administration passed into the hands of his mother, Raj Kaur. Raj Kaur did not have any administrative skills, so she handed over the charge to her favourite, Diwan Lakhpat Rai. In 1796 A.D. when Ranjit Singh was married to Mehtab Kaur, his mother-in-law, Sada Kaur too began to take interest in matters of administration. In this way from 1792 A.D. to 1797 A.D. the administration of Sukarchakia Misl remained in the hands of three persons i.e. Raj Kaur, Diwan Lakhpat Rai and Sada Kaur. So, this period is called the period of the Triune Regency.

1. Who was the father of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
2. Who was Raj Kaur?
3. With whom was Maharaja Ranjit Singh first married?
4. Mehtab Kaur was related with which Misl?

• Sukarchakia Misl
• Kanahia Misl
• Bhangi Misl
• Ramgarhia Misl.

5. Who was Sada Kaur?
Answer:
1. Mahan Singh was the father of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
2. Raj Kaur was the name of the mother of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
3. Maharaja Ranjit Singh was married to Mehtab Kaur for the first time.
4. Kanahia Misl.
5. Sada Kaur was the mother-in-law of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

3. Before the growth of Ranjit Singh’s power, the Bhangi Misl in the North¬West of the Sutlej river was very powerful. The two most important towns of the Punjab, Lahore and Amyitsar, were under this Misl. Besides these, the areas of Gujarat and Sialkot were also under it. In 1797 A.D., Lahore was jointly being ruled by Chet Singh, Sahib Singh and Mohar Singh, Amritsar by Gulab Singh, Sialkot by Jiwan Singh and Gujarat by Sahib Singh. All these Bhangi rulers were great addicts of ‘bhang (hemp). They spent most of their time in merry¬making. Besides, they had started quarrelling with each other for power. Consequently, the Bhangi Misl had lost much of its previous glory and power. It was heading fast towards its end.

1. Why was Bhangi Misl so called?
2. The Bhangi Misl ruled over which cities?
3. In …………… Lahore was jointly ruled by three Bhangi rulers.
4. What was the nature of the rule of Bhangi rulers?
5. Which Bhangi rulers had started quarrelling with each other?
Answer:
1. The Bhangi Misl was so called because its rulers were addicts of bhang (hemp).
2. The Bhangi Misl ruled over the cities of Lahore, Amritsar, Sialkot and Gujarat.
3. 1797 A.D.
4. The Bhangi rulers used to spent most of their time in merry-making.
5. The ruler of Gujarat Sahib Singh had started fighting with other Bhangi rulers.

4. The founder of the Sukarchakia Misl Charat Singh was the grandfather of Ranjit Singh. He had under him Gujranwala, Eminabad and Sialkot. After the death of Charat Singh in 1774 A.D. he was succeeded by his son, Mahan Singh. He had all the qualities of a great Sardar. He expanded his Misl by conquering the areas of Rasul Nagar and Alipur. After the death of Mahan Singh in 1792 A.D., his son Ranjit Singh became his successor.

Since Ranjit Singh was barely 12 years old at that time, the task of running the administration of the Misl fell into the hands of his mother Raj Kaur, Diwan Lakhpat Rai and mother-in-law, Sada Kaur. When Ranjit Singh grew to be young enough in 1797 A.D. he took over the charge of Sukarchakia Misl independently. He proved to be an able, brave and far-sighted ruler.

1. Who was the founder of Sukarchakia Misl?
2. Which two territories were conquered by Mahan Singh?
3. What was the period of Triune Regency?
4. Ranjit Singh took the independent charge of Sukarchakia Misl in ……………
5. What type of ruler was Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
Answer:
1. The founder of Sukarchakia Misl was Charat Singh.
2. Mahan Singh had conquered Rasul Nagar and Alipur.
3. The period of Triune Regency was from 1792 to 1797 A.D.
4. 1797 A.D.
5. Ranjit Singh proved to be an able, brave and far-sighted ruler.

5. The valley of Kashmir has been famous for its beauty, delicious fruits and prosperous trade since-ancient times. That is why, Maharaja Ranjit Singh wanted to conquer this province. In this regard, he sent two- expeditions to Kashmir in 1813 and 1814 A.D., but both these expeditions failed to achieve the desired objective. Maharaja Ranjit Singh got a new impetus with the conquest of Multan in 1818 A.D. Therefore, in 1819 A.D., he sent a huge force under the command of Misar Diwan Chand, the victor of Multan, to Kashmir. He succeeded in defeating the Afghan Governor of Kashmir, Jabbar Khan.

The conquest of Kashmir added . to the prestige of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Misar Diwan Chand was honoured with the title of‘Fateh-o-Nusrat Nasib’ (one who is destined to win). The conquest of Kashmir gave a stunning blow to the Afghan power. It boosted the morale of the Sikh forces. Moreover, it proved beneficial to the Maharaja from the commercial point of view.

1. Why did Maharaja Ranjit Singh wanted to conquer Kashmir?
2. When was Rohtas pact signed?
3. Who was the governor of Kashmir at the time first compaign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
4. When did Maharaja Ranjit Singh conquer Kashmir?
5. Who was the Governor of Kashmir at the time of its conquest by Maharqja Ranjit Singh?

• Fateh Khan
• Jabbar Khan
• Nusrat Khan
• Diwan Mohkam Chand.

Answer:
1. Maharaja Ranjit Singh wanted to conquer Kashmir because of its splendid beauty and prosperous trade.
2. Rohtas pact was signed in 1813 A.D.
3. Ata Mohammed Khan was the governor of Kashmir at the time of first campaign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh to Kashmir.
4. Maharaja Ranjit Singh had conquered Kashmir in 1819 A.D.
5. Jabbar Khan.

Anglo-Sikh Relations: 1800-1839:

Note: Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions that follow :

1. Maharaja Ranjit Singh wanted to bring all the Sikh states under him. So, he invaded the Malwas region twice in 1806 A.D. and 1807 A.D. He conquered many regions. The conversation between Ranjit Singh and Charles Metcalfe in 1808 A.D. failed. Ranjit Singh attacked Malwa for the third time in 1808 A.D. He had occupied some territories of Malwa and collected Nazrana from the rulers. Now the English started military preparations to make Ranjit Singh accept their conditions. As a results, a treaty was sighed between Ranjit Singh and the English. It was known as the Treaty of Amritsar.

1. When did Maharaja Ranjit Singh attack Malwa for the first time?

• 1805 A.D.
• 1806 AJD.
• 1807 AJD.
• 1808 AU.

2. Why did Maharaja Ranjit Singh attack Malwa?
3. What is meant by Nazrana?
4. Why did the Sardars of Malwa want the help of Britishers?
5. When was the treaty of Amritsar signed between Maharaja Ranjit Singh and the Britishers?
Answer:
1. 1806 A.D.
2. The main objective of these attacks was that Maharaja Ranjit Singh wanted to annex these states into his empire.
3. Nazrana meant the gifts to be given to the Maharaja.
4. The Sardars of Malwa wanted the help of Britishers because they feared that Maharaja Ranjit Singh would annex their states.
5. The treaty of Amritsar was signed between Maharaja Ranjit Singh and the Britishers on 25th April 1809 A.D.

2. The area of Sind was geographically and commercially very significant. So both, Maharaja Ranjit Singh and the British were keen in controlling it. In 1831 A.D. the British sent Alexander Bums to gather information about Sind. In order that Maharaja Ranjit Singh might not develop any doubt, he was invited to Ropar to hold a meeting with Governor-General William Bentinck. This meeting was held on 26th October, 1831 A.D. The Britishers very cleverly kept him absorbed in talks. On the other hand, the English sent Col. Pottinger to sign a treaty with the Amirs of Sind. He succeeded in signing a commercial treaty with Sind in 1832 A.D.

1. Why did Maharaja Ranjit Singh wanted to conquer Sind?
2. Who was Alexander Bums?
3. When did a meeting was held between Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Lord William Bentinck?
4. Where was a meeting held between Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Lord William Bentinck.

• At Ropar
• At Amritsar
• At Lahore
• At Delhi.

5. Who succeeded in entering into a commercial treaty between the British and Sind?
Answer:
1. Maharaja Ranjit Singh wanted to conquer Sind becuase it was geographically and commercially very significant.
2. Alexander bums was a British official who was sent to Sind to gather information about Sind.
3. A meeting was held between Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Lord William Bentinck on 26th October, 1831 A.D.
4. At Ropar.
5. Col. Pottinger succeeded in signing a commercial treaty between the Britishers and Sind.

3. The Britishers wanted to bring Ferozepur under their control. This city was hardly at a distance of 40 miles from Lahore. The English could have a better view of Ranjit Singh’s activities from this place. Besides, the possession of Ferozepur was essential to surround the Punjab. Although the Britishers had been looking towards Ferozepur greedily for a long time,’ they had been postponing its acquisition lest Ranjit Singh should feel annoyed with them.

That is why, the Britishers had been conceding his control over Ferozepur till 1835 A.D. But, by now the situation had changed. -The Britishers did not need Ranjit Singh’s friendship any more. Therefore, they forcibly took possession of Ferozepur in 1835 A.D. In 1838 A.D., the Britishers set up a big military cantonment here. Although Ranjit Singh expressed his resentment over the seizure of Ferozepur and setting up of a military cantonment there by the British, yet they did not bother about it.

1. Why did the Britishers wanted to bring Ferozepur under these control?
2. The possession of ………………. was essential to surround the Punjab.
3. When was Ferozepur occupied by the Britishers?
4. When a military cantonment was established by the Britishers in Ferozepur?
5. What had Maharcga Ranjit Singh yielded on the question of Ferozepur?
Answer:
1. The Britishers wanted to bring Ferozepur under their control because they could have a better view of Ranjit Singh’s activities from this place.
2. Ferozepur.
3. The Britishers had occupied Ferozepur in 1838 A.D.
4. The Britishers had established a military cantonment in 1838 A.D.
5. Yes, the Maharaja Ranjit Singh had yielded to the British on the question of Ferozepur.

Ranjit Singh’s Relations with Afghanistan and his N.W.F. Policy:

Note : Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions that follow :

1. In 1800 A.D., a war of succession for the royal throne had started in Kabul. Shah Zaman was dethroned and Shah Mehmud became the new king of Afghanistan. He ruled only for three years (1800-03 A.D.). In 1803 A.D., Shah Shuja forcibly took possession of the throne from Shah Mehmud. He ruled till 1809 A.D. He proved to be an unworthy king. It led to chaos-in Afghanistan. On finding this golden opportunity, the Afghan Governors of Attock, Kashmir, Multan and Deraj at declared their independence. Maharaja Ranjit Singh also took advantage of the weakness of the Kabul government and took possession of the Afghan areas like Kasur, Jhang, Khushal and Sahiwal. In 1809 A.D. Shah Shuja was dethroned and Shah Mehmud again became the new king of Afghanistan. Since Fateh Khan had rendered every possible help to Shah Mehmud in getting the royal throne, so he appointed him his Prime Minister.

1. In a war of succession for the royal throne had started in Kabul.
2. When did Shah Mehmud become the ruler of Afghanistan for the first time?
3. What type of ruler was Shah Shuja?
4. Who was Fateh Khan?
5. When was Shah Shuja was dethroned?
Answer:
1. 1800 A.D.
2. Shah Mehmud became the ruler of Afghanistan for the first time in 1800 A.D.
3. Shah Shuja was an incompetent ruler.
4. Fateh Khan was the Wazir (Prime Minister) of Shah Mehmud.
5. Shah Shuja was dethroned in 1809 A.D.

2. Maharaja Ranjit Singh decided to teach Fateh Khan a lesson for his deceit. He at once sent Faqir Aziz-ud-Din to take possession of Attock. The ruler of Attock, Jahandad Khan, handed over the area of Attock to the Maharaja in exchange for an estate of Rs. 1 lakh. When Fateh Khan came to know of it, he lost his temper. He handed over the Kashmir administration to his brother, Azim Khan and himself proceeded with a huge army to drive out the Sikhs from Attock. On July 13, 1813 A.D. a fierce battle was fought at a place called Hazro or Haidru, in which Maharaja Raujit Singh inflicted a crushing defeat on Fateh Khan. It was the first battle fought between the Sikhs and the AfghAnswer: This victory gave a severe blow to the power of the Afghans and enhanced the prestige of the Sikhs.

1. Who was Fateh Khan?
2. Who was the ruler of Attock during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
3. Which was the first battle fought between the Sikhs and the Afghanis?
4. When was the battle of Hazro fought?

• 1811 AJD.
• 1812 A.D.
• 1813 A.D.
• 1814 A.D.

5. Who become victorious in the battle of Hazro.
Answer:
1. Fateh Khan was the wazir of Shah Mehmud, the ruler of Afghanist.
2. Jahandad Khan was the ruler of Attock during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
3. The battle of Hazro was the first battle to be fought between the Sikhs and the Afghans.
4. 1813 A.D.
5. The Sikhs became victorious in the battle of Hazro.

3. During the period 1827 A.D. to 1831 A.D., Syed Ahmad a religious leader of the Muslims had created disturbance against the Sikhs in Attock and Peshawar. He belonged to Bareilly. He declared, “God has sent me to conquer Punjab and India, and to drive out the Sikhs from the Afghan territories.” Taken in by his utterances, many Afghan Sardars became his disciples. In no time, he was able to organise a big army. It was a challenge to Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s power. The Sikh forces defeated him first at Saidu and then at Peshawar, but fortunately he escaped both the times. Despite these defeats, he continued his struggle against the Sikhs. At last in 1831 A.D., he died at Balakot while fighting against Prince Sher Singh. In this way a big nuisance for the Sikhs was over.

1. Who was Syed Ahmad?
2. Syed Ahmad was the inhabitant of which place?
3. At which two places the sikh forces had defeated Syed Ahmad?
4. Syed Ahmad was killed where and fighting with whom?
5. When was Syed Ahmad killed?

• 1813 A.D.
• 1821 A.D.
• 1824 A.D.
• 1831 A.D.

Answer:
1. Syed Ahmad was a religious leader of the Muslims.
2. Syed Ahmad was the resident of Bareilly.
3. The Sikh forces had defeated Syed Ahmad at Saidu and Peshawar.
4. Syed Ahmad was killed at Balakot while fighting with prince Sher Singh.
5. 1831 A.D.

4. Dost Mohammad Khan wanted to avenge his humiliation suffered at the hands of the Sikhs. On-the other hand, the Sikhs also wanted to consolidate their position in Peshawar. In order to counter the Afghan invasions, Hari Singh Nalwa got a strong fort constructed at Jamraud. In order to check this operation of Hari Singh N.alwa, Dost Mohammad Khan sent a huge army of 20,000 soldiers under the command of his son Mohammad Akbar and Shamsudin.

This army attacked the fort of Jamraud on 28th April, 1837 A.D. Hari Singh Nalwa was then lying seriously ill at Peshawar. When he heared the news of Afghan attack, he with his 10,000 soldiers attacked the Afghans at Jamraftd with a view to teach them a lesson. Although Hari Singh Nalwa was killed in this battle, the Sikhs caused such a havoc among the Afghans that they never turned their face towards Peshawar thereafter.

1. Who was Dost Mohammad Khan?
2. Who built the Jamraud fort?
3. The fort of Jamraud was attacked on …………..
4. Which general of Maharsya Ranjit Singh was martyred in the battle of Jamraud and when?
5. Who became victorious in the battle of Jamraud?
Answer:
1. Dost Mohammad Khan was the ruler of Peshawar.
2. The fort of Jamraud was built by S. Hari Singh Nalwa.
3. 28th April, 1837 A.D.
4. S. Hari Singh Nalwa was martyred in the battle of Jamraud on 30th April, 1837 A.D.
5. In the battle of Jamraud the Sikhs became victorious.

Civil and Military Administration of Ranjit Singh:

Note : Read the following passages carefully and answer the qu estions that follow :

1. Every word uttered by Maharaja Ranjit Singh was deemed law. In order to get cooperation in running the administration, the Maharaja had appointi jd many ministers, of which prominents were the Prime Minister, Foreign Minister , Diwan, Chief Commander and Deorhiwala. It rested on Maharaja’s will to acct 3pt their advice or not. He had also established 12 departments of daftars for the 5 smooth functioning of administration.

1. During the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh who was tl ie head of the Central Administration?
2. Who was the Prime-Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
3. Who was the Foreign Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?

• Raja Dhian Singh
• Hari Singh Nalwa
• Faqtiir Aziz-ud-Din
• Diwan Mohkam Chand.

4. How many Daftars were established for the admi nistrative efficiency during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
5. What is the function of Daftar-i-Taujihat?
Answer:
1. Maharaja himself was the head of Central Administrf ition during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
2. Raja Dhian Singh was the Prime Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
3. Faqir Aziz-ud-Din.
4. During the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh 12 Daftars were established for the administrative efficiency.
5. Daftar-i-Taujihat maintained the account of royal family.

2. With a view to run the administration efficiently, Mahamja Ranjit Singh had divided his kingdom into four Provinces. The main duty of Nazim was to maintain peace and order in the Suba. For this purpose, he was aillowed to maintain a small force. In addition, he supervised the work of other officials of the Suba. He got the orders of Maharaja implemented in the Suba. He decided the civil and criminal cases. He heard the appeals against the decisions, of the Kardars.

He helped the various Suba officials in the collection of land revenue. He also supervised the work of district Kardars. Thus, the Nazim exercised vast powers in his own Suba. But, he had to seek the prior approval of the Maharaja, before taking any crucial decision about his Suba. The Maharaja could change the Nazim, whenever he wanted.

1. The kingdom of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was divided into how many Subas?
2. Write the names of any two Subas of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
3. Who was the head of the Suba during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
4. Write any one function of the Nazim?
5. The Maharaja could…………… the Nazim whenever he wanted.
Answer:
1. Maharaja Ranjit Singh had divided his Kingdom into four Subas.
2. The names of the two Subas of Maharaja Ranjit Singh were Suba-i- Lahore and Suba-i-Kashmir.
3. The Nazim was the head of the suba during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times.
4. To implement the orders of Maharaja Ranjit Singh under his province.
5. Change.

3. The smallest unit of administration was the village. It was then called Mauza The administration of the village was in the hands of the Panchayat. The Panchayat looked after the people of the village and settled their petty disputes. The people showed great regard for the Panchayat and they mostly accepted its decisions. The Patwari maintained the record of the village land. The Chaudhary would help the government in collecting land revenue. Muqaddam (Lambardar) was head of the village. He worked as a link between the government and the people. The Chowkidar was the watchman of the village. The Maharaja did not interfere in the working of the village.

1. Which was the smallest unit of administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
2. What was village called during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
3. In whose hands the administration of the village was during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
4. Who was Muqaddam during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
5. Who kept the record of village land during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?

• Muqaddam
• Chaudhary
• Patwari
• None of these.

Answer:
1. The smallest unit of administration during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was village.
2. During the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh the village was called Mauza.
3. During the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh the village administration was in the hands of the Panchayat.
4. Muqaddam was head of the village.
5. Patwari.

4. During the period of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the administration of Lahore city was run differently from other cities. The whole city was divided into Mohallas. A Mohalla was under a Mohalladar. The Mohalladar maintained peace and order in his mohalla and looked after the arrangement of cleanliness. The chief official of Lahore city was ‘Kotwal’. Mostly he used to be a Muslim. The chief functions of a Kotwal were to give practical shape to the Maharaja’s orders, to maintain peace in the city, to supervise the work of Mohalladars, to make arrangements for cleanliness in the city, to keep details of the foreign visitors, to supervise trade and industry and to examine weights and measures etc. He used to take necessary action against the guilty persons.

1. Who was the chief official of Lahore city during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
2. Who was appointed on the post of Kotwal during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
3. What was the one main function of Kotwal?
4. Who was the head of Mohalla during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
5. During the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh the administration of ………………… city was run differently from other cities.
Answer:
1. Dining the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh the chief official of Lahore city was Kotwal.
2. During the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Imam Bakhsh was appointed on the post of Kotwal.
3. To maintain peace in the city.
4. Mohalladar was the head of Mohalla dining the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
5. Lahore.

5. Fauj-i-Khas was the most important and the powerful organ of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s army. It was trained under the command of General Ventura. It consisted of four battalions of infantry, two regiments of cavalry, and a troop of artillery. The artillery of Fauj-i-Khas was under the command of General Illahi Bakhsh. It was trained and disciplined strictly on European pattern. In it, very selected soldiers were recruited. Their weapons and horses were, also, of the superior type. That is why this army was called Fauj-i-Khas. It had a separate flag and emblem. It used French words of command. It grew to be the best organised section of the regular army. Even the European officers were amazed to see its performance.

1. Which was the most important and powerful organ of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s army?
2. Who was General Ventura?
3. Under whose command was the artillery of Fauj-i-Khas?
4. Write any one feature of Fauj-i-Khas.
5. Fauj-i-Khas used ……………. words of command.
Answer:
1. Fauj-i-KhaS was the most important and powerful organ of Mahara Ranjit Singh’s army.
2. Fauj-i-KhaS was trained under the command of General Ventura
3. The artillery of Fauj-i-Khas was under the command of General Illahi Bakhsh.
4. It was trained and disciplined strictly on European pattern.
5. French.

Character and Personality of Maharaja Ranjit Singh:

Note: Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions that follow :

1. Maharaja Ranjit Singh had an unshakable faith in Sikhism. Before starting his routine work, he used to listen to the recitation of Gurbani of Guru Granth Sahib Ji and the Kirtan. He never took any big decision or launched upon any undertaking without seeking guidance from Guru Granth Sahib. After each victory, the’Maharaja paid a thanks giving visit to the Darbar Sahib, Amritsar, and made costly offerings. He spent considerable sums of money on the maintenance of Gurdwaras. He called his government as Sarkar-i-Khalsa and liked to be addressed as Singh Sahib instead of Maharaja.

He considered himself to be the Kukar at the door of the Guru and the Panth. He took pride in proclaiming himself to be the mere drum (Ranjit Nagara) of Guru Gobind Singh. He issued coins in the name of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The words ‘Nanak Sahai’ and ‘Gobind Sahai’. were inscribed on them. The royal seal of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was engraved with the words Akal Sahai.

1. Maharaja Ranjit Singh had unshakable faith in Sikhism. Give any one example.
2. What is meant by ‘Kukar’?
3. Maharaja Ranjit Singh called his government by which name?
4. Which words were inscribed on the royal seal of Maharaja Raqjit Singh?
5. The words ………….. and …………. were inscribed on coins.
Answer:
1. Before starting his routine work, he used to listen to the recitation of Gurbani of Guru Nanak Sahib Ji and Kirtan.
2. Kukar meant slave or servant.
3. Maharaja Ranjit Singh called his government as Sarkar-i-Khalsa.
4. ‘Akal Sahai’ were the words inscribed on the royal seals of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
5. Nanak Sahai, Goind Sahai.

2. Although Ranjit Singh was a staunch Sikh, yet he was liberal towards other religions. He kept religious discrimination and communalism at an arm’s length. He knew very well that for the establishment of a strong and enduring empire, the co-operation of people of different religions was essential. By his policy of tolerance, he succeeded in winning over the hearts of the people of different religions. In his empire jobs were given on the basis of merit.

In his court, the Sikhs, Hindus, Muslims, Dogras and Europeans were appointed to the high posts without any discrimination of caste, creed or nationality. For instance, his Foreign Minister Faqir Aziz-ud-Din was a Muslim, his Prime Minister, Dhian Singh was a Dogra, his Diwan Bhiwani Das and his Commander Misar Diwan Chand were Hindus and his General Ventura and Allard were Europeans.

1. Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a tolerant ruler. How?
2. Who was Dhian Singh Dogra?
3. Who was the Foreign Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
4. Who was Diwan Bhiwani Das?
5 was the Commander-in-Chief of Maharqja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
1.

• In his empire jobs were given on the basis of merit.
• He respected all the religions.

2. Dhian Singh Dogra was the Prime Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
3. Faqir Aziz-ud-Din was the Foreign Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
4. Diwan Bhiwani Das was the Finance Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
5. Misar Diwan Chand.

First Anglo-Sikh War: Causes and Results:

Note : Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions that follow :

1. In 1842 A.D., Lord Ellenborough was appointed the new Governor-General of India in place of Lord Auckland. Lord Ellenborough wanted to erase the disgrace of the defeat which the British had to taste in the First Anglo-Afghan War. empire, it further embittered the Anglo-Sikh relations.

1. Who was Lord Ellenborough?
2. When was Lord Ellenborough appointed the new Governor General of India?

• 1812 A.D.
• 1822 A.D.
• 1832 A.D.
• 1842 A.D.

3. Why did the British want to conquer Sind?
4. When was Sind conquered by the Britishers?
5. What was the consequence of the conquest of Sind by the Britishers?
Answer:
1. Lord Ellenborough was the Governor General of India.
2. 1842 A.D.
3. Because Sind was important from the geographical point of view.
4. The Sind was conquered by the Britishers in 1842 A.D.
5. It resulted in great tension between the Britishers and the Sikhs.

2. The second great’battle between the Sikhs and the British was fought at Ferozeshah or Pheru Shahar on 21st December, 1845 A.D. This place is located at a distance of 10 miles from Mudki. The British were fully prepared for this battle. They had called their forces from Ferozepur, Ambala and Ludhiana to Ferozeshah for attack. The strength of the British soldiers in this battle was 17,000. The British army was commanded by famous and experienced generals like Lord Hugh Gough, John Littler and Lord Hardinge. Qn the other hand, the strength of the Sikh soldiers was about 25,000 to 30,000. The Sikh soldiers were led by Lai Singh and Teja Singh. The Britishers were fully confident of the treachery of the Sikh generals and that they would score* an easy win in the battle. But the Sikhs gave such a baffling rebuff to the British that once it looked that their empire in India had shaken.

1. When was the battle of Ferozeshah fought?
2. Who was Lord Hugh Gough?
3. Who led the Sikh forces in battle of Ferozeshah?
4. The strength of the British soliders in the battle of Ferozeshah was ………….
5. Who was defeated in the battle of Ferozeshah and why?
Answer:
1. The battle of Ferozeshah was fought on 21st December, 1845 A.D.
2. Lord Hugh Gough was the commander in chief of the Britishers.
3. In the battle of Ferozeshah the Sikh forces were led by Lai Singh and Teja Singh.
4. 17000.
5. In the battle of Ferozeshah the Sikhs were defeated.

3. The battle of Sobraon was the last and the most decisive battle of the First Anglo-Sikh War. This battle was fought on 10th February, 1846 A.D. Before this battle 30,000 Sikh soldiers had reached Sobraon. In order to give a stiff resistance . to the British, they had started digging up their trenches. Lai Singh and Teja Singh who were commanding the Sikh army were sending every detail of the ’ preparations to the British. In order to face the Sikh army, the British had also made a good preparation. The strength of the British army in this battle was 15,000. Lord Hugh Gough and Lord Hardinge were commanding the British army. On 10th February, 1846 A.D., the Britishers attacked the Sikh army. As a result of the counter attack by the Sikh army, the British xarmy had to retreat. At this time, as pre-planned, at first Lai Singh and then Teja Singh fled away from the battlefield. While going away, Teja Singh sank the boats loaded with powder and ammunition, and also destroyed the Pontoon bridge.

1. Which was the last battle to be fought during the First Anglo-Sikh War?
2. When was the battle of Sobraon fought? 1
3. In the battle of Sobraon the British forces were led by…………..and …………..
4. Who was defeated in the battle of Sobraon? 1
5. Which Sikh leader had shown exemplary bravery in the battle of Sobrabn?
Answer:
1. The last battle to be fought during the First Anglo-Sikh War was the battle of Sobraon.
2. The battle of Sobraon was fought on.10th February, 1846 A.D.
3. Lord Hugh Gough, Lord Hardinge.
4. In the battle of Sobraon the Sikhs were defeated.
5. In the battle of Sobraon S. Sham Singh Attariwala showed an exemplary bravery.

Second Anglo-Sikh War: Causes, Results and Annexation of the Punjab:

Note : Read the following passages carefully and answer the questions that follow :

1. The revolt of Diwan Moolraj of Multan was one of the most -potent causes, which led to the Second Anglo-Sikh War. Multan was a province of the Lahore Raj. After the death of Sawan Mai, the Nazim (governor) of Multan in 1844 A.D., his son Moolraj was appointed the new Nazim. In 1847 A.D. the British Resident increased the annual revenue payable to the Lahore Darbar by Multan from Rs. 13,47,000 to Rs. 1,97,15,00. On the other hand, the British removed the excise duty on some essential goods and one-third part of Multan was taken from him. Owing to these reasons, Diwan Moolraj was not in position to pay the increased revenue. On being forced by the British Resident, Moolraj tendered his resignation in December, 1847.

In March 1848 A.D. the new Resident, Fredrick Currie, decided to nominate Sardar Kahan Singh as the new Nazim of Multan. In order to take over the charge of Multan, two British officers, Vans Agnew and Anderson were sent alongwith Kahan Singh. Moolraj warmly welcomed them. On 19th April, Moolraj handed over the keys of the fort to Kahan Singh. But the next day on 20th April, some soldiers of Moolraj murdered both the officers and imprisoned Kahan Singh. Fredrick Currie held Moolraj responsible for the revolt of Multan.

1. When was Diwan Moolrqj was appointed as the new Nazim of Multanh?
2. For which one reason Diwan Moolraj had given his resignation?
3. In 1848 A.D. which new Nazim of Multan was appointed by Fredrick Currie?
4. The responsiblity of the murder of which two British officers were put on Diwan Moolrqj by the Britishers?
5. Fredrick Currie held …………….. responsible for the revolt of Multan.
Answer:
1. Diwan Moolraj was appointed as the new Nazim of Multan in 1844 A.D.
The British resident had increased the annual revenue payable to the Lahore Darbar by Multan.
3. Sardar Kahan Singh.
4. Vans Agnew and Anderson.
5. Diwan Moolraj.

2. The battle of Chillianwala was one of the significant battles of the Second Anglo-Sikh War. This battle was fought on 13th January, 1849 A.D. Lord Gough was of the view that he did not have a strong force to face Sher Singh. So, he was waiting for more reinforcement, but when Lord Hugh Gough came to know that Chattar Singh with his soldiers was coming to the help of Sher Singh, he attacked the soldiers of Sher Singh on 13th January. It was one of the hardest and fiercest battles. The Sikhs fought with great determination and daring. They wrought havoc in the British army. The British lost 695 soldiers, including 132 officers in the battle and 1651 soldiers were wounded. Four British guns were also captured by the Sikhs.

1. Which was the most significant battle of the Second Anglo- Sikh War?
2. When was the battle of Chillianwala fought?
3. Who was Sher Singh?
4. Who was defeated in the battle of Chilianwala?
5. In the battle of ChiUianwala how many British officers were killed?

• 132
• 142
• 695
• 1651.

Answer:
1. The battle of Chillianwala was the most significant battle of the Second Anglo-Sikh War.
2. The battle of Chillianwala was fought on 13th January, 1849 A.D.
3. Sher Singh was the son of S. Chattar Singh, the Nazim of Hazara.
4. In the battle of Chillianwala, the Britishers were defeated.
5. 132.

3. The battle of Gujarat proved to be the most important and decisive battle of the Second Anglo-Sikh War. In this battle, Chattar Singh, Sher Singh and Bhai Maharaj Singh made a united front against the British. In addition, the king of Afghanistan, Dost Mohammad also sent 3,000 cavaliers under the command of his son, Akbar Khari to help the Sikhs. In this battle, the Sikhs had a total army of 40,000 soldiers. On the other hand, the English army was still led by Lord Hugh Gough because Sir Charles Napier had not yet reached India. The British army comprised 68,000 soldiers.

In this battle, guns were extensively used by both the sides, because of which this battle is also .famous in history as the Battle of Guns. This battle started at 7.30 a.m. on 21st February, 1849 A.D. The ammunition of the Sikhs was soon exhausted. When the Britishers came to know about it, they made a fierce attack on the Siklis. The Sikh soldiers unsheathed their swords, but they could not resist the guns for long. The Sikhs suffered heavy losses in this battle.

1. battle of the second Anglo-sikh War.
2. When was the battle of Gujarat fought?
3. Who led the British forces during the battle of Gujarat?
4. Why is the battle of Gujarat as the Battle of Guns?
5. Who became victorious in the battle of Gujarat?
Ans.
1. decisive.
2. The battle of Gujarat was fought on 21st february, 1849 A.D.
3. In the battle of Gujarat the British forces were led by Lord Hugh Gough.
4. The battle of Gujarat was known as the battle of guns because guns were extensively used by both the sides in this battle.
5. The Britishers became victorious in this battle.

Punjab State Board PSEB 12th Class History Book Solutions Chapter 20 Civil and Military Administration of Ranjit Singh Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.

PSEB Solutions for Class 12 History Chapter 20 Civil and Military Administration of Ranjit Singh

Long Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Give an outline of Central Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Maharaja was the pivot of central administration. Every word uttered by him was deemed law. Maharaja Ranjit Singh used his powers for the public welfare. In order to get cooperation in running the administration, the Maharaja had appointed many ministers, of which prominent were the Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, Diwan, Chief Commander and Deorhiwala. It rested on Maharaja’s will to accept their advice or not.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh usually accepted the advice of his ministers for the efficiency of the administration. He had also established 12 departments or daftars for the smooth functioning of administration. Of these departments, main were Daftar-i-Abwab-ul-Mal, Daftar-i-Tauzihat, Daftar-i-Mawajib, Daftar-i-Roznamcha-i-Ikhrajat. Decidedly, Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s central administration was good.

Question 2.
What was the position of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the Central Administration?
Answer:
Maharaja was head of the State and he was the pivot around which the entire administration of the state revolved. He himself prepared all the internal and external policies. He himself appointed all the ministers, high ranking civil and military officers of the state. He could also remove them from their posts whenever he wanted. He was also the highest court of justice of the state and every word uttered by him became law for the people.

None could dare violate his orders. He was the Commander-in-Chief of the army. He could declare war or peace with any ruler. He could impose or reduce or abolish taxes on his subjects. In short, powers of the Maharaja were in no way less than those of an autocrat. But the Maharaja never misused these powers. He used them for the public welfare.

Question 3.
Describe the Provincial Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
In order to run the administration smoothly, Maharaja Ranjit Singh had divided his empire into four provinces. The names of these provinces were

• Suba- i-Lahore
• Suba-i-Multan
• Suba-i-Kashmir and
• Suba-i-Peshawar.

The administration of the Suba or Province was under Nazim (Governor). His main duties were to maintain peace, law and order in the state, to enforce the orders of the Maharaja, to decide the lawsuits and to supervise the work of other officials of the province. In this way powers of the Nazim were boundless. However, he could never misuse his powers as he got all the instructions from the Maharaja.

Unworthy Nazims were removed from their posts. Famous Nazims of Maharaja Ranjit Singh were:

• Sardar Lehna Singh Majithia,
• Misar Roop Lai
• Diwan Sawan Mai
• Cols. Mihan Singh
• General Hari Singh Nalwa and
• Avitabile.

Question 4.
What was the position of Kardar during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
Answer:
Each Suba was further divided into many Paraganas. The chief official of the Pargana was called Kardar. The office of a Kardar was considered more important than that of the Nazims. He was a pivotal functionary who had direct contact with the people. His position was like a present-day Deputy Commissioner. He had many duties to do.

The chief duties of the Kardar were to establish peace in the Pargana, to get the Maharaja’s order implemented, to collect the land revenue, to look after public welfare and administer justice. In brief, the Kardar exercised enormous powers in his Pargana. He was assisted by Qanungos and Muqaddams. Dr. Bhagat Singh aptly says, The Kardar was in fact most important official of Local Government.

Question 5.
Write a note on Local Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
What do you know about the Local Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
Answer:

1. Administration of the Parganas: Each Suba was further divided into many Parganas. The chief official of the Pargana was called Kardar. The chief duties of the Kardar were to establish peace in the Pargana, to get the Maharaja’s orders implemented, to collect the land revenue, to look after public welfare and administer justice. In brief, the Kardar exercised enormous powers in his Pargana. He was assisted by Qanungos and Muqaddams.

2. Village Administration: The smallest unit of administration was the village. It was then called ‘Mauza’. The administration of the village was in the hands of the Panchayat. The Panchayat looked after the people of the village and settled their petty disputes. The people showed great regard for the Panchayat and they mostly accepted its decisions. The Patwari maintained the record of the village land.

The Chaudhary would help the government in collecting land revenue. Muqaddam (Lambardar) was head of the village. He worked as a link between the government and the people. The Chowkidar was the watchman of the village. The Maharaja did not interfere in the working of the village.

3. AdministratioiM>f the city of Lahore: During the period of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the administration of Lahore city was run differently from other cities. The chief official of Lahore city was ‘Kotwal’. At the time of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, Imam Bakhsh was appointed to this important post. The chief functions of a Kotwal were to give practical shape to the Maharaja’s orders, to maintain peace in the city, to supervise the work of Mohalladars, to make arrangements for cleanliness in the city, to keep details of the foreign visitors, to supervise trade and industry and to examine weights and measures etc.

The whole city was divided into Mohallas. Each Mohalla was under a Mohalladar. He used to look after the Mohalla under him.

Question 6.
Write a short note on the administration of the city of Lahore during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
During the period of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the administration of Lahore city was run differently from other cities. The whole city was divided into Mohallas. A Mohalla was under a Mohalladar. The Mohalladar maintained peace and order in hia mohalla and looked after the arrangement of cleanliness.

The chief official of Lahore city was ‘Kotwal’. The chief functions of a Kotwal were to give practical shape to the Maharaja s orders, to maintain peace in the city, to supervise the work of Mohalladars. to make arrangements for cleanliness in the city, to keep details of the foreign visitors, to supervise trade and industry and to examine weights and measures etc. He used to take necessary action against the guilty persons.

Question 7.
Write a short note on the Financial Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Describe main features of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s land revenue administration.
Answer:
Economic Condition. Land revenue constituted the most important source of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s income. Out of a total revenue amounting to a little over three crores of rupees about two crores were contributed by land revenue. During Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times the following methods of assessment of land revenue were prevalent:

1. Batai System : During Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times, the Batai system was widely prevalent. According to this system, the land revenue was assessed after harvesting. The system however had certain serious flaws. First, the state couldn’t have any idea of its income in advance. Secondly, the government had to appoint a large number of staff in order to ensure that there was no misappropriation of the produce by the farmers. Consequently, this system proved very expensive for the’government. Maharaja Ranjit Singh dispensed with this system in 1823 A.D.

2. Kankut System: In 1824 A.D. the Maharaja introduced the Kankut system in many parts of his Kingdom. Under this system revenue was determined on the basis of standing crops. The assessed revenue was realized in the form of cash.

3. Bigha System: In some parts of the State, Bigha system of assessment was prevalent. According to the Bigha system, the produce of per Bigha was assessed for determining the land revenue. On its basis, the government would find out how many Bighas of land a farmer owned and how much revenue, he owed to the government.

4. Plough System : In certain places of Ranjit Singh’s kingdom, land revenue was determined according to the plough system. According to this system the land which could be ploughed by a pair of oxen was considered a unit. On the basis of produce per unit, the government would fix its share. As a result a peasant had to pay land revenue in proportion to the number of pairs of bulls, he possessed.

5. Well System : In some parts of Ranjit Singh’s state, the government determined its share on the basis of well-system. According to this system, in order to determine the land revenue that much land was made a unit which could be easily irrigated by one well.

Question 8.
Write a brief note on Jagirdari system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
What were the chief features of Jagirdari system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
Answer:
Many types of Jagirs were prevalent during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time. Of these, service Jagirs was considered the most important. These Jagirs were given to high military and civil officials of the state in lieu of their salaries. Besides, Inam Jagirs, Subsistence Jagirs, Watan Jagirs and Dharamarth Jagirs were also prevalent. Dharamarth Jagirs were given to religious institutions and holy persons. These Jagirs were given on permanent basis.

These Jagirs were managed by Jagirdar himself directly or by his agents. The Jagirdar not only collected revenue in his Jagir but he had also the right to decide the law-suits. Sometimes he was also given command of military expeditions. Military Jagirdars had the right of recruiting soldiers also. Although the Jagirdari system had some defects yet it suited the conditions of those times.

Question 9.
What do you know about the Judicial system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
Or
Discuss the main features of the Judicial system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
The judicial system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was simple. Laws were not written. Justice was done on the basis of existing conventions, customs and sacred scriptures. The final verdict rested with the Maharaja. In order to give justice to his subjects, Ranjit.Singh had set up many courts in his empire. The Panchayats settled disputes in the villages. In towns and cities, there were courts of Qazis. Non-Muslims also went> to the court of Qazi besides the Muslims.

The Qazi did justice according to Shariat (religious laws). Ranjit Singh had appointed special officers , called Adalti, for dispensing justice. During Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time, punishments were not rigid. The capital punishment was not awarded to anybody. Normally, fines were imposed on culprits. In short,'”the judicial system of Ranjit Singh was congenial to the social and political conditions of those times.

Question 10.
What were the main features of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s military ‘ administration?
Or
What reforms were introduced by Ranjit Singh to improve his military system?
Or
Write a short note on the military administration of Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
1. Composition : Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s army consisted of persons belonging to different classes. These included the Sikhs, the Rajputs, the Brahmans, the Khatris, the Gorkhas, the Muslims, the Purbia Hindustanis and the Europeans.

2. Recruitment: The enlistment in the army during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time was entirely voluntary. Only strong and sturdy persons were recruited in the army. The task of recruiting officers was in the hands of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

3. Pay: Before the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh the soldiers were paid either in the form of Jagirs or out of the plunder. The soldiers were paid in kind, twice a year at the time of harvest. Maharaja Ranjit Singh introduced the system of making payment in cash.

4. Promotions : Maharaja Ranjit Singh gave promotions to the soldiers, only on the basis of their ability. While giving promotions to his soldiers, the Maharaja did not discriminate against anyone on the basis of caste or religion.

5. Rewards and Honours : Every year Maharaja Ranjit Singh spent lakhs of rupees on presents and honours, which he gave to the soldiers for their acts of bravery in the battlefield and also for their glorious services to the Lahore Darbar.

Question 11.
Write a brief note on the Fauj-i-Khas of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s army.
Answer:
The Fauj-i-Khas of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s army was its most important and most powerful part. It was commanded and trained by General Ventura. It consisted of 4 battalions of infantry, 2 regiments of cavalry and 1 troop of artillery. This army was trained in European Style. Selected soldiers were enlisted in it. Their arms and horses were also of best quality. That is why it was called Fauj-i- Khas. This army had separate insignia and separate flag. It used French words of command. This army was so disciplined that European officers were also amazed to watch its performance. It was really a show-piece of the Maharaja’s army.

Question 12.
What do you mean by Fauj-e-Be-Qawaid of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
Answer:
Fauj-i-Be-Qawaid means that army which did not observe any prescribed rules. This army was divided into four parts

• Ghorcharas
• Fauj-i-Kilajat
• Akalis and
• Jsagirdari Fauj.

A brief description of these is as follows :

1. Ghorcharas : Ghorcharas were the most important part of the Be-Qawaid army. It was divided into two categories,

• Ghorcharas Khas and
• Misldar Swars. Ghorcharas Khas consisted of the relatives of-the dignitaries of the court of landed gentry. The Misldar Swars consisted of those horsemen, who were previously employed with the Misl Sardars. They were regarded inferior m status to Ghorcharas Khas. The Ghorcharas retained their old methods of warfare and regarded the European’s practices, as the tricks of the dancing girl: In 1838-39 A.D. the strength of the Ghorcharas was 10,795.

2. Fauj-i-Kilajat : For the defence of the forts, Ranjit Singh had a separate army which was called Fauj-i-Kilajat. The number of these troops varied according to the importance of the forts. In important forts, a large number of soldiers were kept. In small forts the strength of the soldiers ranged between 25 and 50. The commanding officer of the fort was called either Quiladar or Thanedar.

3. The Akalis: The Akalis were known for their bravery. They called themselves the immortal army of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Each Akali proclaimed himself equivalent to 1,25,000 soldiers. The Akalis always moved fully armed to the teeth. They were opposed to all types of training. It was very difficult for Ranjit Singh to keep them under his control. They fought like devils and performed feats of amazing bravery in the battlefield. Therefore, they were always employed in the most dangerous expeditions. Their number was about 3,000. Akali Phula Singh and Akali Sadhu Singh were their famous leaders.

4. Jagirdari Fauj : During the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, those Jagirdars, who were given military Jagirs had to keep soldiers for the service of the state. The small Jagirdars kept only the cavaliers, whereas the big Jagirdars kept infantry and artillery, in addition to the cavaliers. The Jagirdars themselves recruited their soldiers. These soldiers were inspected from time to time by the state.

Question 13.
What was Ranjit Singh’s attitude towards his subjects?
Answer:
Ranjit Singh’s behaviour towards his subjects was good. He never ignored public interests. State officials were given instructions that they should take extra care for the welfare of public. He travelled in disguise very often to know the real condition of people. Those who violated his orders, were given punishment. The peasants and the poor were given special state facilities. When once there was famine in Kashmir, the Maharaja had sent there a thousand loaded mules with corn.

He gave patronage not only to the Sikhs and Hindus but also to the Muslims. He gave them land exempted from revenue in charity. As a result, his subjects were well-off during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time.

Essay Type Questions:

Civil Administration Of Maharaja Ranjit Singh:

Question 1.
Describe the Civil Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Give a brief account of the Civil Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Describe about the Civil Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Explain in detail the Central and Provincial Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Describe the Central and Provincial Administrative sy stem of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Give a detailed description of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Provincial and Local Administration.
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was not only a great conqueror but also an efficient administrator. The salient features of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s civil administration were as follows :

1. Central Administration

(1) The Maharaja : The Maharaja was the head of the State. All the state affairs were looked after by him. He framed all the internal and external policies. All the major civil and military appointments were made by hj^He could dismiss anyone from his office at will. He was the Chief Justice of the State. His word was law. Nobody could dare defy his orders. He had the right to impose, to withdraw or to reduce any tax.

He was the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces. The armed forces always abided by his command. He was empowered to declare or end war. He was totally free ttf sign any treaty with any other ruler. In short, the Maharaja’s powers were in no way less than those of a dictator. But the Maharaja never misused these powers. He considered that his own welfare lies in the welfare of the subjects.

(2) Ministers: For the efficient performance of administration, the Maharaja had organised a Council of Ministers. The ministers were appointed by the Maharaja himself. Only those persons who were able, honest and loyal, to the state were appointed ministers. These ministers would give suggestions to the Maharaja about their respective departments. Their suggestions were not binding on the Maharaja. But the Maharaja normally formulated the state policies keeping in view the suggestions of these ministers. The important ministers of the Maharaja were as follows:

1. Prime Minister : Next to the Maharaja in importance was the place of Prime Minister (Wazir). He advised the Maharaja in all political affairs of the state. He looked after all the departments, except finance and foreign affairs. He represented the Maharaja in his absence. He decided cases by holding his court. He sent only very important cases to the Maharaja. All types of petitions were sent to the Maharaja only through him. He got all the orders of the Maharaja implemented. During Ranjit Singh’s time, Raja Dhian Singh held this office for a long time.

2. Foreign Minister: During Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times, the office of the Foreign Minister was also very important. He gave suggestions to the Maharaja regarding war and peace with other powers. He tried to improve rel ations of foreign countries with the Lahore Darbar. He read to the Maharaja the letters received from the foreign countries and sent their replies as the Maharaja advised him. During the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Faqir Aziz-ud-Din held this office. The Maharaja greatly valued his opinion.

3. Finance Minister : The Finance Minister was one of the important ministers of the Maharaja and was called Diwan. His chief function was to maintain an account of income and expenditure of the state. The papers concerning expenditure of all the departments were first placed before the Diwan for scrutiny. The Diwan would read out the daily report of his department to the Maharaja and received orders to this effect from him. Diwan Bhiwani Das, Diwan Ganga Ram and Diwan Dina Nath were the famous Finance Ministers of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

4. Cohunander-in-Chief : Maharaja Ranjit Singh himself was the Chief Commander of his army. All the major campaigns were commanded by the Maharaja himself. In addition, the Maharaja would appoint different generals for different campaigns. Their chief task was to lead the army in battles and maintain discipline among soldiers. Diyan Mohkam Chand, Misar Diwan Chand and Hari Singh Nalwa were the famous Generals of Ranjit Singh.

5. Deorhiwala : The Deorhiwala looked after the royal family and the palace. No one could enter the palace without his permission. To arrange somebody’s meeting with the Maharaja in the palace depended on him. He also acted as a watch man of the royal pplace. In addition, all the ceremonies in the palace were performed under his supervision. Jamadar Khushal Singh held this office for quite a long time. After him this office was given to Dhidn Singh.

(3) Central Departments or Daftars: For administrative efficiency Maharaja Ranjit Singh had established various departments or daftars. A brief description of the prominent daftars is as follows :

• Daftar-i-Abwab-ul-Mal: It maintained the account of different sources Of income the state.
• Daftar-i-Mal : It kept account of land revenue received from various Parganas and Taluqas.
• Daftar-i-Wajuhat: It kept the account of the income accrued from court fee and custom duty on opium, bhang and other intoxicants.
• Daftar-i-Taujihat: It maintained the account of the royal family.
• Daftar-i-Mawaj ib : It maintained the account, of salaries paid to the military and civil officials.
• Daftar-i-Roznamacha-i-Ikhrajat : It kept the account of daily expenditure of the state.
• Daftar-i-Toshakhana : In this department, expensive things were taken care of. This office was divided into two parts

Toshakhana Khaas and Toshakhana Bahela. Gold, silver, diamonds, pearls, etc. were kept at Toshakhana Khaas. The things of general use were kept at Toshakhana Bahela.

II. Provincial Administration

With a view to run the administration efficiently, Maharaja Ranjit Singh had divided his kingdom into four provinces. The names of these provinces were

• Suba-i-Lahore
• Suba-i-Multan
• Suba-i-Kashmir and
• Suba-i- Peshawar.

Nazim was the highest authority of the Suba. His main duty was to maintain peace and order in the Suba. For this purpose, he was allowed to maintain a small force. In addition, he supervised the. work of other officials of the Suba. He got the orders of the Maharaja implemented in the Suba. He decided the civil and criminal cases.

He heard the appeals against the decisions of the Kardas. He helped the various Suba officials in the collection of land revenue. He also supervised the work of district Kardars. Thus, the Nazim exercised vast powers in his own Suba. But, he had to seek the prior approval of the Maharaja, before taking any crucial decision about his Suba. The Maharaja could change the Nazim, whenever he wanted. The famous Nazims of Maharaja Ranjit Singh were

• Sardar Lehna Singh Majithia
• Misar Roop Lai
• Diwan Sawan Mai
• Karnail Mihan Singh
• Avitabile

III. Local Administration

(a) Administration of the Parganas : Each Suba was further divided into many Parganas. The’ chief official of the Pargana was called Kardar. The office of a Kardar was considered more important than that of the Nazims. He was a pivotal functionary, who. had a direct contact with the people. His position was like a present day Deputy Commissioner.

He had many duties to do. The chief duties of the Kardar were to establish peace in the Pargana, to get the Maharaja’s orders implemented, to collect the land revenue, to look after public welfare and administer justice. In brief, the Kardar exercised enormous powers in his Pargana. He was assisted by Qanungos and Muqaddams.

(b) Village Administration : The smallest unit of administration was the village. It was then called ‘Mauza’. The administration of the village was in the hands of the Panchayat. The Panchayat looked after the people of the village and settled their petty disputes. The people showed great regard for the Panchayat and they mostly accepted its decisions.

The Patwari maintained the record of the village land. The Chaudhary would help the government in collecting land revenue. Muqaddam (Lambardar) was head of the village. He worked as a link between the government and the people. The Chowkidar was the watchman of the village. The Maharaja did not interfere in the working of the village.

(c) Administration of the city of Lahore : During the period of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the administration of Lahore city was run differently from other cities. The chief official of Lahore city was ‘Kotwal’. At the time of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, Imam Bakhsh was appointed to this important post. The chief functions of a Kotwal were to give practical shape to the Maharaja’s orders, to maintain peace in the city, to supervise the work of Mohalladars, to make arrangements for cleanliness-in the city, to keep details of the foreign visitors, to supervise trade and industry and to examine weights and measures etc. The whole city was divided into Mohallas. Each Mohalla was under a Mohalladar. He used to look after the Mohalla under him.

Financial Administration Of J Maharaja Ranjit Singh:

Question 2.
Give a detailed description of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Financial Administration.
Or
Discuss the salient features of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Financial Administration.
Or
Describe the Financial System of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in detail.
Or
Examine critically the land revenue system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Discuss the land revenue system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Every state needs funds for carrying on its administration and implementing many other projects. Such funds are raised by a well devised financial system. The financial system prevailing in the Punjab during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s reign was the simplest of its kind. At first, the finance system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was not regularised. In 1808 A.D. he decided to improve the existing financial system. So, he appointed Diwan Bhiwani Das as his Finance Minister.

Diwan Bhiwani Das soon after his appointment established Daftar-i-Abwab-ul- Mal, Daftar-i-Abwab-ul-Tahwil, Daftar-i-Taujihat and Daftar-i-Roznamcha-i- Ikhrazat with a view to regularise the financial system.

IV. Land Revenue Administration:

Land revenue constituted the most important source of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s income. Out of a total revenue amounting to a little over three crores of rupees about two crores were contributed by land revenue. During Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times the following methods of assessment of land revenue were prevalent:

(1) Batai System: During Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times, the Batai system was widely prevalent. According to this system, the land revenue was assessed after harvesting. The system however had certain serious flaws. First, the state couldn’t have any idea of its income in advance. Secondly, the government had to appoint a large number of staff in order to ensure that there was no misappropriation of the produce by the farmers. Consequently, this system: proved very expensive for the government. Maharaja Ranjit Singh dispensed with this system in 1823 A.D.

(2) Kankut System: In 1824 A.D. the Maharaja introduced the Kankut system in many parts of his kingdom. Under this system revenue was determined on the basis of standing crops. The assessed revenue was realized in the form of cash.

(3) Bigha System: In some parts of the State, Bigha system of assessment was prevalent. According to the Bigha system, the produce of per Bigha was assessed for determining the land revenue. On its basis, the government would find out how many Bighas of land a farmer owned and how much revenue, he owed to the government.

(4) Plough System: In certain places of Ranjit Singh’s kingdom, land revenue was determined according to the plough system. According to this system the land which could be ploughed by a pair of oxen was considered a unit. On the basis of produce per unit, the government would fix its share. As a result a peasant had to pay land revenue in proportion to the number of pairs of bulls, he possessed.

(5) Well System : In some parts of Ranjit Singh’s state, the government determined its share on the basis of well-system. According to this system, in order to determine the land revenue that much land was made a unit which could be easily irrigated by one well.

(6) Ijaradari System: According to the Ijaradari system, the government would hand over the land of a village or a group of villages to a contractor and realize the fixed land revenue from him. This contractor had the right to collect revenue from the land under him. These contractors were called Ijaradars. The government gave them the right to collect land revenue for 2 to 6 years.

Collection of Land Revenue

During the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the land revenue was collected twice a year. This revenue was collected at the time of Rabi and Kharif harvests. There is a considerable difference of opinion among historians over the government share of the produce. It varied from place to place and according to the fertility of the soil. Most of the historians agree that they government charged 50% revenue on the very fertile land. Very little land revenue was charged from those who cultivated the barren land, till it became completely fertile. Usually it ranged from 2/5th to l/3rd of the total produce. Dr. B.J. Hasrat aptly says,

“Neither unduly benevolent nor exceedingly oppressive, the land revenue system of Ranjit Singh was highly practical and suited to the requirements of the time. During the times of Ranjit Singh, in addition to the land revenue, the government had the following other main sources of income :

(1) Custom Duties: Next to land revenue, the other main source of state income was custom duties. There was a network of octroi posts all over the state. Custom duties were imposed upon all articles irrespective of their being domestic or foreign. During Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times the total income from custom duties amounted to 17 lakhs.

(2) Nazrana : Nazrana was also the chief source of state income. It was that cash or precious gifts, which the courtiers of the state and the other people presented to the Maharaja on different occasions.

(3) Zabti: It was also an important source of state income. Maharaja Ranjit Singh would confiscate the property of guilty officials. Besides this, in the event of Jagirdar’s death, the Jagirs given to them were confiscated. These Jagirs were either retained by the state or retained by the successors of the Jagirdars, in lieu of money.

(4) Income from Judiciary : Income from judiciary was also a good source of state income. The government would get Jurmana from the guilty persons and ‘Shukrana’ from those, who were declared innocent.

(5) Excise yTteetaxes charged on the sale of opium, bhang, wine and other
intoxicants were called excise. The government earned sufficient annual income through this tax.

(6) Income from Salt: The government had the exclusive right to extract salt from the salt mines. It had the right to manufacture salt or sell it.

(7) Abwabs : Abwabs were those small taxes which were charged along with the land revenue. They were normally 5% to 15% of the land revenue.

(8) Professional Tax : Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s government had imposed professional tax on the people of different professions. This tax was charged at the rate of Re. 1 to Rs. 2 per person.

Total Income of the Kingdom

We do not have any specific knowledge of the total income of the kingdom during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times. We can estimate from the different details given by the historians that during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times the total annual income of the state was between 2 crore and 3 crore.

Expenditure:

During Ranjit Singh’s reign no formal budget was prepared. The government would spend its income on running the administration, paying salaries to the army, courtiers and other civil officials, manufacturing war-materials, developing agriculture, executing government plans, running charitable institutions and awarding prizes. ,

Question 3.
Make an assessment of the Judicial Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
What do you know about the Judicial Administration of Ranjit Singh? Explain in detail.
Or
Explain the Judicial System and Financial Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
The judicial system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was very simple. There were no written laws. Judicial decisions were made in accordance with the customary conventions and religious beliefs. No distinction was made between civil and criminal cases. The chief characteristics of Ranjit Singh’s judicial system were as follows :

Courts:

Maharaja Ranjit Singh had established the following courts to deliver justice to his people:

1. Panchayat: In the judicial system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, Panchayat Was the smallest, but the most important court. The Panchayat generally consisted of five members. Almost all the civil and criminal cases of the village were heard by the Panchayat. The Panchayat decided cases according to the conventions of the people. The people greatly respected the Panchayat.

2. Qazi’s Court: During Ranjit Singh’s time, the Qazi’s courts were set up in the cities. During Ranjit Singh’s times people of all religions were appointed to this office. Appeals against the judgements of the Panchayats were made in the Qazi’s court and new cases were also heard.

3. Jagirdar’s Court: During the period of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, Jagirs were administered by the Jagirdars. These Jagirdars were empowered to decide both civil and criminal cases within the jurisdiction of these Jagirs.

4. Kardar’s Court: Kardar was the chief officer of the Pargana. In his court, all the civil and criminal cases of the Pargana were heard and judgements given.

5. Nazim’s Court: In every province, the chief judicial officer was the Nazim. He normally decided criminal cases but some civil cases were also decided.

6. Adalti’s Court: In order to give justice, to his subjects Ranjit Singh had appointed Adaltis in all the big cities. Both the civil and criminal cases were heard in these courts.
7. Adalat-i-Ala : Adalat-i-Ala was the highest court below the Maharaja. This court was set up at Lahore. This court was like the High Court of today. In this court appeals against the judgements of the courts of Kardar and Nazim were heard.

8. Maharaja’s Court: The Maharaja’s court was the highest court. His decisions were final. Maharaja Ranjit Singh considered it his first duty to give impartial justice to the people. The aggrieved party could appeal to the Maharaja directly. At that time, it was not necessary that the case should come to the Maharaja through the channel of lower courts. The Maharaja also heard appeals against the decisions of Kardars, Nazims and Adalat-i-Ala. The power to award death sentence rested only with the Maharaja. He could pardon any criminal.

Working of the Courts:

During Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times, the working system of the courts was simple and practical. In order to get justice, the people were at liberty to knock at the door of any court in the state. At that time the laws were not written, so the judges would deliver their judgements on the basis of prevalent conventions. The disposal of the cases was speedy. The people could appeal to the Maharaja against the decisions of the lower courts.

Punishments:

Maharaja Ranjit Singh was opposed to give severe punishments to the criminals. He had done away with many inhuman punishments. The death sentence was not awarded to any criminal. Normally, the criminals were fined. The punishment of amputating a part of the body was scarcely given to the criminals. This punishment was given to those criminals who committed crimes time and again.

Estimate of Ranjit Singh’s Judicial System:

The historians have either admired or severely criticised the judicial system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh on the basis of following merits and demerits :

(1) Demerits : Some historians have strongly criticised the judicial system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. They advance the following arguments :

1. Justice was Sold: One major demerit of Ranjit Singh’s, judicial system was that the government had made justice a source of income. One could escape punishment by paying fine to the government after committing even the most serious crime. Where justice is sold, to call it justice is an insult to justice:

2. Court’s Rights were not Clear : During the times of Ranjit Singh, the rights of various courts were not clear. Civil and criminal cases were not differentiated from each other.

3. No Written Laws : During Ranjit Singh’s times laws were not written. Therefore while delivering justice, the judges would have their own ways. In the absence of written laws, the possibility of the dispensation of right justice was reduced.

4. Wrong Decisions: Ranjit Singh was the Chief Justice of the state. No appeal could be made against his decisions.The decisions of these cases were adversely affected by the mental state of the Maharaja. Whenever the Maharaja was in a happy state of niind, he would even acquit the most serious criminal. On the contrary, if the Maharaja happened to be in angry mood, he would give a severe punishment even to an ordinary criminal.

(2) Merits : Many historians have admired the judicial system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. They advance the following arguments :

1. Justice was not Sold : Some historians are of the opinion that justice was sold during the regime of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Any criminal could have his punishment waived off by paying fine to the government. Most of the historians have contradicted this view that justice was not sold during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times.

2. Fast and Cheap Justice : Another prominent merit of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s judicial system was that the people of those days used to get fast and cheap justice. The cases were not allowed to get lost in the judicial complications.

3. Laws were based on Conventions : It is true that there were no written laws during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s period but the society never felt their absence. The reason being that the judges delivered their judgements on the basis of prevalent conventions and religious traditions. The people greatly respected these conventions.

4. Strict watch over the Judges : The Maharaja kept a strict watch over the judges so that they might dispense justice justly. He would take action against those judges who did not discharge their duties sincerely.

Jagirdari System Of Maharaja Ranjit Singh:

Question 4.
Discuss about the Jagirdari System of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Jagirdari system was prevalent among the Sikh Misls, even before . Maharaja Ranjit Singh, but Maharaja Ranjit Singh gave it a new shape. The following were the chief characteristics of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Jagirdari system :

Kinds of Jagirs:

During Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times the following Jagirs were in vogue :

1. Service Jagirs : Service Jagirs were the most significant of all the Jagirs which were given during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. They constituted the bulk of the landed grants. Service Jagirs were given both to the military and civil persons. All service Jagirs whether civil or military were held depending on the pleasure of the Maharaja. They could be enlarged, reduced or confiscated depending upon how their guarantors discharged their assigned responsibilities. A brief description of these Jagirs is as follows:

(1) Military Jagirs : Military Jagirs were those Jagirs in which the Jagirdars had to keep certain number of horsemen for the state service. These Jagirdars were given Jagirs by the. state in return for expenditure incurred for the maintenance of these horsemen. Maharaja Ranjit Singh took special care that every military Jagirdar must keep under him the horsemen fixed by the government. So, the Jagirdar’s horsemen were inspected from time to time. Those Jagirdars, whose horsemen were found less in number, were given punishments. In 1830 A.D. Maharaja Ranjit Singh had introduced the branding of horses.

(2) Civil Jagirs : Civil Jagirs were given to the civil officers of the state in lieu of the salary they received. They had the right to collect land revenue from their Jagirs. The Civil Jagirdars did not need to keep fixed horsemen under them. The number of Civil Jagirs was very large.

2. Inam Jagirs : Inam Jagirs were those Jagirs which the Maharaja would give to the people in recognition of their special services or as reward for their acts of valour. Inam Jagirs were normally hereditary.

3. Subsistence Jagirs : Subsistence Jagirs were those Jagirs which the Maharaja gave to the people for sustenance purpose. For such Jagirs the Maharaja did not expect any service. Normally these Jagirs were given to the Maharaja’s relatives, the defeated rulers and their dependents and the Jagirdar’s dependents for their subsistence. The Subsistence Jagirs like the Inam Jagirs were also hereditary, jfm^at was expected in return was a payment of a small nazrana (tribute) in token of their loyalty to the state.

4. Watan Jagirs : Watan Jagirs were also called Patidar Jagirs. These were those Jagirs which were given to the Jagirdars in his native village. These Jagirs were, in vogue, during the times of the Sikh Misls. These Jagirs were hereditary. Maharaja Ranjit Singh continued the Watan Jagirs, but he ordered some Watan Jagirdars to render military service.

5. Dharamarth Jagirs : Dharamarth Jagirs were those Jagirs which were given to religious institutions, like gurdwaras, temples and mosques, or holy persons. The income accrued from the Dharamafth Jagirs given to the religious institutions was spent for providing accommodation to the pilgrims, on the langar and on the upkeep of sacred places. The Dharamarth Jagirs were given on permanent basis.

Other Features of the Jagirdari System:

1. Size of the Jagirs : There was a great difference in the size of all the Jagirs, whatever the category of a Jagir might be, but the greatest difference was in the Service Jagirs. The Service. Jagir could be equivalent to a village or part thereof or from an acre to as big as the whole district.

2. Administration of the Jagirs : The administration of the Jagirs was managed either directly by the Jagirdars themselves or indirectly by their agents. The administration of small Jagirs was managed by the Jagirdars, themselves or by the members of their family, in their absence. Those Jagirdars who had large Jagirs scattered over a number of places could not manage it alone. So, they appointed *Mukhtars’ to look after the administrative work of the Jagirs.

The amount of land revenue to be collected by the Jagirdar or their agents was fixed by the government. The Jagirdar had to keep it in view that the farmers working under him or his labourers should not be displeased with him.

Civil And Military Administration Of Ranjit Singh:

3. Duties of the Jagirdars : During the regime of Maharaja Ranjit Singh the Jagirdars not only collected the revenue from the Jagirs under them but also decided the judicial cases of the people living in their Jagirs. Many a time, the Maharaja would give command of small military campaigns to the brave Jagirdars also. Often the Maharaja would authorise the Jagirdars to collect arrears of land revenue from the areas under them. Sometimes Jagirdars were sent on diplomatic missions and were given the responsibility to welcome the important foreign dignitaries. In short, the Jagirdars enjoyed enormous powers during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

Merits of the Jagirdari System

1. Free from the burden of Collecting Revenue : During the period of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, many civil and military officers had been given the Jagirs. These Jagirdars were given the right to collect revenue from the Jagir under them. So, the government became free from the burden of collecting revenue.

2. A large force was prepared : During Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times those Jagirdars who were given military Jagirs had to keep soldiers for the service of the state. The Maharaja inspected these soldiers from time to time. The Jagirdars would send these soldiers to the help of the Maharaja at the time of need. A large reserve force for Maharaja Ranjit Singh was thus prepared by the Jagirdars.

3. Help in the Administration : During Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times the Jagirdars not only collected the revenue, but also settled all the judicial matters in the Jagirs under them. These Jagirdars were also empowered to collect Nazrana. In order to maintain peace, they would also sometimes lead small military campaigns. In this way, the Jagirdar proved help&d to Maharaja Ranjit Singh in matters of state administration.

4. Restriction on the despotism of Ranjit Singh : The Jagirdari system imposed restriction on the despotism of Ranjit Singh. Since the Maharaja sought the help of the Jagirdars in running his administration, he could not rule by free will. He had to keep in mind the wishes of the Jagirdars.

Demerits of the Jagirdari System:

1. Lack of unity in the Army: During the period of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the Jagirdars had their own army- Its recruitment was made according to the Jagirdar’s own whims. The soldiers under every Jagirdar did not undergo the same sort of training. Consequently, there was a lack of co-ordination in them. Besides, these soldiers were more loyal to the Jagirdars than to the Maharaja.

2. Exploitation of Farmers : The Jagirdars were empowered to collect land revenue from the Jagirs held by them.’ These Jagirdars would try to collect maximum Revenue from the farmers. The big Jagirdars would often take fixed amount of money from the contractors and allow them to collect revenue. These contractors would greatly exploit the farmers to earn maximum profit.

3. Jagirdars led a luxurious Life : Since the big Jagirdars were very rich, they led a life of luxury. They would indulge in debauchery and merry-making in
their palaces. One reason being that these Jagirdars knew that after their death their Jagir could be confiscated. Thus, the valuable wealth of the state was wasted.

4. Jagirdari System proved harmful to the Successors of Ranjit Singh: Maharaja Ranjit Singh had given enormous powers to the Jagirdars. As long as he was alive, he kept them under his control, but after his death, his weak successors could not keep them under their control. They began to take part in anti-state conspiracies. It proved very harmful to the Sikh empire.

Although the Jagirdari system suffered from certain defects, yet it eminently suited during the regime of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

Military Administration Of Maharaja Ranjit Singh:

Question 5.
Give an account of the Military Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Describe in detail the military system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Write briefly the military organisation of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Why was his army called the ‘Engine of Power?
Or
Describe the various reforms introduced by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in order to westernise his army.
Or
Discuss critically the Military Administration of Ranjit Singh.
Or
Describe the salient features of the Military Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Describe the merits and demerits of the Military Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was not only a great conqueror, but also a military administrator of a very high order. Before Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the military system of the Sikhs was very defective. There was a total lack of discipline among the soldiers. They were neither paraded nor given training of any kind. The infantry was considered very inferior. The Sikhs considered it below their dignity to join the infantry. The army was also not well-organised. There was no practice of branding the horses. The soldiers were not given salaries in cash.

They were given a share of the booty. As a result, the soldiers paid more attention to plundering than fighting. No record of the details of soldiers was maintained. Above all, the Sikh army did not have the modern sophisticated weapons. Artillery was not considered an essential part of the army. Such an army can not be called an army in the true sense of the word. Ranjit Singh was dreaming of establishing a powerful Sikh empire. In order to realise his dream, he felt the urgency of creating a strong and disciplined army. Therefore, he planned to modernise his army.

Division of Army:

Maharaja Ranjit Singh had divided his army into two wings,

• Fauj-i-Ain (regular army) and
• Fauj-i-Be-Qawaid (irregular army).

A brief description of these wings is as follows :

Fauj-i-Ain:

The regular army of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was called Fauj-i-Ain. It comprised all the three arms,

• Infantry
• Cavalry and
• Artillery.

1. Infantry : Maharaja Ranjit Singh was fully aware of the importance of infantry. The task of recruitment in this army had started after 1805 A.D., which continued throughout the Maharaja’s reign. In the beginning, the number of the Sikhs in this army was nominal. The reason being that the Sikhs looked down upon infantry. Therefore, in the beginning, Maharaja Ranjit Singh recruited the Pathans and the Gorkhas in this section of the army.

Afterwards, owing to Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s efforts, the Sikhs too began to join it. In 1822 A.D. Maharaja Ranjit Singh employed General Ventura to train the infantry on western pattern. Under his able guidance, the infantry became the efficienfand the most disciplined army of Maharaja Ranjit Singh within a few years. In 1838-39 A.D. the strength of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s infantry rose to 26617.

2. Cavalry : The second important part of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s army was cavalry. In order to organise it on western lines, Maharaja Ranjit Singh appointed General Allard in 1822 A.D. Under his command the cavalry became very strong. In 1838-39, the overall strength of the cavalry was 4090.

3. Artillery : Maharaja Ranjit Singh was fully aware of the importance of artillery in the modern warfare. Therefore, he paid a special attention to the development of artillery in 1810 A.D. In 1812 A.D. he organised Topkhana-i-Khas.. In order to make the artillery more powerful he employed General Court in 1827 A.D., and Col. Alexander Gardener in 1832 A.D. Under their able guidance the artillery made matchless progress in a few years. Maharaja Ranjit Singh had divided his artillery into four categories:

• Topkhana-i-Fili,
• Topkhana-i- Shutri

4. Topkhana-i-Aspi,
5. Topkhana-i-Gavi. Topkhana-i-Fili consisted of very heavy guns, which were pulled by the elephants. Topkhana-i-Shutri consisted of those guns, which were pulled by the camels. Topkhana-i-Aspi consisted of those guns, which were pulled by the horses. Topkhana-i-Gavi consisted of those guns, which were pulled by the oxen.

Fauj-i-Khas:

Fauj-i-Khas was the most important and the strongest portion of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s army. It was trained under the command of General Ventura. It consisted of four battalions of infantry, two regiments of cavalry, and a troop of artillery. It was trained and disciplined strictly on European patterns. In it, very selected soldiers were recruited. Their weapons and horses were, also, of the superior type. That is why this army was called Fauj-i-Khas. It had a separate flag and emblem.

Fauj-l-Be-Qawaid:

Fauj-i-Be-Qawaid means that army that did not observe any prescribed rules. This army was divided into four parts

• Ghorcharas
• Fauj-i-Kilajat
• Akalis and
• Jagirdari Fauj.

A brief description of these is as follows :

1. Ghorcharas: Ghorcharas were the most important part of the Be-Qawaid army. It was divided into two categories,

• Ghorcharas Khas and
• Misldar Swars. Ghorcharas Khas consisted of the relatives of the dignitaries of the court of landed gentry. The Misldar Swars consisted of those horsemen, who were previously employed with the Misl Sardars. They were regarded inferior in status to Ghorcharas Khas. The Ghorcharas retained their old methods of warfare and regarded the Europeans practices, as the tricks of the dancing girl. In 1838-39 A.D. the strength of the Ghorcharas was 10,795.

2. Fauj-i-Kilajat: For the defence of the forts, Ranjit Singh had a separate army which was called Fauj-i-Kilajat. 1116 number of these troops varied according to the importance of the forts. In important forts, a large number of soldiers were kept. In small forts the strength of the soldiers ranged between 25 and 50. The commanding officer of the fort was called either Quiladar or Thanedar.

3. The Akalis: The Akalis were known for their bravery. They called themSelves the immortal army of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Each Akali proclaimed himself equivalent to 1,25,000 soldiers. The Akalis always moved fully armed to the teeth. They were opposed to q}l types of training. It was very difficult for Ranjit Singh to keep them under his control. They fought like devils and performed feats of amazing bravery in the battlefield. Therefore, they were always employed in the most dangerous expeditions. Their number was about 3,000. Akali Phula Singh and Akali Sadhu Singh were their famous leaders.

4. Jagirdari Fauj: During the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, those Jagirdars, who were given military Jagirs had to keep soldiers for the service of the state. The small Jagirdars kept only the cavaliers, whereas the big Jagirdars kept infantry and artillery, in addition to the cavaliers. The Jagirdars themselves recruited their soldiers. These soldiers were inspected from time to time by the state.

Other Features:

1. Total Strength of the Army: Most of the historians agree to the view that Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s army ranged between 75,000 and 1,00,000.

2. Composition: Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s army consisted of persons belonging to different classes. These included the Sikhs, the Rajputs, the Brahmans, the Khatris, the Gorkhas, the Muslims. The Purbia Hindustanis and the Europeans.

3. Recruitment: The enlistment in the army during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time was entirely voluntary. Only strong and sturdy persons were recruited in the army. The task of recruiting officers was in the hands of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

4. Pay: Before the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh the soldiers were paid either in the form of Jagirs or out of the plunder. The soldiers were paid in kind, twice a year at the time of harvest. Maharaja Ranjit Singh introduced the system of making payment in cash.

5. Promotions : Maharaja Ranjit Singh gave promotions to the soldiers, only on the basis of their ability. While giving promotions to his soldiers, the Maharaja did not discriminate against anyone on the basis of caste or religion.

6. Rewards and Honours : Every year Maharaja Ranjit Singh spent lakhs of rupees on presents and honours, which he gave to the soldiers for their acts of bravery in the battlefield and also for their glorious services to th^Li&hore Darbar.

7. Discipline: Maharaja Ranjit Singh had maintained a high depeb of discipline in his army. Those who violated the military rules were awarded severe punishments. Gen. Sir Charles Gough and Arthur D. Innes aptly say, “The Sikh army was the most efficient, the hardest to overcome, that we have ever faced ip India.”

Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Give an outline of Central Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Every word uttered by Maharaja Ranjit Singh was deemed law. In order – to get cooperation in running the administration, the Maharaja had appointed many ministers, of which prominent were the Prime Minister, Foreign Miniate. Finance Minister, Diwan, Chief Commander and Deorhiwala. It rested on Maharaja’s will to accept their advice or not. He had also established 12 departments or daftars for the smooth functioning of administration.

Question 2.
What was the position of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the Central Administration?
Answer:
Maharaja was head of the State and he was the pivot around which the entire administration of the state revolved. He himself appointed all the ministers, high ranking civil and military officers of the state. He was also the highest court of justice of the state and every word uttered by him became law for the people. He was the Commander-in-Chief of the army. He could declare war or peace with any ruler.

Question 3.
Write a short note on the Provincial Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh had divided his empire into four Provinces,

• Suba-i-Lahore
• Suba-i-Multan
• Suba-i-Kashmir and
• Suba-i-Peshawar.

The administration of the Suba or Province was under Nazim (Governor). His main duties were to maintain peace, and to enforce the orders of the Maharaja in the province. He also helped the officials in collecting land revenue to maintain the law and order in the state, to enforce the orders of the Maharaja.

Question 4.
What was the position of Kardar during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
Or
Write the works of Kardar during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Each Suba was further divided into many Paraganas. The chief official of the Pargana was called Kardar. The chief duties of the Kardar were to establish peace in the Pargana, to get the Maharaja’s order implemented, to collect the land revenue, to look after public welfare and administer justice. In brief the Kardar exercised enormous powers in his Pargana. He was assisted by Qanungos and Muqaddams.

Question 5.
Analyse the Local Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
What do yoh khow about the Local Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
Answer:
At the time of Maharaja Ranjit Singh the Subas were further divided into many Parganas. The administration of Pargana was under Kardar. The main duties of the Kardar were to keep peace in his Pargana, to promulgate orders of the Maharaja, to collect revenue, to look after the public welfare, and to decide the civil and criminal cases. Village or Mauz& was the lowest unit of administration. Its administration was in the hands of Panchayat.

Question 6.
Write the important functions of |£otwal during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. .
Answer:

• To implement the orders of the Maharaja.
• To establish law and order in the city.
• To look after the cleanliness in the city.
• To keep the record of foreigners.
• To keep a watch on trade and industries in the city.

Question 7.
Write a short note on the administration of city of Lahore during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
How was the administration of the city of Lahore during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
Answer:
During the period of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the administration of Lahore city was run differently from other cities. The whole city was divided into Mohallas. A Mohalla was under a Mohalladar. The Mohalladar maintained peace and order in his mohalla and looked after the arrangement of cleanliness. The chief official of Lahore city was ‘KotwaP who usually was to be a Muslim. At the time of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, Imam Baksh was appointed at this post.

Question 8.
Write a slbort note on the Financial Administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Describe main features of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Land Revenue Administration.
Answer:
Land revenue being the main source of state income, Maharaja Ranjit Singh paid special attention to its administration. Batai, Kankut, Bidding, Bigha, Plough and Well systems of determining land revenue were prevalent during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time. Land revenue was collected twice in a year. The officials who collected revenue were—Kardar, Muqaddam, Patwari, Qanungo and Chaudhary. Land revenue could be paid in cash or in kind and it was fixed on the basis of fertility of land.

Question 9.
Write a brief note on Jagirdari system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
What were the chief features of Jagirdari system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
Answer:
Many types of Jagirs were prevalent during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time. Of these, service Jagirs was considered the most important. These Jagirs were given to high military and civil officials of the state in lieu of their salaries. Besides, Inam Jagirs, Subsistence Jagirs, Watan Jagirs and Dharamarth Jagirs Were also prevalent. Dharamarth Jagirs were given to religious institutions and holy persons. These Jagirs were managed by Jagirdar himself directly or by his agents.

Question 10.
Write a shcfrt note on the Judicial system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Discuss the main features of the Judicial system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
What were the main features of the Judicial system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
Answer:
The Judicial system of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was simple. Laws were not written. Justice was done on the basis of existing conventions, customs and sacred scriptures. The final verdict rested with the Maharaja. In order to give justice to his subjects, Maharaja Ranjit Singh had set up many courts in his empire. The Panchayats settled disputes in the villages. In towns and cities, there were courts of Qazis. During Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time, punishments were not rigid.

Question 11.
What were the main features of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Military Administration?
Or
What reforms were introduced by Ranjit Singh to improve his Military system?
Or
Write a short note on the Military Administration of Ranjit Singh.
Or
What were the main features of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Military Administration?
Or
Describe any three features of the military administration of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
What do you know about the military system of Mahraja Ranjit Singh?
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh organised a vast and powerful army. He recruited the English officers in his army to make his army stronger. Keeping record of soldier’s identification and putting mark on horses were started. Factories for manufacturing cannons, guns and other arms were established in the state. He personally inspected the army. Special awards were given to those who displayed bravery in battles. The soldiers were given salary in cash or in the form of Jagirs.

Question 12.
Write a brief note on the Fauj-i-Khas of Maharaja Ranjit Singles army.
Answer:
The Fauj-i-Khas of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s army was its most important and most powerful part. It was commanded and trained by General Ventura. It consisted of 4 battalions of infantry, 2 regiments of cavalry and 1 troop of artillery. This army was trained in European style. Selected soldiers were enlisted in it. Their arms and horses were also of best quality. That is why it was called Fauj- i-Khas. This army was highly disciplined.

Question 13.
What was Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s attitude towards his subjects?
Answer:
Ranjit Singh’s behaviour towards his subjects was good. State officials were given instructions that they should take extra care for the welfare of public. He travelled in disguise very often to know the real condition of people. Those who violated his orders, were given punishment. The peasants and the poor were given special state facilities. He gave patronage not only-to the Sikhs and Hindus but also to the Muslims.

Question 14.
Write a short note on the effects of Ranjit Singh’s rule on the life of the people.
Answer:
The rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh had a far reaching effects on the life of the people. He had eastablished a vast empire in Punjab. Thus the people of Punjab were able to have a relief in their lives after centuries. Before this the people of Punjab had to face untold cruelities at the hands of Mughals and AfghAnswer: Maharaja Ranjit Singh had established an efficient administration of Punjab. Its main aim was the public welfare. Maharaja Ranjit Singh had abolished inhuman punishments.

Objective Type Questions:

Question 1.
Who was the pivot of central administration during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s rule?
Answer:
Maharaja himself.

Question 2.
Mention any one objective of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s administration.
Answer:
Public Welfare.

Question 3.
Mention any one power of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh himself drafted the internal and external policies.

Question 4.
Who was the Prime Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
Answer:
Raja Dhian Singh.

Question 5.
What was the main duty of the Prime Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
Answer:
To advise the Maharaja about all political and other important affairs of the state.

Question 6.
Name the Foreign Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Faqir Aziz-ud-Din.

Question 7.
What was the main duty of the Foreign Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
Answer:
To advise the Maharaja regarding war and peace.

Question 8.
Name any one famous Finance Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Who was the Finance Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
Answer:
Diwan Bhawani Das.

Question 9.
Name any one famous army general of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa.

Question 10.
Who was appointed as ‘Deorhiwala’ during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time?
Answer:
Jamadar Khushal Singh.

Question 11. What was the main duty of Deorhiwala during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time?
Answer:
To look after the royal family and the court.

Question 12.
Name any two offices that were established to look after the central administration during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time.
Answer:
Daftar-i-Abwab-ul-Mal.

Question 13.
Into how many Provinces was the empire of Maharaja Ranjit Singh divided?
Answer:
Four.

Question 14.
Name one Province of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Subaf-Lahore

Question 15.
Who was thfe highest official of the Province du Maharaja Ranjit Smgh?
Answer:
Nazim.

Question 16.
Mention any one function of Nazims during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time.
Answer:
To keep peace and order in the province under them.

Question 17.
Name the highest official of a Pargana.
Answer:
Kardar.

Question 18.
Write any one main function of Muqaddam?
Answer:
To help in collection of revenus from the village.

Question 19.
Who looked after the administration of the city of Lahore in Ranjit Singh’s time?
Answer:
Kotwal.

Question 20.
Who was the Kotwal of Lahore during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time?
Answer:
Imam Baksh.

Question 21.
What was the main function of Kotwal during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time?
Answer:
To maintain law and order in the city.

Question 22.
Name any one prevalent system of collecting land revenue in Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time.
Answer:
Batai system.

Question 23.
What do you mean by Batai system?
Answer:
The land revenue was determined after harvesting.

Question 24.
What do you understand by Kankut system?
Answer:
The land revenue was fixed on the basis of standing crops.

Question 25.
Name any one source of state income besides land revenue in Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time.
Answer:
Octroi.

Question 26.
What is meant by Jagirdari system?
Answer:
In Jagirdari system, the state officials were given Jagirs instead of cash salary.

Question 27.
What is meant by Watan Jagirs?
Answer:
These Jagirs were given to the Jagirdars in their own village.

Question 28.
What is meant by Dharmarth Jagirs?
Answer:
These Jagirs were given to the religious institutions- and holy persons.

Question 29.
Name any one judicial court prevalent in Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time.
Answer:
The judicial court prevalent in Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time was the Court of Qazi.

Question 30.
Which was the highest court of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time?
Answer:
Adalat-i-Ala.

Question 31.
Name any one drawback of the Sikh army before Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
There was lack of discipline in the Sikh army.

Question 32.
Name any one reform made by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the Sikh army.
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh imparted training to the Sikh army on western lines.

Question 33.
Into which two categories was Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s army divided?
Answer:
Fauj-i-Ain and Fauj-i-Be-Qawaid.

Question 34.
When did Maharaja Ranjit Singh organise the infantry?
Answer:
1805 A.D.

Question 35.
Into how many parts was cavalry divided in Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time?
Answer: Four.

Question 36.
Whom did Maharaja Ranjit Singh appoint to train Fauj-i-Khas?
Answer:
General Ventura.

Question 37.
Under whose command was the artillery of Fauj-i-Khas in Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time?
Answer:
General Ilahi Baksh.

Question 38.
What is meant by Fauj-i-Be-Qawaid?
Answer:
It meant the army which did not comply with the laid down rules.

Question 39.
Write the names of any two European officers of Lahore Darbar.
Or
Write the name of two European officers of Ranjit Singh’s army?
Or
Write the names of two main Generals of Ranjit Singh’s army.
Answer:

• General/entura and
• General Court.

Fill in the blanks:

1. The ……………… was the head of the State during-Ranjit Singh’s rule.
Answer:
Maharaja

2. Raja Dhian Singh was the …………….. of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Prime Minister

3. …………… was the Foreign Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Faqir-Aziz-ud-Din

4. ………………. and ………………. were the Finance Ministers of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Diwan Bhiwani Dass, Diwan Ganga Ram

5. The most famous army General of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was ……………..
Answer:
Hari Singh Nalwa

6. ……………… was appointed as Deorhiwala during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time.
Answer:
Jamadar Khushal Singh

7. Deorhiwala looked after the …………….
Answer:
royal family

8. ……………… kept the account of daily expenditure of the state.
Answer:
Daftar-i-Roznamacha-i-Ikhrajat

9. …………… looked after the valuable things of the state.
Answer:
Daftar-i-Toshakhana

10. The Empire of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was divided into …………… Provinces.
Answer:
four

11. ……………. was the highest official of the Proviñce during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Nazim

12. In Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time, head of the ……………… was called Kardar.
Answer:
Pargana

13. During Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time ………………. kept the record of land of the village.
Answer:
Patwari

14. ………………. was the chief official of Lahore during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s rule.
Answer:
Kotwal

15. ………………….. was the Kotwal of Lahore during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time.
Answer:
Imam Baksh

16. ……………. was the main source of income during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time.
Answer:
Land Revenue

17. During Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times, the ……………… system was widely prevalent.
Answer:
Batai

18. During the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh the land revenue was collected ……………. a year.
Answer:
twice

19. ……………….. Jagirs were the most significant of all the Jagirs which were given during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Service

20. ……………… Jagirs weíe those Jagirs which were given t& religious institutions during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Dharamarth

21. …………… was the highest court during the time of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Adalat-i-Ala

22. During Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times, Adalat-i-Ala was set up in …………..
Answer:
Lahore

23. During Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times, the criminals were generally ……………. only.
Answer:
fined

24. The regular army of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was called …………….
Answer:
Fauj-i-Ain

25. Maharaja Ranjit Singh appointed in …………. General Allard to train his regular cavalry.
Answer:
1822 A.D.

26. During Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times the artillery consisted of very heavy guns, pulled by the elephants was called …………….
Answer:
Topkhana-i-Fili

27. Maharaja Ranjit Singh appointed ………………. to train Fauj-i-Khas.
Answer:
General Ventura

28. In Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time, the artillery of Fauj-i-Khas was under the command of General ……………..
Answer:
Ilahi Baksh

29. The army of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, which did not comply with the laid down rules, was called …………..
Answer:
Fauj-i-Be-Qawaid

True or False:

1. Maharaja Ranjit Singh framed all the internal and external policies of the state.
Answer:
True

2. Raja Dhian Singh was the Prime Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
True

3. Diwan Dina Nath was the Foreign Minister of Maharqja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
False

4. During the period of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the Finance Minister was called Diwan.
Answer:
True

5. Diwan Bhiwani Das was the Finance Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
True

6. Diwan Mohakam Chand and Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa were famous Commander-in-Chiefs of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
True

7. During the period of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, Jamadar Khushal Singh was posted as Deorhiwala.
Answer:
True

8. During the period of Maharaja Ranjit Singh the office of Daftar-i-Abwab-ul Mai kept a record of state income.
Answer:
True

9. Daftar-i-Roznamacha-i-Ikhrajat- kept the account of daily expenditure of the state of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
True

10. Maharaja Ranjit Singh had divided his kingdom in four provinces.
Answer:
True

11. Kardar was the main official of the Suba at the time of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
False

12. Kotwal was the main official of Lahore at the time of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
True

13. At the time of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, Imam Baksh was appointed as Kotwal.
Answer:
True

14. Diwan Ganga.Ram established daftars at the time of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
False

15. Land Revenue was the main source of state income in Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time.
Answer:
True

16. Batai system was widely prevalent during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time.
Answer:
True

17. During the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the Land Revenue was collected thrice a year.
Answer:
False

18. Service Jagirs were the most significant of all the Jagirs during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
True)

19. Dharmarth Jagirs were given to religious institutions and holy persons in Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time.
Answer:
True

20. Subsistence Jagirs were given to people in recognition of their special services in the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
False

21. Qazi’s courts were set up in cities, dining Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time.
Answer:
True

22. During the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, Adalat-i-Ala court was set up in Lahore.
Answer:
True

23. Maharaja Ranjit Singh was in favour of giving severe punishments to the criminals.
Answer:
False

24. Maharaja Ranjit Singh made a compromise between traditional and western ideas for his army.
Answer:
True

25. The regular army of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was called Fauj-i-Ain.
Answer:
True

26. Maharaja Ranjit Singh appointed Gereral Ventura to train Fauj-i-Khas.
Answer:
True

27. Maharaja Ranjit Singh gave the command of artillery of Fauj-i-Khas to General Ilahi Baksh.
Answer:
True

28. Fauj-i-Be-Qawaid was the army which did not comply with the laid down rules in the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
True

Multiple Choice Questions:

1. Who was the pivot of central administration during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s rule?
(a) Maharaja
(b) Foreign Minister
(c) Finance Minister
(d) Prime Minister
Answer:
(a) Maharaja

2. Who was the Prime Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
(a) Diwan Mohkam Chand
(b) Raja Dhian Singh
(c) Diwan Ganga Nath
(d) Faqir Azizuddin.
Answer:
(b) Raja Dhian Singh

3. Who was the Foreign Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
(a) Diwan Mohkam Chand
(b) Raja Dhian Singh
(c) Faqir Aziz-ud-Din
(d) Khushal singh.
Answer:
(c) Faqir Aziz-ud-Din

4. Who was not the Finance Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
(a) Diwan Mohkam Chand
(b) Diwan Ganga Ram
(c) Diwan Dina Nath
(d) Diwan Bhiwani Das
Answer:
(a) Diwan Mohkam Chand

5. Who was the famous Army General of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
(a) Hari Singh Nalwa
(b) Misar Diwan Chand
(c) Diwan Mohkam Chand
(d) All of the above
Answer:
(d) All of the above

6. Who looked after the royal family and the court during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time?
(a) Deorhiwala
(b) Kardar
(c) Subedar
(d) Kotwal.
Answer:
(a) Deorhiwala

7. Who was appointed as ‘Deorhiwala’ during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time?
(a) Jamadar Khushal Singh
(b) Sangat Singh
(c) Hari Singh Nalwa
(d) Jassa Singh Ramgarhia.
Answer:
(a) Jamadar Khushal Singh

8. Into how many provinces was the Empire of Maharaja Ranjit Singh divided?
(a) Two
(b) Three
(c) Four
(d) Five
Answer:
(c) Four

9. What was head of province known as during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time? .
(a) Subedar
(b) Kardar
(c) Nazim
(d) Kotwal.
Answer:
(c) Nazim

10. What was the head of Pargana called during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time?
Or
What was the main officer of Pargana called at the time of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
(a) Governor
(b) Kardar
(c) Mukadam
(d) Patwari
Answer:
(b) Kardar

11. Who was the incharge of Lahore at the time of Maharaja RanjitSingh?
(a) Subedar
(b) Kardar
(c) Kotwal
(d) Patwari
Answer:
(c) Kotwal

12. Who was the Kotwal of Lahore at the time Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s rule?
Or
The main officer’s (Kotwal) name of Lahore was :
(a) Dhyan Singh
(b) Bhawani Das
(c) Dina Nath
(d) Imam Baksh.
Answer:
(d) Imam Baksh.

13. In the era of Maharaja Ranjit Singh what was village called’?
(a) Garhi
(b) Haveli
(c) Block
(d) Mauja
Answer:
(d) Mauja

14. What was the main source of income during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time?
(a) Land Revenue
(b) Toll tax
(c) Nazrana
(d) Zabti
Answer:
(a) Land Revenue

15. What was the name of Jagir being given to the religious institutions and holy persons in Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time?
(a) ’Watan Jagir
(b) Inam Jagir
(c) Dharmarth Jagir
(d) Subsistence Jagir.
Answer:
(c) Dharmarth Jagir

16. Which was considered the most important Jagir in Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time?
(a) Inam Jagir
(b) Watan Jagir
(c) Service Jagir
(d) Subsistence Jagir.
Answer:
(c) Service Jagir

17. Which was the lowest court of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
(a) Panchayat
(b) Qazi’s Court
(c) Jagirdar’s Court
(d) Kardar’s Court.
Answer:
(a) Panchayat

18. Which court was lower to the court of Maharaja Rapjit Singh?
(a) Court of Nazim
(b) Adalat-i-Ala
(c) Adaliti
(d) Court of Kardar
Answer:
(b) Adalat-i-Ala

19. Which type of punishment was given to the culprits during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time?
(a) Death sentence
(b) Jurmana (fine)
(c) Amputation of body parts
(d) All of the above.
Answer:
(b) Jurmana (fine)

20. What was the drawback of Sikh army before Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
(a) Lack of discipline among soldiers
(b) Infantry considered as an inferior force
(c) No cash salary was given to the soldiers
(d) All of the above.
Answer:
(d) All of the above.

21. What was the regular army of Maharaja Ranjit Singh called?
(a) Fauj-i-Ain
(b) Fauj-i-Khas
(c) Fauj-i-Be-Qawaid
(d) All of these.
Answer:
(a) Fauj-i-Ain

22. Who was appointed to train Fauj-i-Khas*by Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
(a) General Ilahi Baksh
(b) General Allard
(c) General Ventura
(d) General Court.
Answer:
(c) General Ventura

23. Under whose command was the artillery of Fauj-i-Khas in Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time?
(a) General Ilahi Baksh
(b) General Court
(c) Colonel Gardener
(d) General Ventura.
Answer:
(a) General Ilahi Baksh

24. What was the name given to the army which did not comply with the laic^down rules in Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time?
(a) Fauj-i-Khas
(b) Fauj-i-Be-Qawaid
(c) Farvy-i-Ain
(d) None of these
Answer:
(b) Fauj-i-Be-Qawaid

25. Who was appointed as a trainer for cavalry by Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
(a) General Ventura
(b) General Allard
(c) General Court
(d) General Ilahi Baksh.
Answer:
(b) General Allard

Punjab State Board PSEB 12th Class History Book Solutions Chapter 23 Second Anglo-Sikh War, Causes, Results and Annexation of the Punjab Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.

PSEB Solutions for Class 12 History Chapter 23 Second Anglo-Sikh War, Causes, Results and Annexation of the Punjab

Long Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Explain in brief the causes of Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Or
What were the causes of the Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Or
What were the five main causes for Second Anglo-Sikh War?
Or
Describe five main reasons of Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:
1. Sikhs’ desire to avenge their defeat in the First Anglo-Sikh War: It is true that the Sikhs were defeated in the First Anglo-Sikh War against the Britishers, but this did not demoralise them. They knew very well the main cause of their defeat was the treachery of Sikh leaders. The Sikh soldiers were confident of their ability. Therefore, they wanted to avenge their defeat. This strong desire of theirs became one of the main causes of the Second Anglo-Sikh War.

2. Punjabis were dissatisfied with the Treaties of Lahore and Bhairowal: After the First Anglo-Sikh War, the British forced the Lahore Darbar to sign the treaties of Lahore and Bhairowal. These treaties had, almost, ended the sovereignty of the Sikh Empire. The people of the Punjab could not tolerate the ruining of the empire which Maharaja Ranjit Singh had built, bit by bit by the sweat of his brow. Therefore, the Sikhs had to fight one more war with the British.

3. Resentment among the Sikh Soldiers: According to the treaty of Lahore, the British had fixed the strength of the Khalsa army at 20,000 infantry and 12,000 cavalries. Thousands of Sikh soldiers were disbanded. These jobless soldiers would wander about in the villages. They felt that it was the high-handedness of British Government.

4. Harsh treatment of Maharani Jindan: The humiliating treatment meted out to Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s widow, and Maharaja Dalip Singh’s mother, Maharani Jindan, further aggravated the resentment of the Sikhs. The maltreatment of Maharani Jindan by the British sent a wave of anger throughout Punjab.

5. Revolt of Diwan Moolraj: The revolt of Diwai Moolraj of Multan was one of the most potent causes, which led to the Second Anglo-Sikh War. On 20th April, the two British officers – Vans Agnew and Anderson were murdered in Multan. The British Government falsely implicated Diwan Moolraj for these murders. It enraged Moolraj and he raised the banner of revolt against the British.

Question 2.
Write a note on the revolt of Diwan Moolraj of Multan.
Answer:
Diwan Moolraj was appointed the Nazim (Governor) of Multan in 1844 A.D. He paid about 13 ^ lakh rupees annually to Lahore Darbar as revenue. Later on this amount was raised to 20 lakh but at the same time 3rd of the territory of his state was taken away. As a result he resigned from the post of Nazim. In march 1848 A.D., the new Resident Fredrick Currie accepted his resignation. He decided to appoint Kahan Singh the new Governor of Multan.

Two British officers Agnew and Anderson were sent to assist him. Moolraj handed over the charge of the fort to Kahan Singh on April 19,1848 A.D. without any opposition. But on April 20, some soldiers of Moolraj slew both the British officers and compelled Moolraj to lead their revolt against the British. Instead of crushing it, the British allowed it to spread so that they could have an excuse to invade the kingdom of Lahore.

Question 3.
What do you know about the revolt of Chattar Singh of Hazara?
Answer:
Sardar Chattar Singh Attariwala was the Nazim of Hazara. He had grown suspicious of the designs of the British when they intentionally delayed action to crush the revolt of Multan and showed harsh and unjust attitude towards Maharani Jindan. His daughter was engaged to Maharaja Dalip Singh. The Britishers were opposed to this matrimonial alliance because they did not want the two powerful royal families to unite. It could impede the Britishers’ policy of taking Punjab’s possession. Consequently, Chattar Singh’s suspicion of the Britishers, design was further deepened. Captain Abbott who had been appointed advisor to Chattar Singh was determined to wipe out the Sikh Empire.

Instigated by him the Muslims of Hazara attacked the residence of Chattar Singh on 6th August, 1848 A.D. On seeing this Sardar Chattar Singh ordered Col. Canora to take action against the rebels. Col. Canora who was in league with Captain Abbott refused to comply with the orders of Chattar Singh. On the other hand he fired two shots which killed two Sikh soldiers. At that time a Sikh soldier advanced with his sword and beheaded Canora. When this news reached Abbott he flew into a rage. He removed Sardar Chattar Singh from his office and seized his Jagir. As a result the blood of Chattar Singh began to boil and he raised the banner of revolt against the British. Now the fire of revolt spread everywhere.

Question 4.
Write a brief note on the battle of Chilliamwala.
Answer:
The battle of ChillianWala was an important battle of the Second Anglo- Sikh War. Lord Hugh Gough who was commanding’the British forces was waiting for more military assistance to face the forces of Sher Singh. At this time he got information that Chattar Singh had taken the Attock fort and he was coming to the help of Sher Singh. It could pose a great danger for the British. Well before Chattar Singh could reach Hugh Gough attacked the forces of Sher Singh at Chillianwala on January 13, 1849 A.D. In this pitched battle the Sikhs fought like devils and their artillery took a heavy toll.

It created disorder in the British ranks. It was the worst defeat, the British had suffered since their occupation of India. It created furore in England. Hugh Gough was superseded and Charles Napier was asked to come from England to take over command.

Question 5.
What was the importance of the Battle of Gujarat in Second Anglo- SikhWar?
Answer:
The battle of Gujarat was the last and the most decisive battle of the Second Anglo-Sikh War. It was fought on February 21,1849 A.D. In this battle the number of Sikh troops was 40,000. They were jointly led by Chattar Singh, Sher Singh and Bhai Maharaj Singh. On the other hand the number of British troops was 68,000. They were commanded by Lord Hugh Gough. As both the sides used excessive guns in this battle, so the battle of Gujarat is also called the battle of guns. The Sikhs fought bravely but were defeated as they ran short of ammunition.

The Sikhs suffered heavy loss in this battle and pandemonium prevailed. Chattar Singh, Sher Singh and Bhai Maharaj Singh fled to Rawalpindi. The British soldiers chased them. They surrendered on March 10, and the remaining soldiers surrendered on March 14. After the British victory in this battle on March 29, 1849, they annexed Punjab to their empire. In this way the empire established by Maharaja Ranjit Singh came to an end.

Question 6.
What were the results of Second Anglo-Sikh War?
Or
Study in brief the results of Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Or
Explain the five effects of Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:
The Second Anglo-Sikh war had far-reaching consequences. It may be summarised as follows :
1. End of the Empire of Maharaja Ranjit Singh : The most significant result of the Second Anglo-Sikh War was this that it completely brought an end to the empire. The last Sikh Maharaja Dalip Singh was dethroned.

2. Sikh Army was Disbanded : After the Second Anglo-Sikh War, the Sikh army was disbanded. Majority of these soldiers were engaged in farming. Those soldiers, whose loyalty was not in doubt, were recruited in the British Indian army.

3. Banishment of Moolraj and Bhai Maharaj Singh : Diwan Moolraj had been awarded the death sentence .on the charge of the murder of two British officers. Later on it was converted into ‘Kalapani’. He was to be sent to Andaman but before that his health broke down. Consequently, he died on 11th August, 1851 A.D. at Calcutta. Bhai Maharaj Singh was sent to the Singapore jail, where he died on 5th July, 1856 A.D.

4. Punishment to S. Chattar Singh and Sher Singh : The British Government had imprisoned Sardar Chattar Singh and his son Sher Singh. They were first kept in the Allahabad jail and then transferred to the Calcutta jail. In 1854 A.D. the government released both of them.

5. New Administration for the Punjab : After the annexation of the Punjab to the British Empire, the British established a Board of Administration to run the administration of the Punjab. It functioned from 1849 to 1853 A.D. During this period, the Britishers introduced many changes in the administrative structure of the Punjab.

Question 7.
Was the annexation of Punjab by Lord Dalhousie justified? Give arguements in your favour.
Or
“Annexation of Punjab was a violent breach of trust.” Explain.
Or
Was the annexation of Punjab justified? Give five reasons for it.
Answer:
The annexation of Punjab was a violent breach of trust.

1. Sikhs provoked to Revolt: Between the end of the First Anglo-Sikh War and the beginning of the Second Anglo-Sikh War, many such events took place as provoked the Sikhs to revolt. According to the treaty of Lahore, the Britishers had taken away important areas of Punjab. The Britishers had meted out a shabby treatment to Maharani Jindan. They forced Diwan Moolraj and Sardar Chattar Singh to revolt. In this way, the Sikhs were compelled to rise against the British.

2. Revolt was not suppressed in time : When the fire of revolt broke out in Multan, it could have been controlled there and then. To let the revolt linger on for eight months, was a politically motivated move. As a consequence, the British got the much needed pretext to wage a war against Punjab and its annexation.

3. British had not fulfilled the terms of the Treaty : It was said by the British that they had stood by all the promises. An assessment made, brings to light the fact that the British had fulfilled only those terms of the treaty, which looked advantageous to them. Thus, the Britishers’ assertion that they fulfilled all the terms of the treaty is a white lie.

4. Lahore Darbar gave full co-operation in fulfilling the terms of the Treaty: The Lahore Darbar continued to fulfil faithfully the terms of the treaty till the British finally took over the Punjab. The Lahore Government was bearing the whole expense of the British army posted in Punjab. It condemned the revolts of Diwan Moolraj, Chattar Singh and Sher Singh, and also co-operated fully with the British army to crush these revolts.

5. The whole Sikh Army and the people did not Revolt: Lord Dalbousie had charged that the entire Sikh army of the Punjab in collusion with the people had revolted against the British. It necessitated the possession of the Punjab by the British. But there is not an iota of truth in this statement of Lord Dalhousie. The revolt against the British had taken place only in Multan and Hazara provinces of the Punjab. Most of the Sikh army and the people remained loyal to the British. To punish the whole of Punjab under such circumstances, was totally wrong.

Question 8.
Give any five arguments in favour of Dalhousie’s annexation of the Punjab to the British empire.
Or
Give arguments in favour of Dalhousie’s policy of the annexation of Punjab.
Answer:
The following arguments are given in favour of Dalhousie’s policy of annexation :

1. Sikhs had broken their Promises: Lord Dalhousie had accused that the Sikhs had violated the terms of the treaty of Bhairowal. Through this treaty, the Sikhs had promised to co-operate with the British Resident, but the Sikhs did not keep the word. On the contrary, they tried to spread disturbance by raising the banner of revolt against the British. Lord Dalhousie termed Diwan Moolraj’s revolt as the revolt of the whole Sikh community. In this way, to tide over the deteriorating conditions, the annexation of Punjab to the British Empire was essential.

2. Punjab remained no more a good Buffer State: After the First Anglo- Sikh War, Lord Hardinge had not annexed Punjab to the British Empire because he had held the opinion that the Punjab would prove a useful buffer state between Afghanistan and the Britishers. But his opinion proved to be wrong. A friendship came to be established between the Sikhs and the AfghAnswer: So, Lord Dalhousie considered the annexation of the Punjab to the British empire essential.

3. Non-payment of the Loans: Lord Dalhousie levelled a charge against the Lahore Darbar that according to the terms of the treaty of Bhairowal, she was to pay Rs. 22 lakhs annually to the British. But the Lahore Darbar broke this term also. It did not pay even a single penny to the British. Besides, it did not make payment of that loan which it owed to the Britishers. Therefore, the annexation of the Punjab was justified.

4. It was advantageous to annex Punjab: After the victory in the First Anglo-Sikh War, the British had not annexed Punjab to the British Empire. But after having lived in the Punjab for two years, they realised that it could prove useful to them not only from the economic point of view but also from many other angles. Owing to these reasons, Lord Dalhousie decided to take possession of the Punjab.

5. Annexation of the Punjab was inevitable: It is said that if the Punjab had not been annexed to the British Empire, the Sikhs would have continued to hatch conspiracies against the British Empire for their freedom. It would have affected the other parts of India also. Lord Dalhousie considered it necessary to annex the Punjab to the British Empire.

Question 9.
Write a brief note on Maharaja Dalip Singh.
Answer:
Maharaja Dalip Singh was the youngest son of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. He became the ruler of Punjab on September 15,1843 A.D. At that time he was only five years old. As a result Maharani Jindan was made his regent. Maharaja Dalip Singh appointed Hira Singh as the Prime Minister of Punjab. Although Hira Singh was very wise he had annoyed most of the courtiers by appointing Pandit Jalla to the post of Mashir-i-Khas. After the murder of Hira Singh in 1844 A.D. Jawahar Singh became the new Prime Minister of the State.

But he was very incompetent and haughty. He was murdered by some soldiers in September 1845 for assassinating Prince Peshaura Singh. Thereafter, Lai Singh was appointed to the post of Prime Minister. He was already in league with the British. Consequently, the Sikhs had to face defeat in the First and Second Anglo-Sikh Wars. The British dethroned Maharaja Dalip Singh and annexed Punjab to the British empire on 29 March, 1849 A.D. Maharaja Dalip Singh was sent to England. He died heart-broken in Paris on October 22,1893 A.D.

Question 10.
Write a brief note on Maharani Jind Kaur (Jindan).
Or
What do ycu know about Maharani Jindan?
Answer:
Maharani Jindan was the mother of Maharaja Dalip Singh and queen of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. When Dalip Singh became the new king of the Punjab on September 15,1843 A.D., Maharani Jindan was appointed as his regent. Soon she became the symbol of Punjabi resurgence. She wanted to maintain the independence of Punjab at all costs. Her activities irked the British government. Consequently, she was dispossessed of all her powers through the Treaty of Bhairowal. She was to be given an annual pension of Rs.1\(\frac { 1 }{ 2 }\) lakh. In August 1847 A.D. she was put under house imprisonment in the fort of Sheikhupura. She was ill-treated in jail.

In May 1848 A.D. she was exiled and sent to Banaras. Maharani Jindan succeeded in reaching Nepal in disguise in April 1849 A.D. When Maharaja Dalip Singh came to India from England in 1861 A.D., Maharani came to see him from Nepal. Maharaja Dalip Singh took his mother to England along with him. Here also the English did not allow them to live together. On August 1, 1863, she died broken-hearted.

Essay Type Questions:

Question 1.
Discuss the circumstances leading to the Second Anglo-Sikh War. How far were the British responsible for it?
Or
What were the main causes of the Second Anglo-Sikh War?
Or
Write the reasons of the Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:
In the First Anglo-Sikh War the British emerged victorious and Sikhs were defeated in it. The Sikhs were enraged due to their humiliation by the treaties imposed upon them. It led to the Second Anglo-Sikh War. The main causes of the Second Anglo-Sikh War are given ahead :

1. Sikhs’ desire to avenge their defeat in the First Anglo-Sikh War : It is true that the Sikhs were defeated.in the first war against the Britishers, but this did not demoralise them. They knew very well that in the battle of Ferozeshah they had inflicted a crushing defeat on the Britishers. The main cause of this defeat was the treachery of Sikh leaders like Lai Singh and Teja Singh. The Sikh soldiers were confident of their ability. Therefore, they wanted to avenge their defeat. This strong desire of theirs became one of the main causes of the Second Anglo-Sikh War.

2. Punjabis were dissatisfied with the Treaties of Lahore and Bhairowal: After the First Anglo-Sikh War, the British forced the Lahore Darbar to sign the treaties of Lahore and Bhairowal. These treaties had, almost, ended the sovereignty of the Sikh Empire. Besides, through these treaties the British had taken possession of the famous areas like the Jalandhar Doab. They had handed over the area of Kashmir to their friend, Gulab Singh. Thus, the British had divided Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Raj into three parts. The people of the Punjab could not tolerate the ruining of the empire which Maharaja Ranjit Singh had built, bit by bit by the sweat of his brow. They wanted to retrieve their old glory. Therefore, the Sikhs had to fight one more war with the British.

3. Resentment among the Sikh Soldiers: According to the treaty of Lahore, the British had fixecf the strength of the Khalsa army at 20,000 infantry and 12,000 cavalry. Thousands of Sikh soldiers were disbanded. These jobless soldiers would wander about in the villages. They felt that it was the high-handedness of British Government.

4. Harsh treatment of Maharani Jindan: The humiliating treatment meted out to Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s widow, and Maharaja Dalip Singh’s mother, Maharani Jindan, further aggravated the resentment of the Sikhs. Through the treaty of Lahore, the Britishers had accepted Maharani Jindan as the regent of minor Maharaja Dalip Singh. She was a woman of high ambitions. It soon became clear to the British that as long as the administration of the Lahore Darbar was under the influence of the Maharani, they would not be able to have their own ways in Punjab.

That is why, under the treaty of Bhairowal, the Britishers divested the Maharani of her powers and gave her a pension of Rs.1.5 lakh per year. In 1847 A.D. the Britishers detained the Maharani in the fort of Sheikhupura. In 1848 A. D., the Maharani was exiled to Banaras. Her annual pension was reduced to Rs. 12000/- per year. The maltreatment of Maharani Jindan by the British sent a wave of anger throughout Punjab.

5. Revolt of Diwan Moolraj : The revolt of Diwan Moolraj of Multan was one of the most potent causes, which led to the Second Anglo-Sikh War. In 1844 A.D. Diwan Moolraj was appointed the new Nazim of Multan. He was compelled to resign by the British in 1847 A.D. In March 1848 A.D. Sardar Kahan Singh was made the new Nazim of Multan. In order to take over the charge of Multan, two British officers, Vans Agnew and Anderson were sent alongwith Kahan Singh. Moolraj warmly welcomed them. On 20th April, some soldiers of Moolraj murdered both the officers and imprisoned Kahan Singh. Fredrick Currie held Moolraj responsible for the revolt of Multan.

It enraged Moolraj and he raised the banner of revolt against the British, The Governor-General of India Lord Dalhousie was on the look out for such a golden opportunity. He deliberately avoided the suppression of rebellion. He wanted that the revolt should flare up on a large-scale, so that he might find a pretext to swallow Punjab. Dr. Kirpal Singh aptly writes, “The spark which kindled a conflagration and reduced the sovereign state of the Punjab to ashes, rose from Multan.”

6. Revolt of Chattar Singh : Sardar Chattar Singh Attariwala was the Nazim of Hazara. He had grown suspicious of the designs of the British, when they intentionally delayed action to crush the revolt of Multan and showed harsh and unjust attitude towards Maharani Jindan. One of his soldiers had killed Col. Canora for misbehaving with S. Chattar Singh. For this the British dismissed Sardar Chattar Singh from his office and seized his Jagir. As a result the blood of Chattar Singh began to boil and he raised the banner of revolt against the British. Now the fire of revolt spread everywhere.

7. Revolt of Sher Singh : As has already been described that Sher Singh was the son of Chattar Singh and was the member of the Council of Regency. He was a staunch supporter of the British. But when Sher Singh came to know about the maltreatment meted out to his father by the Britishers, he too raised the banner of revolt against them on 14th September 1848 A.D. Through a declaration, he appealed to the people of Punjab, who had tasted Ranjit Singh’s salt, to rise in revolt against the treacherous Britishers. The Sikh soldiers responded to this appeal warmly and gathered under the banner of “Sher Singh.

8. Policy of Lord Dalhousie : In January 1848 A.D.; Lord Dalhousie became the new Governor-General of India. He was a great imperialist. By the Doctrine of Lapse and other methods he annexed many Indian States to the British Emjpire. After having taken possession of whole of India, Punjab was the only such state as could not yet be included to the British Empire. Dalhousie had been looking greedily towards Punjab for quite some time, and was on the look out for a golden opportunity. He got this opportunity, when Diwan Moolraj, Chattar Singh and Sher Singh raised their banner of revolt against the British.

Question 2.
Discuss in brief the events of the Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:
The imprudent policies being followed by the British further widened the gulf between them and the Sikhs. It brought them at the door step of Second Anglo-Sikh War. Lord Dalhousie had sent Lord Hugh Gough to suppress the revolts of Diwan Moolraj, Chattar Singh and Sher Singh. As a consequence the second Anglo-Sikh War was started. The main events of this war were as given ahead :

1. Battle of Ramnagar: The first battle of the Second Anglo-Sikh War between the Sikhs and the British took place at Ramnagar on 22nd November, 1848 A.D. Lord Hugh Gough was the commander of the British army, which comprised 20,000 soldiers and 100 guns. The Sikh army was commanded by Sher Singh, which comprised 15,000 soldiers. The Sikhs had already dug their ‘Morchas’ (trenches) at Ramnagar. When the soldiers of Lord Hugh Gough reached there, the Sikhs challenged them. The Sikhs inflicted a crushing defeat on the British. General Havelock and General Cureton were killed in the battlefield. From this battle Hugh Gough realized that it was not a child’s play to face the Sikhs.

2. Battle of Chillianwala : The battle of Chillianwala was one of the significant battles of the second Anglo-Sikh War. This battle was fought on 13th January, 1849 A.D. Lord Gough was of the view that he did not have a strong force to face Sher Singh. So, he was waiting for more reinforcement, but when Gough came to know that Chattar Singh with his soldiers was coming to the help of Sher Singh, he attacked the soldiers of Sher Singh on 13th January. It Was one of the hardest and fiercest battles. The Sikhs fought with great determination and daring. They wrought havoc in the British army. The British lost 695 soldiers, including 132 officers in the bat’tle and 1651 soldiers were wounded.

Four British Guns were also captured by the Sikhs. Sita Ram Kohli aptly says, “Chillianwala was the worst defeat the British had suffered since their occupation of India.” The heavy disaster of the British in the battle of Chillianwala created a stir in England. So, it was decided by the British Government to appoint Sir Charles Napier as Commander-in-Chief in place of Lord Hugh Gough.

3. Battle of Multan: Diwan Moolraj had raised the banner of revolt against the British at Multan in April 1848 A.D. The British had, at first, allowed the revolt to spread and later when Sher Singh joined Diwan Moolraj of Multan, they decided to act. War did take place between the British soldiers and the soldiers of Moolraj, but the British could not win any decisive victory. At last, the British played a trick. They wrote a forged letter and created a misunderstanding between Diwan Moolraj and Sher Singh. As a result, Sher Singh parted company with. Moolraj in October, 1848 A.D.

General Whish besieged the fort of Multan. Diwan Moolraj bravely resisted the British army. On 30th December, a shell hurled by the British fell on the gun-powder. As a result a big quantity of ammunition was destroyed and 500 soldiers of Moolraj were killed. Owing to this heavy loss, it became difficult for Moolraj to resist the British for long. At last, on 22nd January, 1849 A.D. Diwan Moolraj was forced to surrender to the British and he handed over the fort of Multan to them. The victory of Multan redeemed to a large extent the lost prestige of the Britishers suffered at Chillianwala.

4. Battle of Gujarat: The battle of Gujarat proved to be the most important and decisive battle of the Second Anglo-Sikh War. In this battle, Chattar Singh,

Sher Singh and Bhai Maharaj Singh made a united front against the British. In addition, the king of Afghanistan, Dost Mohammad also sent 3,000 cavaliers under the command of his son, Akbar Khan to help the Sikhs. In this battle, the Sikhs had a total army of 40,000 soldiers. On the other hand, the English army was still led by Lord Hugh Gough because Charles Napier had not yet reached India. The British army comprised 68,000 soldiers. In this battle, guns were extensively used by both the sides, because of which this battle is also famous in history as the Battle of Guns.

This battle started at 7.30 a.m. on 21st February, 1849 AD. The ammunition of the Sikhs was soon exhausted. When the Britishers came to know about it, they made a fierce attack on the Sikhs. The Sikh soldiers unsheathed their swords, but they could not resist the guns for long. The Sikhs suffered heavy losses in this battle. 3000 to 5000 of their soldiers were killed in the battle and 53 guns fell into the hands of the British. On the other hand, only 96 soldiers of the British army were killed. After this battle, the Sikh soldiers fled from the battlefield. The British army chased them. On 10th March, 1848 Chattar Singh, Sher Singh and other leaders surrendered near Rawalpindi before Gen. Gilbert. On 14th March the rest of the Sikh soldiers collectively surrendered before the General. While laying down their arms, the soldiers could not restrain their tears and were saying, “Today Ranjit Singh has died.” In this way, we see that the battle of Gujarat proved disastrous for the Sikh Empire. Patwant Singh aptly says, “Thus ended the Second Sikh War and with it the curtain came down on Ranjit Singh’s proud Empire.”

Question 3.
Discuss the main results of the Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:
The Second Anglo-Sikh war had far-reaching consequences. It may be summarised as follows :

1. End of the Empire of Maharaja Ranjit Singh : The most significant result of the Second Anglo-Sikh War was this that it completely brought an end to the empire, which Maharaja Ranjit Singh had built with great toils. In this connection a letter of declaration was read in the Lahore Darbar, on 29th March, 1849 A.D. The last Sikh Maharaja Dalip Singh was dethroned. He was allowed to live in any part of India except Punjab. The whole property of the Lahore Darbar was confiscated. The famous Kohinoor diamond was taken from Maharaja Dalip Singh and presented to Queen Victoria. After some time Maharaja Dalip Singh was sent to England. He died in Paris, in the year 1893 A.D.

2. Sikh Army was Disbanded : After the Second Anglo-Sikh War, the Sikh army was disbanded. Majority of these soldiers were engaged in farming. Those soldiers, whose loyalty was not in doubt, were recruited in the British Indian army.

3. Banishment of Moolraj and Bhai Maharaj Singh : Diwan Moolraj had been awarded the death sentence on the charge of the murder of two British officers. Later on it was converted into ‘Kalapani’. He was to be sent to Andaman but before that his health broke down. Consequently, he died on 11th August, 1851 A.D. at Calcutta. Bhai Maharaj Singh was at first kept in the Allahabad jail and then in the Calcutta jail. Later on, he was sent to the Singapore jail, where he died on 5th July, 1856 A.D.

4. Punishment to S. Chattar Singh and Sher Singh : The British Government had imprisoned Sardar Chattar Singh and his son Sher Singh. They were first kept in the Allahabad jail and then transferred to the Calcutta jail. In 1854 A.D. the government released both of them.

5. New Administration for the Punjab : After the annexation of the Punjab to the British Empire, the British established a Board of Administration to run the administration of the Punjab. It functioned from 1849 to 1853 A.D. During this period, the Britishers introduced many changes in the administrative structure of the Punjab. The North-West frontier was made safe. The Sikhs were disarmed. The police system was made more efficient. The judiciary was made more cheap and prompt. A network of roads and canals was laid in the Punjab. Agriculture was encouraged. Jagirdari system was abolished. Efforts were made to encourage trade. Western education was introduced in Punjab. As a result of these efforts, the British were able to restore peace and prosperity in Punjab. That is why, Punjab remained loyal to the British during the revolt of 1857.

6. Friendly Attitude towards Princely States of the Punjab : During the Second Anglo-Sikh War the states of Patiala, Nabha, Jind, Malerkotla, Faridkot and Kapurthala had given co-operation to the Britishers. So, the Britishers continued their friendly relations with-them and did not annex them to the British Empire. ”

Question 4.
What were the causes and results of the Second Anglo-Sikh War? Explain.
Or
Discuss the causes and results of the Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:

In the First Anglo-Sikh War the British emerged victorious and Sikhs were defeated in it. The Sikhs were enraged due to their humiliation by the treaties imposed upon them. It led to the Second Anglo-Sikh War. The main causes of the Second Anglo-Sikh War are given ahead :

1. Sikhs’ desire to avenge their defeat in the First Anglo-Sikh War : It is true that the Sikhs were defeated.in the first war against the Britishers, but this did not demoralise them. They knew very well that in the battle of Ferozeshah they had inflicted a crushing defeat on the Britishers. The main cause of this defeat was the treachery of Sikh leaders like Lai Singh and Teja Singh. The Sikh soldiers were confident of their ability. Therefore, they wanted to avenge their defeat. This strong desire of theirs became one of the main causes of the Second Anglo-Sikh War.

2. Punjabis were dissatisfied with the Treaties of Lahore and Bhairowal: After the First Anglo-Sikh War, the British forced the Lahore Darbar to sign the treaties of Lahore and Bhairowal. These treaties had, almost, ended the sovereignty of the Sikh Empire. Besides, through these treaties the British had taken possession of the famous areas like the Jalandhar Doab. They had handed over the area of Kashmir to their friend, Gulab Singh. Thus, the British had divided Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Raj into three parts. The people of the Punjab could not tolerate the ruining of the empire which Maharaja Ranjit Singh had built, bit by bit by the sweat of his brow. They wanted to retrieve their old glory. Therefore, the Sikhs had to fight one more war with the British.

3. Resentment among the Sikh Soldiers: According to the treaty of Lahore, the British had fixecf the strength of the Khalsa army at 20,000 infantry and 12,000 cavalry. Thousands of Sikh soldiers were disbanded. These jobless soldiers would wander about in the villages. They felt that it was the high-handedness of British Government.

4. Harsh treatment of Maharani Jindan: The humiliating treatment meted out to Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s widow, and Maharaja Dalip Singh’s mother, Maharani Jindan, further aggravated the resentment of the Sikhs. Through the treaty of Lahore, the Britishers had accepted Maharani Jindan as the regent of minor Maharaja Dalip Singh. She was a woman of high ambitions. It soon became clear to the British that as long as the administration of the Lahore Darbar was under the influence of the Maharani, they would not be able to have their own ways in Punjab.

That is why, under the treaty of Bhairowal, the Britishers divested the Maharani of her powers and gave her a pension of Rs.1.5 lakh per year. In 1847 A.D. the Britishers detained the Maharani in the fort of Sheikhupura. In 1848 A. D., the Maharani was exiled to Banaras. Her annual pension was reduced to Rs. 12000/- per year. The maltreatment of Maharani Jindan by the British sent a wave of anger throughout Punjab.

5. Revolt of Diwan Moolraj : The revolt of Diwan Moolraj of Multan was one of the most potent causes, which led to the Second Anglo-Sikh War. In 1844 A.D. Diwan Moolraj was appointed the new Nazim of Multan. He was compelled to resign by the British in 1847 A.D. In March 1848 A.D. Sardar Kahan Singh was made the new Nazim of Multan. In order to take over the charge of Multan, two British officers, Vans Agnew and Anderson were sent alongwith Kahan Singh. Moolraj warmly welcomed them. On 20th April, some soldiers of Moolraj murdered both the officers and imprisoned Kahan Singh. Fredrick Currie held Moolraj responsible for the revolt of Multan.

It enraged Moolraj and he raised the banner of revolt against the British, The Governor-General of India Lord Dalhousie was on the look out for such a golden opportunity. He deliberately avoided the suppression of rebellion. He wanted that the revolt should flare up on a large-scale, so that he might find a pretext to swallow Punjab. Dr. Kirpal Singh aptly writes, “The spark which kindled a conflagration and reduced the sovereign state of the Punjab to ashes, rose from Multan.”

6. Revolt of Chattar Singh : Sardar Chattar Singh Attariwala was the Nazim of Hazara. He had grown suspicious of the designs of the British, when they intentionally delayed action to crush the revolt of Multan and showed harsh and unjust attitude towards Maharani Jindan. One of his soldiers had killed Col. Canora for misbehaving with S. Chattar Singh. For this the British dismissed Sardar Chattar Singh from his office and seized his Jagir. As a result the blood of Chattar Singh began to boil and he raised the banner of revolt against the British. Now the fire of revolt spread everywhere.

7. Revolt of Sher Singh : As has already been described that Sher Singh was the son of Chattar Singh and was the member of the Council of Regency. He was a staunch supporter of the British. But when Sher Singh came to know about the maltreatment meted out to his father by the Britishers, he too raised the banner of revolt against them on 14th September 1848 A.D. Through a declaration, he appealed to the people of Punjab, who had tasted Ranjit Singh’s salt, to rise in revolt against the treacherous Britishers. The Sikh soldiers responded to this appeal warmly and gathered under the banner of “Sher Singh.

8. Policy of Lord Dalhousie : In January 1848 A.D.; Lord Dalhousie became the new Governor-General of India. He was a great imperialist. By the Doctrine of Lapse and other methods he annexed many Indian States to the British Emjpire. After having taken possession of whole of India, Punjab was the only such state as could not yet be included to the British Empire. Dalhousie had been looking greedily towards Punjab for quite some time, and was on the look out for a golden opportunity. He got this opportunity, when Diwan Moolraj, Chattar Singh and Sher Singh raised their banner of revolt against the British.

The imprudent policies being followed by the British further widened the gulf between them and the Sikhs. It brought them at the door step of Second Anglo-Sikh War. Lord Dalhousie had sent Lord Hugh Gough to suppress the revolts of Diwan Moolraj, Chattar Singh and Sher Singh. As a consequence the second Anglo-Sikh War was started. The main events of this war were as given a head:

1. Battle of Ramnagar: The first battle of the Second Anglo-Sikh War between the Sikhs and the British took place at Ramnagar on 22nd November, 1848 A.D. Lord Hugh Gough was the commander of the British army, which comprised 20,000 soldiers and 100 guns. The Sikh army was commanded by Sher Singh, which comprised 15,000 soldiers. The Sikhs had already dug their ‘Morchas’ (trenches) at Ramnagar. When the soldiers of Lord Hugh Gough reached there, the Sikhs challenged them. The Sikhs inflicted a crushing defeat on the British. General Havelock and General Cureton were killed in the battlefield. From this battle Hugh Gough realized that it was not a child’s play to face the Sikhs.

2. Battle of Chillianwala : The battle of Chillianwala was one of the significant battles of the second Anglo-Sikh War. This battle was fought on 13th January, 1849 A.D. Lord Gough was of the view that he did not have a strong force to face Sher Singh. So, he was waiting for more reinforcement, but when Gough came to know that Chattar Singh with his soldiers was coming to the help of Sher Singh, he attacked the soldiers of Sher Singh on 13th January. It Was one of the hardest and fiercest battles. The Sikhs fought with great determination and daring. They wrought havoc in the British army. The British lost 695 soldiers, including 132 officers in the bat’tle and 1651 soldiers were wounded.

Four British Guns were also captured by the Sikhs. Sita Ram Kohli aptly says, “Chillianwala was the worst defeat the British had suffered since their occupation of India.” The heavy disaster of the British in the battle of Chillianwala created a stir in England. So, it was decided by the British Government to appoint Sir Charles Napier as Commander-in-Chief in place of Lord Hugh Gough.

3. Battle of Multan: Diwan Moolraj had raised the banner of revolt against the British at Multan in April 1848 A.D. The British had, at first, allowed the revolt to spread and later when Sher Singh joined Diwan Moolraj of Multan, they decided to act. War did take place between the British soldiers and the soldiers of Moolraj, but the British could not win any decisive victory. At last, the British played a trick. They wrote a forged letter and created a misunderstanding between Diwan Moolraj and Sher Singh. As a result, Sher Singh parted company with. Moolraj in October, 1848 A.D.

General Whish besieged the fort of Multan. Diwan Moolraj bravely resisted the British army. On 30th December, a shell hurled by the British fell on the gun-powder. As a result a big quantity of ammunition was destroyed and 500 soldiers of Moolraj were killed. Owing to this heavy loss, it became difficult for Moolraj to resist the British for long. At last, on 22nd January, 1849 A.D. Diwan Moolraj was forced to surrender to the British and he handed over the fort of Multan to them. The victory of Multan redeemed to a large extent the lost prestige of the Britishers suffered at Chillianwala.

4. Battle of Gujarat: The battle of Gujarat proved to be the most important and decisive battle of the Second Anglo-Sikh War. In this battle, Chattar Singh, Sher Singh and Bhai Maharaj Singh made a united front against the British. In addition, the king of Afghanistan, Dost Mohammad also sent 3,000 cavaliers under the command of his son, Akbar Khan to help the Sikhs. In this battle, the Sikhs had a total army of 40,000 soldiers. On the other hand, the English army was still led by Lord Hugh Gough because Charles Napier had not yet reached India. The British army comprised 68,000 soldiers. In this battle, guns were extensively used by both the sides, because of which this battle is also famous in history as the Battle of Guns.

This battle started at 7.30 a.m. on 21st February, 1849 AD. The ammunition of the Sikhs was soon exhausted. When the Britishers came to know about it, they made a fierce attack on the Sikhs. The Sikh soldiers unsheathed their swords, but they could not resist the guns for long. The Sikhs suffered heavy losses in this battle. 3000 to 5000 of their soldiers were killed in the battle and 53 guns fell into the hands of the British. On the other hand, only 96 soldiers of the British army were killed. After this battle, the Sikh soldiers fled from the battlefield.

The British army chased them. On 10th March, 1848 Chattar Singh, Sher Singh and other leaders surrendered near Rawalpindi before Gen. Gilbert. On 14th March the rest of the Sikh soldiers collectively surrendered before the General. While laying down their arms, the soldiers could not restrain their tears and were saying, “Today Ranjit Singh has died.” In this way, we see that the battle of Gujarat proved disastrous for the Sikh Empire. Patwant Singh aptly says, “Thus ended the Second Sikh War and with it the curtain came down on Ranjit Singh’s proud Empire.”

Question 5.
“Annexation of the Punjab was a violent breach of trust.” Discuss briefly.
Or
Explain critically Lord Dalhousie’s Annexation of Punjab. “The Annexation of Punjab by Lord Dalhousie to the British Empire was unprincipled and unjustified.” Do you agree to this view? Give arguments in your favour.
Answer:
Lord Dalhousie became the Governor-General of India in 1848 A.D. He was the greatest imperialist of all the Governor-Generals, who had come to India, so far. He adopted many methods to expand the British empire in India. The Punjab also fell a victim to his imperialist policies. He had been looking greedily towards the Punjab right from the beginning. Soon, his dream came out to be true. The Sikhs were defeated in the Second Anglo-Sikh War. On 29th March 1849 A.D., a Darbar was called at Lahore. At this Darbar Henry Elliot, the Foreign Secretary of the British read a proclamation of the Governor-General, in which it was said that from that day the Lahore Raj was being put to an end, and Maharaja Dalip Singh’s kingdom was being annexed to the British Empire.

Arguments in favour of Dalhousie’s Policy of Annexation:

The historians like W.W. Hunter, Marshman and S.M. Latif etc. have supported Lord Dalhousie’s policy of annexation of. Punjab to the British empire on the following grounds :

1. Sikhs had broken their Promises : Lord Dalhousie had accused that the Sikhs had violated the terms of the treaty of Bhairowal. Through this treaty, the Sikhs had promised to,co-operate with the British Resident, but the Sikhs did not keep the word. On the contrary, they tried to spread disturbance by raising the banner of revolt against the British. Lord Dalhousie termed Diwan Moolraj’s revolt as the revolt of the whole Sikh community. According to him the objective of this revolt was only to drive out the British and to revive the Sikh rule in Punjab. Sardar Chattar Singh and his son Sher Singh revolted and supported Moolraj. In this way, to tide over the deteriorating conditions, the annexation of Punjab to the British Empire was essential. That is why Lord Dalhousie said, “I have an undoubting conviction of the’expediency, the justice and necessity of my act.”

Many historians like Evans Bell, Jagmohan Mahajan, Ganda Singh and Khushwant Singh etc. have described the annexation of-the Punjab to the British Empire as unprincipled, unjustified and treachery with the Sikhs. They put forward the following arguments

1. Sikhs provoked to Revolt: Between the end of the First Anglo-Sikh War and the beginning of the Second Anglo-Sikh War, many such events took place as provoked the Sikhs to revolt. According to the treaty of Lahore, the Britishers had snatched away important areas of Punjab which badly affected its treasury. The majority of the army of the Lahore Darbar was disbanded, as a result of this, resentment among these soldiers against the British was natural. The Britishers had meted out a shabby treatment to Maharani Jindan. They forced Diwan Moolraj and Sardar Chattar Singh to revolt. In this way, the Sikhs were compelled to rise against the British.

2. Revolt was-not suppressed in time : When the fire of revolt broke out in Multan, it could have been controlled there and then. But the Governor-General, Lord Dalhousie, deliberatedly avoided the suppression of the revolt, so, that he might get the required pretext to swallow Punjab. To let the revolt linger on for eight months, was a politically motivated move. During this time Chattar Singh, Sher Singh and Bhai Maharaj Singh had also raised the banner of revo

2. Punjab remained no more a good Buffer State : After the First Anglo- Sikh War, Lord Hardinge had not annexed Punjab to the British Empire because he had held the opinion that the Punjab would prove a useful buffer state between Afghanistan and the Britishers. As a result, the British empire would not have to face any danger from Afghanistan. But his opinion proved to be wrong. A friendship came to be established between the Sikhs and the AfghAnswer: The ruler of Afghanistan helped the Sikhs against the British in the Second Anglo-Sikh War. So, Lord Dalhousie considered the annexation of the Punjab to the British empire essential.

3. Non-payment of the Loans : Lord Dalhousie levelled a charge against the Lahore Darbar that according to the terms of the treaty of Bhairowal, she was to pay Rs. 22 lakhs annually to the British. But the Lahore Darbar broke this term also. It did not pay even a single penny to the British. Besides, it did not make payment of that loan which it owed to the Britishers. Therefore, the annexation of the Punjab was justified. Singh and Bhai Maharaj Singh had also raised the banner of revolt. In this way, the British got the much needed pretext to wage a war against Punjab and its annexation.

4. It was advantageous to annex Punjab : After the victory in the First Anglo-Sikh War, the British had not annexed Punjab to the British Empire. One of its main reasons was that the British held the view that the Punjab was not a useful state from the economic point of view. But after having lived in the Punjab for two years, they realised that it could prove useful to them not only from the economic point of view but also from many other angles. Owing to these reasons, Lord Dalhousie decided to take possession of the Punjab.

5. Advantageous for the people of Punjab : Another argument advanced in favour of the annexation of the Punjab by Lord Dalhousie is that it was advantageous to the people of Punjab. After the death of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, anarchy had prevailed in Punjab. Under such circumstances, Punjab had become a propitious ground for thieves, dacoits and imposters. Their activities had made the nights of the people sleepless. The British restored peace here after annexing Punjab to the British Empire. Police system and judicial system were toned up. Agriculture and trade were encouraged. Arrangements were made to impart western education to the people. In short, the annexation of Punjab to the British Empire on the whole proved useful for the people.

6. Annexation of the Punjab was inevitable : It is said that if the Punjab had not been annexed to’the British Empire, the Sikhs would have continued to hatch conspiracies against the British Empire for their freedom. It would have affected the other parts of India also. This thing could prove dangerous to the British Empire. In order to avert this danger, Lord Dalhousie considered it necessary to annex the Punjab to the British Empire.

Arguments against Dalhousie’s Policy of Annexation:

3. British had not fulfilled the terms of the Treaty : It was said by the British that they had stood by all the promises. An assessment made, brings to light the fact that the British had fulfilled only those terms of the treaty, which looked advantageous to them. For instance, according to the treaty of Lahore, the British had accepted the term that they would withdraw their forces from Lahore after December 1846 A.D. Before that time, they imposed the treaty of Bhairowal on the Sikhs and extended this period of withdrawal. Thus, the Britishers’ assertion that they fulfilled all the terms of the treaty is a white lie.

4. Lahore Darbar gave full co-operation in fulfilling the terms of the Treaty: The assertion of the British that the Lahore Darbar had violated the terms of the treaty was a white lie. The Lahore Darbar continued to fulfil faithfully the terms of the treaty till the British finally took over the Punjab. The Lahore Government was bearing the whole expense of the British army posted in Punjab. It condemned the revolts of Diwan Moolraj, Chattar Singh and Sher Singh, and also co-operated fully with the British army to crush these revolts.

5. Facts about Loan : The charge levelled by Lord Dalhousie that the Lahore Darbar did not repay-even a single penny of the loan was also baseless. On 23rd February, 1848 A.D. the British Resident at Lahore, Fredrick Currie, wrote a letter to Lord Dalhousie in which it was said that the Lahore Darbar had deposited gold worthRs. 13, 56, 837. By this payment they had reduced the sum of their loan from Rs. 40 lakhs to less than Rs. 27 lakhs. If the Lahore Darbar did not repay the entire amount of its loan, the responsibility for it lay on the British Resident who was answerable for the administration of Lahore.

6. The whole Sikh Army and the people did not Revolt: Lord Dalhousie had charged that the entire Sikh army of the Punjab-in collusion with the people had revolted against the British. It necessitated the possession of the Punjab by the British. But there is not an iota of truth in this statement of Lord Dalhousie. The revolt against the British had taken place only in Multan and Hazara provinces of the Punjab. Most of the Sikh army and the people remained loyal to the British. To punish the whole of Punjab under such circumstances, was totally wrong.

7. Annexation of Punjab was a Breach of Trust : The annexation of Punjab by the British was a breach of trust. According to the Bhairowal treaty of Dec. 1846 A.D., the British had taken over the administration of Punjab entirely in their own hands. After banishing Rani Jindan, the Britishers had taken over the patronage and upbringing of Dalip Singh till 4th September, 1854 A.D. The British had kept their army in Lahore for the purpose of maintaining peace in the Punjab, and had also begun to charge 22 lakh rupees annually from the Lahore Darbar. Under such situation, the whole responsibility of suppressing the revolts of Multan and Hazara lay with the British Resident.

This was not the responsibility of Dalip Singh by any stretch of imagination. If anybody failed in suppressing the revolts, then it was none else, but the British Resident. To penalise Dalip Singh for their own fault was wholly unjustified. If it was not a breach of trust then what was it? It becomes clear from the details given above that the annexation of the Punjab to the British Empire was wholly unjustified from the political and moral point of view. In the end we agree with these words of Major Evans Bell, “It was, in fact, no conquest, but a violent breach of trust.”

Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Explain in brief the causes of Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Or
Give a brief description of the main causes of the Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Or
What were the three main causes for the Second Anglo-Sikh War?
Or
Describe any three main reasons of the Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:

• The Sikhs were defeated in the First Anglo-Sikh war, so they wanted to take revenge for their defeat,
• The British ill-treated Maharani Jindan, the widow of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Her insult infuriated the Sikhs,
• Diwan Moolraj, raised the banner of revolt against the British,
• Lord Dalhousie became the new Governor-General of India in 1848 A.D. He wanted to annex the Punjab to the British Empire.
• The revolts of Chattar Singh and Sher Singh precipitated the crisis.

Question 2.
Write a note on the revolt of Diwan Moolraj of Multan.
Answer:
Diwan Moolraj was appointed the Nazim (Governor) of Multan in 1844 A.D. The amount of revenue paid by him was raised. As a result he resigned from the post of Nazim. Kahan Singh was appointed as the new Governor of Multan. Two British officers Agnew and Anderson were sent to assist him. But on April 20, some soldiers murdered both the British officers. The British blamed Moolraj for this which compelled Moolraj to revolt against the British.

Question 3.
What do you know about the revolt of Chattar Singh?
Answer:
Sardar Chattar Singh Attariwala was the Nazim of Hazara. Instigated by Captain Abbott, the Muslims of Hazara attacked the residence of Chattar Singh on 6th August, 1848 A.D. On seeing this Sardar Chattar Singh ordered Col. Canora to take action against the rebels. Col. Canora who was in league with Captain Abbott, refused to comply with the orders of Chattar Singh. Capitain Abbott dismissed Sardar Chattar Singh from his office. As a result, Chattar Singh raised the banner of revolt against the British.

Question 4.
Write a brief note on the battle of Chillianwala.
Answer:
The battle of Chillianwala was an important battle of the Second Anglo- Sikh War. Lord Hugh Gough who was commanding the British forces was waiting for more military assistance to face the forces of Sher Singh. Well before Chattar Singh could reach Hugh Gough attacked the forces of Sher Singh at Chillianwala on January 13,1849 A.D. In this pitched battle the Sikhs fought like devils and their artillery took a heavy toll.

Question 5.
What was the importance of the battle of Gujarat in the Second Anglo-Sikh War?
Answer:
The battle of Gujarat was the last and the most decisive battle of the Second Anglo-Sikh War. It was fought on February 21, 1849 A.D. In this battle the number of Sikh troops was 40,000. They were jointly led by Chattar Singh, Sher Singh and Bhai Maharaj Singh. On the other hand, the number of British troops was 68,000. They were commanded by Lord Hugh Gough. After the British victory in this battle on March 29, 1849 A.D., they annexed Punjab to their Empire.

Question 6.
What were the results of the Second Anglo-Sikh War?
Or
Study in brief the results of the Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Or
Explain the three effects of the Second Ahglo-Sikh War.
Or
What were the consequences of the Second Anglo-Sikh War?
Or
Discuss about the three main results of the Second Anglo-Sikh War?
Answer:

• The most important outcome of the Second Anglo-Sikh War was that the Punjab was annexed to the British Empire on March 29, 1849 A.D.
• The last ruler, Maharaja Dalip Singh was dethroned. It was decided to give him annual pension of £ 50,000.
• The world famous Kohinoor diamond was taken away from him and was presented to Queen Victoria.
• Diwan Moolraj and Maharaj Dalip Singh were exiled,
• A Board of Administration was constituted to run the administration of Punjab.

Question 7.
Was it proper for Lord Dalhousie to annex Punjab to the British Empire? Give arguments in support of your answer.
Or
“Annexation of Punjab was a violent breach of trust”. Explain.
Or
Was the annexation of Punjab justified? Give reasons.
Answer:
The annexation of Punjab to the British Empire cannot be justified on any ground. The British had taken many important regions of the Punjab according to the Treaty of Lahore. Most of the army of Lahore kingdom was disbanded which created resentment among the Sikhs against the British. The British divested Maharani Jindan of all her power. Diwan Moolraj, the Governor of Multan and Chattar Singh, the Governor of Hazara were forced to revolt.

Question 8.
Give arguments in favour of Dalhousie’s annexation of the Punjab to the British Empire.
Or
Give any three arguments in favour of Dalhousie’s policy of the annexation of Punjab.
Answer:

• After the death of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, anarchy and lawlessness had prevailed in Punjab,
• The British had established peace in Punjab after annexing it to their Empire.,
• Punjab had violated the terms of the treaty,
• Diwan Moolraj, Sardar Chattar Singh and his son Sher Singh had raised the banner of revolt against the British.
• Punjab could pose a big danger to the British Empire at any time.

Question 9.
Write a brief note on Maharaja Dalip Singh.
Answer:
Maharaja Dalip Singh was the youngest son of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. He became the ruler of Punjab.on September 15, 1843 A.D. Maharaja Dalip Singh appointed Lai Singh as the Prime Minister of Punjab. He was already in league with the British. Consequently, the Sikhs had to face defeat in the Anglo- Sikh Wars. The British dethroned Maharaja Dalip Singh. Maharaja Dalip-Singh died in Paris bn October 22, 1893 A.D.

Question 10.
Write a brief note on Maharani Jind Kaur’(Jindan).
Or
What do you know about Maharani Jindan?
Answer:
Maharani Jindan was queen of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. When Dalip Singh became the new king of the Punjab on September 15, 1843 A.D., Maharani Jindan was appointed his regent. She was dispossessed of all her powers through the Treaty of Bhairowal. Maharani Jindan succeeded in reaching Nepal in disguise in April 1849 A.D. The English did not allow Maharani Jindan and Dalip Singh to live together. On August 1, 1863, she died broken-hearted.

Question 11.
Write a note on Bhai Maharaj Singh.
Answer:
Bhai Maharaj Singh was the disciple of famous Naurangabad saint Bhai. Bir Singh. He was in favour of indepenence of Punjab. He inspired Diwan Moolraj of Multan, Sardar Chatar Singh Attariwala of Hazara and his son Sher Singh to raise the banner of revolt against the British. He himself took the leading part in all the battles of Second Anglo-Sikh War. He died in Singapore jail of 5th July, 1856 A.D.

Objective Type Questions:

Question 1. When was the Second Anglo-Sikh War fought?
Answer:
1848-49 A.D.

Question 2.
Who was the Governor-General of Punjab at the time of Second Anglo- Sikh War?
Answer:
Lord Dalhousie.

Question 3.
Mention any one cause of the Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:
The Sikhs wanted to take revenge of their defeat in the First Anglo-Sikh War.

Question 4.
Who was Maharani Jindan?
Answer:
Widow of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and mother of Maharaja Dalip Singh.

Question 5.
Who was Diwan Moolraj?
Answer:
Nazim (Governor) of Multan.

Question 6.
Give any one cause of Diwan Moolraj’s revolt against the British.
Answer:
The British had greatly enhanced the amount of land revenue to be realised from Diwan Moolraj.

Question 7.
Who was Chattar Singh Attariwala.
Answer:
Nazim of Hazara.

Question 8.
Who was Sardar Sher Singh?
Answer:
Son of Sardar Chattar Singh Attariwala.

Question 9.
Why did Sher Singh start revolt against the English?
Answer:
Because of the ill-treatment done to his father by the English.

Question 10.
Who was Bhai Maharaj Singh?
Answer:
The famous saint of Naurangabad.

Question 11.
As a result of whose revolt, the Second Anglo-Sikh War start?
Answer:
Diwan Moolraj.

Question 12.
When was the battle of Ram Nagar fought?
Answer:
Nov. 22, 1848 A.D.

Question 13.
When was the battle of Chillianwala fought?
Answer:
January 13, 1849 A.D.

Question 14.
Which was the last battle of the Second Anglo-Sikh War?
Answer:
Battle of Gujarat.

Question 15.
When was the battle of Gujarat fought?
Answer:
February. 21, 1849 A.D.

Question 16.
Name the battle of Second Anglo-Sikh War which is known as the battle of Cannons in History.
Answer:
The battle of Gujarat.

Question 17.
Mention any one important result of the Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:
Punjab was annexed to the British Empire.

Question 18.
When did the English annex Punjab?
Or
When was annexation of Punjab to British Empire done?
Or
When was Punjab annexed to the British Empire?
Answer:
29th March, 1849 A.D.

Question 19.
Name one argument extended by Lord Dalhousie for annexing Punjab to the British Empire.
Answer:
The annexation of Punjab to the British Empire was beneficial for the people of Punjab.

Question 20.
Give any one arguement against Lord Dalhousie’s annexation of Punjab to the British Empire.
Answer:
A false allegation of violating the treaty of Bhairowal was levelled against the Sikhs.

Question 21.
Who was the last King of Punjab?
Or
Who was the last Sikh Maharaja of Punjab?
Or
Who was the last Sikh Maharaja of the Sikhs?
Answer:
Maharaja Dalip Singh.

Question 22.
Where did Maharaja Dalip Singh did?
Answer:
In Paris.

Question 23.
When did Maharani Jindan die?
Answer:
In 1863 A.D.

Question 24.
Write any one cause of the downfall of Sikh Kingdom.
Answer:
The successors of Maharaja Ranjit Singh were incompetent and weak.

Fill in the blanks :

1. The Second Anglo-Sikh war took place in …………….. A.D.
Answer:
1848-49

2 was the Governor-General of India at the time of Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:
Lord Dalhousie

3. At the time of Second Anglo-Sikh War the Maharaja of Punjab was ……………
Answer:
Maharaja Dalip Singh

4. Maharani ………….. was the mother of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Jindan

5. ……………. became the Nazim of Multan in 1844 A.D.
Answer:
Diwan Mool Raj

6. Sardar Chattar Singh Attariwala was the Nazim of ……………..
Answer:
Hazara

7. The battle of ………………… was the first battle of the Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:
Ram Nagar

8. The battle of Ram Nagar was fought on ……………
Answer:
November 22, 1848 A.D.

9. The battle of Chillianwala was fought on ……………
Answer:
January 13, 1849 A.D.

10. The battle of Gujarat is known as the Battle of ……………… in history.
Answer:
Cannons

11. The English annexed Punjab to British Empire on ……………..
Answer:
March 29, 1849 A.D.

True or False:

1. The Second Anglo-Sikh War was fought during 1848-1849 A.D.
Answer:
True

2. Lord Dalhousie was the Governor-General of India at the time of Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:
True

3. Maharaja Dalip Singh was the Maharaja of Punjab during the Second Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:
True

4. Maharani Jindan was the mother of Dalip Singh.
Answer:
True

5. Diwan Moolraj became the Nazim of Multan in 1846 A.D.
Answer:
False

6. Second Anglo-Sikh War started with the battle of Ram Nagar.
Answer:
True

7. The battle of Ram Nagar took place on 12th November, 1848 A.D.
Answer:
False

8. The battle of Chillianwala was fought on January 13, 1849 A.D.
Answer:
True

9. In the battle of Chillianwala, the British army got a worst defeat.
Answer:
True

10. The Second Anglo-Sikh War ended with the battle of Gujarat.
Answer:
True

11. The battle of Gujarat was fought on February 21, 1849 A.D.
Answer:
True

12. Punjab was annexed to the British Empire on March 29, 1849 A.D.
Answer:
True

13. Maharaja Dalip Singh was the last Sikh ruler.
Answer:
True

14. Last Maharaja of Sikhs was Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
False

Multiple Choice Questions:

1. When was the Second Anglo-Sikh War fought?
(a) 1844-45 A.D.
(b) 1845-46 A.D.
(c) 1847-48 A.D.
(d) 1848-49 A.D.
Answer:
(d) 1848-49 A.D.

2. Who was the Governor General of Punjab ar the time of Second Anglo-Sikh War?
(a) Lord Lytton
(b) Lord Ripon
(c) Lord Dalhousie
(d) Lord Hardinge.
Answer:
(c) Lord Dalhousie

3. Who was the ruler of Punjab at the time of Second Anglo-Sikh War?
(a) Maharaja Sher Singh
(b) Maharaja Ranjit Singh
(c) Maharaja Dalip Singh
(d) Maharaja Kharaj Singh
Answer:
(c) Maharaja Dalip Singh

4. Who was Maharani Jindan?
(a) Mother of Maharaja Dalip Singh
(b) Sister of Maharaja Kharak Singh
(c) Wife of Maharaja Sher Singh
(d) Daughter of Raja Gulab Singh.
Answer:
(a) Mother of Maharaja Dalip Singh

5. Who was Diwan Moolraj?
(a) Nazim of Gujarat
(b) Nazim of Multan
(c) Nazim of Kashmir
(d) Nazim of peshawar
Answer:
(b) Nazim of Multan

6. When did Diwan Moolraj revolt against the English?
(a) 1844 A.D.
(b) 1845 A.D.
(c) 1846 A.D.
(d) 1848 A.D.
Answer:
(d) 1848 A.D.

7. Chattar Singh Attariwala was the Nazim of which place?
(a) Hazara
(b) Multan
(c) Kashmir
(d) Peshawar
Answer:
(a) Hazara

8. With which battle started the Second Anglo-Sikh War?
(a) Battle of Multan
(b) Battle of Chillianwala
(c) Battle of Gujarat
(d) Battle of Ram Nagar.
Answer:
(d) Battle of Ram Nagar.

9. When was the battle of Ram Nagar fought?
(a) November 12, 1846 A.D.
(b) November 15, 1847 A.D.
(c) November 17, 1848 A.D.
(d) November 22, 1848 A.D.
Answer:
(d) November 22, 1848 A.D.

10. When was the battle of Chillianwala fought?
(a) November 22, 1848 A.D.
(b) January 3, 1848 A.D.
(c) January 10, 1849 A.D.
(d) January 13, 1849 A.D.
Answer:
(d) January 13, 1849 A.D.

11. When was the Battle of Multan ended?
(a) January 22, 1849 A.D.
(b) January 23, 1849 A.D.
(c) January 24, 1849 A.D.
(d) January 25, 1849 A.D.
Answer:
(a) January 22, 1849 A.D.

12. With which battle ended the Second Anglo-Sikh War?
Or
Name the battle of Second Anglo-Sikh War which is known as battle of Cannons in History.
(a) Battle of Multan
(b) Battle of Ram Nagar
(c) Battle of Gujarat
(d) Battle of Chillianwala.
Answer:
(c) Battle of Gujarat

13. When was the battle of Gujarat fought?
(a) November 22, 1848 A.D.
(b) January 13, 1849 A.D.
(c) January 22, 1849 A.D.
(d) February 21, 1849 A.D.
Answer:
(d) February 21, 1849 A.D.

14. When was Punjab annexed to the British Empire?
(a) March 10, 1849 A.D.
(b) March 14, 1849 A.D.
(c) March 29, 1849 A.D.
(d) March 29, 1850 A.D.
Answer:
(c) March 29, 1849 A.D.

15. Who was the last Sikh Maharaja of Punjab?
(a) Maharaja Dalip Singh
(b) Maharaja Ranjit Singh
(c) Maharaja Kharak Singh
(d) Maharaja Sher Singh.
Answer:
(a) Maharaja Dalip Singh

16. When did Maharaja Dalip Singh die?
(a) 1857 A.D.
(b) 1893 A.D.
(c) 1849 A.D.
(d) 1892 A.D.
Answer:
(b) 1893 A.D.

17. Where did Maharaja Dalip Singh die?
(a) Punjab
(b) Nepal
(c) Paris
(d) London.
Answer:
(c) Paris

Punjab State Board PSEB 12th Class History Book Solutions Chapter 22 First Anglo-Sikh War: Causes and Results Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.

PSEB Solutions for Class 12 History Chapter 22 First Anglo-Sikh War: Causes and Results

Long Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Give a brief description of the main causes of the First Anglo-Sikh War.
Or
Give the causes of the First Anglo-Sikh War.
Or
What were the five main causes of the First Anglo-Sikh War?
Or
Briefly describe the five main causes of the First Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:
1. British Policy of Encircling Punjab: The British had been greedily looking towards Punjab for quite some time with a view to bringing it under their control. By signing the treaty of Amritsar with Ranjit Singh in 1809 A.D., the British had forever checked Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s advancement towards the Cis-Sutlej areas. In 1835-36 A.D., the Britishers forced Maharaja Ranjit Singh to withdraw his forces from Shikarpur and occupy it. In 1835 A.D. the Britishers took possession of Ferozepur. In 1838 A.D., the Britishers set up a military cantonment at Ferozepur. As a result, a war between the British and the Sikhs’had become inevitable.

2. Anarchy in Punjab: After the death of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in June 1839 A.D., anarchy had spread in Punjab. A period of conspiracies and killings for the occupation of the throne had started. During 6 years from 1839 A.D. to 1845 A.D., as many as, 5 governments changed. The Dogras through their conspiracies finished many members of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s family. This situation was an invitation to the Britishers.

3. Defeat of the British in the First Anglo-Afghan War: The First Anglo-Afghan War which was fought from 1839 to 1842 A.D., left a deep impact on the Anglo-Sikh relationship. This area was geographically very significant. Although the Amirs of Sind were very loyal to the British yet by leveling false allegations Lord Ellenborough declared war against Sind. In 1843 A.D. the British brought Sind under their control. Since the Sikhs wanted to annex Sind to their empire, it further embittered Anglo-Sikh relations.

4. Occupation of Sind by the British: This area was geographically very significant. Although the Amirs of Sind were very loyal to the British yet by leveling false allegations Lord Ellenborough declared war against Sind. In 1843 A.D. the British brought Sind under their control. Since the Sikhs wanted to annex Sind to their empire, it further embittered Anglo-Sikh relations.

5. Appointment of Major Broadfoot: In November 1844 A.D., Major Broadfoot was appointed in place of Mr. Clark, as the political agent of Ludhiana. He was a bitter opponent of Sikhs. He came with this view in his mind to the frontiers of Punjab that the British had decided to fight a war with the Sikhs.

Question 2.
Write a brief note on the battle of Mudki.
Answer:
The first important battle between the Sikhs and the British was fought at Mudki on December 18, 1845 A.D. In this battle, the number of Sikh soldiers was 5500 and Lai Singh commanded them. On the other hand, the British had 12,000 soldiers and they were commanded by Hugh Gough. The British thought that they would defeat the Sikhs very easily, but the Sikhs launched such a forceful attack on the British army that it created consternation among them. Lai Singh got scared to see it. He had come to get the Sikh army defeated, but the tables were turned on the British.

At this, he fled away from the battlefield along with some of his soldiers: Even then the Sikhs continued fighting the British bravely. But in the absence of their commander, and being fewer in number, the Sikhs were ultimately defeated. The British had won the war at an enormous cost because in this battle many of their famous warriors were killed. Moreover, the British realized that it was not a child’s play to gain victory over the Sikhs.

Question 3.
What do you know about the battle of Ferozshah or Pherushahr?
Answer:
A fierce battle took place between the Sikhs and the British at Ferozshah on December 21, 1845 A.D. The number of British soldiers was 17 thousand in this battle and they had 69 cannons. Their command was in the hands of experienced generals like Hugh Gough, John Littler, and Lord Hardinge. On the other hand, the Sikh soldiers were about 25 to 30 thousand and they had 100 cannons. The Sikh army was led by traitors like Lai Singh and Teja Singh.

In this battle, the Sikhs attacked the British army so forcefully that they suffered heavy casualties. They even began to think of surrendering before the Sikh army without any condition. But luck favored the British. On December 22, due to the treachery of Lai Singh and Teja Singh, the Sikh forces were defeated. In this battle, the Sikhs suffered a heavy loss of life.

Question 4.
Write a brief note on the battle of Sobraon.
Answer:
The battle of Sobraon was the last decisive battle of the First Anglo-Sikh War. It was fought on February 10, 1846 A.D. The Sikhs and the British had made full preparations for this battle. Famous generals like Hugh Gough, Lord Hardinge, and others were commanding the British forces. On the other hand, Lai Singh and Teja Singh were commanding the Sikh army. Both these traitors had given the British, all the necessary information well before the battle started.

They were the first to flee soon after the first assault. Moreover, they dismantled the boat bridge over the river Sutlej. Consequently, thousands of Sikh soldiers were drowned. At this critical juncture, Sham Singh Attariwala took over the command and pushed the British hard. Ultimately the Sikhs were defeated and suffered heavy casualties. In fact, the battle of Sobraon proved as “Waterloo” for the Sikhs.

Question 5.
Write a brief note on the Treaty of Lahore (March 9, 1846 A.D.).
Answer:
As a result of the First Anglo-Sikh War, a treaty was signed between the British Government and Lahore Darbar on March 9, 1846 A.D. This treaty is famous in history aS the Treaty of Lahore. Following were the main terms of the treaty:

• Maharaja Dalip Singh and his successors would always maintain peace and friendship with the British government.
• The Maharaja of Lahore accepted that he and his successors would have no claim on the region to the south of the Sutlej river forever.
• The Maharaja handed over all the forts of plains and hills between the Sutlej and the Beas to the British.
• The British demanded a heavy amount of 1.50 crore rupees as a ransom for the war. Such a big amount could not be had from the treasury of Lahore Darbar. So the region of Kashmir and Hazara was given to the British for Rs. one crore with a promise to pay the remaining amount of 50 lakh rupees from the treasury.
• Lahore’s army was reduced to 20,000 infantry and 12,000 cavalry.
• The British forces could pass through the Lahore empire whenever the need be.
• The Maharaja promised that he would not employ any European, American, or English without the permission of the British.
• The British accepted Maharaja Dalip Singh as the ruler of Lahore, Queen Jindan as the regent of Maharaja Dalip Singh, and Lai Singh as the Prime Minister.
• The British would not interfere in the internal affairs of Lahore Darbar but they would advise as and when required.

Question 6.
What do you know about the Treaty of Bhairowal?
Answer:
The treaty of Bhairowal was signed between Lahore Darbar and the British Government on December 16, 1846 A.D. According to it, a British Resident was appointed to run the administration of Lahore Darbar. Maharani Jindan was removed from the post of regent and her annual pension of Rs. 1\(\frac { 1 }{ 2 }\) lakh was fixed. An eight-member council was formed for the help of residents, it was decided to keep a British army for the protection of the Maharaja and to maintain peace and order. Lahore Darbar accepted to pay Rs. 22 lakh annually to the British to meet the expenses of this army.

The conditions of this treaty were to remain in force till December 4, 1854 A.D. when Maharaja Dalip Singh became an adult. Although through the treaty of Bhairowal, the British did not annex Punjab to the British empire yet they reduced its sovereignty to a great extent. In fact, the British had become the rulers of Punjab and the Sikh rule was merely in name.

Question 7.
Study in brief the results of First Anglo-Sikh War.
Or
Give in brief the results of First Anglo-Sikh War.
Or
What were the results of the First Anglo-Sikh War?
Answer:
As a result of First Anglo-Sikh War, a treaty was signed by the British Government and the Lahore Darbar on 9th March 1846 A.D. This treaty is known as the treaty of Lahore. The following were the main terms of the treaty :

• The Maharaja of Lahore renounced all claim to the areas lying to the south of river Sutlej,
• The Maharaja handed over to the British the area between the river Sutlej and Beas.
• The army of Lahore Darbar was reduced to 20,000 infantry and 12,000 cavalry.
• The British Government demanded a heavy sum of 1.50 crore rupees as war indemnity. Lahore Darbar ceded the provinces of Kashmir and Hazara as equivalent to one crore of rupees. It paid the rest amount from its treasury.
• The Maharaja committed that he would not employ any foreigner without the consent of the British Government. (vi) The British Government recognized Dalip Singh the Maharaja of Lahore and Rani Jindan as his regent.

Question 8.
Write a brief note on Sham Singh Attariwala.
Answer:
Sham Singh Attariwala Was a great warrior of the Sikh Class. He belonged to Attari village near Amritsar. His father Sardar Nihal Singh used to serve in the army of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, At the very young age of 18, Attariwala Joined Maharaja’s army and carried various military expeditions. The political condition of Punjab after the death of Maharaja Ranjit Singh greatly depressed Attariwala. He opposed the attempts of the British Government to annex Punjab. The First Anglo-Sikh War broke out in 1845 A.D. Attariwala actively participated in the battle of Sabraon. It was fought on February 10, 1846 A.D. Unfortunately, the commanding officers of the Sikh army proved traitors. At this critical juncture, Sham Singh Attariwala took over the command and pushed the British hard. His bravery was also praised by the British. At last, Sham Singh Attariwala achieved martyrdom while fighting in the battle.

Question 9.
Describe any four reasons as to why the British did not annex Punjab to their empire after the First Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:
Although the British had defeated the Sikhs in the battle of Sobraon, many thousand soldiers of the Khalsa army were still roaming at many places with arms. If they had declared the annexation of Punjab to the British empire, it could have become a headache for the British. The second reason was that the British wanted the Punjab should act as a buffer state between the British empire and Afghanistan.

If the British had annexed Punjab to their empire, their frontiers would have touched Afghanistan. New problems on the Afghanistan frontiers would have been created for which the British were not prepared. Thirdly, the British had to keep a vast British army to keep Punjab under their control. It would have tremendously increased their expenses. Fourthly, the Governor-General thought that Punjab could not prove useful for the British from an economic point of view. He considered Punjab a source of trouble in place of a source of power.

Question 10.
Mention five causes of the Sikhs’ defeat in the First Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:

• The first major cause of the defeat of the Sikhs in the First Anglo-Sikh War was the treachery of Lai Singh and Teja Singh. Lai Singh was appointed to the post of Prime Minister while Teja Singh was working as a Chief Commander. Both of them for their selfish interest had gone over to the British. As a consequence, though the Sikhs fought with great bravery the treachery of their leaders proved fatal for them,
• In the battle of Aliwal, the Sikhs were defeated due to the treachery of Ranjodh Singh.
• The European officers in the Sikh army aligned themselves secretly with the British. They constantly informed all the secrets of the Sikhs of the British.
• Besides these, the British belonged to the greatest imperialist power of the world. Naturally, they had good resources than the Sikhs.
• The British generals had a good experience of War. They fought with full vigor for the safety of the British Empire. Consequently, the Sikhs had to face defeat.

Essay Type Questions:

Question 1.
What were the main causes of the First Anglo-Sikh War?
Or
Describe the causes of the First Anglo-Sikh War.
Or
Describe the causes of the First Anglo-Sikh War between the British and the Sikhs.
Answer:
The British had been dreaming to usurp Punjab for quite some time. They had started encircling Punjab even during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. They had intentionally adopted such policies that led to the First. Anglo-Sikh War. A brief account of the causes of the First Anglo-Sikh war is as follows :

1. British Policy of Encircling Punjab: The British had been greedily looking towards Punjab for quite some time with a view to bringing it under their control. By signing the treaty of Amritsar with Ranjit Singh in 1809 A.D., the British had forever checked Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s advancement towards the Cis-Sutlej areas. In 1835-36 A.D., the Britishers forced Maharaja Ranjit Singh to withdraw his forces from Shikarpur and occupy it.

In 1835 A.D. the Britishers took possession of Ferozepur. Because of its being close to Lahore, they could collect good information about Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s activities. In 1838 A.D., the Britishers set up a military cantonment at Ferozepur. The same year they blocked Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s advancement towards Sind and forced the Amirs of Sind to keep a British Resident at Hyderabad. In fact, the Britishers were encircling the whole of Punjab and the swallowing of Punjab was only a matter of time. As a result, a war between the British and the Sikhs had become inevitable.

2. Anarchy in Punjab: After the death of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in June 1839 A.D., anarchy had spread in Punjab. A period of conspiracies and killings for the occupation of the throne had started. During 6 years from 1839 A.D. to 1845 A.D., as many as, 5 governments changed. The Dogras through their conspiracies finished many members of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s family. These murders and conspiracies had a disastrous impact on the politics of Punjab. This situation was an invitation to the Britishers.

3. Defeat of the British in the First Anglo-Afghan War: The First Anglo-Afghan War which was fought from 1839 to 1842 A.D., left a deep impact on the Anglo-Sikh relationship. Before this war, wherever the Britishers turned their face, success smiled on them. They were considered invincible. But, in this war, the British tasted defeat for the first time. The heavy loss caused in this war dealt a severe blow to the prestige of the British. The Britishers wanted to wipe out the stigma of their defeat suffered in Afghanistan by another grand victory. They could score this victory in Punjab because Punjab was in a state of turmoil at that time.

4. Occupation of Sind by the British: In 1842 A.D., Lord Ellenborough was appointed the new Governor-General of India in place of Lord Auckland. Lord Ellenborough wanted to remove the disgrace of the defeat which the British had to taste in the First Anglo-Afghan War. Therefore, he decided to occupy Sind. This area was geographically very significant. Although the Amirs of Sind were very loyal to the British yet by leveling false allegations Lord Ellenborough declared war against Sind. In 1843 A.D. the British brought Sind under their control. Since the Sikhs wanted to annex Sind to their empire, it further embittered Anglo-Sikh relations.

5. Military Preparations by the British: Governor-General, Lord Hardinge began to make war preparations. The British army gradually began to advance towards the Sutlej. Col. Richmond, who was very popular with the people, was replaced by Major Broadfoot who was arrogant by nature as the political agent of the North-West frontier. Lord Hugh Gough, who was the British Commander-in¬Chief, set up his headquarters at Ambala. In March 1845 A.D., more forces from other parts of the country were sent to Ferozepur, Ludhiana, and Ambala. These military preparations further widened the gulf between the Sikhs and the Britishers.

6. Appointment of Major Broadfoot: In November 1844 A.D., Major Broadfoot was appointed in place of Mr. Clark, as the political agent of Ludhiana. He was a bitter opponent of Sikhs. He came with this view in his mind to the frontiers of Punjab that the British had decided to fight a war with the Sikhs. Dr. Fauja Singh aptly says, “The appointment of Broadfoot as Political Agent at Ludhiana was also a calculated move made with an eye on the fast-approaching war with Punjab.” Broadfoot undertook many such exercises which provoked the Sikhs against the British.

7. Incitement for war by Lai Singh and Teja Singh: After the death of Jawahar Singh, Lai Singh was appointed the new Wazir (Prime Minister) of the Lahore government. He appointed his brother Teja Singh, Chief Commander of the Khalsa army. Both of them were already in league with the British. Since the Sikh army had already become powerful at that time, Lai Singh and Teja Singh, were greatly afraid of it. They wanted to weaken it directing its energies against the British army. By doing so, they would be able to retain their positions and also heave a sigh of relief. So, they started inciting the Sikh army against the British. On 11th Dec. 1845 A.D., the Sikh soldiers crossed the river Sutlej. The British were looking out for this golden opportunity. So Lord Hardinge declared war against the Sikhs on 13th December 1845 A.D.

Question 2.
What were the main events of the First Anglo-Sikh War? Briefly explain the consequences of this war.
Or
Study the main events and results of the First Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:
The Sikh soldiers were compelled to cross over the river Sutlej on 11th December 1845 A.D. because of the imprudent policies followed by the British. The British were waiting for this golden opportunity. So the Governor-General Lord Hardinge declared war against the Sikhs on 13th December 1845 A.D. It had far-reaching consequences. A brief account of the events and results of the First Anglo-Sikh war is as follows:

1. Events of the war:

1. Battle of Mudki: The first important battle between the Sikhs and the Britishers was fought at Mudki on 18th December, 1845 A.D. In this battle the number of the Sikh soldiers was 5500, and they were commanded by Lai Singh. On the other hand, the strength of the British soldiers was 12,000 and they were led by Lord Hugh Gough. The British thought that they would easily overpower the Sikh army, but the Sikh army caused such a havoc that the British soldiers ran helter-skelter. On seeing this Lai Singh got nervous. He fled from the battlefield with some soldiers. As a consequence the Sikh army was defeated. According to the famous historian Sita Ram Kohli, “The battle of Mudki served to dispel a notion that had gained credence with the British that the Sikhs were no great force to be reckoned with.”

2. Battle of Ferozeshah : The second great battle between the Sikhs and the British was fought at Ferozeshah or Pheru Shahar on 21st December, 1845 AD. The British were fully prepared for this battle. The British army was commanded by famous and experienced generals like Lord Hugh Gough, John Littler and Lord Hardinge. On the other hand, the Sikh soldiers were led by Lai Singh and Teja Singh. The Britishers were fully confident of the treachery of the Sikh generals and that they would score an easy win in the battle. But the Sikhs gave such a baffling rebuff to the British that once it looked that their empire in India had shaken.

Exactly at that time, when the British army was being trounced on all fronts, Lai Singh and Teja Singh with their soldiers fled from the battlefield, without any rhyme or reason. When the retreating Britishers heard, that the Sikhs were fleeing, they came back and converted their defeat into’victory. In this way the Khalsa army was defeated owing to the treachery of their Generals. General Havelock said, “Another such action will shake the Empire.”

3. Battle of Baddowal : On the directions of the Lahore Darbar, Ranjodh Singh Majithia with 10,000 soldiers reached Baddowal, a place located 18 miles away from Ludhiana. On 21st January, 1846 A.D., the battle between the British and the Sikhs started at Baddowal. The Sikhs fought very gallantly. They plundered the weapons and rations of the Britishers. The Britishers being defeated, fled towards Ludhiana.

4. Battle of Aliwal: Ranjodh Singh Majithia with his soldiers left Baddowal and headed for Aliwal.’Harry Smith wanted to retrieve his honour by defeating the Sikhs. On 28th January, 1846 A.D., the British army under Harry Smith attacked the Sikhs. Thus, the Sikhs were caught unawares. It was a fierce battle. Ranjodh Singh after, giving orders to his army to flee away, himself fled the battlefield. Because of Ranjodh Singh’s treachery, the British carried the day.

5. Battle of Sobraon: The battle of Sobraon was the last and the most decisive battle of the First Anglo-Sikh War. This battle was fought on 10th February, 1846 A.D. Before this battle 30,000 Sikh soldiers had reached Sobraon. Lai Singh and Teja Singh were commanding the Sikh army. In order to face the Sikh army, the British had also made a good preparation. The strength of the British army in this battle was 15,000. Lord Hugh Gough and Lord Hardinge were commanding the British army. On 10th February, 1846 A.D., the Britishers attacked the Sikh army. As a result of the counter attack by the Sikh army, the British army had to retreat.

At this time, as pre-planned, at first Lai Singh and then Teja Singh fled from the battlefield. While going away, Teja Singh sank the boats loaded with powder and ammunition, and also destroyed the Pontoon bridge. Without the commanders, the Sikh army was unnerved. At this critical juncture, Sardar Sham Singh Attariwala took over the command. He rallied the Khalsa army saying, “Khalsa ji, do not bring discredit to Sikhism. It is better to die while fighting bravely than live a life of slavery. Unsheath your swords and pounce upon your enemy. Either win or fall martyrs.”

The Khalsa army unsheathed its swords and with the slogans of ‘Sat Siri Akal’ fell upon the enemy. They slaughtered several British soldiers. At last, Sham Singh Attariwala died a hero’s death. The British were amazed at his bravery and efficiency. The martyrdom of Sham Singh Attariwala demoralised the Sikh army. How long could the swords resist the guns? At last the Sikh army deserted the battlefield. In this way finally the Britishers emerged victorious in this decisive battle.

2. Results of the War:

As a result of First Anglo-Sikh War, a treaty was signed by the British Government and the Lahore Darbar on 9th March, 1846 A.D. This treaty is known as the treaty of Lahore in history.

Treaty of Lahore:

The following were the main terms of the treaty of Lahore :

1. There shall be perpetual peace and friendship between the British Government and Maharaja Dalip Singh and his successors.
2. The Maharaja of Lahore renounces for himself and his successors all claim to the areas lying to the south of river Sutlej.
3. The Maharaja handed over the British the plain and the hilly areas and forts situated between the rivers Sutlej and Beas.
4. The British Government demanded a heavy sum of 1.50 crore rupees as war indemnity. As the Lahore Darbar was unable to pay this heavy amount, it ceded the provinces of Kashmir and Hazara as equivalent to one crore of rupees.
5. The army of Lahore Darbar was reduced to 20,000 infantry and 12,000 cavalry.
6. The Maharaja agreed to disband the mutinous troops of the Lahore army.
7. Whenever the need arose, the British army could pass through the Lahore Raj without any check.
8. The Maharaja committed that he would not employ any Britisher, European or American without the consent of the British Government.
9. The British Government recognized Dalip Singh the Maharaja of Lahore, Rani Jindan as the regent of the Maharaja, and Lai Singh, as the Prime Minister.
10. The British Government would not interfere in the internal matters of the Lahore Darbar, but when approached it would simply advise.
11. The Lahore Government would not change its boundaries without the concurrence of the British Government.

Supplementary Treaty:

Two days after the treaty of Lahore i.e. on 11th March 1846 A.D., some supplementary treaty was added to this treaty. The main terms of the supplementary treaty were as given ahead :

1. For the protection of the Maharaja and citizens of Lahore, an adequate British army would stay at Lahore till the end of 1846 A.D.
2. The fort and the city of Lahore would be completely under the control of the British army. The Lahore Government would arrange for and bear the expenses of the accommodation of the soldiers.
3. Both the Governments would soon appoint their Commissioners to fix the boundaries between the two States.
   Treaty of Bhairowal

The British Government signed a new treaty with the Lahore Darbar on 16th December 1846 A.D. This treaty is known as the treaty of Bhairowal in history. The main terms of this treaty were as follows :

1. The British Government would appoint a British resident to look after all the departments of the Lahore Government.
2. As long as, Maharaja Dalip Singh was minor (i.e. upto 1854 A.D.), the administration of the state would be run by the ‘Council of Regency’ constituted of eight members.
3. The Council of Regency would have to do the administrative work according to the advice of the British Resident.
4. Maharani Jindan was removed from the post of regent and it was decided that she would get annual pension of 1\(\frac { 1 }{ 2 }\) lakh rupees.
5. For the defence  of the Maharaja and the maintenance of peace in the country, a British contingent would stay at Lahore.
6. If the Governor-General felt the need of the army for the defence of the capital or the maintenance of peace in the country, as per his orders, the British army could establish, its control over any fort or military cantonment of the Lahore Raj.
7. For the expenses of the British army, the Lahore Darbar would pay ₹ 22 lakh per year to the British Government.
8. The conditions of the treaty would continue to be in force till Maharaja Dalip Singh attained the age of 16 years i.e. upto 4th September, 1854 A.D.

It is true that although through the treaties of Lahore and Bhairowal the British did not seize Punjab, yet its autonomy was lost to a large extent. In fact, Sikh kingdom became a virtual British protectorate. Dr. G.S. Chhabra aptly says, “The treaty of Bhairowal thus rang the deathknell of the Sikh power and it made the British the real masters of the Punjab.”

Question 3.
Discuss the causes and results of the First Anglo-Sikh War.
Or
Briefly describe the causes and results of the First Anglo-Sikh War.
Or
What were the causes of the First Anglo-Sikh War? What were the out- comes of this war?
Answer:

The British had been dreaming to usurp Punjab for quite some time. They had started encircling Punjab even during the times of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. They had intentionally adopted such policies that led to the First. Anglo-Sikh War. A brief account of the causes of the First Anglo-Sikh war is as follows :

1. British Policy of Encircling Punjab: The British had been greedily looking towards Punjab for quite some time with a view to bringing it under their control. By signing the treaty of Amritsar with Ranjit Singh in 1809 A.D., the British had forever checked Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s advancement towards the Cis-Sutlej areas. In 1835-36 A.D., the Britishers forced Maharaja Ranjit Singh to withdraw his forces from Shikarpur and occupy it.

In 1835 A.D. the Britishers took possession of Ferozepur. Because of its being close to Lahore, they could collect good information about Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s activities. In 1838 A.D., the Britishers set up a military cantonment at Ferozepur. The same year they blocked Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s advancement towards Sind and forced the Amirs of Sind to keep a British Resident at Hyderabad. In fact, the Britishers were encircling the whole of Punjab and the swallowing of Punjab was only a matter of time. As a result, a war between the British and the Sikhs had become inevitable.

2. Anarchy in Punjab: After the death of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in June 1839 A.D., anarchy had spread in Punjab. A period of conspiracies and killings for the occupation of the throne had started. During 6 years from 1839 A.D. to 1845 A.D., as many as, 5 governments changed. The Dogras through their conspiracies finished many members of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s family. These murders and conspiracies had a disastrous impact on the politics of Punjab. This situation was an invitation to the Britishers.

3. Defeat of the British in the First Anglo-Afghan War: The First Anglo-Afghan War which was fought from 1839 to 1842 A.D., left a deep impact on the Anglo-Sikh relationship. Before this war, wherever the Britishers turned their face, success smiled on them. They were considered invincible. But, in this war, the British tasted defeat for the first time. The heavy loss caused in this war dealt a severe blow to the prestige of the British. The Britishers wanted to wipe out the stigma of their defeat suffered in Afghanistan by another grand victory. They could score this victory in Punjab because Punjab was in a state of turmoil at that time.

4. Occupation of Sind by the British: In 1842 A.D., Lord Ellenborough was appointed the new Governor-General of India in place of Lord Auckland. Lord Ellenborough wanted to remove the disgrace of the defeat which the British had to taste in the First Anglo-Afghan War. Therefore, he decided to occupy Sind. This area was geographically very significant. Although the Amirs of Sind were very loyal to the British yet by leveling false allegations Lord Ellenborough declared war against Sind. In 1843 A.D. the British brought Sind under their control. Since the Sikhs wanted to annex Sind to their empire, it further embittered Anglo-Sikh relations.

5. Military Preparations by the British: Governor-General, Lord Hardinge began to make war preparations. The British army gradually began to advance towards the Sutlej. Col. Richmond, who was very popular with the people, was replaced by Major Broadfoot who was arrogant by nature as the political agent of the North-West frontier. Lord Hugh Gough, who was the British Commander-in¬Chief, set up his headquarters at Ambala. In March 1845 A.D., more forces from other parts of the country were sent to Ferozepur, Ludhiana, and Ambala. These military preparations further widened the gulf between the Sikhs and the Britishers.

6. Appointment of Major Broadfoot: In November 1844 A.D., Major Broadfoot was appointed in place of Mr. Clark, as the political agent of Ludhiana. He was a bitter opponent of Sikhs. He came with this view in his mind to the frontiers of Punjab that the British had decided to fight a war with the Sikhs. Dr. Fauja Singh aptly says, “The appointment of Broadfoot as Political Agent at Ludhiana was also a calculated move made with an eye on the fast-approaching war with Punjab.” Broadfoot undertook many such exercises which provoked the Sikhs against the British.

7. Incitement for war by Lai Singh and Teja Singh: After the death of Jawahar Singh, Lai Singh was appointed the new Wazir (Prime Minister) of the Lahore government. He appointed his brother Teja Singh, Chief Commander of the Khalsa army. Both of them were already in league with the British. Since the Sikh army had already become powerful at that time, Lai Singh and Teja Singh, were greatly afraid of it. They wanted to weaken it directing its energies against the British army. By doing so, they would be able to retain their positions and also heave a sigh of relief. So, they started inciting the Sikh army against the British. On 11th Dec. 1845 A.D., the Sikh soldiers crossed the river Sutlej. The British were looking out for this golden opportunity. So Lord Hardinge declared war against the Sikhs on 13th December 1845 A.D.

The Sikh soldiers were compelled to cross over the river Sutlej on 11th December 1845 A.D. because of the imprudent policies followed by the British. The British were waiting for this golden opportunity. So the Governor-General Lord Hardinge declared war against the Sikhs on 13th December 1845 A.D. It had far-reaching consequences. A brief account of the events and results of the First Anglo-Sikh war is as follows:

1. Events of the war:

1. Battle of Mudki: The first important battle between the Sikhs and the Britishers was fought at Mudki on 18th December, 1845 A.D. In this battle the number of the Sikh soldiers was 5500, and they were commanded by Lai Singh. On the other hand, the strength of the British soldiers was 12,000 and they were led by Lord Hugh Gough. The British thought that they would easily overpower the Sikh army, but the Sikh army caused such a havoc that the British soldiers ran helter-skelter. On seeing this Lai Singh got nervous. He fled from the battlefield with some soldiers. As a consequence the Sikh army was defeated. According to the famous historian Sita Ram Kohli, “The battle of Mudki served to dispel a notion that had gained credence with the British that the Sikhs were no great force to be reckoned with.”

2. Battle of Ferozeshah : The second great battle between the Sikhs and the British was fought at Ferozeshah or Pheru Shahar on 21st December, 1845 AD. The British were fully prepared for this battle. The British army was commanded by famous and experienced generals like Lord Hugh Gough, John Littler and Lord Hardinge. On the other hand, the Sikh soldiers were led by Lai Singh and Teja Singh. The Britishers were fully confident of the treachery of the Sikh generals and that they would score an easy win in the battle. But the Sikhs gave such a baffling rebuff to the British that once it looked that their empire in India had shaken.

Exactly at that time, when the British army was being trounced on all fronts, Lai Singh and Teja Singh with their soldiers fled from the battlefield, without any rhyme or reason. When the retreating Britishers heard, that the Sikhs were fleeing, they came back and converted their defeat into’victory. In this way the Khalsa army was defeated owing to the treachery of their Generals. General Havelock said, “Another such action will shake the Empire.”

3. Battle of Baddowal : On the directions of the Lahore Darbar, Ranjodh Singh Majithia with 10,000 soldiers reached Baddowal, a place located 18 miles away from Ludhiana. On 21st January, 1846 A.D., the battle between the British and the Sikhs started at Baddowal. The Sikhs fought very gallantly. They plundered the weapons and rations of the Britishers. The Britishers being defeated, fled towards Ludhiana.

4. Battle of Aliwal: Ranjodh Singh Majithia with his soldiers left Baddowal and headed for Aliwal.’Harry Smith wanted to retrieve his honour by defeating the Sikhs. On 28th January, 1846 A.D., the British army under Harry Smith attacked the Sikhs. Thus, the Sikhs were caught unawares. It was a fierce battle. Ranjodh Singh after, giving orders to his army to flee away, himself fled the battlefield. Because of Ranjodh Singh’s treachery, the British carried the day.

5. Battle of Sobraon: The battle of Sobraon was the last and the most decisive battle of the First Anglo-Sikh War. This battle was fought on 10th February, 1846 A.D. Before this battle 30,000 Sikh soldiers had reached Sobraon. Lai Singh and Teja Singh were commanding the Sikh army. In order to face the Sikh army, the British had also made a good preparation. The strength of the British army in this battle was 15,000. Lord Hugh Gough and Lord Hardinge were commanding the British army. On 10th February, 1846 A.D., the Britishers attacked the Sikh army. As a result of the counter attack by the Sikh army, the British army had to retreat.

At this time, as pre-planned, at first Lai Singh and then Teja Singh fled from the battlefield. While going away, Teja Singh sank the boats loaded with powder and ammunition, and also destroyed the Pontoon bridge. Without the commanders, the Sikh army was unnerved. At this critical juncture, Sardar Sham Singh Attariwala took over the command. He rallied the Khalsa army saying, “Khalsa ji, do not bring discredit to Sikhism. It is better to die while fighting bravely than live a life of slavery. Unsheath your swords and pounce upon your enemy. Either win or fall martyrs.”

The Khalsa army unsheathed its swords and with the slogans of ‘Sat Siri Akal’ fell upon the enemy. They slaughtered several British soldiers. At last, Sham Singh Attariwala died a hero’s death. The British were amazed at his bravery and efficiency. The martyrdom of Sham Singh Attariwala demoralised the Sikh army. How long could the swords resist the guns? At last the Sikh army deserted the battlefield. In this way finally the Britishers emerged victorious in this decisive battle.

2. Results of the War:

As a result of First Anglo-Sikh War, a treaty was signed by the British Government and the Lahore Darbar on 9th March, 1846 A.D. This treaty is known as the treaty of Lahore in history.

Treaty of Lahore

The following were the main terms of the treaty of Lahore :

1. There shall be perpetual peace and friendship between the British Government and Maharaja Dalip Singh and his successors.
2. The Maharaja of Lahore renounces for himself and his successors all claim to the areas lying to the south of river Sutlej.
3. The Maharaja handed over the British the plain and the hilly areas and forts situated between the rivers Sutlej and Beas.
4. The British Government demanded a heavy sum of 1.50 crore rupees as war indemnity. As the Lahore Darbar was unable to pay this heavy amount, it ceded the provinces of Kashmir and Hazara as equivalent to one crore of rupees.
5. The army of Lahore Darbar was reduced to 20,000 infantry and 12,000 cavalry.
6. The Maharaja agreed to disband the mutinous troops of the Lahore army.
7. Whenever the need arose, the British army could pass through the Lahore Raj without any check.
8. The Maharaja committed that he would not employ any Britisher, European or American without the consent of the British Government.
9. The British Government recognized Dalip Singh the Maharaja of Lahore, Rani Jindan as the regent of the Maharaja, and Lai Singh, as the Prime Minister.
10. The British Government would not interfere in the internal matters of the Lahore Darbar, but when approached it would simply advise.
11. The Lahore Government would not change its boundaries without the concurrence of the British Government.

Supplementary Treaty:

Two days after the treaty of Lahore i.e. on 11th March 1846 A.D., some supplementary treaty was added to this treaty. The main terms of the supplementary treaty were as given ahead :

1. For the protection of the Maharaja and citizens of Lahore, an adequate British army would stay at Lahore till the end of 1846 A.D.
2. The fort and the city of Lahore would be completely under the control of the British army. The Lahore Government would arrange for and bear the expenses of the accommodation of the soldiers.
3. Both the Governments would soon appoint their Commissioners to fix the boundaries between the two States.
   Treaty of Bhairowal

The British Government signed a new treaty with the Lahore Darbar on 16th December 1846 A.D. This treaty is known as the treaty of Bhairowal in history. The main terms of this treaty were as follows :

1. The British Government would appoint a British resident to look after all the departments of the Lahore Government.
2. As long as, Maharaja Dalip Singh was minor (i.e. upto 1854 A.D.), the administration of the state would be run by the ‘Council of Regency’ constituted of eight members.
3. The Council of Regency would have to do the administrative work according to the advice of the British Resident.
4. Maharani Jindan was removed from the post of regent and it was decided that she would get annual pension of 1\(\frac { 1 }{ 2 }\) lakh rupees.
5. For the defence  of the Maharaja and the maintenance of peace in the country, a British contingent would stay at Lahore.
6. If the Governor-General felt the need of the army for the defence of the capital or the maintenance of peace in the country, as per his orders, the British army could establish, its control over any fort or military cantonment of the Lahore Raj.
7. For the expenses of the British army, the Lahore Darbar would pay ₹ 22 lakh per year to the British Government.
8. The conditions of the treaty would continue to be in force till Maharaja Dalip Singh attained the age of 16 years i.e. upto 4th September, 1854 A.D.

It is true that although through the treaties of Lahore and Bhairowal the British did not seize Punjab, yet its autonomy was lost to a large extent. In fact, Sikh kingdom became a virtual British protectorate. Dr. G.S. Chhabra aptly says, “The treaty of Bhairowal thus rang the deathknell of the Sikh power and it made the British the real masters of the Punjab.”

Short Answer Type Questions:
Or
Give the causes of the First Anglo-Sikh War.
Or
Mention any three main causes of First Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:

• The British had been following the policy of encirclement of Punjab.
• After the death of Maharaja Ranjit Singh anarchy prevailed in the Punjab,
• The British had suffered a humiliating defeat in their first war against Afghanistan. So they wanted to retrieve their honour by conquering Punjab,
• The Sikh leaders like Lai Singh and Teja Singh wanted to engage the Khalsa army in a conflict against the British so as to make their own position strong,
• The appointment of Major Broadfoot in 1844 A.D. inflammed the atmosphere to a great extent.

Question 2.
Write a brief note on the battle of Mudki.
Answer:
The first important battle between the Sikhs and the British was fought at Mudki on December 18, 1845 A.D. In this battle, Sikh soldiers were commanded by Lai Singh. On the other hand? the British soldiers were commanded by Hugh Gough. The British thought that they would defeat the Sikhs very easily, but the Sikhs launched such a forceful attack on the British army that it created consternation among them. Lai Singh fled away from the battlefield. The Sikhs were ultimately defeated.

Question 3.
What do you know about the battle of Ferozshah or Pherushahr?
Answer:
A fierce battle took place between the Sikhs and the British at Ferozshah on December 21, 1845 A.D. Their command was in the hands of experienced generals like Hugh Gough, John Littler and Lord Hardinge. The Sikh army was led by traitors like Lai Singh and Teja Singh. Due to the treachery of Lai Singh and Teja Singh the Sikh forces were defeated.

Question 4.
Write a brief note on the battle of Sobraon.
Answer:
The battle of Sobraon was the last decisive battle of the First Anglo-Sikh War. It was fought on February 10, 1846 A.D. The famous generals like Hugh Gough, Lord Hardinge and other were commanding the British forces. On the other hand Lai Singh and Teja Singh were commanding the Sikh army. Sham Singh Attariwala fought bravely and pushed the British hard. Ultimately the Sikhs were defeated and suffered heavy casualties.

Question 5.
Write a brief note on the Treaty of Lahore
Or
What do you know about the Treaty of Lahore?
Answer:

• Maharaja Dalip Singh and his successors would always maintain peace and friendship with the British government,
• The Maharaja of Lahore accepted that he and his successors would have no claim on the region to the south of Sutlej river forever.
• The Maharaja handed over all the forts of plains and hills between the Sutlej and the Beas to the British
• The British demanded a heavy amount of 1.50 crore rupees as ransom for the war.
• The British accepted Maharaja Dalip Singh as the ruler of Lahore, Maharani Jindan as the regent of Maharaja Dalip Singh and Lai Singh as the Prime Minister.

Question 6.
What do you know about the Treaty of Bhairowal?
Or
Write a short note on the Treaty of Bhairowal.
Answer:
The Treaty of Bhairowal was signed between Lahore Darbar and the British Government on December 16, 1846 A.D. According to it, a British Resident was appointed to run the administration of Lahore Darbar. Maharani Jindan was removed from the post of regent and her annual pension of Rs.1\(\frac { 1 }{ 2 }\) lakh was fixed. An eight member council was formed for the help of British Resident. It was decided to keep a British army for the protection of the Maharaja and to maintain peace and order.

Question 7.
Study in brief the results of First Anglo-Sikh War.
Or
Give in brief the results of First Anglo-Sikh War.
Or
What were the results of the First Anglo-Sikh War?
Answer:

• The Maharaja of Lahore renounced all claim to the areas lying to the south of river Sutlej,
• The Maharaja handed over to the British the area between the river Sutlej and Beas.
• The British Government demanded a heavy sum of 1.50 crore rupees as war indemnity,
• The Maharaja committed that he would not employ any foreigner without the consent of the British Government,
• The British Government recognised Dalip Singh as the Maharaja of Lahore and Maharani Jindan as his regent.

Question 8.
Write a brief note on Sham Singh Attariwala.
Answer:
Sham Singh Attariwala was a great warrior of the Sikhs. At a very young age of 18, Attariwala joined Maharaja’s army. The First Anglo-Sikh war broke out in 1845 A.D. Sham Singh Attariwala actively participated in battle of Sobraon. Unfortunately, the commanding officers of the Sikh army proved traitors. At this critical juncture Sham Singh Attariwala took over the command and pushed the British hard. At last, Sham Singh Attariwala achieved martyrdom while fighting in the battle.

Question 9.
Describe any five reasons as to why the British did not annex Punjab to their empire after the First Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:

• If they had declared the annexation of the Punjab to the British Empire, it could have become a headache for the British,
• The British wanted that Punjab should act as a buffer state between the British Empire and Afghanistan,
• The British had to keep a vast British army to keep Punjab under their control. It would have tremendously increased their expenses.
• The Governor- General thought that Punjab could not prove useful for the British from the economic point of view.
• He considered the Punjab a source of trouble in place of a source of power.

Question 10.
Mention five causes of the Sikhs’ defeat in the First Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:

• The first major cause of the defeat of the Sikhs in the First Anglo- Sikh War was the treachery of Lai Singh and Teja Singh,
• The European officers in the Sikh army aligned themselves secretly with the British.
• The British had good resources than the Sikhs,
• The British generals had good experience of War.
• The British belonged to the greatest imperialist power of the world.

Objective Type Questions:

Question 1.
Whose son was Maharaja Dalip Singh?
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

Question 2.
For how long did Maharaja Dalip Singh rule over the Punjab?
Answer:
From Sept. 15, 1843 to Mar. 29, 1849 A.D.

Question 3.
Who was the Maharaja of Punjab during the First and Second Anglo-Sikh Wars?
Answer:
Maharaja Dalip Singh.

Question 4.
Who was Lai Singh?
Answer:
Prime Minister of Lahore.

Question 5.
Who was Teja Singh?
Answer:
Teja Singh was Commander of the Sikh Army.

Question 6.
When was First Anglo-Sikh War fought?
Or
When did the First Anglo-Sikh War happened?
Answer:
1845-46 A.D.

Question 7.
Who was the Governor-General of India during the First Anglo- Sikh War?
Answer:
Lord Hardinge.

Question 8.
Name any one cause responsible for the First-Anglo Sikh War.
Answer:
The English had started encircling the Punjab on all sides.

Question 9.
When was the battle of Mudki fought?
Answer:
Dec. 18, 1845 A.D.

Question 10.
When was the battle of Ferozeshah or Ferushahr fought?
Answer:
December 21, 1845 A.D.

Question 11.
When was the battle of Baddowal fought?
Answer:
21 1st January, 1846 A.D.

Question 12.
When was the battle of Aliwal fought?
Answer:
28th January, 1846 A.D.

Question 13.
When was the battle of Sobraon fought?
Answer:
February 10, 1846 A.D.

Question 14.
Which Sikh General got martyred fighting bravely in the battle of Sobraon?
Answer:
Sham Singh Atariwala.

Question 15.
With which battle did the First Anglo-Sikh War end?
Answer:
Battle of Sobraon.

Question 16.
Who was defeated in First Anglo-Sikh War?
Answer:
The Sikhs.

Question 17.
With which treaty did the First-Anglo Sikh War come to an end?
Answer:
Treaty of Lahore.

Question 18.
When was the Treaty of Lahore signed between the English and the Sikhs?
Answer:
On March 9, 1846 A.D.

Question 19.
When did the Treaty of Bhairowal take place?
Answer:
On December 16, 1846 A.D.

Question 20.
Mention any one important clause of the Treaty of Bhairowal.
Answer:
A British Resident was to look after all the departments of the Lahore Darbar.

Question 21.
To whom did the English hand over Kashmir after the First Anglo-Sikh War?
Answer:
Gulab Singh.

Question 22.
Mention any one cause of the Sikh defeat in the First Anglo- Sikh War.
Or
Give the main reason for the defeat of the Sikhs in the First Anglo- Sikh War.
Answer:
The leaders of the Sikhs were traitors.

Fill in the blanks:

1. In 1839 A.D. after the death of Maharaja Ranjit Singh ……………… became the ruler of Punjab.
Answer:
Maharaja Kharak Singh

2. In …………… the British bought Sind under their control.
Answer:
1843 A.D.

3. The First Anglo-Sikh War was fought in ……………..
Answer:
1845-46 A.D.

4. …………… was the Maharaja of the Punjab during the First Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:
Maharaja Dalip Singh

5. During the First Anglo-Sikh War. the commander of the Sikh Army was ……………..
Answer:
Teja Singh

6. …………….. was the Prime Minister of Lahore Darbar during the First Anglo-Sikh war.
Answer:
Lai Singh

7. ……………. was the Supreme commander of the English forces during First Anglo-Sikh War.
Answer:
Lord Hugh Gough

8. The battle of Mudki was fought on …………….
Answer:
Dec. 18, 1845 A.D.

9. The battle of Ferozeshah was fought on ……………..
Answer:
December 21, 1845 A.D.

10. The battle of Sobraon was fought on ……………
Answer:
February 10, 1846 A.D.

11. The First Anglo-Sikh War ended with the battle of ……………..
Answer:
Sobraon

12. The First Anglo-Sikh War ended with the Treaty of ……………
Answer:
Lahore

13. The Treaty of Bhairowal took place on ………………
Answer:
December 16, 1846 A.D.

True or False:

1. The First Anglo-Sikh War was fought in 1947 A.D.
Answer:
False

2. Maharaja Ranjit Singh was the Maharaja of Punjab during the First Anglo- Sikh War.
Answer:
False

3. Lord Hardings became the Governor General after Ellenbrough.
Answer:
True

4. Lord Hugh Gough was the Commander-in-Chief of the English forces during the First Anglo-Sikh war.
Answer:
True

5. Teja Singh was Commander-in-Chief of the Sikh Army during the First Anglo-Sikh war.
Answer:
True

6. Lai Singh was the Prime Minister of Lahore Darbar during the First Anglo- Sikh war.
Answer:
True

7. The battle of Mudki was fought on Dec. 21, 1845 A.D.
Answer:
False

8. The battle of Ferozeshah was fought on Dec. 21, 1845 A.D.
Answer:
True

9. The battle of Aliwal was fought on January 28, 1846 A.D.
Answer:
False

10. Harry Smith was the Commander of the British army in the battle of Aliwal.
Answer:
True

11. The battle of Sobraon was fought on February 10, 1846 A.D.
Answer:
True

12. The Sikhs won the battle of Sobraon.
Answer:
False

13. The First Anglo-Sikh War ended with the Treaty of Bhairowal.
Answer:
False

14. The Treaty of Lahore took place between the British Government and the Lahore Darbar on March 9, 1846 A.D.
Answer:
True

15. The Treaty of Bhairowal between the Sikhs and the English took place on December 16, 1846 A.D.
Answer:
True

Multiple Choice Questions:

1. Who was the king of Punjab at the time of First Anglo-Sikh War?
(a) Maharaja Sher Singh.
(b) Maharaja Dalip Singh
(c) Maharaja Ranjit Singh
(d) Maharaja Kharak Singh.
Answer:
(b) Maharaja Dalip Singh

2. When was the. First Anglo-Sikh War fought?
(a) 1839-40 A.D.
(b) 1841-42 A.D.
(c) 1843-44 A.D.
(d) 1845-46 A.D.
Answer:
(d) 1845-46 A.D.

3. Who was the Governor General of India during the First Anglo-Sikh War?
(a) Lord Dalhousie
(b) Lord Hardinge
(c) Lord Ripon
(d) Lord Dufferin.
Answer:
(b) Lord Hardinge

4. The designation of Lai Singh in Lahore Darbar was :
(a) Foreign Minister
(b) Prime Minister
(c) Chief Commander
(d) Diwan.
Answer:
(b) Prime Minister

5. When did the English occupy Sind?
(a) 1842 A.D.
(b) 1843 A.D.
(c) 1844 A.D.
(d) 1845 A.D.
Answer:
(b) 1843 A.D.

6. When did Governor General Lord Harding declared the war against the Sikhs?
(a) 1848 A.D.
(b) 1849 A.D.
(c) 1865 A.D.
(d) 1845 A.D.
Answer:
(d) 1845 A.D.

7. Who was the supreme Commander-in-Chief of the English forces during the First and Second Anglo-Sikh Wars?
(a) Lord Hugh Gough
(b) Lord Dufferin
(c) Major Broadfoot
(d) Robert Cust.
Answer:
(a) Lord Hugh Gough

8. When was the battle of Mudki fought?
(a) December 12, 1844 A.D.
(b) December 12, 1845 A.D.
(c) December 18, 1845 A.D.
(d) December 18, 1846 A.D.
Answer:
(c) December 18, 1845 A.D.

9. When was the battle of Ferozeshah fought?
(a) December 18, 1845 A.D.
(b) December 19, 1845 A.D.
(c) December 20, 1845 A.D.
(d) December 21, 1845 A.D.
Answer:
(d) December 21, 1845 A.D.

10. When was the battle of Sobraon fought?
(a) December 21, 1845 A.D.
(b) February 10, 1846 A.D.
(c) February 15, 1846 A.D.
(d) February 10, 1847 A.D.
Answer:
(b) February 10, 1846 A.D.

11. With which treaty did the First Anglo-Sikh War come to an end?
(a) Treaty of Lahore
(b) Treaty of Amritsar
(c) Treaty of Bhairowal
(d) Tripartite Treaty.
Answer:
(a) Treaty of Lahore

12. When did Treaty of Lahore take place?,
(a) February 10, 1845 A.D.
(b) February 10, 1846 A.D.
(c) March 7, 1846 A.D.
(d) March 9, 1846 A.D.
Answer:
(d) March 9, 1846 A.D.

13. After the First Anglo-Sikh War, to whom was Kashmir given by the English?
(a) Gulab Singh
(b) Dhian Singh
(c) Hira Singh
(d) Hari Singh.
Answer:
(a) Gulab Singh

14. When did the Treaty of Bhairowal take place?
(a) March 9, 1846 A.D.
(b) March 11, 1846 A.D.
(c) December 16, 1846 A.D.
(d) December 26, 1846 A.D.
Answer:
(c) December 16, 1846 A.D.

Punjab State Board PSEB 12th Class History Book Solutions Chapter 21 Character and Personality of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.

PSEB Solutions for Class 12 History Chapter 21 Character and Personality of Maharaja Ranjit Singh

Long Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
What do you know about Ranjit Singh as a Man?
Or
Write four traits of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s personality.
Or
Write about the character and personality of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Though Ranjit Singh was illiterate, he possessed sharp intellect. He remembered the names of thousands of villages and their geographical locations by heart. His memory was so sharp that he could recognise a person whom he had met many years ago. He was very kind-hearted. He loved his subjects very much, so much so that he never treated his enemies ruthlessly. The Maharaja never awarded capital punishment to anybody during his rule. Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a devoted follower of Sikhism. Every day before starting his work he listened to the Bani of Guru Granth Sahib and offered his prayer. He called his government Sarkar-i-Khalsa. He issued the coins in the name of ‘Nanak Sahai’ and ‘Gobind Sahai’. He gave plenty of charity to Gurdwaras. Besides, his attitude towards other religions was full of respect. Equal treatment was meted out to people of all religions. They had full freedom of observing their rites and customs. The Maharaja gave charity to other religions also with an open heart.

Question 2.
What were the five features of Maharaja Ranjit Singh as a Man?
Answer:
1. Appearance: The appearance of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was not very attractive. He had medium-sized stature and a thin body.- His face had been disfigured as a result of smallpox in his childhood and deprived him of the left eye. Although the Maharaja was ugly, yet his personality was so attractive that anybody who came to meet him was greatly impressed by him. His face was suffused with a special type of halo and brilliance.

2. Hard-working and Active: Maharaja Ranjit Singh was very hard-working and active. He always believed that great men should always be hardworking and active. He expected this from his officers, also. The Maharaja always remained busy in-state work from morning till late night. He delighted in every type of work. He paid personal attention to the minutest work of the state.

3. Courageous and Brave: Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a very brave and courageous person. He was fond of going to the battlefields, hunting trips, wielding sword and horse-riding. While young, he gave evidence of his bravery by beheading Hashmat Khan earlier. He was ever foremost in battle and the last to retreat. He never lost heart even in the face of the most dreadful situation.

4. Kind Hearted: Maharaja Ranjit Singh was very popular with the people for his kindness. During his period, Maharaja Ranjit Singh defeated many Sikh, Hindu and Muslim Chiefs. But, it is remarkable that the Maharaja never treated his enemies cruelly. He was always ready to help the poor and destitute. Many tales of his kindness are well-known.

5. A devoted follower of Sikhism: Maharaja Ranjit Singh had an unshakable faith in Sikhism. Before starting his routine work, he used to listen to the recitation of Gurbani of Guru Granth Sahib Ji and the Kirtan. He called his government as Sarkar-i-Khalsa and his court Darbar Khalsa Ji. He considered himself to be the Kukar (dog) at the door of the Guru and the Panth.

Question 3.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a kind ruler. How?
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was very popular with the people for his kindness. During his period, Maharaja Ranjit Singh defeated many Sikh, Hindu and Muslim Chiefs. But what is remarkable is that the Maharaja never treated his enemies cruelly. At that time among the emperors of Kabul and Delhi, whoever came to occupy the throne not only continued to shed blood of their close relatives and claimants to the throne but also left their descendants in a state of destitution. At such times, this rufer of Lahore not only embraced those whom he defeated on the battlefield but also bestowed Jagirs and robes of honour even to their children. The Maharaja did not award a death sentence to any criminal in his region. He was always ready to help the poor and destitute. Many tales of his kindness are well-known.

Mauza or village was the smallest unit of administration. Its administration was run by the Panchayat. The Maharaja did not interfere with the functioning of Panchayat. The Maharaja never ignored the public interest. He had instructed his state officials that they should make special efforts for the public welfare. The Maharaja used to travel his state in disguise to know the condition of the people. Punishment was given to erring officials who violated the orders of the Maharaja. The state offered special facilities to the poor and peasants. Consequently, people were well-off during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time.

Question 4.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a devoted follower of Sikhism. Give arguments in your favour.
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was truly a devoted follower of Sikhism. Every day before starting the routine work he used to hear Kirtan and recitation of Gurbani from Guru Granth Sahib and say his prayer. He never took any important decision ” without seeking guidance from Guru Granth Sahib. He had preserved a Kalgi (aigrette) of Guru Gobind Singh Ji in his Toshakhana (treasure) and considered its touch as a matter of great luck for him. He considered all his victories to be the boon of Almighty. He paid a thanks-giving visit to Sri Harmandir Sahib at Amritsar after each victory where he made huge offerings. He considered himself to be the Kukar (dog) at the door of the Guru and Sikh Panth.

He preferred to be called ‘Singh Sahib’ rather than Maharaja. His coins bore the names of Guru Nanak and Guru Gobind Singh. The official form of salutation in the army was, ‘Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh.’ All official oath-taking ceremonies were performed in the presence of Guru Granth Sahib. For building new Gurdwaras and for the maintenance of langar he had given huge revenue-free Jagirs. In short, he was a devoted follower of Sikhism in the true sense of the word.

Question 5.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a Secular Ruler. How?
Answer:
Although Ranjit Singh was a staunch Sikh, yet he was liberal towards other religions. He kept religious discrimination and communalism at an arm’s length. He knew very well that for the establishment of a strong and enduring empire the cooperation of people of different religions was essential. By his policy of tolerance, he succeeded in winning over the hearts of the people of different religions. In his empire jobs were given on the basis of merit. In his court, the Sikhs, Hindus, Muslims, Dogras, and Europeans were appointed to the high posts without any discrimination of caste, creed, or nationality.

For instance, his Foreign Minister Faquir Aziz-ud-Din was a Muslim, Prime Minister, Dhian Singh was a Dogra, Diwan Bhiwani Das and Commander Misar Diwan Chand were Hindus and General Ventura and Allard were EuropeAnswer: In matters of charity, the Maharaja did not discriminate against any religion. He made liberal offerings for the maintenance of Hindu temples, Muslim mosques, and mausoleums. In his empire, the people belonging to different religions were at liberty to celebrate their religious ceremonies.

Question 6.
Describe Maharaja Ranjit Singh as a successful Administrator.
Or
What do you know about Maharaja Ranjit Singh as an Administrator?
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was an excellent administrator. The main objective of his administration was the welfare of the public. In order to get cooperation in running the administration, he had appointed many honest and able ministers. In order to run the administration efficiently, he had divided his empire into four big provinces.

Question 7.
“Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a great general and a conqueror.” Explain.
Or
What do you know about Ranjit Singh as a Soldier and a General?
Or
Write a note on Maharaja Ranjit Singh as a Soldier and as a Military General.
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a great general of his time. He never faced defeat in any battle that he fought during his lifetime. He deemed it his pleasure to take part in enterprising and adventurous expeditions. He was never unnerved even in the face of heavy odds. The Maharaja took full care of the welfare of his soldiers. As a result, they also remained ever-ready to sacrifice their lives for his sake. Besides being a great general, Maharaja Ranjit Singh was also a great conqueror. When Maharaja Ranjit Singh took reins of Sukarchakia Misl in 1797 A.D., he had a small region under him.

He converted it into a vast empire due to his sheer bravery and ability. He annexed important regions like Lahore, Amritsar, Kasur, Sialkot, Kangra, Gujarat, Jammu, Attock, Multan, Kashmir, and Peshawar to his empire. Maharaja Ranjit Singh had to fight many bloody battles to conquer these regions. He defeated the Afghans and stopped the age-long foreign invasions from the northwest frontier. It was a great singular achievement of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. As a result of his conquests, his empire stretched from Ladakh in the north to Shikarpur in the south and from the Sutlej in the east to Peshawar in the west.

Question 8.
Why is Maharaja Ranjit Singh called Sher-i-Punjab?
Or
What place would you assign Ranjit Singh in the History of Punjab? Why is he called Sher-i-Punjab?
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh established a vast empire through his sheer bravery. He made the dream of the Sikh empire come true. Besides being a successful conqueror, he also proved to be an efficient administrator. The main object of his administration was the welfare of the public. Often he traveled through his empire in disguise to know the real condition of people. Jobs were given on the basis of merit. People of all religions—the Sikhs, Muslims, Hindus, and Europeans, etc. were given high’ posts in his Darbar. Ranjit Singh adopted a policy of secularism towards all religions.

Essay Type Questions:

Question 1.
Explain in detail the character and personality of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Give character estimate of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Discuss Maharaja Ranjit Singh as a man, a general, a ruler, and a diplomat.
Or
Explain Maharaja Ranjit Singh as a Man.
Or
What place would you assign to Ranjit Singh in history? Why is he called Sher-i-Punjab?
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh is counted as one of the greatest personalities not only of India but of the whole world. He was a man of multifarious personality. By virtue of his qualities, he succeeded in establishing a vast and strong Sikh empire in Punjab. He is rightly remembered as Sher-i-Punjab. A brief description of the character and personality of Maharaja Ranjit Singh is as follows:

1. As a Man:

1. Appearance: The appearance of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was not very attractive. He had medium-sized stature and a thin body. His face had been disfigured as a result of smallpox in his childhood and deprived him of the left eye. Although the Maharaja was ugly, yet his personality was so attractive that anybody who came to meet him was greatly impressed by him. His face was suffused with a special type of halo and brilliance.

2. Hard-working and Active: Maharaja Ranjit Singh was very hard-working and active. He always believed that great men should always be hardworking and active. He expected this from his officers, also. The Maharaja always remained busy in-state work from morning till late night. He delighted in every type of work. He paid personal attention to the minutest work of the state.

3. Courageous and Brave: Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a very brave and courageous person. He was fond of going to the battlefields, hunting trips, wielding sword and horse-riding. While young, he gave evidence of his bravery by beheading Hashmat Khan earlier. He was ever foremost in battle and the last to t retreat. He never lost heart even in the face of the most dreadful situation.

4. Illiterate but Intelligent: The Maharaja was not interested in studies. As a result, he remained illiterate. Despite being illiterate, he possessed a very keen, intelligent, and prodigious memory. He knew by heart, the names of thousands of his villages and their geographical location. He could recognize a person at once even if seen many years earlier. He remembered even the smallest details regarding administration. His wisdom was so acute that the foreign travelers wondered at it.

5. Kind Hearted: Maharaja Ranjit Singh was very popular with the people for his kindness. During his period, Maharaja Ranjit Singh defeated many Sikhs, Hindus and. Muslim Chiefs. But, it is remarkable that Maharaja Ranjit Singh never treated his enemies cruelly. The Maharaja did not award a death sentence to any criminal in his reign. He was always ready to help the poor and destitute. Many tales of his kindness are well-known. According to the famous writer Fakir Syed Waheeduddin, “Ranjit Singh’s popular image is that of a kindly patriarch rather than that of conquering hero or a mighty monarch. He was all three, but his humanity has outlived his splendor and power.”

6. A devoted follower of Sikhism: Maharaja Ranjit Singh had an unshakable faith in Sikhism. Before starting his routine work, he used to listen to the recitation of Gurbani of Guru Granth Sahib Ji and the Kirtan. Hp never took any big decision or launched upon any undertaking without seeking guidance from Guru Granth Sahib Ji. After each victory, the Maharaja paid a thanksgiving visit to Sri Darbar Sahib Ji, Amritsar, and made costly offerings.

He called his government Sarkar- i-Khalsa and his court as Darbar Khalsa Ji. He considered himself to be the Kukar (dog) at the door of the Guru and the Panth. He issued coins in the name of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The words ‘Nanak Sahai’ and ‘Gobind Sahai’ were inscribed on them. He liberally gave grants for the construction and maintenance of Gurudwaras. In brief, he was a devout Sikh from heart and soul.

7. Tolerant: Although Ranjit Singh was a staunch Sikh, yet he was liberal towards other religions. He kept religious discrimination and communalism at an arm’s length. He knew very well that for the establishment of a strong and enduring empire, the cooperation of people of different religions was essential. In his empire jobs were given on the basis of merit. In his court, the Sikhs, Hindus, Muslims, Dogras, and Europeans were appointed to the high posts without any discrimination of caste, creed, or nationality.

For instance, his Foreign Minister Faqir Aziz-ad-Din was a Muslim, his Prime Minister, Dhian Singh was a Dogra, his Diwan Bhiwani Das and his Commander Misar Diwan Chand were Hindus and his General Ventura and Allard were EuropeAnswer: In his empire, the people belonging to different religions were at liberty to celebrate their religious ceremonies. According to Dr. Bhagat Singh, “No ruler of ancient or medieval Indian history could match Ranjit Singh in his cosmopolitan approach.’*

2. As a General And Conqueror:

Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a great general of his time. He is counted among the greatest generals of the world. He did not have to face defeat in the battles, which he fought during his lifetime. He took pride in taking part in dreadful campaigns. He never lost his heart even in the face of extreme hardship. For instance in 1823 A.D., in the battle with the Afghans at Naushera, when Akali Phula Singh fell a martyr, the Sikh soldiers lost courage. Their defeat seemed certain, At that time, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, infused a new spirit in his soldiers.

Besides being a great general, Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a great conqueror, also. In 1797 A.D., when he took over the Sukarchakia Misl, he had a very small area under him. By virtue of his ability and bravery, he converted his small kingdom into a big empire. He annexed to his empire, important areas like # Lahore, Amritsar, Kasur, Sialkot, Kangra, Gujarat, Jammu, Attock, Multan, Kashmir, and Peshawar. In order to annex these areas to his empire, the Maharaja had to fight many hazardous battles. By defeating the Afghans he checked their centuries-old invasions on India across the North-West frontiers.

It was a big achievement of Maharaja. Owing to Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s conquests, his empire had extended its frontiers from Ladakh in the North .to Shikarpur in the South, from the river Sutlej in the East to Peshawar in the West. According to the famous historian Dr. Ganda Singh, “Rightly he may claim to be one of the greatest heroes of India.”

3. As an Administrator:

Maharaja Ranjit Singh was not only a great conqueror but also an able ruler. The main aim of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s administration was public welfare. In order to get co-operation in matters of administration, the Maharaja had appointed many able and honest ministers. With a view to running the administration efficiently, he had divided his kingdom into four big provinces. The smallest unit of administration was ‘Mauza’ or village. The village administration was in the hands of the Panchayat. In order to know the condition of his subjects, he would often tour the state in disguise. The officers, Who dared defy the Maharaja’s orders were given severe punishments. As a result, the public during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s times was very happy.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh paid special attention to the military administration. He was quite aware that a powerful army was very essential for the defense and expansion of his empire. He was the first Indian ruler, who started giving training to his army on the European pattern. He gave special importance to infantry and artillery. Special attention was paid to maintaining discipline in the army. The Maharaja would personally inspect the army. The practice of keeping the soldier’s record and branding of horses was started. Special awards were given to those soldiers, who showed bravery on the battlefield. The soldiers and their families were fully looked after by the state. Dr. H.R. Gupta aptly says, “He was one of the best rulers in Indian history.”

4. As a Diplomat:

Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a shrewd and far-sighted diplomat. At the beginning of his diplomatic career, he made friends with the powerful Misl Sardars. With the co-operation of these Misl Sardars, he merged the weak Misls with his kingdom. Later on, when the Maharaja grew stronger, he grabbed the powerful Misls one by one. It was a characteristic of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s diplomacy that he always treated generously the vanquished Chiefs. He granted them Jagirs on liberal terms. Consequently, they never tried to raise a banner of revolt against Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

It was by virtue of his diplomacy that the Maharaja secured the fort of Attock from Jahandad Khan without any fight. In 1835 A.D., when the ruler of Afghanistan, Dost Mohammad Khan came with a large army to attack the Sikhs, the Maharaja played such a trick that he fled from the battlefield without fighting.

In 1809 A.D., Maharaja Ranjit Singh gave evidence of his political sagacity by establishing a friendship with the British. By clashing with a powerful power like the British, he did not want to ring the death-knell of his empire in its infancy. It was not his weakness, but a symbol of his deep political understanding ‘ and far-sightedness. The Maharaja also gave evidence of deep political understanding in solving the North-West frontier problems. By not attacking Afghanistan, Maharaja Ranjit Singh gave yet another proof of his diplomacy. Afterward when the Britishers did so, they had to face dire consequences. Dr. Bhagat Singh aptly says, “It was not easy to beat him in diplomacy.”

5. His Place in the History of the Punjab:

Maharaja Ranjit Singh is counted among the greatest sovereigns not only of India but also of the whole world. Different historians compare Maharaja Ranjit Singh with Mughal emperor Akbar, Maratha ruler Shivaji, Egyptian ruler Mehmet Ali, and the King of France, Napoleon. An impartial study of history, we come to know that the actual achievements of Maharaja Ranjit Singh were far greater than these rulers. At the time of Ranjit Singh’s accession to the throne, he had a nominal kingdom. But with his efficiency and ability, he was able to carve a vast kingdom.

Thus, he fulfilled the dream of establishing a sovereign Sikh empire. He had also established an excellent administration. Its main object was the welfare of the public. He had adopted a tolerant policy towards all religions. He had also established a powerful army for the safety and expansion of his empire. He had given proof of his wisdom by establishing friendly relations with the British. Due to these multifaced qualities, Maharaja Ranjit Singh is deservedly called Sher-i-Punjab. Undoubtedly, Maharaja Ranjit Singh occupied a glorious place in the history of Punjab. In the end, we agree to these words of Dr. H.R. Gupta, “As a man, warrior, general, conqueror, administrator, ruler and diplomat, Ranjit Singh occupies a high position among the greatest sovereigns of the world.”

Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
What do you know about Ranjit Singh as a Man?
Or
Or
Write about the character and personality of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Mention the three characteristics of the character and personality of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Though Ranjit Singh was illiterate, he possessed sharp intellect. His memory was very sharp. He was very kind-hearted. He loved his subjects very much. He never treated his enemies ruthlessly. The Maharaja never awarded capital punishment to anybody during his rule. Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a devoted follower of Sikhism. His attitude towards other religions was full of respect.

Question 2.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a kind ruler. How?
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was very popular with the people for his kind¬ness. Maharaja Ranjit Singh bestowed Jagirs and robes of honor even to their children whom he defeated in the battlefield. The Maharaja did not award a death sentence to any criminal in his region. He was always ready to help the poor and destitute. Many tales of his kindness are well-known.

Question 3.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a devoted follower of Sikhism. Give arguments in your favor.
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was truly a devoted follower of Sikhism. Every day before starting the routine work he used to hear Kirtan and recitation of Gurbani from Guru Granth Sahib Ji and say his prayer. He considered all his victories to be the boon of Almighty. He considered himself to be the Kukar (dog) of the Guru and Sikh Panth. He preferred to be called ‘Singh Sahib’ rather than Maharaja. For building new Gurdwaras and for the maintenance of langar he had given huge revenue-free-Jagirs.

Question 4.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a Secular Ruler. How?
Answer:
Although Ranjit Singh was a staunch Sikh, yet he was liberal towards other religions. By his policy of tolerance, he succeeded in winning over the hearts of the people of different religions. In his empire jobs were given on the basis of merit. In his court, the Sikhs, Hindus, Muslims, Dogras, and Europeans were appointed to the high posts. In his empire, the people belonging to different reli¬gions were at liberty to celebrate their religious ceremonies.

Question 5.
Describe Maharaja Ranjit Singh as a successful Administrator.
Or
What do you know about Maharaja Ranjit Singh as an Administrator?
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was an excellent administrator. The main objective of his administration was the welfare of the public. In order to get cooperation in running the administration, he had appointed many honest and able ministers. The smallest unit of administration was village or Mauza. Its administration was run by the Panchayat. The Maharaja used to travel his state in disguise to know the condition of the people. Consequently, people were well-off during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time.

Question 6.
“Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a great General and a Conqueror.” Explain.
Or
What do you know about Ranjit Singh as a Soldier and a General?
Or
Write a note on Maharaja Ranjit Singh as a Soldier and as a Military General.
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a great general of his time. He never faced defeat in any battle that he fought during his lifetime. He annexed important regions like Lahore, Amritsar, Kasur, Sialkot, Kangra, Gujarat, Jammu, Attock, Multan, Kashmir, and Peshawar to his empire. As a result of his conquests, his empire* stretched from Ladakh in the north to Shikarpur in the south and from the Sutlej in the east to Peshawar in the west.

Question 7.
Why was Maharaja Ranjit Singh known as Sher-i-Punjab?
Or
What place would you assign to Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the History of Punjab? Why is he called Sher-i-Punjab?
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh established a vast empire through his sheer bravery. The main object of his administration was the welfare of the public. People of all religions—were given high posts in his Darbar. He made his army very powerful. He made friends with the English and guarded Punjab against being annexed to the English empire. For all these reasons, Ranjit Singh is called Sher-i-Punjab.

Objective Type Questions:

Question 1.
As a man what were the two characteristic qualities of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was brave and kind-hearted.

Question 2.
Which horse was especially loved by Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
Answer:
Lailly.

Question 3.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a firm devotee of Sikhism. Give one argument in support of your- answer.
Answer:
He called his Sarkar as Sarkar-i-Khalsa.

Question 4.
What did Maharaja Ranjit Singh call his Government and Darbar?
Answer:
Darbar-i-Khalsa.

Question 5.
What did Maharaja Ranjit Singh call himself.?
Answer:
Dog (Kookar) of Sikhism.

Question 6.
Name anyone non-Sikh Minister of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Faquir Aziz-ud-Din.

Question 7.
Name prominent historian in the court of Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Sohan Lai Suri.

Question 8.
Mention any one quality of Maharaja Ranjit Singh as an army General.
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh did not face defeat in any battle.

Question 9.
“Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a successful diplomat.” Give anyone proof in this regard.
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh gave proof of his wisdom in not seizing Afghanistan.

Question 10.
Which ruler of Punjab is remembered as Sher-i-Punjab?
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

Question 11.
Why is Maharaja Ranjit Singh called Sher-i-Punjab?
Answer:
Because he established a vast Sikh empire and adopted a liberal policy towards all religions.

Question 12.
Why was Maharaja Ranjit Singh called ‘Paras’?
Answer:
Because he took special care of his subjects.

Fill in the blanks:

1. The appearance of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was not very …………….
Answer:
attractive

2. Maharaha Ranjit Singh specially loved the horse named …………………
Answer:
Lailly

3. Maharaja Ranjit’Singh considered himself ……………… of Sikhism.
Answer:
Kukar

4. Maharaja Ranjit Singh called his government ………………..
Answer:
Sarkar-i-Khalsa

5. Maharaja Ranjit Singh called his Darbar ……………….
Answer:
Darbar-i-Khalsa

6. Maharaja Ranjit Singh was very fond of ……………..
Answer:
wine

7. Maharaja Ranjit Singh is remembered as ………………
Answer:
Sher-i-Punjab

True or False:

1. Maharaja Ranjit Singh was very industrious and agile.
Answer:
True

2. Maharaja Ranjit Singh loved a horse called Lailly.
Answer:
True

3. Maharaja Ranjit Singh called himself Dog (Kookar) of Sikhism.
Answer:
True

4. Maharaja Ranjit Singh called his government as Sardar-i-Khalsa.
Answer:
True

5. Maharaja Ranjit Singh loved Sikhism only.
Answer:
False

6. Maharaja Ranjit Singh had a great hate for wine.
Answer:
False

7. Maharaja Ranjit Singh is remembered as Sher-i-Punjab.
Answer:
True

8. Maharaja Ranjit Singh was not only a great conqueror but also an able administrator.
Answer:
True

Multiple Choice Questions:

1. As a man what were the characteristic qualities of Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
(a) He was very industrious and agile.
(b) He was very kind-hearted.
(c) He was illiterate but intelligent.
(d) All of the above.
Answer:
(d) All of the above.

2. Which horse was specially loved by Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
(a) Lailly
(b) Shally
(c) Chetak
(d) All of the above.
Answer:
(a) Lailly

3. What did Maharaja Ranjit Singh call his government?
(a) Sarkar-i-Aam
(b) Sarkar-i-Khas
(c) Sarkar-i-Khalsa
(d) None of these.
Answer:
(c) Sarkar-i-Khalsa

4. Who was the most famous scholar in the court of Ranjit Singh?
(a) Sohan Lai Suri
(b) Faqir-Aziz-ud-Din
(c) Raja Dhian Singh
(d) Diwan Mohkam Chand.
Answer:
(a) Sohan Lai Suri

5. Which ruler of Punjab is remembered as Sher-i-Punjab?
(a) Maharaja Raiyit Singh
(b) Maharaja Dalip Singh
(c) Maharaja Sher Singh
(d) Maharaja Kharak Singh.
Answer:
(a) Maharaja Raiyit Singh

6. Which words were engraved on ‘Royal Stamp’ in the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Era?
(a) Fateh Dharam
(b) Akal Sahrai
(c) Fateh Darshan
(d) Nanak Sahai.
Answer:
(a) Fateh Dharam

7. Which words were displayed on the ‘Royal Stamp’ of the Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
(a) Nanak Sahai
(b) Akal Sahai
(c) Gobind Sahai
(d) Teg Sahai.
Answer:
(b) Akal Sahai

Punjab State Board PSEB 12th Class History Book Solutions Chapter 15 Invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali and Disintegration of Mughal Rule in the Punjab Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.

PSEB Solutions for Class 12 History Chapter 15 Invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali and Disintegration of Mughal Rule in the Punjab

long Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Who was Ahmad Shah Abdali? What were the reasons of his Punjab invasions?
Or
Write the main causes of invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali on Punjab.
Answer:
1. Ambition of Abdali: Ahmad Shah Abdali was a very ambitious ruler. He did not feel contented with his small kingdom of Afghanistan. Hence, he wanted to expand his domain by capturing Punjab and other states of India. In order to fulfill his imperialistic ambition he, first of all, decided to invade Punjab.

2. Enormous wealth of India: In order to establish a powerful empire it was very necessary for Abdali to have great wealth. He could not obtain this wealth from his own kingdom of Afghanistan, as it was economically a very backward region. On the other hand, this wealth could be obtained from India, which was famous in the entire world for its enormous wealth.

3. To consolidate his position in Afghanistan: Ahmad Shah Abdali belonged to an ordinary family. He became the ruler of Afghanistan after killing Nadir Shah in 1747 A.D. Many chieftains opposed him due to this reason. Hence, Ahmad Shah Abdali, in order to, consolidate his position in Afghanistan wanted to invade foreign countries. Through these invasions, he wanted to enhance his honor and status and also win the loyalty of the Afghans.

4. Favourable Political condition of India: After the death of Aurangzeb in 1707 A.D. the mighty Mughal empire was rapidly going towards its downfall. The successors of Aurangzeb began to spend most of their time in the company of wine and women. Hence, there was complete anarchy in all directions in his reign. In Punjab, the Sikhs were proving to be an uncontrollable menace for the Mughal subedars. Taking advantage of this situation, Ahmad Shah Abdali decided to invade Punjab.

5. Invitation of Shah Nawaz Khan: In 1745 A.D. after the death of Zakriya Khan, his eldest son Yahiya Khan became the new subedar of Lahore. Shah Nawaz Khan, his younger brother, could not tolerate this. For quite some time, he had been dreaming of becoming the subedar of Lahore. In this situation, Shah Nawaz Khan invited Ahmad Shah Abdali to invade India. Abdali was in search of such a golden opportunity. Hence, he decided to attack India.

Question 2.
When and how many times did Ahmad Shad Abdali invade Punjab? Describe any five invasions.
Answer:
Ahmad Shah Abdali invaded Punjab eight times between 1747 and 1767 A.D. On the invitation of Shah Nawaz Khan the Governor of Lahore, Ahmad Shah Abdali invaded Punjab in December 1747 A.D. for the first time. When he reached the Punjab, Shah Nawaz Khan refused to give him co-operation. Abdali defeated Shah Nawaz Khan who fled to Delhi. Muin-ul-Mulk (Mir-Mannu) gave Abdali a crushing defeat in a battle at Manipur. The Mughal emperor was pleased with it and he appointed Mir Mannu the Governor of Lahore. In order to take revenge, Abdali invaded the Punjab second time at the end of 1748 A.D. This time Mir Mannu got no assistance from Delhi, so he was defeated. He made a treaty with Abdali.

According to this treaty, Mannu accepted to pay Abdali 14 lakh annually. As Mannu could not pay the ransom in time, Abdali invaded Punjab for the third time in 1751-52 A.D. Abdali occupied Punjab during this invasion. During his fifth invasion in Punjab, Ahmad Shah Abdali gave a crushing defeat to the Marathas on 14th January, 1761 A.D. in the third battle of Panipat. The sixth invasion of Abdali on Punjab during 1761-62 A.D. was the most famous. During this invasion on February 5, 1762 A.D. Abdali massacred about 25,000 to 30,000 Sikhs at village Kup near Malerkotla. This event is known as the Great Holocaust. In spite of all his efforts, Abdali failed to crush the growing Sikh power.

Question 3.
What do you know about the first invasion of Ahmad Shah Abdali?
Or
Write a short note on the Abdali’s first invasion over Punjab.
Answer:
At the invitation of Shah Nawaz Khan, Ahmad Shah Abdali proceeded with his forces towards India in December 1747. Without any resistance he reached Shahdara near Lahore on 8th January 1748. Meanwhile Qamar-ud; Din compromised with Shah Nawaz Khan. As a result Shah Nawaz Khan refused to side with Abdali. This enraged Abdali. By defeating Shah Nawaz Khan on 10th January 1748, he took possession of Lahore. Shah Nawaz Khan fled away to Delhi. After taking possession of Lahore, Abdali plundered it at his will. Then he proceeded for Delhi.

Wazir Qamar-ud-Din advanced with his forces to resist him. In a battle near Sirhind, Qamar-ud-Din was killed. At Manupur on 11th March, 1748 .AD., in a fierce battle Muin-ul-Mulk, son of Qamar-ud-Din, inflicted a crushing defeat on Abdali. Mohammad Shah was pleased over the bravery of Muin-ul-Mulk and made him the Governor of Punjab. He was popularly known as Mir Mannu. Thus, the first invasion of Abdali proved a failure.

Question 4.
Briefly explain the second invasion of Ahmad Shah Abdali on Punjab.
Or
Give a brief account of the seconsd invasion of Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Answer:
Ahmad Shah Abdali wanted to avenge his defeat in the first invasion. Secondly, he was also aware of the facts that the new Wazir of Delhi, Safdar Jang was jealous of Mir Mannu. Because of this Mir Mannu’s position was unstable. Owing to these reasons Ahmad Shah Abdali invaded Punjab for the second time in 1748 A.D. Mir Mannu too advanced to face Abdali. In the absence of any help from Delhi, Mir Mannu’s defeat seemed certain. So he signed a pact with Abdali. According to this pact Mir Mannu agreed to pay the annual tribute of Char Mahals (four districts) Sialkot, Pasrur, Gujarat and Aurangabad to Abdali.

The annual revenue of these districts was to the tune of Rs. 14 lakhs. When Mir Mannu was busy with Ahmad Shah Abdali, the Sikhs under the leadership of Jassa Singh Ahluwalia plundered Lahore.

Question 5.
Throw light on the third invasion of Ahmad Shah Abdali on Punjab.
Answer:
There was a great disturbance in Punjab owing to the rampages of the Sikhs and the revolt of Nassir Khan against Mir Mannu. As a result Mir Mannu could not send 14 lakh rupees as annual tribute to Ahmad Shah Abdali. So Abdali invaded Punjab for the third time in November 1751 A.D. Mir Mannu sent Abdali 8 lakh rupees and promised to pay the remaining amount of 6 lakh later on. However, this did not satisfy Abdali and he darted towards Lahore with his forces. When the people of Lahore heard this news, many of them ran away from Lahore in order to escape Abdali’s loot and cruelties. After reaching Lahore, Abdali looted for 3 months. It is said that, no lamp was lighted at night in any house.

All this while Mir Mannu had been waiting for any kind of help from Delhi. A fierce battle was fought between the forces of Ahmad Shah Abdali and Mir Mannu near Lahore on 6th March, 1752 A.D. In this battle Diwan Kaura Mai was killed and Mir Mannu was arrested. Abdali was so greatly impressed by the boldness of Mir Mannu that he appointed him the Governor of Punjab.

Question 6.
Explain the fourth invasion of Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Answer:
After the death of Mir Mannu in 1753 A.D., his widow Mughlani Begum became the Governor of Punjab. She was a lady with loose character. It caused disturbance in the whole Punjab. On the orders of new Mughal emperor Alamgir II, Mughlani Begum was arrested and brought to Delhi where she was thrown into the prison. Adina Beg was appointed the new Governor of Punjab. From the prison the Mughlani Begum revealed many important secrets through letters to Abdali. Besides, Abdali could not tolerate the appointment of any Mughal Governor over Punjab.

So Abdali invaded Punjab in November 1756 A.D. for the fourth time. On hearing the news of Abdali’s invasion Adina Beg fled to Delhi without putting up any resistance. Abdali made his son Taimur Shah the Governor of Punjab. A fierce battle was fought near Amritsar between the Afghans and the Sikhs. In this battle, the Sikh leader Baba Deep Singh Ji displayed unparalleled heroism but was ultimately martyred. To avenge his martyrdom the Sikhs plundered Lahore.

Question 7.
Write a note on the third battle of Panipat.
Answer:
The third battle of Panipat was fought between the Marathas and Ahmad Shah Abdali on January 14, 1761 A.D. The reason was that both the powers wanted to establish their foothold in North India. In 1758 A.D., the Marathas had defeated Taimur Shah, the son of Abdali and Governor of the Punjab and occupied the Punjab. It was a challenge to Ahmad Shah Abdali’s power. So he invaded in 1759 A.D. and seized Punjab. After that he advanced to Delhi.

A pitched battle took place between the Marathas and Abdali in Panipat. Sada Shiv Rao Bhau was leading the Marathas in this battle. The Marathas faced a crushing defeat and also suffered heavy loss of life and property in this battle. As a result of this battle, the Marathas suffered grievous blow while the Sikhs got a chance to consolidate their power in the Punjab.

Question 8.
What were the results of the third battle of Panipat?
Answer:
The Third Battle of Panipat is considered as an important and decisive one in the History of India.

1. Great tragedy for the Marathas : The Third Battle of Panipat proved to be a big disaster for the Marathas. In this battle 28,000 Maratha soldiers were killed and a large number were wounded. It is said that there was no house in Maharashtra from which’a family member had not been killed in this war. Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao could not bear this insulting defeat and soon bade farewell to this world.

2. Severe blow to the Maratha Power and Prestige : Prior to the Third Battle of Panipat, the Marathas were considered as ope of the primary powers of India. But the defeat in this battle dealt a severe blow to their power and prestige. As a consequence, the Maratha dream of establishing a Hindu empire in India, vanished.

3. End of Maratha Unity : The Third Battle of Panipat dealt a severe blow to the Maratha prestige and led to the end of the Maratha unity. As a result,„ they got entangled in petty differences and fights amongst themselves. Besides, in this battle nearly all the important Maratha leaders had been killed. As a result, selfish and wicked leaders like Ragoba got a chance to put his wicked plans in operation.

4. Rise of the Sikh Power in Punjab : Ahmad Shah Abdali had ended the Mughal rule in Punjab in 1752 A.D. In the Third Battle of Panipat, he crushed the power of the Marathas. As a result, Punjab was lost for ever to the Marathas. Now only two powers were left in Punjab Afghans and the Sikhs to establish their sovereignty. This is how, the rise of the Sikhs in Punjab was facilitated. They defeated the Afghans and established their own rule in Punjab.

5. Rise of the British Power in India : In order to establish their empire in India, the British faced the greatest challenge from the Marathas. The defeat of the Marathas in the Third Battle of Panipat cleared the way for the establishment of the British authority in India. Slowly, the British became the main power in India.

Question 9.
Write a short note on Wada Ghallughara (Second Bloody Carnage).
Or
Explain the sixth invasion of Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Answer:
The Wada Ghallughara was a very tragic event of Sikh history. The Sikhs had many regions of the Punjab under their control in 1761 A.D. Besides, they had started plundering many other areas also. The Sikhs had also defeated the Governor of Punjab Khwaja Ubaid Khan, appointed by Ahmad Shah Abdali. Abdali could never tolerate the growing influence of the Sikhs, so he invaded the Punjab for the 6th time at the end of 1761 A.D. He easily took control of Lahore. After that Abdali suddenly surrounded the Sikhs at village Kup near Malerkotla on February 5, 1762 A.D.

In this surprise attack 25 to 30 thousand Sikhs were killed. This event is known in Sikh history as Wada Ghallughara. Abdali became very happy over the heavy loss of life of the Sikhs. He thought that it would break the backbone of the Sikh power, but his assessment proved wrong. The Sikhs with redoubled vigour attacked the forces of Abdali. The Sikhs captured Sirhind in 1764 A.D., Lahore in 1765 A.D. and declared their independence.

Question 10.
How did the Sikhs organise their power in their battles against the Afghans?
Answer:
In their battles against the Afghans, the Sikhs had organised themselves in Jathas (regiments). Their unflinching faith in Guru Granth Sahib and Sikh Panth helped in uniting them. Gurmatas were passed through Sarbat Khalsa in the presence of Guru Granth Sahib. All the Sikhs’obeyed these Gurmatas with great respect. A Commander-in-Chief of these Jathas was appointed through Gurmata and all the Sikhs fought against their-enemy under his command. ‘Raj v Karega Khalsa’ had become a belief with every Sikh. Ahmad Shah Abdali could not pay attention to the Sikhs for many years. The Governors appointed by him also could not suppress the Sikhs. In this way, the Sikhs organised themselves as a force against the Afghans.

Question 11.
What were the causes of failure of Ahmad Shah Abdali against the Sikhs? Write any five main reasons.
Or
What were the five causes of failure of Ahmad Shah Abdali against the Sikhs?
Answer:
1. Tenacity of the Sikhs : One of the significant causes of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s failure was the strong determination of the Sikhs. They had unflinching faith in Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s proclamation, ‘Raj Karega Khalsa.’ (The ‘Chalsa will rule). In the Great Holocaust 25,000 to 30,000 Sikhs were massacred. Despite this, the Sikhs remained in high spirits. It was not an easy task to defe r community.

2. Guerilla tactics of War : The guerilla tactics of war adopted was one of the n,ain causes responsible for their success and Ahmad She failure. Whenever Ahmad Shah Abdali proceeded against the Sikhs with his huge army, the Sikhs immediately took shelter in forests and hills and finding a suitable opportunity, the Sikhs would strike Abdali’s soldiers, inflict heavy losses on them and then escape to their hiding places. Abdali could not cope with the guerilla tactics of the Sikhs.

3. Non-Cooperation of the people of the Punjab : Another significant cause of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s defeat was that he could not secure the support of the people of the Punjab. Due to his repeated invasions and plundering, an atmosphere of anarchy and lawlessness prevailed in the Punjab. Abdali not only robbed the people of their wealth, but also killed thousands of innocent persons. Their houses and fields were set on fire and their women were maltreated and dishonoured. As a result, the Punjabis had no sympathy for this ruthless invader.

4. Character of the Sikhs : The character of the Sikhs also proved to be an important factor for the failure of Ahmad Shah Abdali. They never attacked any unarmed or fleeing soldier in the battlefield. They gave full respect to women and children, even if they belonged to their enemy. Because of these qualities, the Sikhs became popular with the Punjabis. So, the success of the Sikhs under these circumstances, was no wonder.

5. Capable leaders of the Sikhs : Another significant cause of the victory of the Sikhs against Ahmad Shah Abdali was their able leaders. These leaders led the Sikhs ably and wisely in difficult times. Prominent among these leaders were Nawab Kapoor Singh, Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, Jassa Singh Ramgarhia, Charat Singh Sukarchakia, Ala Singh and Lehna Singh Bhangi.

Question 12.
Describe any five important effects of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s invasions over Punjab.
Answer:
1. End of the Mughal Rule in the Punjab : The first great impact of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s invasion on Punjab was that the Mughalrule in the Punjab came to an end. Mir Mannu was the last Mughal Governor of Punjab. Abdali took possession of the Punjab and annexed it to his Afghan empire. Abdali too had nominated Mir Mannu as the Governor of Punjab on his behalf. The Mughals tried to recapture Punjab but Abdali frustrated their efforts.

2. Rise of the Sikh Power : In the 18th century a struggle for supremacy was going on among four powers namely Mughals, Afghans, Marathas and the Sikhs. As a result of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s invasions, the Mughal and the Maratha powers in the Punjab came to an end. Now this tussle for the possession of the Punjab was left between the two powers i.e. the Afghans and the Sikhs. The Sikhs had got on the nerves of the Afghans by their guerilla warfare. In the Great Holocaust of 1762 A.D., Abdali massacred thousands of Sikhs but could not dampen their spirits. The Sikhs onquered Sirhind in 1764 A.I). and Lahore in 1765 A.D. The Sikhs proclaimed their independence by circulating their own coins.

3. People of Punjab became Brave : As a result of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s invasions, the people of the Punjab became brave and bold because they had to wield weapons for their defence against the invasions and lootings of Ahmad Shah Abdali. They set up glorious examples of bravery in the long-drawn struggle with the AfghAnswer: The Sikhs finally emerged victorious in this struggle.

4. Enmity between the Sikhs and Muslims increased : The invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali increased the enmity between the Sikhs and the Muslims. It was because the Afghans always raised the slogan of Jihad (religious war) while fighting against the Sikhs. They committed many atrocities on the Sikhs in the name of Islam. Secondly, by demolishing the most sacred place, Harimandir Sahib of the Sikhs, Abdali turned the Sikhs into his bitter enemies. Owing to these reasons, the gulf between the Sikhs and the Afghans widened.

5. Economic Loss of the Punjab : The invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali inflicted great loss on the economy of the Punjab. He robbed Punjab of gold, silver, diamonds and pearls of lakhs and croses of rupees. In fact, almost the whole wealth ‘ of the Punjab was drained off to Afghanistan. Due to the repeated invasions agricultural production was adversely affected. Abdali’s soldiers, while marching, badly damaged the crops of thousands of acres of land. Commerce and industries also felt the pinch of the Afghan invasions.

Question 13.
What were ,the effects of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s invasions on the Sikh struggle for power?
Or
What were the political effects of Abdali’s invasions?
Answer:
The invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali had a deep effect on the polity of the Punjab. First of all, the Mughal rule came to an end in Punjab, Abdali annexed the Punjab to Afghanistan in 1752. Secondly, Abdali gave the Marathas a crushing defeat in the third battle of Panipat as result of which the influence of Mafathas ended in Punjab for ever. Thirdly, as a result of continuous attacks of Ahmad Shah Abdali, lawlessness and chaos prevailed in the Punjab. Life and property of the people was not safe.

The government officials exploited the people and justice was to be found nowhere. Fourthly, with the end of Maratha power in Punjab, the Sikhs got an opportunity to consolidate their power. They defeated the forces of Abdali at many places through guerilla warfare. The Sikhs got control over Lahore in 1765 A.D. and declared their independence.

Question 14.
What were the Social effects of the invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali?
Answer:
1. Increase in the Social Evils : The invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali encouraged many evils in the Punjab. The people became selfish and characterless. Theft, robbery, murder, looting, cheating and corruption were the order of the day.

2. People of Punjab became Brave : As a result of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s invasions the people of the Punjab became brave and bold. The reason being that they had to wield weapons for their defence against the invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali. They set up glorious examples of bravery in the long drawn struggle with the Afghans.

3. Punjabis became spendthrift: Punjabis’ character underwent a significant change as a result of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s invasions. They became spendthrift. The reason was that Abdali invariably carried money to Afghanistan which he looted from the people during his invasions. This adage became very common at that time :
“Khadha Pita lahe da, Rehnda Ahmad Shahe da.” Whatever you eat and drink is yours, the rest belongs to Ahmad Shah Abdali.

4. Enmity between the Sikhs and Muslims increased : The invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali increased the enmity between the Sikhs and the Muslims. It’ was because the Afghans always raised the slogan of Jihad (religious war) while fighting against the Sikhs. Secondly, by demolishing the most sacred place, the Sri Harmandir Sahib of the Sikhs, Abdali turned the Sikhs into his bitter enemies. Owing to these reasons the gulf between the Sikhs and the Afghans widened.

Question 15.
What were the economic consequences of the invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali?
Answer:
The invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali inflicted great loss on the economy of the Punjab. He robbed Punjab of gold, silver, diamonds and pearls worth crores of rupees. In fact, almost the whole wealth of the Punjab was drained off to Afghanistan. Due to the repeated invasions agricultural production was adversely effected. Abdali’s soldiers while marching badly damaged the crops of thousands of acres of land. Commerce and industries also felt the pinch of the Afghan invasions. The sense of insecurity and anarchical conditions impeded the growth of trade in terms of quantum and quality.

Travelling was difficult and unsafe. Therefore, Punjab couldn’t expect much external trade. Moreover, many industrial centres were destroyed by the Afghan forces. It all resulted in the poverty of the people.

Essay Type Questions:

Causes Of Abdali’S Invasions:

Question 1.
What were the causes of the invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali?
Or
Explain the causes of the invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Or
What were the causes of the invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali on Punjab?
Answer:
Ahmad Shah Abdali was the ruler of Afghanistan. He invaded Punjab eight times from 1747 to 1767 A.D. The following causes were responsible for these invasions:

1. Ambition of Abdali : Ahmad Shah Abdali was a very ambitious ruler. He did not feel contented with his small kingdom of Afghanistan. Hence, he wanted to expand his domain by capturing Punjab and other states of India. In order to fulfil his imperialistic ambition he first of all decided to invade Punjab.

2. Enormous wealth of India: In order to establish a powerful empire it was very necessary for Abdali to have great weatlh. He could not obtain this wealth from his own kingdom of Afghanistan, as economically it was a very backward region. On the other hand, this wealth could be obtained from lndia, which was famous in the entire world for its enormous wealth. In 1739 A.D. when he had come to India with Nadir Shah, he was amazed to see India’s enormous wealth. Nadir Shah While returning from India had taken with him unlimited precious gems, gold and silver etc. Abdali also wanted to invade India and loot its enormous wealth.

3. To consolidate his position in Afghanistan: Ahmad Shah Abdali belonged to an ordinary family. He became the ruler of Afghanistan after killing Nadir Shah in 1747 A.D. Many chieftains opposed him due to this reason. Hence, Ahmad Shah Abdali, in order to, consolidate his position in Afghanistan wanted to invade foreign countries. Through these invasions he wanted to enhance his honour and status and also win the loyalty of the Afghans.

4. Favourable Political condition of India: After the death of Aurangzeb in 1707 A.D. the mighty Mughal empire was rapidly going towards its downfall. After Mohammad Shah sat on the throne in 1719 A.D. the situation became even more sombre. Most of his time was spent in the company of wine and women. Hence he became famous by the name ‘Rangeela’ (the colourful). During his reign (1719-48 AD.), the actual reins of his government were in the hands of his ministers, who were always busy plotting against one another. Hence, there was complete anarchy in all directions in his reign. In Punjab, the Sikhs were proving to be an uncontrollable menace for the Mughal subedars. Taking advantage of this situation, Ahmad Shah Abdali decided to invade Punjab.

5. Past Experience of Abdali in India: In 1739 A.D. when Nadir Shah invaded India, Ahmad Shah Abdali was his commander-in-chief. Abdali had at that time made a close study of the political situation of Punjab and Delhi and also of the fighting capability of the Indian Army. He had realised that the Mughal empire was like a castle of sand which could not withstand a strong storm. Hence, after becoming an indepedent ruler, Abdali decided to take advantage of this situation.

6. Invitation of Shah Nawaz Khan : In 1745 A.D. after the death of Zakriya Khan, his eldest son Yahiya Khan became the new subedar of Lahore. Shah Nawaz Khan, his younger brother, could not tolerate this. For quite some time, he had been dreaming of becoming the subedar of Lahore. At the end of the year 1746 A.D. he declared war against Yahiya Khan. This war between the two brothers continued for four months. Shah Nawaz Khan won this battle.

He imprisoned Yahiya Khan and himself became the subedar of Lahore. The Wazir (minister) of Delhi, Qamar- ud-din who was the father-in-law of Yahiya Khan could not toleratq this. At his instigation, Muhammad Shah Rangeela refused to accept Shah Nawaz Khan as the subedar of Lahore. In this situation, Shah Nawaz Khan invited Ahmad Shah Abdali to invade India. Abdali was in search of such a golden opportunity. Hence, he decided to attack India.

Invasions Of Abdall:

Question 2.
Give a brief account of Ahmad Shah Abdalf s invasions over Punjab.
Answer:
Ahmad Shah was the ruler of Afghanistan. He invaded Punjab eight times during his rule from 1747 to 1767 A.D. A brief description of these invasions is given below :

1. First Invasion of Abdali 1747-48 A.D.: On the invitation of Shah Nawaz, Khan Ahmad Shah Abdali proceeded with his forces towards India in December 1747 A.D. Without any resistance, he reached Shahdara near Lahore on 8th January 1748 A.D.. Meanwhile Qamar-ud-Din compromised with Shah Nawaz Khan. As a result, Shah Nawaz Khan refused to side with Abdali. This enraged Abdali. By defeating Shah Nawaz Khan on 10th January 1748 A.D., he tpok possession of Lahore. Shah Nawaz Khan fled to Delhi. After taking possession of Lahore, Abdali plundered it at his will. Then, he proceeded for Delhi.

Wazir Qamar-ud-Din advanced with his forces to resist him. In a battle near Sirhind, Qamar-ud-Din was killed. At Manupur on 11th March, 1748 A.D. in a fierce battle Muin-ul- Mulk, son of Qamar-ud-Din, inflicted a crushing defeat on Abdali. Mohammad Shah was pleased over the bravery of Muin-ul-Mulk and made him the Governor of Punjab. He was popularly known as Mir Mannu. Taking advantage of the anarchy prevalent in the country, the Sikhs of Punjab had begun to consolidate their power.

2. Second Invasion of Abdali 1748-49 A.D.: Ahmad Shah Abdali wanted to avenge his defeat in the first invasion. So, Ahmad Shah Abdali invaded Punjab for the second time in 1748 A.D. Mir Mannu too, advanced to face Abdali. In the absence

of any help from Delhi, Mir Mannu’s defeat seemed certain. So, he signed a pact with Abdali. According to this pact, Mir Mannu agreed to pay the annual tribute of Char Mahals (four districts) Sialkot, Pasrur, Gujarat and Aurangabad to Abdali. The annual revenue of these districts was to the tune of Rs. 14 lakhs.

3. Third Invasion of Abdali 1751-52 A.D.: There was a great disturbance in Punjab owing to the rampages of the Sikhs and the revolt of Nassir Khan against Mir Mannu. As a result Mir Mannu could not send 14 lakh rupees, the annual revenue to Ahmad Shah Abdali. So, Abdali invaded Punjab for the third time in November 1751 A.D. Mir Mannu sent Abdali 8 lakh rupees and promised to pay the remaining amount of 6 lakh later on. However, this did not satisfy Abdali and he darted towards Lahore with his forces. When the people of Lahore heard this news, many of them ran away from Lahore, in order to escape Abdali’s loot and cruelties.

After reaching Lahore, Abdali looted Lahore for 3 months. It is said that no lamp was lighted at night in any house. All this, while Mir Mannu had been waiting for some kind of help from Delhi.

A fierce battle was fought between the forces of Ahmad Shah Abdali and Mir Mannu near Lahore on 6th March, 1752 A.D. In this battle Diwan Kaura Mai was killed and Mir Mannu was arrested. Next day Mir Mannu was brought before Ahmad Shah Abdali. Abdali was greatly impressed by the boldness of Mir Mannu. So, he not only forgave Mir Mannu but also made him the Governor of Punjab. In this way, Abdali annexed Punjab to his empire in 1752 A.D.

4. Fourth Invasion of Abdali 1756-57 A.D.: After the death of Mir Mannu in 1753 A.D., his widow Mughlani Begum became the Governor of Punjab. On the orders of new Mughal emperor, Alamgir II, Mughlani Begum was arrested and thrown into prison. Adina Beg was appointed the new Governor of Punjab. Abdali could not tolerate the appointment of any Mughal Governor over Punjab. So, Abdali invaded Punjab in November 1756 A.D. for the fourth time. On hearing the news of Abdali’s invasion Adina Beg fled to Delhi without putting up any resistance. Then, Abdali planned to attack Delhi. In the meanwhile the Sikhs had grown in strength in Punjab. They raided the forces of Abdali and looted much of his booty. Abdali decided to settle his scores with the Sikhs on his return from Delhi.

Ahmad Shah Abdali reached Delhi in January 1757 A.D. and caused great havoc. Afterwards, he looted Mathura and Brindaban. On reaching Punjab, he made his son Timur Shah, the Governor of Punjab. He ordered Timur Shah to teach the Sikhs a lesson for their activities. In order to crush the power of the Sikhs, he sent an army to Amritsar under the command of Jahan Khan. A fierce battle was fought near Amritsar between the Afghans and the Sikhs. In this battle, the Sikh leader Baba Deep Singh Ji displayed unparalleled heroism. As tradition goes, he continued to fight the enemy even after his head was severed. He breathed his las after reaching Harimandir Sahib on November 11, 1757 A.D. The lom of Baba Deep Singh Ji infused a new spirit among the Sikhs. In the 1 Gurbaksh Singh,

“The martyrdom of Baba Deep Singh Ji and his associates shocked the whole Sikh nation. They determined to retaliate with vengeance.”

5. Fifth Invasion of Abdali 1759-61 A.D. : In 1758 A D., the Sikhs in collaboration with the Marathas drove out Taimur Shah from the Punjab. So Abdali wanted to teach a lesson to the Sikhs and the Marathas. With this objective, Abdali invaded Punjab in October 1759 A.D. Abdali, defeated a famous Maratha leader, Duttaji, at Taraori near Ambala. Swiftly he captured Delhi. Here Abdali stayed for a year. When the news of Maratha’s consecutive defeats reached their Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao, he sent a large army under the command of Sada Shiv Rao Bha’u to resist Ahmad Shah Abdali. A fierce battle known as Third Battle of Panipat was fought on 14th January, 1761 A.D. between the two armies.

In this battle Abdali caused much havoc to the Maratha army. Consequently, the power of the Marathas suffered a heavy set-back in the Punjab. Ahmad Shah Abdali could do no harm to the Sikh power. At night when Abdalih soldiers were resting, the Sikhs would suddenly attack them and make away with their treasures. This time Abdali was taking away with him a large number of women from India. Jassa Singh Ahluwalia made a sudden attack and got many women released from Abdali’s captivity and sent them to their homes. In this way Jassa Singh Ahluwalia gave proof of his bravery.

6. Sixth Invasion of Abdali 1762 A.D.: After Ahmad Shah Abdali had returned to Afghanistan, the Sikhs intensified their activities. In order to teach a lesson to the Sikhs he invaded for the sixth time in 1762 A.D. He made a surprise attack on the Sikhs at village Kup on 5th February, 1762 A.D. At that time the Sikhs were taking their families to some safe place. Their arms and rations were lying at village Garma, which was at a distance of 6 kilometres from there. The Sikhs while forming a safety circle around their women and children started resisting Abdali’s soldiers. The Sikhs suffered heavy losses in the battle for want of arms. In this battle 25,000 to 30,000 Sikhs were massacred. This loss was too jnuch for the Sikhs. That is why this incident is known as Wadda Ghallughara (Great Holocaust) in the Sikh history.

Though the Sikhs had suffered a great loss they had not lost their courage. The Sikhs attacked Kasur in 1763 A.D., and ransacked it. A fierce battle was fpught between the forces of the Sikhs and of Zain Khan, the Governor of Sirhind, on 14th January, 1764 A.D. In this battle Zain Khan was killed.-After this the Sikhs plundered Sirhind and thoroughly destroyed it.

7. Other Invasions of Abdali 1764-67 AD. : Ahmad Shah Abdali invaded Punjab for the seventh times in 1764-65 A.D. and the eighth times in 1766-67 A.D. These invasions of Abdali were of no significance. Infact, he failed to crush the power of the Sikhs. During this time the Sikhs had occupied Lahore in 1765 A.D. The Sikhs issued their coins and declared their independence.

The Third Battle of Panipat:

Question 3.
Discuss the causes, events and results of the Third Battle of Panipat.
Or
Discuss the causes, events and results of the Third Battle of Panipat.
Or
What were the causes of the Third Battle of Panipat? Briefly describe the consequences of this battle.
Or
Describe the causes and consequences of the Third Battle of Panipat.
Or
Discuss the causes and events of the Third Battle of Panipat.
Answer:
On 14 January, 1761 A.D. the Third Battle of Panipat took place between the Marathas and Ahmad Shah Abdali. It had far reaching consequences on the history of Punjab.

(A) Causes of the Third Battle of Panipat

A brief description of the causes responsible for the Third Battle of Panipat is given below:

1. Plunder of Ruhelkhand by the Marathas: The Ruhelas ruled Ruhelkhand. The Marathas defeated them and forced them to flee from Ruhelkhand. Then Marathas indulged in plunder and loot. The Ruhelas were Afghans and hence were clans of Ahmad Shah. Consequently, they invited Ahmad Shah to avenge this insult to the Afghan race. Abdali immediately accepted the invitation.

2. Policy of establishing Hindu Kingdom by the Marathas: The Marathas were consistently increasing their power. Encouraged by this, the Peshwas declared the establishment of a Hindu empire in India. Then the Muslim Kingdom in India was in grave danger. Hence these kingdoms encouraged Abdali to suppress the Marathas.

3. Lack of unity among the Hindus : The Jjits and the Rajputs who were Hindus, were jealous of growth of the Maratha power in India. The main reason for this was that they themselves wanted to establish their own supremacy in India. Abdali considered this disunity among the Hindus as a golden opportunity to. gain control over India.

4. Occupation of Delhi and Punjab by Marathas : During his previous invasions of India, Ahmad Shah Abdali in 1752 A.D. had established his supremacy over Punjab and in 1756 A.D. over Delhi. In Punjab, he had appointed his son Taimur Shah and in Delhi the Ruhela leader Najib-ud-Daula as his representatives. The Marathas occupied Delhi in 1757 A.D. and Punjab in 1758 A.D. Both these victories of the Marathas were a challenge to the power of Ahmed Shah Abdali. Hence, to establish his honour and supremacy, it became important for him to fight with the Marathas.

(B) Events of the Third Battle of Panipat

At the end of 1759 A.D. Abdali attacked India. First of all, he established control over Punjab. He, then, advanced towards Delhi. The Marathas tried to stop him on the way, but they were unsuccessful. When Balaji Baji Rao got the news of these events, he sent a huge army towards north India. The actual reins of control of this army were in the hands of Sadashiv Eao Bhau. The Peshwa even sent his son Vishwas Rao to help him. The command of the artillery of this army was given to Ibrahim Gardi. Due to Marathas’ improper policies, the Rajputs and the Sikhs of Punjab were already angry with them. That is why at this moment of crisis they did not lend them their support.

The Jat leader, Surajmal advised Sadashiv Rao Bhau to use guerilla warfare methods against Abdali. But he did not accept this wise advice. Surajmal along with his 10,000 soldiers declined to support the Marathas. As a result the Marathas were left with only 45,000 soldiers. On the other hand Ahmad Shah Abdali had 60,000 soldiers under him. Out of these nearly half the soldiers had been sent by the Nawab of Oudh, Shiyaud-Daula and by the Ruhela sardar Najib-ud-daula to support Abdali. Both these armies reached the region of Panipat in November 1760 A.D. For nearly two and a half months neither of these two had the courage to attack.

On 14 January, 1761 A.D. the Marathas attacked the army of Abdali. This was a fearful battle. At the beginning of the battle the Marathas seemed to have the odds in their favour. But when Vishwas Rao was killed by a bullet the whole situation was easily reversed. Sadashiv Rao Bhau got down from his elephant to express sorrow. When the Maratha soldiers saw his palanquin empty on the elephant they thought he had also been killed. As a result panic spread amongst the Maratha soldiers. Abdali’s soldiers grabbed this golden opportunity and followed them and caused them heavy losses. Thus Ahmad Shah Abdali became victorious in the Third Battle of Panipat.

(C) Consequences of the Third Battle of Panipat

The Third Battle of Panipat is considered as an important and decisive one in the History of India. .

1. Great tragedy for the Marathas: The Third Battle of Panipat proved to be a big disaster for the Marathas. In this battle 28,000 Maratha soldiers were killed and a large number were wounded. It is said that there was no house in Maharashtra from which a family member had not been killed in this war. Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao could not bear this insulting defeat and soon bade farewell to this world.

2. Severe blow to the Maratha Power and Prestige: Prior to the Third Battle of Panipat, the Marathas were considered as one of the primary powers of India. But the defeat in this battle dealt a severe blow to their power and prestige. As a consequence, the Maratha dream of establishing a Hindu empire in India, vanished.

3. End of Maratha Unity : The Third Battle of Panipat dealt a severe blow to the Maratha prestige and led to the end of the Maratha unity. As a result, they got entangled in petty differences and fights amongst themselves. Besides, in this battle nearly all the important Maratha leaders had been killed. As a result, selfish and wicked leaders like Ragoba got a chance to put his wicked plans in operation.

4. Rise of the Sikh Power in Punjab : Ahmad Shah Abdali had ended the Mughal rule in Punjab in 1752 A.D. In the Third Battle of Panipat, he crushed the power of the Marathas. As a result, Punjab was lost for ever to the Marathas. Now only two powers were left in Punjab—Afghans and the Sikhs—to establish their
sovereignty. This is how, the rise of the Sikhs in Punjab was facilitated. They defeated the Afghans and established their own rule in Punjab.

5. Rise of the British: Power in India : In order to establish their empire in India, the British faced the greatest challenge from the Marathas. The defeat of the Marathas in the Third Battle of Panipat cleared the way for the establishment of the British authority in India. Slowly, the British became the main power in India. Writing about the consequence of the Third Battle of Panipat, eminent historians P.N. Chopra, T. K. Ravindran and N. Subramanian have said, “The Third Battle of Panipat proved disastrous to the Marathas.”

Question 4.
What were the reasons of failure of the Marathas in the Third Battle of Panipat?
Answer:
There were various causes responsible for the defeat of the Marathas in the Third Battle of Panipat. A detailed account of these causes is as follows :

1. Powerful army of the Afghans : One of the principal causes of the defeat of the Marathas in this war was the powerful army of the AfghAnswer: This army was better trained, disciplined and united. Besides this, their artillery was also .very powerful. Hence, the Maratha army could not face them.

2. Able leadership’ of Ahmad Shah Abdali : Ahmad Shah Abdali was an extremely experienced commander. He was included amongst Asia’s greatest commanders. On the other hand, the Maratha commanders Sadashiv Rao Bhau and Vishwas Rao had no experience about the management of war. The defeat of such an army was a matter of no great surprise.

3. Policy of plunder of the Marathas’: Another major cause .of the defeat of the Marathas was that they indulged in terrible plundering of the regions captured by them. Due to this policy the kingdoms of Rajputana, Hyderabad, Awadh, Ruhelkhand and Mysore became their opponents. So, they offered no help to the Marathas, in this moment of crisis. Consequently, the Maratha defeat was a foregone conclusion.

4. Renounced the Guerilla method of warfare : The Marathas belonged to Maharashtra, which-has forests and a mountainous terrain. The Marathas were adept at the method of guerilla warfare. By which they had achieved many amazing victories. But in the Third Battle of Panipat, they discarded this method of guerilla warfare and committed the grave blunder of adopting the policy of direct ground warfare against Abdali. As a result, the Marathas had to face defeat.

5. Co-operation of Muslim States to Abdali : One of the major reasons for Abdali’s victory in this battle’was that he got the support of various Indian Muslim kingdoms like Ruhelkhand and Awadh. This boosted Abdali’s morale and he succeeded in defeating the Marathas.

6. Economic difficulties of the Marathas : The economic difficulties of the Marathas was another main reason for the defeat of the Marathas. Due to lack of funds the Marathas could neither provide their soldiers with appropriate weapons nor foodstuffs. So, the defeat of such an army was sure.

7. Blunder of Sadashiv Rao Bhau : During the Third Battle of Panipat, the Peshwa’s son Vishwas Rao was killed. When Sadashiv Rao Bhau got this news, he descended from his elephant to pay his last respect to the dead. On seeing his palanquin empty on the elephant, the Maratha soldiers thought that even he had been killed in the battle. As a result, panic spread amongst the Marathas and within no time the battle was lost.

Question 5.
Describe the causes, results and failure of Marathas in the Third Battle of Panipat.
Answer:
For answer to this question students are requested to see the answers of Question Nos. 3 and 4.

Causes Of The Failure Of Ahmad Shah Abdali:

Question 6.
What were the causes of failure of Ahmad Shah Abdali in the struggle against the Sikhs?
Or
What were the reasons of failure of Ahmad, Shah Abdali against the Sikhs?
Or
Examine carefully the causes of Ahmad SEah Abdali’s ultimate failure to suppress the Sikh power.
Or
Discuss the causes of the success of the Sikhs against Ahmad Sha Abdali.
Answer:
Ahmad Shah Abdali was one of the greatest warriors and generals of Asia. He vastly extended his empire by occupying several regions. He was a very brutal king. The enemies trembled at the very mention of his name. Despite all this, he failed to crush the power of the Sikhs. The following factors were responsible for the failure of Ahmad Shah Abdali or the victory of the Sikhs

1. Tenacity of the Sikhs: One of the significant causes of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s failure was the strong determination of the Sikhs. They had unflinching faith in Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s proclamation, “Raj Karega Khalsa.’ (The Khalsa will rule). That is why they resisted the attacks of Ahmad Shah Abdali tooth and nail. Though Abdali committed untold atrocities on the Sikhs yet they were not demoralised. They stood firm like a rock. In the Great Holocaust 25,000 to 30,000 Sikhs were massacred. Despite this, the Sikhs remained in high spirits. It was not an easy task to defeat such a community.

2. Guerilla tactics of War : The guerilla tactics of war adopted by the Sikhs was one of the main causes responsible for their success and Ahmad Shah Abdali’s failure. The Sikhs were convinced that they would not be able to square up with an experienced general like Ahmad Shah Abdali in the open because Sikhs had limited resources. Whenever Ahmad Shah, Abdali proceeded against the Sikhs with his huge army, the Sikhs immediately took shelter in forests and hills and finding a suitable opportunity, the Sikhs would strike Abdali’s soldiers, inflict heavy losses on them and then escape to their hiding places. Abdali could not cope with the guerilla tactics of the Sikhs. The famous writer Khushwant Singh aptly says, “Fighting the Sikhs was like trying to catch the wind in a net.”

3. Abdali left insufficient Soldiers : Another significant cause of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s failure to crush the Sikh powers was that he left insufficient number of soldiers in the Punjab for this purpose. He did leave some soldiers in the prominent towns of Punjab but their number was much smaller than the required ones. Consequently, they failed even to hold the ground on which they stood.

4. Incapable representatives of Abdali : Another reason of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s defeat was his incompetent representatives in Punjab. They lacked administrative skill. His son, Taimur Shah remained the Governor of Punjab for only one year. He proved.to be an inefficient ruler. His assistant, Jahan Khan lacked administrative skill. Zain Khan of Sirhind turned his soldiers against himself by refusing to pay them their salaries. Similarly the Governor of Lahore, Khwaja Ubaid Khan was unfit for his office. As a result of these incapable representatives of Abdali, the power of the Sikhs continued to rise rather than decline.

5. Non-Cooperation of the people of the Punjab r Another significant cause of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s defeat was that he could not secure the support of the people of the Punjab. Due to his repeated invasions and plundering, an atmosphere of anarchy and lawlessness prevailed in the Punjab. Abdali not only robbed the people of their wealth, but also killed thousands of innocent persons. Their houses and fields were set on fire and their women were maltreated and dishonoured: As a result, the Punjabis had no sympathy for this ruthless invader. Under such conditions, to think of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s conquest of Punjab was to think of something impossible.

6. Help from Zamindars : In the Sikh-Afghan tussle, the Zamindars of the Punjab extended their full co-operation to the Sikhs. They knew very well that after a brief stay in the Punjab, Abdali would return to Afghanistan. But on the other hand their relations with the Sikhs were of a permanent nature. They did not want to run any risk by taking action against the Sikhs. Besides many Zamindars were actually fighting for freedom and were sympathetic towards the Sikhs. The co¬operation of the Zamindars proved very useful for the growth of the Sikh power.

7. Character of the Sikhs : The character of the Sikhs also proved to be an important factor for the failure of Ahmad Shah Abdali. The sterling qualities of the Sikhs of the 18th century were such as could not but impress even their enemies. Although the Sikhs had to face innumerable hardships, yet they remained happy under all circumstances. They never attacked any unarmed or fleeing soldier in the battlefield.

They gave full respect to women and children, even if they belonged to their enemy. Qazi Nur Mohammad who nursed strong feelings of malice against the Sikhs had also lavished praises on the Sikhs for these qualities in his book entitled ‘Jangnama’. Because of these qualities, the Sikhs became popular with the Punjabis. So, the success of the Sikhs under these circumstances, was no wonder.

8. Capable leaders of the Sikhs : Another significant cause of the victory of the Sikhs against Ahmad Shah Abdali was their able leaders. These leaders led the Sikhs ably and wisely in difficult times. Prominent among these leaders were Nawab Kapoor Singh, Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, Jassa Singh Ramgarhia, Charat Singh Sukarchakia, Ala Singh and Lehna Singh Bhangi. Under their leadership the Sikh Panth continued to march on the path of progress.

9. Contribution of Amritsar : In the Sikh-Afghan tussle, the contribution of Amritsar was remarkable. The Sikhs looked upon it as their Mecca. They took pride in being martyred for its sake. In the 18th century the Sikhs would first gather at Harimandir Sahib and take a bath in the holy tank, before attacking their enemy. They passed their Gurmatas at the Akal Takht Sahib. No Sikh would withdraw himself from the decisions taken by these ‘Gurmatas’. In fact, Amritsar had become a symbol of unity and freedom of the Sikhs. Ahmad Shah Abdali tried to finish off the Sikhs by demolishing Harimandir Sahib and filling up its holy tank with debris.

10. Revolts in Afghanistan : The Empire of Ahmad Shah Abdali was very vast. It was very difficult for him to keep it under his control. So, whenever Abdali invaded the Punjab, finding it a golden opportunity .someone or the other always raised a banner of revolt in Afghanistan. Owing to these recurring revolts, Abdali could not pay his undivided attention to the Punjab. Moreover, he had to return to Afghanistan without consolidation of his Conquests. The Sikhs took full advantage of this situation and recaptured all his conquered regions after Abdali’s return to Afghanistan. As a result Abdali failed to crush the power of the Sikhs.

Effects of Abdali’S Invasions On the Punjab:

Question 7.
Narrate the effects of the invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali on the Punjab.
Or
Study the political, social and econmic effects of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s invasions on the Punjab.
Or
Examine the various effects of the invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Or
What were the effects of Ahmad Shah Abdali on Punjab? Discuss in detail.
Answer:
Ahmad Shah Abdali invaded the Punjab eight times between 1747 A.D. to 1767 A.D. His invasions left deep impact on the political, social and economic sphere of the Punjab. A brief account of these effects are as follows :

Political Effects:

1. End of the Mughal Rule in the Punjab : The first great impact of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s invasion on Punjab was that the Mughal rule in the Punjab came to an end. Mir Mannu was the last Mughal Governor of Punjab. He did not get any help from Delhi. So, he was defeated by Ahmad Shah Abdali in 1752 A.D. Abdali took possession of the Punjab and annexed it to his Afghan empire. Abdali too had nominated Mir Mannu as the Governor of Punjab on his behalf. After the death of Mir Mannu in 1753 A.D., the Mughals tried to recapture Punjab but Abdali frustrated their efforts. As a result the Mughal rule in the Punjab came to an end for ever.

2. End of Maratha Power in the Punjab: Adina Beg, the Faujdar of Jalandhar Doab was dreaming of becoming the Governor of Punjab. So, he invited the Marathas to Punjab and entered into an alliance with the Sikhs. In 1758 A.D. the Marathas, after defeating Timur Shah took possession of the Punjab. They nominated Adina Beg as the Governor of Punjab, but he passed away soon. After him the Marathas nominated Sambhaji, the Governor of Punjab. Abdali defeated him in 1759 A.D. Abdali inflicted a crushing defeat on the Marathas in the Third Battle of Panipat on 14th January, 1761 A.D. As a result of this defeat the Maratha power in Punjab was eclipsed for ever. .

3. Rise of the Sikh Power: In the 18th century a struggle for supremacy was going on among four powers namely Mughals, Afghans, Marathas and the Sikhs. As a result of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s invasions, the Mughal and the Maratha powers in the Punjab came to an end. Now this tussle for the possession of the Punjab was left between the two powers i.e. the Afghans and the Sikhs. The Sikhs had got on the nerves of the Afghans by their guerilla warfare. In the Great Holocaust of 1762 A.D., Abdali massacred thousands of Sikhs but could not dampen their spirits. The Sikhs conquered Sirhind in 1764 A.D. and Lahore in 1765 A.D. The Sikhs proclaimed their independence by circulating their own coins.

4. Anarchy in the Punjab : There was anarchy and lawlessness everywhere in Punjab due to the continuous invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali from 1747 to 1767 A.D. The government officials began to have their own ways. They started fleecing the people. There was no such thing as justice. Since the life and property of the people were insecure, it let to anarchy and chaos in the Punjab.

Social Effects:

5. Increase in the Social Evils : The invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali encouraged many evils in the Punjab. The people became selfish and characterless. They were not afraid of committing any crime or sin. Theft, robbery, murder, looting,
cheating and corruption were the order of the day. These evils had eaten into the vitals of the society of the Punjab.

6. People of Punjab became Brave : As a result of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s invasions, the people of the Punjab became brave and bold because they had to wield weapons for their defence against the invasions and lootings of Ahmad Shah Abdali. They set up glorious examples of bravery in the long-drawn struggle with the AfghAnswer: The Sikhs finally emerged victorious in this struggle.

7. Punjabis became spendthrift : Punjabis’ character underwent a significant change as a result of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s invasions. They became spendthrift. The reason was that Abdali had carried away the money to Afghanistan which he looted from the people during his invasions. So the people began to eat, drink and make merry instead of hoarding money. This adage became very common at that time,

“Khada Peeta Lahe da,
Rehnda Ahmad Shahe da.”
Whatever, you eat and drink is yours, the rest belongs to Ahmad Shah Abdali.

8. Enmity between the Sikhs and Muslims increased : The invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali increased the enmity between the Sikhs and the Muslims. It was because the Afghans always raised the slogan of Jihad (religious war) while, fighting against the Sikhs. They committed many atrocities on the Sikhs in the name of Islam. Secondly, by demolishing the most sacred place, Harimandir Sahib of the Sikhs, Abdali turned the Sikhs into his bitter enemies. Owing to these reasons, the gulf between the Sikhs and the Afghans widened.

Economic and Cultural Effects:

9. Economic Loss of the Punjab : The invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali inflicted great loss on the economy of the Punjab. He robbed Punjab of gold, silver, diamonds and pearls of lakhs and croses of rupees. In fact, almost the whole wealth of the Punjab was drained off to Afghanistan. Due to the repeated invasions agricultural production was adversely affected. Abdali’s soldiers, while marching, badly damaged the crops of thousands of acres of land. Commerce and industries also felt the pinch of the Afghan invasions. It all resulted in the poverty of the people.

10. Great Blow to Art and Literature : Ahmad Shah Abdali’s invasions gave a great blow to the development of art and literature in the Punjab. During their invasions, the Afghan soldiers destroyed many rare art pieces and most of literature. Many historical buildings including gurdwaras and temples were razed to the ground. The atmosphere of anarchy and chaos was not conducive to the creation of new art and literary compositions. Thus, the bloody invasions of Abdali resulted in great historic and cultural loss. S.S. Gandhi aptly says, “The invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali exercised manifold effects, covering almost all aspects of life.”

Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Who was Ahmad Shah Abdali? What were the reasons of his Punjab invasions?
Or
Write the main causes of invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali on Punjab.
Or
What were three causes of the invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali on Punjab?
Answer:
Ahmad Shah Abdali was the emperor of Afghanistan. Many factors were responsible for his invasions,

• He wanted to expand his empire,
• He wanted to get wealth from Punjab to consolidate his position in Afghanistan.
• There was anarchy in India. Ahmad Shah Abdali wanted to take advantage of this golden opportunity,
• By establishing his control over Punjab, he wanted to earn a name and fame.

Question 2.
What do you know about the first invasion of Ahmad Shah Abdali?
Or
Write a short note on the first Abdali invasion over Punjab.
Answer:
On the invitation of Shah Nawaz Khan, Ahmad Shah Abdali proceeded with his forces towards India in December 1747. By defeating Shah Nawaz Khan on 10th January 1748, he took possession of Lahore. Shah Nawaz Khan fled away to Delhi. At Manupur on 11th March, 1748’A. D. in a fierce battle Muin-ul-Mulk gave a crushing defeat to Abdali. Mohammad Shah was pleased , over the bravery of Muin-ul-Mulk and made him the Governor of Punjab. He* was popularly known as Mir Mannu. Thus, the first invasion of Abdali proved a failure.

Question 3.
Briefly explain the second invasion of Ahmad Shah Abdali on Punjab.
Or
Give a brief account of the second invasion of Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Answer:
Ahmad Shah Abdali wanted to avenge his defeat during the first invasion. Secondly, he was also aware that Mir Mannu’s position was unstable. Owing to these reasons Ahmad Shah Abdali invaded Punjab for the second time in 1748 A.D. In the absence of any help from Delhi, Mir Mannu signed a pact with Abdali. According to this pact, Mir Mannu agreed to pay the annual tribute of Char Mahals (four districts) Sialkot, Pasrur, Gujarat, and Aurangabad to Ahmad Shah Abdali.

Question 4.
Throw light on the third invasion of Ahmad Shah Abdali on Punjab.
Answer:
Abdali invaded Punjab for the third time in November 1751 A.D. After reaching Lahore, Abdali looted many towns and villages for three months. A fierce battle was fought between the forces of Ahmad Shah Abdali and Mir Mannu near Lahore on 6th March, 1752 A.D. Mir Mannu was defeated and was arrested. Abdali was so greatly impressed by the boldness of Mir Mannu that he appointed him the Governor of Punjab.

Question 5.
Explain the fourth invasion of Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Answer:
Abdali invaded Punjab in November 1756 A.D. for the fourth time. On hearing the news of Abdali’s invasion Adina Beg, the governor fled to Delhi without putting up any resistance. Abdali made his son Timur Shah the Governor of Punjab. A fierce battle was fought near Amritsar between the Afghans and the Sikhs. In this battle, the Sikh leader Baba Deep Singh Ji displayed unparalleled heroism but was ultimately martyred. The Sikhs sworn to avenge his martyrdom.

Question 6.
Who was Timur Shah?
Answer:
Timur Shah was the son and successor of Ahmad Shah Abdali, the ruler of Afghanistan. In 1757 A.D., he was appointed as the Subedar of Punjab by Ahmad Shah Abdali. Like his father he was a staunch enemy of the Sikhs. He had destroyed the famous Ramrauni fort of the Sikhs. Besides he had filled the sarovar of Harmandir Sahib with filth. Therefore, in 1758 A.D. the Sikhs along with Marathas and Adina Beg compelled Timur Shah to flee from the Punjab.

Question 7.
What were the three main causes of third battle of Panipat?
Answer:

• The Ruhelas got against the Marathas because of the plunger and. loot caused by the Marathas.
• The Marathas wanted to establish Hindu empire in r India. So Muslims got against them.
• The Jats and the Rajputs were jealous of growth of the Maratha power in India.
• Marathas had established their control over Delhi and Punjab which Abdali could not tolerate,
• To establish his honour and supremacy, it became important for him to fight with the Marathas.

Question 8.
Write a short note on the third battle of Panipat.
Answer:
The third battle of Panipat was fought between the Marathas and Ahmad Shah Abdali on January 14, 1761 A.D. A pitched battle took place between the Marathas and Ahmad Shah Abdali in Panipat. Sada Shiv Rao Bhau was leading the Marathas in this battle. The Marathas faced a crushing defeat and also suffered heavy loss of life and property in this battle. As a result of this battle, the Marathas suffered grievous blow while the Sikhs got a chance to consolidate their power in the Punjab.

Question 9.
What were the results of the third battle of Panipat?
Or
Write down any three results of the third battle of Panipat.
Answer:
The results of the third battle of Panipat were of far reaching. This battle resulted in huge loss of men and money of the Marathas. The Maratha Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao couldn’t tolerate this humiliating defeat and he passed away within a few months. Marathas received a severe jolt to their power. Conse¬quently their dream of establishing a Hindu empire in India dashed to the ground. After this defeat the Maratha leaders began to quarrel among themselves. It ended their unity.

Question 10.
Write a short note on Wadda Ghallughara (Second Bloody Carnage).
Or
Write a brief note on Wadda Ghallughara (Great Holocaust), sixth invasion of Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Or
Write a short note on Second Big Ghallughara.
Answer:
The Wadda Ghallughara was a very tragic event of Sikh History. Ahmad Shah Abdali could never tolerate the growing influence of the Sikhs. So he sieged the Sikhs at village Kup near Malerkotla on Feb 5, 1762 A.D. In this surprise attack 25 to 30 thousand Sikhs were killed. This event is known in Sikh history as Wadda Ghallughara. Ahmad Shah Abdali became very happy over the heavy loss of life oi the Sikhs. He thought that it would break the backbone of the Sikh power, but his assessment proved wrong.

Question 11.
How did the Sikhs organise their power in their battles against the Afghans?
Answer:
(a) In their battles against the Afghans, the Sikhs had organised themselves in Jathas (regiments),
(b) Gurmatas were passed through Sarbat Khalsa in the presence of Guru Granth Sahib. All the Sikhs obeyed these Gurmatas with great respect.
(Hi) Ahmad Shah Abdali could not pay attention to the Sikhs for many years,
(d) The landlords and common people gave their full co-operation to the Sikhs.

Question 12.
Why did Ahmad Shah Abadali fail in crushing the power of the Sikhs?
Or
What were the causes of victory of the Sikhs and defeat of Ahmad Shah Abdali?
Or
What were the causes of failure of Ahmad Shah Abdali against the Sikhs?
Or
Write any three causes of the failure of Ahmad Shah Abdali against the Sikhs.
Answer:

• The firm determination and self-confidence of the Sikhs,
• The Sikhs adopted guerilla system of warfare.
• Ahmad Shah Abdali could not pay his proper attention to the Punjab as revolts broke out in Afghanistan time and again,
• The leaders of the Sikhs were wise and worthy. They fought against the enemy unitedly.

Question 13.
What were the effects of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s invasions on the Sikh struggle for power?
Or
What were the political effects of Abdali’s invasions?
Answer:

• Ahmad Shah Abdali annexed Punjab to Afghanistan in 1752 A.D.
• Ahmad Shah Abdali gave the Marathas a crushing defeat in the third battle of Panipat as result of which the influence of Marathas ended in Punjab for ever.
• As a – result of continuous attacks of Ahmad Shah Abdali, lawlesness and chaos prevailed in the Punjab,
• Life and property of the people was not safe. So instead of saving the Sikhs started spending lavishly.

Question 14.
Describe important effects of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s invasions over Punjab.
Answer:

• Punjab was annexed to Afghanistan in’1752 A.D. Consequently, the Mughal rule ended in the Punjab for ever,
• Punjab had to face heavy economic losses due to the invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali.
• Trade also suffered a set back due to the atmosphere of loot and chaos,
• These invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali gave a great blow to the art and literature of the Punjab,
• Punjabis now started spending money lavishly instead of saving it.

Question 15.
What were the social effects of the invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali?
Answer:

• The invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali encouraged many evils in the Punjab. The people became selfish,
• As a result of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s invasions the people of the Punjab became brave and bold,
• Punjabi’s became spendthrift. The reason was that Ahmad Shah Abdali would take away the money,
• Many historical buildings and literature were damaged during Abdali’s invasions.
• His invasions caused heavy economic loss to Punjab.

Question 16.
What were the economic consequences of the invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali?
Answer:

• The invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali inflicted great loss on the economy of Punjab. He robbed Punjab of gold, silver, diamonds, and pearls of worth crores of rupees,
• Abdali’s soldiers badly damaged the crops of thousands of acres of land while marching,
• Commerce and industries also felt the pinch of the Afghan invasions.
• The sense of insecurity and anarchical conditions impeded the growth of trade.
• Travelling was difficult and unsafe.

Objective Type Questions:

Question 1.
Who was Ahmad Shah Abdali?
Answer:
The ruler of Afghanistan.

Question 2.
Where did Ahmad Shah Abdali rule?
Answer:
In Afghanistan.

Question 3.
For how many times Ahmed Shah Abdali invaded Punjab?
Answer:
Eight times.

Question 4.
Give the main cause of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s invasions on Punjab.
Or
Give any one reason of the invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Answer:
He wanted to expand his empire.

Question 5.
When did Ahmad Shah Abdali invade Punjab?
Answer:
1747 to 1767 A.D.

Question 6.
When did Ahmad Shah Abdali invade Punjab for the first time?
Answer:
1747-48 A.D.

Question 7.
When did Ahmad Shah Abdali invade Punjab for the second time?
Answer:
1748-49 A.D.

Question 8.
When did Mir Mannu become the Governor of Punjab?
Answer:
1748 A.D.

Question 9.
When did Ahmad Shah Abdali conquer Punjab?
Answer:
1752 A.D.

Question 10.
Who was appointed as Governor by Ahmad Shah Abdali after he conquered Punjab?
Answer:
Timur Shah.

Question 11.
Who was Timur Shah?
Answer:
Ahmad Shah Abdali’s. son.

Question 12.
Who was Baba Deep Singh Ji?
Answer:
A famous leader of Shaheed Misl.

Question 13.
When was Baba Deep Singh Ji martyred?
Answer:
Nov. 11, 1757 A.D.

Question 14. When did the Marathas occupy Punjab?
Answer:
1758 A.D.

Question 15.
Who was the first Maratha Subedar of Punjab?
Answer:
Adina Beg.

Question 16.
When was the third battle of Panipat fought?
Answer:
January 14, 1761 A.D.

Question 17.
Between whom was the third battle of Panipat fought?
Answer:
Marathas and Ahmad Shah Abdali.

Question 18.
When did Wadda Ghallughara take place?
Or
When did Second or Big Ghallughara take place?
Answer:
5th February, 1762 A.D.

Question 19.
Where did Second Ghallughara take place?
Or
Where did the Vadda ( big ) Ghallughara happen?
Answer:
At Kup.

Question 20.
When and where did Second (Wadda) Ghallughara take place?
Answer:
In 1762 A.D. at Kup.

Question 21.
Who was responsible for Wadda Ghallughara?
Answer:
Ahmad Shah Abdali.

Question 22.
When did the Sikhs occupy Sirhind?
Answer:
January 14, 1764 A.D.

Question 23.
Who was Zain Khan?
Answer:
Governor of Sirhind from 1761 A.D. to 1764 A.D.

Question 24.
When did the Sikhs take control of Lahore?
Answer:
1765 A.D.

Question 25.
Give any one reason of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s failure against the Sikhs.
Or
Explain any one cause of the success of the Sikhs against Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Answer:
The Sikhs adopted guerilla warfare against Abdali.

Question 26.
Give any one political consequence of Abdali’s invasions.
Or
Write any one effect of the invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Answer:
Ahmad Shah Abdali occupied Punjab in 1752 A.D.

Question 27.
What were the two economic consequences of the invasions of Abdali?
Answer:
The Punjab had to suffer a great economic loss.

Fill in the blanks:

1. Ahmad Shah Abdali was the ruler of ……………
Answer:
Afghanistan

2. Ahmad Shah Abdali became the Emperor of …………… in 1747 A.D.
Answer:
Afghanistan

3. …………… became the ruler of Afghanistan after the killing of Nadar Shah.
Answer:
Ahmad Shah Abdali

4. Ahmad Shah Abdali attacked on Punjab …………… times.
Answer:
eight

5. Ahmad Shah Abdali invaded India for the first time in ……………
Answer:
1747-48 A.D.

6. Ahmad Shah Abdali conquered Punjab in ……………..
Answer:
1752 A.D.

7. Ahmad Shah Abdali appointed ………………. as the Governor of Punjab in 1752 A.D.
Answer:
Mir Mannu

8. Ahmad Shah Abdali appointed ………………. as the Governor of Punjab in 1757 A.D.
Answer:
Timur Shah

9. Baba Deep Singh Ji became a martyr in ………………
Answer:
1757 A.D.

10. The third battle of Panipat was fought on ………………
Answer:
January 14, 1761 A.D.

11. …………….. was the JPeshwa of Marathas at the time .of- the third battle of Panipat.
Answer:
Balaji Baji Rao

12. ……………. was the General of Marathas in the third battle of Panipat.
Answer:
Sadashiv Rao Bhau

13. ……………. were defeated in the third battle of Panipat.
Answer:
Marathas

14. Wadda Ghallughara took place in …………….
Answer:
1762 A.D.

15. Wadda Ghallughara took place at village……………
Answer:
Kup

16. In 1764 A.D. Baba Ala Singh defeated severly the Subedar of Sirhind ………………
Answer:
Zain Khan

17. Ahmad Shah Abdali attacked Punjab …………… times.
Answer:
eight

18. ………….. rule came to an end in Punjab due to invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Answer:
Mughal

19. The main cause of Ahmad Shah Abdali’s failure against the Sikhs was ……………. policy of the Sikhs.
Answer:
Guerilla

True or False:

1. Ahmad Shah Abdali was the ruler of Afghanistan.
Answer:
True

2. Ahmad Shah Abdali was the ruler of Afghanistan in 1747 A.D.
Answer:
True

3. Ahmad Shah Abdali invaded Punjab in 1749 A.D. for the first time.
Answer:
False

4. The main purpose of invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali on India was to obtain wealth.
Answer:
True

5. Ahmad Shah Abdali invaded India for six times.
Answer:
False

6. Mir Mannu defeated Ahmad Shah Abdali in 1748 A.D. in the battle of Manupur.
Answer:
True

7. Ahmad Shah Abdali occupied Punjab in 1751 A.D. (
Answer:
False

8. Timur Shah was the son of Babur.
Answer:
False

9. Baba Deep Singh Ji became a martyr on November 10, 1757 A.D.
Answer:
False

10. The third battle of Panipat took place on January 14, 1761 A.D. between the Marathas and Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Answer:
True

11. Vishwas Rao was the son of Balaji Baji Rao.
Answer:
True

12. The Sikhs occupied Lahore in 1761 A.D.
Answer:
True

13. Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, was conferred the title of ‘Sultan-ul-Quam’ on occupation of Punjab in 1761 A.D.
Answer:
True

14. Wadda Ghallughara took place during the 6th attack of Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Answer:
True

15. Wadda Ghallughara took place in 1762 A.D.
Answer:
True

16. The big Holocaust was held at Kahnuwal.
Answer:
False

17. The Sikhs occupied Sirhind in 1764 A.D.
Answer:
True

18. The Sikhs declared their independence after the occupation of Punjab in 1765 A.D.
Answer:
True

19. Nadir Shah became the ruler of Afganistan after the death of Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Answer:
False

Multiple Choice Questions:

1. Who was Ahmad Shah Abdali?
(a) Ruler of Afghanistan
(b) Ruler of Iran
(c) Ruler of China
(d) Ruler of India.
Answer:
(a) Ruler of Afghanistan

2. How many times Ahmad Shah Abdali invaded Punjab?
(a) Four
(b) Five
(c) Seven
(d) Eight
Answer:
(d) Eight

3. When did Ahmad Shah Abdali invade Punjab for the first time?
(a) 1745 AD.
(b) 1746 A.D.
(c) 1747 A.D.
(d) 1752 A.D.
Answer:
(c) 1747 A.D.

4. In which battle, Ahmad Shah Abdali conquered Punjab?
(a) First
(b) Second
(c) Third
(d) Fourth
Answer:
(c) Third

5. When did Ahmad Shah Abdali conquer Punjab?
Or
When did Mughal rule come to an end in Punjab?
(a) 1748 A.D.
(b) 1751 A.D.
(c) 1752 A.D.
(d) 1761 A.D.
Answer:
(c) 1752 A.D.

6. When did Timur Shah become the Governor of Punjab?
(a) 1751 A.D.
(b) 1752 A.D.
(c) 1757 A.D.
(d) 1759 A.D.
Answer:
(c) 1757 A.D.

7. When was Baba Deep Singh Ji got martyred?
(a) 1752 A.D.
(b) 1755 A.D.
(c) 1756 A.D.
(d) 1757 A.D.
Answer:
(d) 1757 A.D.

8. When was the third battle of Panipat fought?
(a) 1758 A.D.
(b) 1759 A.D.
(c) 1760 A.D.
(d) 1761 A.D.
Answer:
(d) 1761 A.D.

9. Who defeated the Marathas in the third battle of Panipat?
(a) Jassa Singh Ahluwalia
(b) Jassa Singh Ramgarhia
(c) Ahmad Shah Abdali
(d) Mir Mannu.
Answer:
(c) Ahmad Shah Abdali

10. When did Wadda Gallughara take place?
(a) 1746 A.D.
(b) 1748 A.D.
(c) 1761 A.D.
(d) 1762 A.D.
Answer:
(d) 1762 A.D.

11. Where did Second Gallughara take place?
(a) Kanhunwan
(b) Kup
(c) Kartarpur
(d) Jalandhar.
Answer:
(b) Kup

12. When did the Sikhs occupy Sirhind?
(a) 1761 A.D.
(b) 1762 A.D.
(c) 1763 A.D.
(d) 1764 A.D.
Answer:
(d) 1764 A.D.

13. When did the Sikhs occupy Lahore?
(a) 1760 A.D.
(b) 1762 A.D.
(c) 1764 A.D.
(d) 1765 A.D.
Answer:
(d) 1765 A.D.

Punjab State Board PSEB 12th Class History Book Solutions Chapter 14 Social and Economic Conditions of the Punjab under the Mughals Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.

PSEB Solutions for Class 12 History Chapter 14 Social and Economic Conditions of the Punjab under the Mughals

Long Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
What was the condition of Muslims under the Mughals?
Or
Write a note on the Muslim society of Punjab during the Mughal times.
Answer:
The condition of the Muslims in the society of the Punjab under the Mughals was very good. Being related to the ruling class, they enjoyed some special privileges in society. They were appointed to all higher posts in the State. At that time the Muslim society was divided into three sections. People of Upper Class, which included mansabdars, governors, landlords, enjoyed a life of pomp and show and luxury. Wine and women were their main sources of entertainment. A large number of servants looked after their comforts.

The Middle Class consisted of peasants, shopkeepers and petty officials. Their standard of living was lower than that of upper class people, but they led a happy life. The Lower Class comprised domestic s mts, labourers, petty shopkeepers and slaves. Their condition was miserable. Being very poor, it was difficult for them to make both ends meet.

Question 2.
What was the condition of the Hindus under the Mughals?
Or
Study in brief the condition of Hindu society in the Punjab under the Mughals.
Answer:
The condition of the Hindus in the society of the Punjab under the Mughals was not good. Although they formed a majority in the society yet they were deprived of high offices. The Muslims treated them as Kafirs and they were ill-treated. They were forced to embrace Islam. The Hindu society of that time was fragmented into many castes and sub-castes. The caste-system had become more rigid than before. People of high class looked down upon the people of low class and treated them with cruelty. Besides, many restrictions were imposed on them.

Inter-caste marriages and inter-dining were prohibited so much, so that each member of the sociey had to adopt the occupation of his caste. Anybody who violated the caste rules was excommunicated. The caste system of the Hindus, in fact, proved very harmful for them.

Question 3.
What was the position of women in Punjab under the Mughals?
Or
Describe any five evils prevalent among women in the Punjab under the Mughals.
Answer:
The condition of women in the society of Punjab under the Mughals was miserable. Birth of a female child was considered not good. As enormous amount was required for the marriage of girls, most of them were killed at the time of their birth. The girls who luckily survived were married off at a very young age. Consequently, no attention was given to the education of girls. In the event of the death of husband, the wife was burnt alive on the pyre with her dead husband. This system was called Sati system . Those who did not do so, had to lead the life of a widow. Purdah system was in vogue among Hindu and Muslim women.

Question 4.
What were the main sources of entertainment of the people of Punjab under the Mughals?
Or
What were the means of recreation of the people of Punjab during the Mughals?
Answer:
People of the Punjab during the Mughal period had many sources of entertainment. People of higher class entertained themselves by hunting, taking part in chariot races, ftigeon flights, polo and chess playing, by watching fights of elephants and cocks, by swimming and by taking part in drinking sessions. The common people entertained themselves by dancing, music, singing, wrestling, races, jugglery shows and by playing cards. Besides, people actively took part in festivals and fairs. Prominent among Hindu fairs and festivals were Diwali, Dussehra, Baisakhi, Lohri, Holi, Shivratri and Ram Naumi. The Muslims celebrated mainly Id, Shab-e-Barat and Nauroz.

Question 5.
Write a brief note about prevalent education in Punjab under the Mughals.
Answer:
It was not the responsibility of the state to impart educati ‘’ people during the Mughal period. The Hindus got the primary education in temples while the Muslims got education in mosques. The students were given religious education also. In comparison to the Muslims, the Hindus took more interest in education. No fee was charged from the students. After the completion of education, students gave some offerings (Dakshina) to their teachers. There were schools for providing higher education in Punjab at Lahore, Multan, Sialkot, Jalandhar, Sultanpur, Batala, Ambala, Sirhind etc.

The government gave some financial assistance to these schools. In this period, no attention was given to women-education. Only the women of higher families got education. For this arrangement was made in their homes.

Question 6.
Mention any five special features of social condition of people of the Punjab during the Mughal period.
Answer:
The condition of Muslims of the Punjab under the Mughals was very good. As they belonged to the ruling class, they enjoyed some special privileges. The Muslim society was divided into three classes—Upper Class, Middle Class and Lower Class. People of the Upper Class led a life of luxury and pomp and show. Condition of people of the Lower Class was deplorable. Condition of the Hindus, who formed the majority strata of society, was also not good. They were deprived of many rights. The Muslims hated them. The Hindu society was split up into many castes and sub-castes.

Caste system had become more rigid than before. The condition of women folk in society was miserable. The evils like child- marriage, sati system, ban on widow re-marriage, purdah system etc, were prevalent among women folk. Women were considered a commodity of sensual pleasure. People put on cotton and silk clothes. Garments of high class people were very costly while common people wore ordinary clothes. Both men and women were fond of wearing ornaments at that time.

Question 7.
Give an account of agriculture of Punjab under the Mughals.
Or
What policy did the government adopt regarding agriculture in Punjab during the Mughal period?
Or
What was the main occupation of Punjabis under the Mughals?
Answer:
Agriculture-was the main occupation of people of Punjab under the Mughals. About 80% people of the Punjab were engaged in this occupation. Therefore, the Mughal government paid special attention to the encouragement of agriculture. Peasants were given special facilities to bring new land under cultivation. Taqavi loans were given to peasants to develop means of irrigation. Land revenue was fixed on the basis of fertility of land and irrigational facilities and it Varied from one place to the other. Usually it used to be 1/3 of the total produce. Land revenue was accepted in cash or in kind, according to the convenience of the peasants. Land revenue was either written off or reduced in the event of a famine.

Strict orders were issued to those employees who collected revenue, that peasants should not be exploited in any way. Use of fertilisers was encouraged. As a result of all these efforts, there used to be bumper harvests under the Mughals. The main crops of the Punjab were wheat, grains, rice, maize, sugarcane, cotton, barley, etc. Besides, oil-seeds, indigo, opium and many types of fruits were also cultivated.

Question 8.
Write a brief note on textile industry of Punjab under the Mughals.
Answer:
Among the industries prevalent in Punjab under the Mughals, textile industry was the most famous. Of the textile industry the cotton industry was the most important. Fine cloth was manufactured at Amritsar, Lahore, Multan and Gujarat. Multan was famous for mats, table clothes and sheets. Beautiful lungis were manufactured in Peshawar. Pyjamas and salwars were tailored in Multan, Lahore and Amritsar. Chiffon cloth was manufactured in Gujarat. Multan, Kashmir and Amritsar were the famous centres of silk industry. At that time, Gulbadan, Daryai and Dhup-Chhaon silk clothes were manufactured.

There was a great demand for silk Cloth of Multan among courtiers of Lahore and foreign travellers. Amritsar and Kashmir were famous for woollen industry. Kashmiri shawls were famous in the world. Wool was imported for manufacturing shawls. Shawls, blankets and lohis were manufactured in Amritsar. Blankets and lohis of Amritsar were very famous.

Question 9.
What do you know about trade and commerce in Punjab under the Mughals?
Answer:
The internal and external trade of Punjab under the Mughals was very well developed. This was due to many reasons. First, was the ideal geographic location of the Punjab. Secondly, the means of transport were very developed. Thirdly, the Punjab produced bumper harvests. Its industry also flourished. Trade was in the hands of Khatris, Banias, Mahajans, Aroras, Bohras and Khojas. Foreign trade was carried on with Arab countries, Afghanistan, Iran, Tibet, Bhutan, Syria, China and European couptries.

The Punjab exported cotton and silk clothes, shawls, blankets, corn, sugar, indigo and salt to these countries. In exchange the Punjab imported horses of best pedigree, dry fruit, luxury items, fine carpets, silk and precious stones. Transportation of cargo was carried on through carts, camels, horses and oxen. Besides, boats were used to carry the cargo through water routes.

Question 10.
Write a short note on the economic condition of Punjab during the Mughal rule.
Or
Throw light on the economic condition of Punjab under the Mughal rule.
Answer:
The economic condition of people in Punjab during the Mughal perio’d was very sound. Agriculture was the main occupation of people at that time. Land was fertile, there was no dearth of irrigational facilities and special facilities provided by the government encouraged this occupation greatly. Consequently, there was bumper harvest. Main crops of the Punjab were wheat, rice, sugarcane, cotton, maize, grains and barley. The other occupation of people was industry. Textile industry was the main and most famous industry at that time. Besides, leather industry, sugar industry, arms manufacturing and woodworks were also famous. The internal and external trade of Punjab was fully developed.

The Punjab carried on export with Arab countries, European countries, Afghanistan, Iran, Tibet, China etc. The Punjab exported cotton cloth, silk cloth, shawls, blankets, corn, sugar, indigo etc. to these countries. In exchange, precious stones, silk, dry fruit and fine horses were imported from these countries. Cost of commodities in the Punjab was very low. As a result the poor also led a comfortable life.

Essay Type Questions:

Social Condition:

Question 1.
Study the social condition of the people of Punjab under the Mughals.
Or
Describe the main features of the social life of the people of the Punjab under the Mughals.
Or
Give a brief account of the social condition of the Punjab under the Mughals.
Answer:
The Mughals ruled in Punjab from 1526 to 1752 A.D. The social condition of the people of Punjab under the Mughals was not so good. The society of Punjab at that time was mainly divided into two sections—the Muslims and the Hindus. A brief description of the social condition of the people of Punjab under the Mughals is as follows—

1. Three classes of Muslims: The Muslim society of Punjab under the Mughals was divided into three classes :

• Upper Class: The upper class of the Muslims consisted of big mansabdars, subedars, landlords, army generals and affluent persons. The people of this class led a life of comfort and luxury. They lived in beautiful palatial palaces. Their costumes were very costly. They spent most of their time in sensual pleasures and merry-making. There was a large number of servants who attended on them.
• Middle Class: This class consisted of traders, farmers, soldiers and government officials of the lower rank. Though their standard of living was lower than that of the upper class, yet they led a prosperous life.
• Lower Class: It was the largest class. This class comprised smiths, carpenters, weavers, craftsmen, petty shop-keepers, labourers and slaves. Their condition was miserable. Being poor, they could hardly make both ends meet. They lived in slum areas. This class constituted a large number of slaves. Their condition was also very pitiable. It had become a fashion at that time to keep slave girls.

2. Caste System of the Hindus: The Hindus constituted the majority strata of the society of Punjab. Their society was divided not only in four main’castes, Brahman, Kshatriya, Vaish and Shudra, but also in many other castes and sub¬castes. The people belonging to one caste looked down upon the people of other castes.

3. Condition of Women : In the society of Mughal Punjab, the condition of women was very pitiable. They were deprived of those rights which were enjoyed by men. In the society, remained confined to the four walls of the house.

4. Diet: The diet of the people of upper class was very rich. The people of upper class were fond of ‘puree’ and ‘halwa’. In order to make their food delicious, they would make liberal use of butte!1 and spices. They made a rich use of fresh and dry fruits. The Hindus were mostly vegetariAnswer: The food of the poor was very simple. The use erf ‘lassi’ was very common. During summer ‘cold sharbat’ was greatly used.

5. Dress and Ornaments: The people in the Punjab of the Mughal period put on cotton and silk clothes. The robes of the people of upper class were very costly. Men’s dress consisted of loose kurta, tight pyjama or salwar and turban. Salwar and kamiz were commonly worn by women. The Hindu women would wear sarees. They would cover their head with either a sheet or a ‘dupatta’. The Muslim women would go out in a ‘burqa’. At that time, both men and women were fond of wearing ornaments.

The women would, as far as possible, wear ornaments on every part of their body such as ear-rings in ears, nose-ring in nose, bangles on arms, rings on fingers, anklets on feet and necklace round neck.

6. Means of Entertainment: The people of Punjab during the Mughal period entertained themselves by different meAnswer: The people of high caste entertained themselves by hunting, taking part in chariot races, playing polo, holding pigeon flights, watching elephant and cock fights, swimming, playing chess and taking part in parties (mehfils). The common people entertained themselves by music, dancing, bhangra, wrestling, races, watching juggler and magic shows and playing cards. Besides all these, people took active part in fairs and festivals with great zeal.

7. Education: In the Mughal period, it was not the responsibility of the government to impart education to the people. The Hindus received their early education in the temples, while the Muslims received it in the mosques. The pupils were also given education about their religions. The Hindus took more interest in education than the Muslims. No fee was charged from the students. After the completion of studies, the pupils would give some offerings to the teachers.

There were centres of higher education at places like Lahore, Multan, Sialkot, Jalandhar, Sultanpur, Batala, Ambala, Sirhind in Punjab. The government would give them financial aid. During this period no attention was paid to women’s education. Only a few women of upper class families ‘got education. Private arrangement for their education was made at homes.

Question 2.
Describe the major social evils prevalent in the society of Punjab under the Mughals.
Answer:
The social life of the people under the Mughal rule shows a very terrible scene. At that time caste system, sati system, female infanticide, restriction on widow marriage, polygamy and purdah system etc. were in vogue. As a result the condition of the low caste women was very pitiable. The description of the main social evils during the Mughal rule is as under :

1. Caste System: The Hindus constituted the majority strata of the society of Punjab. Their society was divided not only in four main castes—Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya and Shudra, but also in many other castes and sub-castes. The people belonging to one caste looked down upon the people of other castes. The people of higher castes perpetrated tyranny on the people of lower castes. The people belonging to the low castes were not allowed to mix with the people of high castes, to recite the Vedas, to visit temples and to draw water from wells and ponds of common use.

Untouchability was wide spread. In the society, everybody worked according to his caste. He could not change it according to his ability. There were many restrictions on the inter-mixing of these castes. He, wbo defied these caste rules, was ostracised. Every caste thought of its own welfare. Famous historian Dr. A.L. Srivastava aptly says, “The caste rules and taboos had become more rigid than in the preceding centuries.”

2. Condition of Women : In the society of Mughal Punjab, the condition of women was very pitiable. They were deprived of those rights which were enjoyed by men. In the society, women were considered no better than man’s shoe. They remained confined to the four walls of the house. Women at that time were regarded as an object of entertainment and lust. They could be sold and bought like animals. At that time the following evil practices regarding women were in vogue :

1. Female Infanticide : In the Hindu society of that time the birth of a girl was considered an ill-omen. According to the prevailing social customs, a huge amount of money had to be spent on the marriage of a girl, but a majority strata of the society, who belonged to the poor class could not incur such a heavy expenditure. So, they had to face many hardships to find a suitable match for their daugthers. But, if a person did not marry off his daugther, it was deemed against the religion and society. Besides this, the Muslims forcibly kidnapped the young Hindu girls. So, many Hindus would kill the new-born girls.

2. Child Marriage : According to the prevalent social customs the girls were married off at a very early age i.e. within 4 or 5 years after their birth. As a result no attention was paid to their education. Owing to early marriage, the responsibilities of married life fell on them, which were beyond their comprehension. Early childbirth badly affected their health. Sometimes-for avarice of money, these innocent girls were married off to persons of older age-group.

3. Sati System : The most heinous and the most horrifying of all the- evils prevalent in the Punjab of Mughal period was the ‘Sati system’. According to this inhuman practice, if the husband of an unfortunate woman died, she was forcibly burnt alive on the pyre of her husband. If she were pregnant at the time of her husband’s death, she would be forced to perform Sati with some relics of her husband after the child birth. Since the life of a widow in the society was hellish, many women would rather perform Sati of their own accord.

4. No permission for Widow Marriage : Those women, who survived the Sati rites, had to live a widowr’s life. Widow marriage was strongly prohibited in the society. A widow had to suffer much. Her hair was cut off. She was given shabby clothes to wear. The use of make up was prohibited. She was forced to do the whole household drudgery. She was not permitted to participate in domestic festivities or festivals. A widow was insulted and ill-treated by all. She was chided with accusations like ill-begotten and husband-eater. In short, they led a miserable life.

5. Polygamy : Polygamy was prevalent among Muslims and upper class of Hindus. According to Islam, a Muslim could marry four times. Divorce was also in vogue among the Muslims. Accordingly, the Muslims divorced their previous wives and married the new ones. In fact, the custom of polygamy had worsened the condition of women in the society.

6. Purdah System: Purdah system was on the increase during the Mughal period. This system was in vogue among the Hindu as well as Muslim women. According to this system, the women always remained in the purdah. This system not only badly affected the health of women but also proved a hurdle in the way of liberal thoughts.

7. Prostitution : The practice of prostitution was in full swing during the Mughal period. The cities were overcrowded with prostitutes. This practice had eroded the moral standard of the society. Dr. A.B. Pandey is quite apt, when he says, “The position of women during this period registered a further decline.”

Economic Condition:

Question 3.
Describe the economic condition of Punjab under the Mughals.
Answer:
During the Mughal period the people of Punjab were economically prosperous. The prices of commodities were low. So the people could live comfortably. Agriculture, industry and trade were well developed. Lahore and Multan were the most famous trade centres. A brief description of the economic condition of the people of that time is as ahead

1. Agriculture : The chief occupation of the people of Punjab dining Mughal period was agriculture. 80% population of the Punjab was engaged in this occupation. The reason behind this was that the land of Punjab was very fertile and there was no shortage of means of irrigation. ‘Zabti system’ was enforced in Punjab. Under this system the cultivable land in the Punjab was measured. On the basis of its fertility, it was classified as Polz, Parauti, Chachar and Banjar. The government would determine its land revenue on the basis of the fertility of the soil, convenience of irrigation and average output of the previous decade. The maximum revenue of the government was one-third.

The government collected its land revenue in kind or cash according to the convenience of the farmers. The land revenue to be realized from the farmers was exempted or reduced in the event of famine or short produce. The government officials were strictly ordered not to over¬charge any farmer. As a result of all these efforts, there were bumper crops in Punjab. The main crops of Punjab were wheat, rice, sugar-cane, cotton, maize, gram and barley.

2. Industries : Next to agriculture, industry was the main occupation of the people of Punjab. The main industries of that time were as follows

(1) Cotton Industry: During the Mughal period, cotton industry was the most important industry of Punjab. Lahore, Multan, Sialkot, Gujarat, Samana, Bajwara and Amritsar were the famous industrial centres of cotton industry. Cotton cloth of several varieties was manufactured at Lahore. Multan was known for carpets and mattresses of top quality. Superior type of cloth was made at Samana, which was in great demand in England.

(2) Silk Industry : During the Mughal period, silk industry was the second famous industry of Punjab. Multan, Kashmir and Amritsar were the famous centres of silk industry. The silk cloth of Multan was in great demand in affluent families. ‘Gulbadan’ and ‘Daryayi’ silk clothes were manufactured at Amritsar and Lahore.

(3) Woollen Industry: Woollen industry was one of the famous industries of Punjab. Kashmir and Amritsar were the two famous centres of this industry. Kashmir was a world famous centre of shawl industry. Blankets and ‘Loees’ (thin blankets) of superior qualities were made at Amritsar.

(4) Leather Industry : During the Mughal period, the leather industry of Punjab was also famous. Many things were made of leather. Chief among them were saddles, reins, shoes, gloves and water-carriers called <mashks\ Hoshiarpur, Peshawar and Multan were the famotis centres of this trade.

3. Animal Rearing : In Punjab many people practised animal rearing. The animals were reared for different purposes. Ox, he-buffalo and camel were used for agriculture. Ox, donkey, mule and camel were used for transport purposes. Horse and camel were used for riding. Cows, buffalbes, sheep and goats were reared to get milk. Wool Was also obtained from sheep. Markets to trade these animals were also held at various places in Punjab.

4. Minerals : During the times of the Mughals, although minerals of many types were found in Punjab, their quantity was very small. Copper and iron were found in the hilly areas of Mandi and Suket. There were zinc mines in Jammu. Salt mines were found in Kheora, Nurpur and Kala Bagh (Sindh). Salt-acid was found in Multan and Gujarat. By sifting the sand of the rivers of Punjab, a little quantity of gold was also found.

5. Trade : The external and internal trade of the Punjab flourished during the Mughal period. The work of trade was in the hands of Kshatriyas, Baniyas, Mahajans, Aroras, Bohras and Khojas. The external trade of the Punjab was carried on with Arab countries, Afghanistan, Iran, Tibet, Bhutan, Syria, China and European countries. The Punjab exported cotton and silk clothes, shawls, blankets, grain, sugar, indigo and salt to these countries. In exchange, the Punjab imported horses of superior breed, dry fruit, things of luxury, quality-carpets, silk and precious stones.

6. Famous Commercial Towns : Lahore and Multan were the two most important commercial towns of the Punjab. Besides these, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Sirhind, Bajwara, Batala, Samana, Hissar, Panipat, Sultanpur, Kartarpur were other famous commercial towns of the Punjab.

7. Prices : During the Mughal times, the prices of articles in Punjab were very low. During the reign of Akbar, one maund of wheat cost 12 dam, rice 20 dam, maize 10 dam, gram 16 dam, milk 25 dam and sugar 6 dam. Dam was the most common currency used during the Mughal period. It was made of copper. Even after Akbar, the prices remained the same. Prices being low, the poor people could easily make both ends meet.

Question 4.
What were the main features of the Social and Economic life of the people of the Punjab under the Mughals?
Answer:

The Mughals ruled in Punjab from 1526 to 1752 A.D. The social condition of the people of Punjab under the Mughals was not so good. The society of Punjab at that time was mainly divided into two sections—the Muslims and the Hindus. A brief description of the social condition of the people of Punjab under the Mughals is as follows—

1. Three classes of Muslims: The Muslim society of Punjab under the Mughals was divided into three classes :

• Upper Class: The upper class of the Muslims consisted of big mansabdars, subedars, landlords, army generals and affluent persons. The people of this class led a life of comfort and luxury. They lived in beautiful palatial palaces. Their costumes were very costly. They spent most of their time in sensual pleasures and merry-making. There was a large number of servants who attended on them.
• Middle Class: This class consisted of traders, farmers, soldiers and government officials of the lower rank. Though their standard of living was lower than that of the upper class, yet they led a prosperous life.
• Lower Class: It was the largest class. This class comprised smiths, carpenters, weavers, craftsmen, petty shop-keepers, labourers and slaves. Their condition was miserable. Being poor, they could hardly make both ends meet. They lived in slum areas. This class constituted a large number of slaves. Their condition was also very pitiable. It had become a fashion at that time to keep slave girls.

2. Caste System of the Hindus: The Hindus constituted the majority strata of the society of Punjab. Their society was divided not only in four main’castes, Brahman, Kshatriya, Vaish and Shudra, but also in many other castes and sub¬castes. The people belonging to one caste looked down upon the people of other castes.

3. Condition of Women : In the society of Mughal Punjab, the condition of women was very pitiable. They were deprived of those rights which were enjoyed by men. In the society, remained confined to the four walls of the house.

4. Diet: The diet of the people of upper class was very rich. The people of upper class were fond of ‘puree’ and ‘halwa’. In order to make their food delicious, they would make liberal use of butte!1 and spices. They made a rich use of fresh and dry fruits. The Hindus were mostly vegetariAnswer: The food of the poor was very simple. The use erf ‘lassi’ was very common. During summer ‘cold sharbat’ was greatly used.

5. Dress and Ornaments: The people in the Punjab of the Mughal period put on cotton and silk clothes. The robes of the people of upper class were very costly. Men’s dress consisted of loose kurta, tight pyjama or salwar and turban. Salwar and kamiz were commonly worn by women. The Hindu women would wear sarees. They would cover their head with either a sheet or a ‘dupatta’. The Muslim women would go out in a ‘burqa’. At that time, both men and women were fond of wearing ornaments.

The women would, as far as possible, wear ornaments on every part of their body such as ear-rings in ears, nose-ring in nose, bangles on arms, rings on fingers, anklets on feet and necklace round neck.

6. Means of Entertainment: The people of Punjab during the Mughal period entertained themselves by different meAnswer: The people of high caste entertained themselves by hunting, taking part in chariot races, playing polo, holding pigeon flights, watching elephant and cock fights, swimming, playing chess and taking part in parties (mehfils). The common people entertained themselves by music, dancing, bhangra, wrestling, races, watching juggler and magic shows and playing cards. Besides all these, people took active part in fairs and festivals with great zeal.

7. Education: In the Mughal period, it was not the responsibility of the government to impart education to the people. The Hindus received their early education in the temples, while the Muslims received it in the mosques. The pupils were also given education about their religions. The Hindus took more interest in education than the Muslims. No fee was charged from the students. After the completion of studies, the pupils would give some offerings to the teachers.

There were centres of higher education at places like Lahore, Multan, Sialkot, Jalandhar, Sultanpur, Batala, Ambala, Sirhind in Punjab. The government would give them financial aid. During this period no attention was paid to women’s education. Only a few women of upper class families ‘got education. Private arrangement for their education was made at homes.

During the Mughal period the people of Punjab were economically prosperous. The prices of commodities were low. So the people could live comfortably. Agriculture, industry and trade were well developed. Lahore and Multan were the most famous trade centres. A brief description of the economic condition of the people of that time is as ahead

1. Agriculture : The chief occupation of the people of Punjab dining Mughal period was agriculture. 80% population of the Punjab was engaged in this occupation. The reason behind this was that the land of Punjab was very fertile and there was no shortage of means of irrigation. ‘Zabti system’ was enforced in Punjab. Under this system the cultivable land in the Punjab was measured. On the basis of its fertility, it was classified as Polz, Parauti, Chachar and Banjar. The government would determine its land revenue on the basis of the fertility of the soil, convenience of irrigation and average output of the previous decade. The maximum revenue of the government was one-third.

The government collected its land revenue in kind or cash according to the convenience of the farmers. The land revenue to be realized from the farmers was exempted or reduced in the event of famine or short produce. The government officials were strictly ordered not to over¬charge any farmer. As a result of all these efforts, there were bumper crops in Punjab. The main crops of Punjab were wheat, rice, sugar-cane, cotton, maize, gram and barley.

2. Industries : Next to agriculture, industry was the main occupation of the people of Punjab. The main industries of that time were as follows

(1) Cotton Industry: During the Mughal period, cotton industry was the most important industry of Punjab. Lahore, Multan, Sialkot, Gujarat, Samana, Bajwara and Amritsar were the famous industrial centres of cotton industry. Cotton cloth of several varieties was manufactured at Lahore. Multan was known for carpets and mattresses of top quality. Superior type of cloth was made at Samana, which was in great demand in England.

(2) Silk Industry : During the Mughal period, silk industry was the second famous industry of Punjab. Multan, Kashmir and Amritsar were the famous centres of silk industry. The silk cloth of Multan was in great demand in affluent families. ‘Gulbadan’ and ‘Daryayi’ silk clothes were manufactured at Amritsar and Lahore.

(3) Woollen Industry: Woollen industry was one of the famous industries of Punjab. Kashmir and Amritsar were the two famous centres of this industry. Kashmir was a world famous centre of shawl industry. Blankets and ‘Loees’ (thin blankets) of superior qualities were made at Amritsar.

(4) Leather Industry : During the Mughal period, the leather industry of Punjab was also famous. Many things were made of leather. Chief among them were saddles, reins, shoes, gloves and water-carriers called <mashks\ Hoshiarpur, Peshawar and Multan were the famotis centres of this trade.

3. Animal Rearing : In Punjab many people practised animal rearing. The animals were reared for different purposes. Ox, he-buffalo and camel were used for agriculture. Ox, donkey, mule and camel were used for transport purposes. Horse and camel were used for riding. Cows, buffalbes, sheep and goats were reared to get milk. Wool Was also obtained from sheep. Markets to trade these animals were also held at various places in Punjab.

4. Minerals : During the times of the Mughals, although minerals of many types were found in Punjab, their quantity was very small. Copper and iron were found in the hilly areas of Mandi and Suket. There were zinc mines in Jammu. Salt mines were found in Kheora, Nurpur and Kala Bagh (Sindh). Salt-acid was found in Multan and Gujarat. By sifting the sand of the rivers of Punjab, a little quantity of gold was also found.

5. Trade : The external and internal trade of the Punjab flourished during the Mughal period. The work of trade was in the hands of Kshatriyas, Baniyas, Mahajans, Aroras, Bohras and Khojas. The external trade of the Punjab was carried on with Arab countries, Afghanistan, Iran, Tibet, Bhutan, Syria, China and European countries. The Punjab exported cotton and silk clothes, shawls, blankets, grain, sugar, indigo and salt to these countries. In exchange, the Punjab imported horses of superior breed, dry fruit, things of luxury, quality-carpets, silk and precious stones.

6. Famous Commercial Towns : Lahore and Multan were the two most important commercial towns of the Punjab. Besides these, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Sirhind, Bajwara, Batala, Samana, Hissar, Panipat, Sultanpur, Kartarpur were other famous commercial towns of the Punjab.

7. Prices : During the Mughal times, the prices of articles in Punjab were very low. During the reign of Akbar, one maund of wheat cost 12 dam, rice 20 dam, maize 10 dam, gram 16 dam, milk 25 dam and sugar 6 dam. Dam was the most common currency used during the Mughal period. It was made of copper. Even after Akbar, the prices remained the same. Prices being low, the poor people could easily make both ends meet.

Religious Condition:

Question 5.
Write a critical note on the religious condition of the people of Punjab during the Mughal Period.
Or
What do you know about the religious condition of the people of Punjab under the Mughals? Explain.
Answer:
During the Mughal period in Punjab, besides Hinduism and Islam, Sikhism was also popular. At that time Buddhism had disappeared from Punjab and Jainism was limited to the trading class of the cities. The propagation of Christianity also started in this period. The people in this period, laid greater emphasis on superstitions and rituals of religion. Most of the pdople had forgotten the truth behind religion. The Sikh Gurus undertook the great feat of showing the right path of religion to the people of Punjab.

1. Hinduism : Hinduism is counted among the most ancient religions of India. The followers of this religion worshipped Rama, Vishnu, Krishna, Shiva, Hanuman, Durga, Kali and Laxmi etc. Several beautiful temples were built in the memory of these deities. Several attractive idols were kept in these. Hinduism compelled the presence of the Brahmans in all their rituals. Among the religious texts of the Hindus, Vedas, Ramayana and Geeta held an important position. The Hindus greatly respected Brahmans and the cow. Because of his policy of religious tolerance, the Mughal Emperor Akbar ushered the state into a new religious era. He provided religious freedom to the Hindus and withdrew

The pilgrimage tax and Jaziya. Aurangzeb was an orthodox Sunni Emperor. HeJ&d hot accept the prosperity of any other religion besides Islam. Consequently, Enforced the Hindus to convert to Islam. He destroyed several temples and idols. Several restrictions were imposed on them. Consequently, the Hindus became staunch enemies of the Mughal Empire.

2. Islam: Islam became the most preached religion in Punjab. The main reason for this was that the Muslim invaders first of all settled permanently in Punjab. The followers of this religion believed in one Allah. They considered Mohammad Sahib as a representative of God. They read the Namaz 5 times a day. They observed the Rozas in the month of Ramzaan. They considered it mandatory to perform the Haj. They made donations (Zakaat). They were against idol worship. Because the Sultans of Delhi and the Mughal Emperors were Muslims, hence during their reign, Islam spread rapidly. Because the state offered special privileges to the Muslims, several lower class people of Punjab converted to Islam. Aurangzeb forced several people to convert to Islam.

3. Sufism : Sufism was a sect of Islam. The people of this sect adopted the policy of religious tolerance. Their main objective was mutual brotherhood and service to mankind. They believed in music. They popularised Qawwali form of singing. Sufi saints raised their voice against several prevalent socio-religious malpractices in society. During the Mughal period the Silsilas namely Chishti, Suhravardi, Qadari and Naqshbandi were popular. Because the Sufis loved people of all castes, hence several people joined Sufism. Among the Sufi Silsilas, only the Naqshbandis were fanatics. The Naqshbandis had instigated the Mughal emperors to execute Guru Arjan Dev Ji and Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

4. Sikhism: Sikhisrp was bom in Punjab during the Mughal Period. This religion was founded by Guru Nanak Dev Ji in the 15th century. Guru Nanak Sahib vehemently opposed the social and religious malpractices prevalent in society at that time. He spread the message of worship of God and mutual brotherhood. He laid the foundation of the institutions of Sangat and Pangat. The doors of Sikhism were open to people of all castes and classes. He rendered the light of knowledge to people treading in the darkness of ignorance. Guru Ji’s message was carried ahead by his nine successors. The policy of religious tolerance observed by Akbar gave a golden opportunity to Sikhism to prosper. As. soon as Jahangir sat on the throne, the relations between the Sikhs and Mughals grew tense. The martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji in 1606 A.D. and Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji in 1675 A.D. infuriated the Sikhs. To give a strong response to the Mughals against their atrocities, Guru Gobind Singh Ji founded the Khalsa Panth in 1699 A.D.

5. Other Religions : Besides the above mentioned religions, both Buddhism and Jainism were also popular in Mughal period in Punjab. The followers of these religions were few in number. During the Mughal Emperor Akbar’s reign, Christianity started flourishing as a religion. Akbar allowed the Christians to build a Church at Lahore. This religion did not receive much encouragement in Punjab.

Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
What was the condition of Muslims under the Mughals?
Or
Write a note on the Muslim society of the Punjab during the Mughal times.
Answer:
The condition of the Muslims in the society of the Punjab under the Mughals was very good. Being related to the ruling class, they enjoyed some Special privileges in society. People of upper class, enjoyed a life of luxury. Standard of living of the people of middle class was lower than that of upper class people, but they led a happy life. The condition of lower class people was miserable.

Question 2.
What was the condition of Hindus under the Mughals?
Or
Study in brief the condition of Hindu society in the Punjab under the Mughals.
Answer:
The condition of the Hindus in the society of the Punjab under the Mughals was not good. Although they formed a majority in the society yet they were deprived of high offices. The Muslims treated them as Kafirs and they were ill- treated. They were forced to embrace Islam. The caste-system had become more rigid than before. People-of high class looked down upon the people of low class and treated them with cruelty.

Question 3.
What was the position of women in Punjab under the Mughals?
Or
What was the condition of women in the Mughal Period?
Answer:
The condition of women in the society of Punjab under the Mughals was , not good. Birth of a female-child was considered inauspicious. So most of them were killed at the time of their birth. The girls who luckily survived were married off at a very young age. Consequently, no attention was given to the education of girls. Sati system was prevalent. Widow’s life was worse than an animal’s life. Purdah system was in vogue among Hindu and Muslim women.

Question 4.
What were the main sources of entertainment of the people of Punjab under the Mughals?
Or
What were the means of recreation of the people of Punjab during the Mughals?
Answer:
People of the Punjab during the , Mughal period had many sources of entertainment. People of higher class entertained themselves by hunting, taking part in chariot races, polo and chess playing, watching fights of elephants and cocks and swimming and taking part in drinking sessions. The common people entertained themselves by dancing, music, singing, wrestling and racing. Prominent Hindu festivals were Diwali, Dussehra, Baisakhi, Lohri, Holi, Shivaratri and Ram Naumi. The Muslims celebrated mainly Id, Shab-i-Barat and Nauroz.

Question 5.
Write a brief note about prevalent education in Punjab under the Mughals.
Answer:
It was not the responsibility of the state to impart education to people during the Mughal period. The Hindus got the primary education in temples while the Muslims got education in mosques. In comparison to the Muslims, the Hindus took more interest in education. No fee was charged from the students. After the completion of education, students gave some offerings (Dakshina) to their teachers. In this period, no attention was given to women education.

Question 6.
Mention important features of social condition of people of the Punjab during the Mughal period.
Answer:
The condition of Muslims of the Punjab under the Mughals was very good. As they belonged to the ruling class, they enjoyed some special privileges. The Muslim society was divided into three classes—Upper Class,^Middle Class and Lower Class. People of the Upper Class led a life of luxury. Gbridition of people of the Lower Class was deplorable. Condition of the Hindus, who fdritted the majority strata of society, was also not good. They were deprived of many rights.

Question 7.
What was the condition of agriculture in Punjab under the Mughals?
Or
What policy did the government adopt regarding agriculture in Punjab during the Mughal period?
Or
What was the main occupation of Punjabis under the Mughals?
Answer:
Agriculture was the main occupation of people of Punjab under the Mughals. About 80% people of the Punjab were engaged in this occupation. Therefore, the Mughal government paid special attention to the encouragement of agriculture. Peasants were given special facilities to bring new land under cultivation. Land revenue was fixed on the basis of fertility of land and irrigational facilities The main crops of the Punjab were—wheat, grains, rice, maize, sugarcane, cotton, barley etc.

Question 8.
Write a brief note on textile industry of Punjab under the Mughals.
Answer:
Among the industries prevalent in Punjab under the Mughals, textile industry was the most famous. Of the textile industry the cotton industry was the most important. Fine cloth was manufactured at Amritsar, Lahore, Multan and Gujarat. Multan was famous for mats, table clothes and sheets. Chiffon cloth was manufactured in Gujarat. Multan, Kashmir and Amritsar were the famous centres of silk industry.

Question 9.
What do you know about trade and commerce in Punjab under the Mughals?
Answer:
The internal and external trade of Punjab under the Mughals was very well developed. Foreign trade was carried on with Arab countries, Afghanistan, Iran, Tibet, Bhutan, Syria, China and European countries. The Punjab exported cotton and silk clothes, shawls, blankets, corn, sugar, indigo and salt to these countries. In exchange the Punjab imported horses of best pedigree, dry fruit, luxury items, fine carpets, silk and precious stones.

Question 10.
Write a short note on the economic condition of Punjab during the Mughal rule.
Or
Write a note on the economic condition of Punjabis during the Mughal rule.
Answer:
The economic condition of people in Punjab during the Mughal period was very sound. Agriculture was the main occupation of people at that time. Land was fertile, there was rib dearth of irrigational facilities and special facilities provided by the government encouraged this occupation greatly. The other occupation of people was industry. The internal and external trade of Punjab was fully developed.

Objective Type Questions:

Question 1.
Name the two main communities of Punjabi society during the Mughal period.
Answer:
The Muslims and the Hindus.

Question 2.
Into how many sections was the Muslim society of Punjab divided during the Mughal period?
Answer:
Three.

Question 3.
Write the names of three classes of Muslims during the Mughal period.
Or
How many classes of Muslim society were there in Punjab during the Mughal period?
Answer:
Upper Class, Middle Class and Lower Class.

Question 4.
What type of life did people of Upper Class of Muslim society in Punjab lead under the Mughals?
Answer:
Life of luxury.

Question 5.
What was the condition of Lower Class people of Muslim society in Punjab under the Mughals?
Answer:
Deplorable.

Question 6.
How many classes were there in the Hindu society under the Mughals?
Answer:
Four.

Question 7.
What was the condition of Hindu women in society of Punjab during the Mughal period?
Answer:
Pitiable.

Question 8.
Explain any one evil of women society during Mughal rule.
Or
What was the main evil of the women society during the Mughal period?
Answer:
Sati system.

Question 9.
Give the name of any one centre of higher education Of Punjab . under the Mughals.
Answer:
Lahore.

Question 10.
What was the economic condition of the people of Punjab under the Mughals?
Answer:
Sound.

Question 11.
What was the main occupation of the people of Punjab under the Mughals?
Answer:
Agriculture.

Question 12.
What was the most important industry of Punjab under the Mughals?
Answer:
Textile industry.

Question 13.
Name any one centre of silk industry of Punjab under the Mughals.
Answer:
Kashmir.

Question 14.
What was the condition of trade in Punjab during the Mughal rule?
Answer:
Very developed.

Question 15.
Which were the main trade centres of Punjab under the Mughals?
Answer:
Lahore and Multan.

Question 16.
Write the name of any one importent town of Punjab under the Mughals?
Answer:
Lahore.

Question 17.
Which coin Was most prevalent in Punjab under the Mughals?
Or
What currency was in circulation during Mughal period in the Punjab?
Answer:
The Dam.

Question 18.
What was the coin Dam made of?
Or
What was the coin used in Punjab under the Mughals made of?
Answer:
Copper.

Fill in the blanks:

1. The Muslim society in Punjab under the Mughals was divided into …………… classes.
Answer:
three

2. The number of …………….. was the greatest in the lower class of muslim Society in punjab under the Mughals.
Answer:
slaves

3. …………….. were considered the superior most in the Hindu society.
Answer:
Brahmans

4. The condition of women in society of Punjab under the Mughals was ……………..
Answer:
pitiable

5. The higher education centres in Punjab under the Mughals were ………………. and ……………..
Answer:
Lahore, Multan

6. The main occupation of people in Punjab under the Mughals was …………….
Answer:
Agriculture

7. During the Mughal’period, …………….. was the most important industry of Punjab.
Answer:
Cotton Industry

8. ……………….. was a world famouos centre of Shawl Industry under the Mughals.
Answer:
Kashmir

9. …………… and …………… were famous for Cotton Industry under the Mughals.
Answer:
Lahore, Multan

10. …………… and …………… were the two most important commercial towns of the Punjab under the Mughals.
Answer:
Lahore, Multan

11. Akbar withdrew Pilgrimage tax imposed on the Hindus in ……………. A.D.
Answer:
1563 A.D.

12. Akbar withdrew tax imposed on the Hindus in 1564.
Answer:
Zaziya

13. Aurangzeb reimposed the Jaziya tax on the Hindus in …………….
Answer:
1679 A.D.

14. Islam was very popular in …………….. under Mughals.
Answer:
Punjab

15. ………………. was founded in Punjab under Mughals.
Answer:
Sikhism

16. The main religion of the people of medieval Punjab was ……………….
Answer:
Hindu

True or False:

1. The Muslim society of Punjab under the Mughals was divided into two classes.
Answer:
False

2. The upper class of Muslim society consisted of Mansabdars and Subedars.
Answer:
True

3. The middle class of Muslims consisted mainly slaves.
Answer:
False

4. The lower class of Muslims was the largest.
Answer:
True

5. The Hindu society of Punjab under the Mughals was divided into castes and sub castes.
Answer:
True

6. The condition of Hindu women in society of Punjab under the Mughals was pitiable.
Answer:
True

7. The people of Hindu society under the Mughals did not hate Shudras.
Answer:
False

8. Most of the Hindus of society of Punjab under the Mughals were vegetarians.
Answer:
True

9. The Hindu women under the Mughals wore sarees.
Answer:
True

10. Lahore and Multan were famous centres of higher education under the Mughals.
Answer:
True

11. Women of Mughal period were encouraged to get education.
Answer:
False

12. Lahore was the famous education centre in Mughal period of Punjab.
Answer:
True

13. The chief occupation of the people of Punjab under the Mughal period was agriculture.
Answer:
True

14. The Leather Industry was the most famous industry of Punjab during the Mughal Period.
Answer:
False

15. Jabti System was started in Punjab in 1581 A.D.
Answer:
True

16. The land was divided into five parts in Jabti System.
Answer:
False

17. During the Mughal period, Lahore and Kashmir were famous centres of Silk Industry.
Answer:
False

18. During the Mughal period, Kashmir was the famous centre of shawls.
Answer:
True

19. Daam was made of copper.
Answer:
True

20. The birth of Sikhism took place during the Mughal period.
Answer:
True

21. Chisti Silsila was very famous in Mughal time.
Answer:
True

Multiple Choice Questions:

1. In how many communities Punjab was divided under the Mughals?
(a) Two
(b) Three
(c) Four
(d) Five
Answer:
(a) Two

2. In how many sections was the under the Mughals?
(a) Two
(b) Three
(c) Four
(d) Five
Answer:
(b) Three

3. Which people did not comprise the upper class of Muslim society?
(a) Jagirdars
(b) Mansabdars
(c) Traders
(d) Generals of the army.
Answer:
(c) Traders

4. Which people did not belong to the middle class of Muslim society?
(a) Traders
(b) Peasants
(c) Soldiers
(d) Labourers.
Answer:
(d) Labourers.

5. Which people comprised the lower class of Muslim society?
(a) Slaves
(b) Labourers
(c) Servants
(d) All of the above.
Answer:
(d) All of the above.

6. Which main evil of women society was prevalent under the Mughals?
(a) Female infanticide
(b) Child marriage
(c) Sati system
(d) All of the above.
Answer:
(d) All of the above.

7. What was the main source of recreations of the people of Punjab under the Mughals?
(a) Hunting
(b) Chess playing
(c) Dance-Music
(d) All of the above.
Answer:
(d) All of the above.

8. Which was the main centre of higher education in Punjab under the Mughals?
(a) Lahore
(b) Multan
(c) Sirhind
(d) All of the above
Answer:
(d) All of the above

9. What was the main occupation of the people of Punjab under the Mughals?
(a) Agriculture
(b) Trade
(c) Industry
(d) Animal rearing.
Answer:
(a) Agriculture

10. Which was the main crop raised in Punjab under the Mughals?
(a) Wheat
(b) Sugarcane
(c) Cotton
(d) All of the above.
Answer:
(d) All of the above.

11. What was the most important industry of Punjab under the Mughals?
(a) Cotton Industry
(b) Leather Industry
(c) Sugar Industry
(d) Wood Industry.
Answer:
(a) Cotton Industry

12. Which was the famous centre of Woollen Industry in Punjab under the Mughals?
(a) Kashmir
(b) Gujarat
(c) Lahore
(d) Sialkot.
Answer:
(a) Kashmir

13. Which item was not expored from Punjab under the Mughals?
(a) Horses
(b) Cotton textile
(c) Sugar
(d) Blankets
Answer:
(a) Horses

14. Which of the following towns was famous for trade in Punjab under the Mughals?
(a) Amritsar
(b) Kashmir
(c) Lahore
(d) Panipat
Answer:
(c) Lahore

15. What was the Dam, the most prevalent coin in Punjab made up of?
(a) Gold
(b) Silver
(c) Iron
(d) Copper
Answer:
(d) Copper

16. Which religion was founded during the Mughal period?
(a) Islam
(b) Hinduism
(c) Sikhism
(d) Christianity
Answer:
(c) Sikhism

Punjab State Board PSEB 12th Class History Book Solutions Chapter 13 Rise of the Dal Khalsa and its Mode of Fighting Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.

PSEB Solutions for Class 12 History Chapter 13 Rise of the Dal Khalsa and its Mode of Fighting

Long Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
What were the main causes of the rise of Dal Khalsa?
Or
Discuss the main causes of the foundation of Dal Khalsa.
Answer:
After the death of Banda Bahadur in 1716 A.D., the Sikhs were left with no able leader to lead them. Under such conditions, the Mughal Governors of Punjab, Abdus Samad Khan, and Zakariya Khan vigorously persecuted the Sikhs. Awards were announced for the heads of the Sikhs. They were forced to take shelter in hills and forests. The Mughal army chased them. Whenever they were seen alone, they were killed. Under such circumstances, they felt the need to organize themselves in ‘Jathas’. So they formed themselves in small Jathas. In 1734 A.D. Nawab Kapoor Singh, by merging all small Jathas organized them into two chief Dais.

This dais was named Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal. In 1745, on the occasion of Diwali at Amritsar, 25 Jathas, each consisting of 100 Sikhs were formed. Gradually the number of these Jathas rose from 25 to 65. On 29th March 1748 A.D., Nawab Kapoor Singh organized Dal Khalsa by merging 65 Sikh Jathas into 12 Jathas.

Question 2.
Discuss the main features of the Dal Khalsa.
Or
What do you know about the organization of Dal Khalsa?
Or
What are the main principles of Dal Khalsa?
Or
When was Dal Khalsa founded? Describe its main features.
Answer:
Dal Khalsa was established at Amritsar for the unity of Sikh Panth at the suggestion of Nawab Kapoor Singh on March 29, 1748. The sixty five Jathas of the Sikhs were merged into 12 Jathas. Each Jatha had a separate leader and a separate banner. SardarJassa Singh Ahluwalia was appointed the Commander-in-Chief of Dal Khalsa. Every Sikh who had faith in the principles laid down by Guru Gobind Singh Ji was considered a member of Dal Khalsa.

It was essential for every Sikh to join Dal Khalsa in order to face the enemies of the Panth. The Sikhs who joined Dal Khalsa were expected to be experts in horse riding and proficient in the use of arms. Every member of Dal Khalsa was free to join any Jatha. One of the twelve Sardars was elected Commander-in-Chief during war time and the other Sardars obeyed him. Cavalry was the most important part of Dal Khalsa’s army. The members of the Dal Khalsa fhced their enemies through guerilla warfare.

Question 3.
Write the five main features of military administration of Dal Khalsa.
Answer:
The following were the main features of the military system of the Dal Khalsa:

1. Cavalry: Cavalry was an important organ of the army of the Dal Khalsa. To fight without horses was considered an insult by the Sikhs. In fact in the 18th centpry, it was impossible to win victory without cavalry. The horses of the Sikhs were well-trained. They could cover a distance between fifty to one hundred miles in a single day.

2. Infantry : In the army of the Dal Khalsa, infantry was considered to be of little importance. The function of this section of the army was only to keep watch. The Sikhs did not consider it worthwhile to join this wing of the army.

3. Arms : There was absence of artillery in the army of the Dal Khalsa. In the battle, the Sikhs used swords, spears, ‘khandas,’ bows and arrows and guns. For lack of ammunition, guns were scarcely used.

4. Salary: The soldiers of the Dal Khalsa were not given any regular pay. They were given only a share of the booty. Later on they began to be given a part of the ‘ land under their possession. If a soldier was wounded in the battle, he was given compensation.

5. Mode of fighting: The most important characteristic of the Dal Khalsa was its mode of fighting. The Sikhs had adopted guerilla tactics. The guerilla warfare proved very useful for the rise of the Sikh power. The Sikhs used to fall upon the enemies suddenly and inflict heavy losses on them. By the time the enemy got alert, the Sikhs escaped hurriedly into their hideouts in forests and hills. It was because of their mode of fighting that the Sikhs were able to challenge the Mughals and the Afghans.

Question 4.
Write a note on Guerilla mode of fighting of the Dal Khalsa.
Or
What were the features of Dal Khalsa’s mode of fighting?
Or
Briefly explain the mode of fighting adopted by Dal Khalsa.
Answer:
Dal Khalsa’s most important feature was the adoption of the guerilla system of warfare. The Sikhs had to adopt this method of warfare due to many reasons. First in the battle of Gurdas Nangal, several Sikhs were arrested along with Banda Singh Bahadur who were later on executed ruthlessly. The Sikhs learnt a lesson that clashing openly with the Mughals would be harmful for them. Secondly, due to limited resources, the Sikhs had no other alternative but to face the tyranny of Abdus Samad Khan, Zakariya Khan, Yahiya Khan and Mir Mannu. The Guerilla system of warfare proved very useful for the rise of Sikh power.

The Sikhs used to pounce suddenly upon the enemy and inflict heavy losses on them and plunder the treasury. By the time the enemy got ready, the Sikhs again escaped into the forests and hills. The Sikhs did it with agility and quickness. The Sikhs succeeded in facing the Mughals and the Afghans through this system of warfare.

Question 5.
Describe the importance of Dal Khalsa.
Or
What is the significance of Dal Khalsa?
Answer:
Dal Khalsa was set up on March 29, 1748, on the eve of Baisakhi at Amritsar. Nawab Kapoor Singh played a vital role in laying the foundation of the Dal Khalsa. The foundation of Dal Khalsa is considered a very significant event in Sikh history. It infused a new life into the Sikh nation. It unified the Sikhs. It enabled the Sikhs to face the tyranny of Mughal and Afghan Governors. It was the outcome of the efforts of Dal Khalsa that the Sikhs could set up their independent Misls in Punjab. The Dal Khalsa propagated democratic principles. In fact, with the foundation of the Dal Khalsa, the Sikhs came out from the era of darkness and entered into a glorious era. Undoubtedly, the contributions of the Dal Khalsa were great.

Essay Type Questions:

Question 1.
What were the causes responsible for the rise of the Dal Khalsa?
Or
Discuss the reasons for the creation, organization, importance, and mode of fighting of the Dal Khalsa.
Or
Discuss the origin, important features, and importance of the Dal Khalsa.
Or
Describe the circumstances leading to the rise of the Dal Khalsa.
Or
Examine its organization, importance and mode of fighting.
Or
Discuss the circumstances leading to the establishment of the Dal Khalsa? What is its significance in the History of Punjab?
Or
Describe the circumstances leading to the establishment of the Dal Khalsa. Give a brief account of its organization, mode of fighting, and importance.
Or
Discuss the circumstances leading to the establishment of the Dal Khalsa. What is its significance in the History of Punjab?
Or
What do you know about the origin, main features and significance of the Dal Khalsa?
Or
How was the Dal Khalsa founded? Describe Its features and significance.
Or
What were the causes responsible for the rise of the Dal Khalsa?
Or
When and why was the Dal Khalsa founded? Explain its main features and importance.
Or
Give an account of the organisation of the Dal Khalsa and examine its significance.
Or
What were the reasons of the creation of the Dal Khalsa? What is its importance in the History of Punjab?
Or
What was the significance of the Dal Khalsa in the History of Punjab?
Or
Describe the main features of the military system of the Dal Khalsa.
Answer:
1. Persecution of the Sikhs: After the death of Banda Singh Bahadur in 1716 A.D., the Sikhs were left with no able leader to lead them. As a result the Sikhs could not keep themselves united. Under such conditions the Mughal Governors of Punjab, Abdus Samad Khan and Zakariya Khan vigorously persecuted the Sikhs. Awards were announced for the heads of the Sikhs. The Sikhs were arrested and martyred d£ily at Lahore. They were forced to take shelter in hills and forests.

They had to face innumerable hardships. The Mughal army frequently chased them. Whenever they were seen alone or in a small number they were killed. Under such circumstances, they felt the need to organise themselves in ‘Jathas’. So they grouped themselves in small Jathas. These Jathas formed the basis of the Dal Khalsa.

2. Organisation of Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal : In 1734 AD. Nawab Kapoor Singh, by merging all small Jathas organised them into two chief Dais. These Dais were named Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal. In the Buddha Dal,- Sikhs above 40 years of age were recruited. The function of this Dal was to look after the religious places and to propagate Sikh religion. The chief function of the Taruna Dal was to defend the community and to fight with the enemies. The Taruna Dal was further divided into five Jathas and each Jatha was placed under an experienced Sikh Jathedar. The establishment of these Dais infused a new spirit among the Sikhs.

3. Reorganisation of the Dais: The death of Zakariya Khan in 1745 A.D. led to anarchy in Punjab. Taking advantage of the prevailing conditions, the Sikhs passed a ‘Gurmata’ on 14th October, 1745 AD. on the occasion of Diwali at Amritsar. In this ‘Gurmata’ it was decided that 25 Jathas each consisting of 100 Sikhs should be formed. The leaders of these Jathas were appointed by virtue of their ability and bravery. These Jathas adopted guerilla policy to face the government.

These Jathas started killing such ‘Chaudharis’ and ‘Muqaddams’ as had rendered active help to the government against the Sikhs. Gradually the number of these Jathas rose from 25 to 65.

Establishment of the Dal Khalsa:

On 29th March, 1748 A.D. On the day of Baisakhi, the Sikhs gathered at Amritsar. Nawab Kapoor Singh suggested that in view of the hard time ahead, there was a great need for unity and strength of the Panth. Keeping this objective in view, the Dal Khalsa was established on this day. 65 Sikh Jathas were merged into 12 Jathas. Each Jatha had its own separate leader and flag. Sardar Jassa Singh Ahluwalia was appointed the Supreme Commander of the Dal Khalsa. It was imperative for every Sikh to join the Dal Khalsa to face the enemy. It was expected of every Sikh who joined the Dal Khalsa to be expert in both horse-riding and use of weapons. Every member of the Dal Khalsa was at full liberty to join any Jatha.

A meeting of the ‘Sarbat Khalsa’ was held every year on the occasions of Baisakhi and Diwali at Amritsar. Sarbat Khalsa meant the whole Sikh ‘Sangat’. In this meeting ‘Gurmatas’ on matters of vital importance were passed in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib. All the Sikhs would obey these ‘Gurmatas’.

Features of the Military System of the Dal Khalsa:

The following were the main features of the military system of the Dal Khalsa :

1. Cavalry: Cavalry was an important organ of the army of the Dal Khalsa. To fight without horses was considered an insult by the Sikhs. In fact in the 18th century, it was impossible to win victory without cavalry. The horses of the Sikhs were well-trained. They could cover a distance between fifty to one hundred miles in a single day.

2. Infantry : In the army of the Dal Khalsa, infantry was considered to be of little importance. The function of this section of the army was only to keep watch. The Sikhs did not consider it worthwhile to join this wing of the army.

3. Arms : There was absence of artillery in the army of the Dal Khalsa. In the battle, the Sikhs used swords, spears, ‘khandas,’ bows and arrows and guns. For lack of ammunition, guns were scarcely used.

4. Recruitment and Discipline : There was no fixed rules for recruitment in the army of the Dal Khalsa. Every Sikh was free to join any Jatha of the Dal Khalsa of his own accord. Whenever he wanted, he could leave one Jatha and join the other. No written record of the names and salaries of the soldiers was maintained. There was no arrangement for the training of the soldiers. In spite of these shortcomings, there was always discipline in the rank and file of the Dal Khalsa. The Sikhs would fight with religious fervour.

5. Salary : The soldiers of the Dal Khalsa were not given any regular pay. They were given only a share of the booty. Later on they began to be given a part of the land under their possession. If a soldier was wounded in the battle, he was given compensation.

6. Mode of fighting: The most important characteristic of the Dal Khalsa was its mode of fighting. The Sikhs had adopted guerilla tactics. Several reasons led the Sikhs to adopt this system. Firstly, in the Gurdas Nangal battle, Banda Singh Bahadur and hundreds of Sikhs were taken prisoners, who were later mercilessly killed. The Sikhs learnt a lesson that open confrontation with the Mughal army could prove harmful.

The guerilla warfare proved very useful for the rise of the Sikh power. The Sikhs used to fall upon the enemies suddenly and inflict heavy losses on them. By the time the enemy got alert, the Sikhs escaped hurriedly into their hideouts in forests and hills. It was because of their mode of fighting that the Sikhs were able vto challenge the Mughals and the Afghans.

Significance of the Dal Khalsa:

The establishment of the Dal Khalsa proved a turning point in the history of the Sikhs. After the martyrdom of Banda Singh Bahadur, it unified the scattered power of the Sikhs.’ It taught them to lead a disciplined life and sacrifice their everything for the safety of their religion. It instilled a new confidence into the Sikh community. Under the able leadership of the Dal Khalsa, the Sikhs stoutly resisted the Mughals and the AfghAnswer: As a result of the efforts of the Dal Khalsa, the Sikhs finally succeeded in establishing independent Misls in the Punjab.

In fact, the credit for all the great achievements of the Sikhs during this period goes to the Dal Khalsa. Nihar Ranjan Ray aptly says, “The organisation of the Dal Khalsa has been rightly characterised as a landmark in the history of the Sikhs.”

Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
What were the main causes of the foundation of the Dal Khalsa?
Or
What were the three main causes of the establishment of Dal Khalsa?
Answer:
After the death of Banda Singh Bahadur in 1716 A.D., the Sikhs were left with no able leader to lead them. The Mughal Governors of Punjab, vigorously persecuted the Sikhs. Under such circumstances, they felt the need to organise themselves in ‘Jathas’. In 1734 A.D. Nawab Kapoor Singed, organised them into two Chief Dais named Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal. It was a stepping stone in the foundation of Dal Khalsa. On 29 March, 1748 A.D., Nawab Kapoor Singh formed Dal Khalsa.

Question 2.
Write down the main features of the Dal Khalsa.
Or
What do you know about the organisation of the Dal Khalsa?
Or
What are the main principles of the Dal Khalsa?
Or
When was the Dal Khalsa founded? Describe its main features.
Answer:
Dal Khalsa was established at Amritsar on March 29, 1748. Sardar Jassa Singh Ahluwalia was appointed the Commander-in-Chief of Dal Khalsa. Every Sikh, who had faith in the principles laid down by Guru Gobind Singh Ji was considered a member of Dal Khalsa. The Sikhs who joined Dal Khalsa were expected to be expert in horse riding and proficient in the use of arnis. The members of the Dal Khalsa faced their enemies through guerilla warfare.

Question 3.
Write the main three features of military administration of the Dal Khalsa.
Answer:

• Cavalry was the most important constituent of the army of Dal Khalsa. The Sikhs deemed it an insult to fight without horses.
• The Sikhs joined Dal Khalsa according to their will.
• No written record was kept of their names and salaries,
• The Sikhs used swords, spears, bows and guns in battles. The guns were occasionally used due to dearth of ammunition,
• The Sikhs faced their enemies through guerilla warfare.

Question 4.
Write a note on guerilla mode of fighting of the Sikhs.
Or
Write a note on Guerilla battle policy of Sikhs.
Or
What were the features of the Dal Khalsa’s mode of fighting?
Or
Briefly explain the mode of fighting adopted by Dal Khalsa.
Answer:
Dal Khalsa’s most important feature was the adoption of the guerilla system of warfare. Due to limited resources, the Sikhs had to adopt guerilla warfare. The Sikhs used to pounce suddenly upon the enemy and inflict heavy losses on them and plunder the treasury. By the time the enemy got ready, the Sikhs again escaped into the forfeits and hills. The Sikhs succeeded in facing the Mughals and the Afghans through this system of warfare.

Question 5.
Describe the importance of Dal Khalsa.
Or
What is the significance of Dal Khalsa?
Answer:
Dal Khalsa was set up on March 29, 1748, on the eve of Baisakhi at Amritsar, The foundation of Dal Khalsa is infused, a new life into the Sikhs. It enabled the Sikhs to face the tyranny of Mughals and AfghAnswer: It was the outcome of the efforts of Dal Khalsa that the Sikhs could set up their independent Misls in Punjab. The Dal Khalsa propagated democratic principles. In fact, with the foundation of the Dal Khalsa, the Sikhs came out from the era of darkness and entered into a glorious era.

Objective Type Questions:

Question 1.
Give anyone cause responsible for the origin of the Dal Khalsa.
Or
What was the reason for the creation of the Dal Khalsa?
Answer:
The Sikhs wanted to consolidate their power.

Question 2.
When were Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal established?
Answer:
In 1734 A.D.

Question 3.
Which Sikhs were included in Buddha Dal?
Answer:
The Sikhs are above the age of 40.

Question 4.
Who was the leader of Buddha Dal?
Answer:
Nawab Kapoor Singh.

Question 5.
Which Sikhs were included in Taruna Dal?
Answer:
The Sikhs are below the age of 40.

Question 6.
What was the main duty of the Taruna Dal?
Answer:
To face the enemy.

Question 7.
When was Dal Khalsa established?
Answer:
March 29, 1748 A.D.

Question 8.
By whom was the Dal Khalsa founded?
Or
Who founded Dal Khalsa?
Answer:
Nawab Kapoor Singh.

Question 9.
Where was the Dal Khalsa founded?
Answer:
Amritsar.

Question 10.
What is meant by the Dal Khalsa?
Answer:
Military organization of the Sikhs.

Question 11.
Write the total number of main Jathas of the Dal Khalsa.
Answer:
12.

Question 12.
Write the name of one main Jatha of the Dal Khalsa.
Answer:
Sukarchakia Jatha.

Question 13.
When was the Chief Commander of the Dal Khalsa appointed?
Answer:
1748 A.D.

Question 14.
Who was the Chief Commander of the Dal Khalsa?
Answer:
Jassa Singh Ahluwalia.

Question 15.
Who was the First Commander of the Dal Khalsa?
Answer:
Jassa Singh Ahluwalia.

Question 16.
What title was conferred upon Jassa Singh Ahluwalia by the Khalsa?
Answer:
Sultan-ul-Qaum.

Question 17.
What do you mean by Sarbat Khalsa?
Answer:
Gathering of all the Sikhs.

Question 18.
What was the characteristic mode of warfare of the Dal Khalsa?
Or
What was the mode of fighting of the Dal Khalsa?
Answer:
Guerilla warfare.

Question 19.
Why did the Dal Khalsa adopt the guerilla mode of fighting?
Answer:
Because the resources of the Sikhs were very limited.

Question 20.
What was the importance of the Dal Khalsa?
Answer:
It consolidated the scattered Sikh force.

Fill in the blanks:

1. Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal were established in ……………..
Answer:
1734 A.D.

2. ………………. established Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal.
Answer:
Nawab Kapoor Singh

3. The Dal Khalsa was established in ……………….
Answer:
1748 A.D.

4. The Dei Khalsa was established at
Answer:
Amritsar

5. Sardar ……………….. was appointed the Chief Commander of Dal Khalsa.
Answer:
Jassa Singh Ahiuwalia

6. ………………… was an important organ of the army of Dal Khalsa.
Answer;
Cavalry

7. The Dal Khalsa adopted …………………. mode of fighting.
Answer:
Guerilla

True or False:

1. Nawab Kapoor Singh established Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal in 1738 A.D.
Answer:
False

2. The Dal Khalsa was established in 1749 A.D.
Answer:
False

3. The Dal Khalsa was established at Sri Anandpur Shib.
Answer:
True

4. Sardar Jassa Singh Ramgarhia was appointed the Chief Commander of Dal Khalsa.
Answer:
False

5. The cavalry was an important wing of the Dal Khalsa.
Answer:
True

6. The Dal Khalsa’s mode of fighting was gureiha warfare.
Answer:
True

Multiple Choice Questions:

1. Why was the Dal Khalsa established?
(a) The Sikhs wanted to consolidate their power
(b) Nawab Kapoor Singh wanted to create unity among the Sikhs
(c) The Sikhs wanted to teach the Mughals a lesson
(d) All of the above
Answer:
(d) All of the above

2. When was the Dal Khalsa established?
(a) In 1733 A.D.
(b) In 1734 A.D.
(c) In 1739 A.D.
(d) In 1748 A.D.
Answer:
(d) In 1748 A.D.

3. By whom was the Dal Khalsa established?
(a) Nawab Kapoor Singh
(b) Jassa Singh Ahluwalia
(c) Jassa Singh Ramgarhia
(d) Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
(a) Nawab Kapoor Singh

4. Where was the Dal Khalsa established?
(a) Delhi
(b) Jalandhar
(c) Amritsar
(d) Ludhiana.
Answer:
(c) Amritsar

5. Who was the Chief Commander of the Dal Khalsa?
(a) Jassa Singh Ahluwalia
(b) Jassa Singh Ramgarhia
(c) Nawab Kapoor Singh
(d) Baba Ala Singh.
Answer:
(a) Jassa Singh Ahluwalia

6. The title of Sultan-ul-Qaum was conferred upon which person by the Khalsa?
(a) Maharaja Ranjit Singh
(b) Nawab Kapoor Singh
(c) Jassa Singh Ahluwalia
(d) Jai Singh.
Answer:
(c) Jassa Singh Ahluwalia

7. Where were the Sarbat Khalsa congregations held?
(a) Delhi
(b) Lahore
(c) Amritsar
(d) Khadur Sahib.
Answer:
(c) Amritsar

Punjab State Board PSEB 12th Class History Book Solutions Chapter 12 Abdus Samad Khan, Zakariya Khan and Mir Mannu: Their Relations with the Sikhs Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.

PSEB Solutions for Class 12 History Chapter 12 Abdus Samad Khan, Zakariya Khan and Mir Mannu: Their Relations with the Sikhs

Long Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Write a note on Abdus Samad Khan.
Or
Explain Abdus Samad Khan’s relations with the Sikhs from 1713 to 1726.
Answer:
The Mughal emperor Farrukh Siyar appointed Abdus Samad Khan the Governor of Lahore in 1713 A.D. to crush the growing power of the Sikhs. Abdus Samad Khan succeeded in 1715 A. D. in arresting Banda Singh Bahadur and some of his Sikh companions. It enhanced the prestige of Abdus Samad Khan. Emboldened by his success, he opened a new chapter of perpetuating tyranny on the Sikhs. Every day the Sikhs were arrested, taken to Lahore, and put to the sword.

The Mughal emperor Farrukh Siyar was pleased with the success of Abdus Samad Khan and honored him with the title ‘Sword of the State’. In order to escape his tyranny, the Sikhs took shelter in the forests and hills. Later on, the Sikhs started guerilla warfare against the Mughals. Consequently, Abdus Samad Khan failed to check their power. As a result, he was removed from his post in 1726A.D.

Question 2.
What is meant by Bandai Khalsa and Tat Khalsa? How were their differences resolved?
Or
What was the difference between Tat Khalsa and Bandai Khalsa? Who compromised them?
Or
What do you mean by Bandai Khalsa and Tat Khalsa? Explain.
Answer:
After the martyrdom of Banda Singh Bahadur, the Sikhs were divided into two Dals-Bandai Khalsa and Tat Khalsa. The followers of both the Dais had faith in the doctrines of Sikh religion but they differed in their practical actions. The Sikhs who continued to follow the principles of Guru Gobind Singh Ji came to be known as Tat Khalsa (True Khalsa) while those who followed the principles of Banda Singh Bahadur came to be known as Bandai Khalsa. Bandai Khalsa accepted Banda Singh Bahadur as their Guru while Tat Khalsa accepted Guru Granth Sahib as their Guru.

Followers of Bandai Khalsa used the words ‘Fateh Dharam’ and ‘Fateh Darshan’ when they met one another while the followers of Tat Khalsa used ‘Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh’. Bandai Khalsa wore red robes while Tat Khalsa wore blue robes. In 1721 A.D. Bhai Mani Singh Ji, Head priest of Sri Harmandir Sahib, resolved the differences between them. As a result of this Bandai Khalsa merged into Tat Khalsa.

Question 3.
Describe the tyrannies inflicted on the Sikhs during the time of Zakariya Khan.
Or
How did Zakariya Khan try to deal with the Sikhs?
Or
Describe briefly the persecution of Sikhs under Zakariya Khan.
Answer:
Zakariya Khan became the Governor of Punjab in 1726 A.D. He adopted a tough policy to deal with the Sikhs. He arrested the Sikhs in a large number and martyred them. But when he did not succeed in crushing the Sikhs completely, he planned to placate them. Zakariya Khan gave Sardar Kapoor Singh the title of Nawab and a big Jagir. The Sikhs made use of the opportunity and began to organize their power once again. After some time the Sikhs once again started looting the Mughals. Zakariya Khan confiscated the Jagir that he had given and ordered their persecution.

He announced many awards in this regard. As a result, the massacre of the Sikhs started once again. Famous personalities like Bhai Mani Singh, Mehtab Singh Ji, Bhai Taru Singh Ji, and llaqiqat Rai Ji were martyred. But these martyrdoms infused a new spirit into the Sikhs. Despite his best efforts, Zakariya Khan could not succeed in crushing the Sikh power till his death in 1745 ‘ A.D.

Question 4.
Who was Tara Singh Van? What is the importance of his martyrdom in Sikh History?
Answer:
Tara Singh was a resident of village Van in district Amritsar. He was very popular among the Sikhs for his bravery and services to the Sikh Panth. He had taken an active part in the battles of Banda Singh Bahadur. Now he had taken to farming in his village. The Chaudhary of Naushehra, Sahib Rai, used to let loose his horses into the farms of the Sikhs, so as to damage their crops. When the Sikhs objected to it, he used to insult them. The Sikhs could not tolerate this insult. One day, Tara Singh Van caught hold of a mare of Sahib Rai and sold it. He bought grain with that money and gave it in the ‘langar’. When Sahib Rai came to know about it, he sought help from Zakariya Khan. Zakariya Khan sent a troop of 2200 cavaliers under the command of his General Moman Khan.

Tara Singh Van and his 22 companions inflicted a heavy loss on the Mughal force throughout the night. It was only in the morning that the Mughals came to know of the actual strength of the Sikhs. All these Sikhs became martyrs while fighting. Before their martyrdom, they killed 300 Mughal soldiers and wounded many more. This event took place in February 1726 A.D. The martyrdom of Tara Singh Van infused new confidence among the Sikhs.

Question 5.
Who was Bhai Mani Singh Ji? What was the impact of his martyrdom in Sikh History?
Or
What were the causes of the martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji?
Or
What do you know about Bhai Mani Singh Ji and his martyrdom?
Or
Write a short note on Bhai Mani Singh Ji.
Answer:
The martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji was the most significant event of Zakariya Khan’s period. Bhai Mani Singh Ji was the Head Priest of Sri Darbar Sahib, Amritsar. He was greatly respected among the Sikhs. Zakariya Khan imposed a ban on the Sikhs visiting Sri Darbar Sahib. Bhai Mani Singh Ji got a sanction from Zakariya Khan for the Sikhs to gather at Sri Darbar Sahib on the eve of Diwali by promising to give him Rs. 5000. The Sikhs started assembling at Amritsar in a large number. But a day before Diwali, Zakariya Khan attacked Amritsar. It created pandemonium among the Sikhs and they could not assemble on the eve of Diwali. Zakariya Khan arrested Bhai Mani Singh Ji and demanded the stipulated sum.

Bhai Mani Singh Ji could not pay this amount as Diwali festival could not be held. He was asked to either Embrace Islam or to face death. When Bhai Mani Singh Ji refused to accept Islam, he was ruthlessly martyred at Lahore in 1738 AJD. The martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh caused deep resentment among the Sikhs. So they resolved to uproot the Mughal empire.

Question 6.
Who was Bhai Taru Singh Ji and what is the significance of his martyrdom in Sikh History?
Or
Write a short note on Bhai Taru Singh Ji.
Answer:
Bhai Taru Singh Ji belonged to Puhla village in Majha region’ His profession was agriculture and he used to help the Sikhs with his income. It was a great offence in the eyes of the government. Harbhagat, a man from Jandiala got him arrestetl. He was brought to Lahore where Zakariya Khan asked him to shave off his hair and accept Islam. He was offered all the comforts of the world. Bhai Taru Singh Ji refused to accept both the proposals.

At this Zakariya Khan ordered Bhai Taru Singh Ji’s hair to be scrapped off his scalp. Complying with the orders, the executioner started tearing his skull. At that time Bhai Taru Singh Ji was reciting Japji Sahib. His whole body was drenched in blood but he did not budge. After 22 days, on July 1,1745 he merged with Immortal. This supreme sacrifice of Bhai Taru Sing ;h Ji infused a new spirit among the Sikhs.

Question 7.
Who was Nadir Shah? What was the effect of his invasion on Punjab?
Or
Give a brief account of Nadir Shah’s invasion of Punjab and its impact.
Answer:
Nadir Shah was the emperor of Iran. He invaded India in 1739 A.D. During this invasion, his forces ravaged and ransacked many cities of India including Delhi. It spread: ruin and disorder throughout India and Punjab in particular. Nadir Shah was so ruthless that enemies trembled on hearing his name. When he was returning through Punjab, the Sikhs suddenly pounced upon him and seized a large amount of booty. Nadir Shah was wonder-struck.

He enquired about these Sikhs from Zakariya Khan, the Governor of Punjab. He warned him that if he did not take stern steps immediately against the Sikhs, they would one day get hold of Punjab. As a result, Zakariya Khan stepped up his tyranny over the Sikhs. But after the invasion of Nadir Shah, lawlessness spread in Punjab. Availing themselves of this opportunity, the Sikhs started consolidating their power.

Question 8.
Write a brief note on Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal.
Or
When were Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal o.rganised? What is their importance in Sikh History?
Or
What do you mean by ‘Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal’?
Answer:
After the settlement with the Mughals in 1733 A.D., the Sikhs got a golden chance to consolidate their power. Nawab Kapur Singh sent messages to the Sikhs to return to their homes from forests and hills. In this way,’ the persecution of the Sikhs which had continued during the last two decades came to an end. They heaved a sigh of relief. In 1734 A.D. Nawab Kapoor Singh formed two Jathas or Dais with a view to strengthening the Sikh power. These two Jathas came to be known as Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal. The Sikhs above 40 were included in Buddha Dal and below 40 years were included in Taruna Dal.

Taruna Dal was further divided into five groups, each of which had 1300 to 2000 Sikhs. Each group had a separate leader and a flag. Buddha Dal looked after the religious places while Taruna Dal fought against the enemies of the Sikhs.

Question 9.
Who was Yahiya Khan? Give information about his rule?
Answer:
After the death of Zakariya Khan, Yahiya, Khan became the Governor of Lahore in 1746 A.D. He remained on this post till 1747 A.D. In the matter of committing oppressions on the Sikhs, Yahiya Khan did not lag behind his father, Zakariya Khan.

1. Activities of the Sikhs : When Yahiya Khan assumed t;he charge, the atmosphere of anarchy was prevalent in the Punjab. Taking advantage of the opportunity, the Sikhs had organised their power. They attacketd many villages and killed their Chaudharis and Muqaddams for co-operating witk i the government and taking actions against the Sikhs. The Sikh jathas intensifie d their activities in many regions of Punjab.

2. Death of Jaspat Rai: In 1746 A.D. a Sikh jatha which wai3 proceeding on a pilgrimage to Gurdwara Rohri Sahib in Eminabad took away a few goats and sheep from the village Gondlawala. On the complaint of the people, Jaspat Rai, ordered the Sikhs to return the goats and sheep . The Sikhs refused to do so. Consequently, Jaspat Rai with some of his soldiers attacked the Sikhs. In the course of action, Jaspat Rai was killed. With the death of Jaspat Rai hisi soldiers ran for their lives.

3. Actions of Lakhpat Rai against the Sikhs : Diwan Lakh pat Rai’s blood began to boil on hearing the news of his brother Jaspat Rai’s de ath. He took a pledge that he would annihilate the Sikhs. He ordered Diwan Lakhpat Rai to crush the Sikhs. Those who defied these orders were sentenced to death. Many Sikhs inhabiting Lahore were arrested and executed.

4. First Holocaust: With a view to decimate the Sikhs, Yahiya Khan and Lakhpat Rai raised a huge army. This army, unexpectedly, besieged 15,000 Sikhs at Kahnuwan. The Mughal soldiers gave them a hot chase. Here the Sikhs were trapped in a difficult situation. In this attack, 7000 Sikhs were martyred and 3000 arrested. These Sikhs were butchered at Lahore. It was the first occasion in Sikh history, when the Sikhs suffered such a heavy loss of life. That is why this event is known as first Ghallughara or small holocaust in history. This holocaust took place in May 1746 A.D.

Question 10.
What do you know about the First Holocaust of 1746 or the Chhota Ghallughara?
Or
Write a short note on Chhota Ghallughara?
Or
What do you know about ‘First Holocaust?
Answer:
Yahiya Khan and Lakhpat Rai had raised a vast army in order to wipe out the Sikhs. This army suddenly surrounded about 15000 Sikhs at Kahnunwan. The Sikhs escaped from there and took refuge in the hills of Basoli. Here -they were trapped in an awkward situation. On the one side there were steep mountains and on the other Ravi, river was in full spate. The Mughal forces were hotly chasing them from behind while the hill chiefs and people in front were their sworn enemies. The Sikhs had no provisions. Their horses were also in a miserable condition due to the shortage of fodder.

In this attack 7,000 Sikhs were martyred and 3,000 were taken prisoners. These were martyred at Lahore. It was the first instance in Sikh history when the Sikhs suffered such a heavy loss of life. That is why this event is known as First Holocaust or Chotta Ghallughara in Sikh history . It occurred in May, 1746 A.D. Despite this bloody holocaust, morale of the Sikhs remained high and buoyant.

Question 11.
Who was Mir Mannu? What steps did he take against the Sikhs during his period of rule?
Or
How did the rule of Mir Mannu help in the rise of Sikh power?
Or
Study the persecution of the Sikhs by Mir Mannu.
Or
What do you know about the relations between Mir Mannu and the Sikhs?
Or
Write briefly the relations of Mir Mannu with the Sikhs.
Answer:
Mir Mannu was also known as Muin-ul-Mulk. He remained the Mughal Governor of Punjab from 1748 A.D. to 1752 A.D. and the Afghan Governor from 1752 A.D. to 1753 A.D. He represented Ahmad Shah Abdali. Mir Mannu was the sworn enemy of the Si£hs. He issued strict orders to crush the power of the Sikhs and sent military contingents at various places in Pvinjab. As a result, everyday the Sikhs were arrested and brought to Lahore for execution. They were executed in thousands at Shahid Ganj. They were hard pressed. Consequently, they had to take shelter in forests and hills.

When the soldiers of-Mir Mannu could not get hold of the Sikhs, they started arresting Sikh women and children. The cruelty with which they were tortured cannot be explained in words. Despite his extreme cruelty, Mir Mannu could not crush the Sikh power till his end.

Question 12.
Why did Mir Mannu fail to crush the Sikh power?
Or
What were the causes of the failure of Mir Mannu against the Sikhs? Write any five causes.
Answer:
1. Organisation of the Dal Khalsa: The main cause of Mir Mannu’s failure was the organisation of Dal Khalsa. The Sikhs greatly respected Dal Khalsa and were always ready to make any sacrifice at its call. As a result, it became difficult for Mir Mannu to crush the power of the Sikhs.

2. Uncommon qualities of the Sikhs: Another factor responsible for the failure of Mir Mannu was the uncommon qualities of the Sikhs. They had firm determination, unlimited zeal, bravery and spirit of sacrifice for their Panth. They never lost heart despite big hurdles. Mir Mannu subjected Sikh women and children to numerous persecutions, but they remained firm like a rock. It was not an easy task to crush such a community.

3. Guerilla tactics of the Sikhs: The Sikhs adopted guerilla tactics because of their limited resources. According to this policy, whenever the Sikhs found an opportunity, they would attack the Mughal forces, plunder their regions and again take shelter in forests and hills. Since the Sikhs did not confront Mir Mannu in the open field, he failed to crush their power.

4. Cooperation of Diwan Kaura Mai to the Sikhs : Diwan Kaura Mai was an adviser of Mir Mannu. He was a Sahijdhari Sikh. So, he was compassionate towards the Sikhs. Whenever Mir Mannu decided to take any strict action against the Sikhs, Kaura Mai persuaded him to adopt a soft attitude towards the Sikhs. Owing to this valuable co-operation, the Sikhs used to call him ‘Mitha Mai’. This co-operation of Kaura Mai proved helpful in the rise of the Sikh power.

5. Problems of Mir Mannu: During his rule, Mir Mannu was surrounded by several problems, because of which he could not pay his undivided attention to crush the power of the Sikhs. His greatest problem was the invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali. For fear of these invasions, Mir Mannu had to postpone action against the Sikhs. Secondly, the Wazir of Delhi, Safdarjang, was jealous of Mir Mannu. So, he was always busy hatching conspiracies to remove Mir Mannu from his post. Consequently, he failed to crush the power of the Sikhs.

Essay Type Questions:

Abdus Samad Khan 1713-26 A.D.

Question 1.
What was the condition of the Sikhs after the martyrdom of Banda Singh Bahadur? How did Abdus Samad Khan tackle the Sikhs?
Or
What steps were taken by Abdus Samad Khan to crush the powers of the Sikhs during 1713-1726 A.D.?
Or
What were the relations of the Sikhs with Abdus Samad Khan from 1713 to 1726 A.D.?
Answer:
Abdus Samad Khan was made the Governor of Lahore by the Mughal emperor, Farrukh Siyar in 1713 A.D. He was appointed to this post with the aim of completely crushing the power of the Sikhs. He started his administration with an iron hand. After defeating Banda Singh Bahadur in the battle of Gurdas Nangal in 1715 A.D. he arrested him along with many other (740) Sikhs. They were brutally martyred in Delhi on 19th June 1716 A.D. Farrukh Siyar was very happy over Abdus Samad Khan’s action. He honored Abdus Samad Khan with many rewards. Abdus Samad Khan remained on this post till 1726 A.D. The main events of his rule were as follows :

1. Farrukh Siyar’s Edict: In 1716 A.D., the Mughal emperor Farrukh Siyar, issued a royal edict. In this edict, he ordered the Mughal officials to kill any Sikh they could lay their hands on, but pardon those who embraced Islam. All the Hindus were ordered to shave off their heads and beards. He, who violated this order, was to be treated as a Sikh and to be killed. Even those, who gave help or provided shelter to the Sikhs, were also to be killed. Any person, who gave any clue about the whereabouts of any Sikh or helped the government in arresting the Sikhs, was to be amply rewarded.

2. Steps taken by Abdus Samad Khan against the Sikhs: After the issuance of the edict, Abdus Samad Khan started torturing the Sikhs in various ways. Hundreds of innocent Sikhs were daily arrested and brought to Lahore. They were tempted to embrace Islam in exchange for their life but the Guru’s Sikhs preferred death to this type of life. The executioners killed such Sikhs after subjecting them to untold tortures. In order to escape this bloody policy of Abdus Samad Khan, many Sikhs took shelter in the jungles and in the Shivalik hills.

There they had to face many hardships. In this way during the early years of Abdus Samad Khan’s rule, this policy paid rich dividends. Feeling happy with him Farrukh Siyar honoured him with the title of ‘Sword of the State’.

3. Split among the Sikhs: After the martyrdom of Banda Singh Bahadur, the Sikhs were divided into two chief sects “Tat Khalsa’ and ‘Bandai Khalsa’. Tat Khalsa’ were the firm advocates of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s religious principles. ‘Bandai Khalsa’ began to regard Banda Singh Bahadur as their leader. The followers of Tat Khalsa used to greet each other with ‘Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa and Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh’, while those of Bandai Khalsa used to greet each other with ‘Fateh Darshan’ and ‘Fateh Dharam’.

The disciples of Tat Khalsa wore blue robes, while those of Bandai Khalsa wore red ones. As a consequence of their differences the Sikhs could not jointly resist the cruelties of Abdus Samad Khan.

4. Change in Circumstances: After 1720 A.D, things began to change and events turned in favour of the Sikhs. The royal court had become a den of conspiracies. In view of political instability, the central govt, could not pay due attention towards the Sikhs. In Punjab too, Abdus Samad Khan was involed in crushing the revolts of Isa Khan and Hussain Khan. Therefore, laxity crept into the action against the Sikhs. In 1721 A.D., with the efforts of Bhai Mani Singh Ji a compromise was made between ‘Tat Khalsa’ and ‘Bandai Khalsa’ at Amritsar on the occasion of Baisakhi. Consequently, Bandai Khalsa merged itself into Tat Khalsa. Thus, they were united.

5. Activities of the Sikhs: The changed circumstances and the newly achieved unity gave a new impetus to the Sikhs. They formed Jathas consisting of one hundred Sikhs each and started looting the Mughal provinces. They began to inflict heavy punishments on those Hindus and Muslims, who had handed over the Sikh women and children to the Mughals and had seized their property. In order to teach the Sikhs a lesson, Abdus Samad Khan sent a force under Aslam Khan to Amritsar. The Sikhs launched a surprise attack and gave a crushing defeat to the imperial forces. Har Sahai was killed in this battle, and Aslam Khan and Dev fled for their lives.

6. Failure of Abdus Samad Khan: Despite his best efforts, Abdus Samad Khan failed to crush the power of the Sikhs. There were many reasons for it. Firstly, Abdus Samad Khan had started aging, so-he lacked the enthusiasm of his youthful days. Secondly, the Sikhs had forged unity. So they were able to counter the cruelties of Abdus Samad Khan. Thirdly, Abdus Samad Khan became the victim of the conspiracies of the Mughal nobles. So, Abdus Samad Khan was removed from his office in 1726 A.D.

Question 2.
What measures were adopted by Zakariya Khan to crush the powers of the Sikhs? How far did he succeed in his efforts?
Or
Describe briefly the persecution of the Sikhs in the reign of Zakariya Khan.
Or
Discuss the relations of Zakariya Khan with the Sikhs.
Or
How did Zakariya Khan treat with the Sikhs?
Answer:
After Abdus Samad Khan, his eldest son Zakariya Khan succeeded him as the Governor of Lahore in 1726 A.D. He continued to occupy this post till 1745 AiD. Zakariya Khan was even a greater tyrant than his father. That is why he was honoured with the title of ‘Khan Bahadur’.

1. Harsh measures against the Sikhs: Immediately after assuming his office, Zakariya Khan started taking repressive measures against the Sikhs. In order to crush the power of the Sikhs completely, he recruited 20,000 soldiers in his army. The villagers were warned against giving shelter to the Sikhs. They were required to inform the Government, if they sighted any Sikh. Through an order, it was declared that anybody who gave information about a Sikh, got him arrested, handed him over to the Government or presented his head to the Government, would be awarded Rs. 10, Rs. 25, Rs. 50 and Rs. 100 respectively. Hundreds of Sikhs began to be martyred everyday at Delhi gate in Lahore. Therefore the place began to be called ‘Shahid Ganj’.

2. Martyrdom of Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van: Bhai Tara Singh Ji was a resident of village Van in district Amritsar. He was very popular among the Sikhs for his bravery and services to the Sikh Panth. He had taken active part in the battles of Banda Singh Bahadur. The Chaudhary of Naushera, Sahib Rai, used to let loose his horses into the farms of the Sikhs, so as to damage their crops. When the Sikhs objected to it he used to insult them.

The Sikhs could not tolerate this insult. One day Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van caught hold of a mare of Sahib Rai and sold it. He bought grain with that money and gave it to the ‘langar’. When Sahib Rai came to know about it, he sought help from Zakariya Khan. Zakariya Khan sent a troop of 2200 cavaliers under the command of his General Moman Khan. Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van and his 22 companions inflicted a heavy loss on the Mughal force. All these Sikhs became martyrs while fighting. Before their martyrdom they had killed 300

Mughal soldiers and wounded many more. This event took place in February, 1726 A.D. In the words of S.S. Seetal, “The news of his martyrdom deeply moved the feelings of the Sikhs.”

3. Retaliatory measures of the Sikhs: All the Sikhs of Punjab were provoked to avenge the martyrdom of Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van and his companions. The Sikhs who had hidden themselves in jungles and hills took a pledge to end the Mughal rule. They began to raid and loot the government treasuries. Besides, they attacked certain places and killed the government henchmen. Whenever, Zakariya Khan sent his soldiers to take action against the Sikhs, they would at once take shelter in jungles and hills.

4. Incident of Haidri Flag : Zakariya Khan was greatly disturbed due to the growing activities of the Sikhs. He raised the slogan of ‘Jihad’ to crush the Sikhs. As a result, thousands of Muslims gathered under the banner of Innayatullah Khan. The command of this army was entrusted to Inayatulla Khan. On the auspicious day of Id, they were given a Haidri flag and it was proclaimed that God would certainly bestow victory on those who fought under this flag. One day about seven thousand Sikhs suddenly attacked these Ghazis and caused havoc in their ranks. Thousands of Ghazis were killed. It gave a great jolt to the Government.

5. Agreement of Zakariya Khan with the Sikhs : Now, Zakariya Khan realised that it was not easy to annihilate the Sikhs. So, he adopted the policy of placating the Sikhs; In 1733 A.D., he sent a message that if the Sikhs stopped their anti-government activities, they would be given ‘Jagir’ which would yield an annual revenue of one lakh rupees, and their leader would be honoured with the title of ‘Nawab’. At first the Sikhs were opposed to this compromise, but later they accepted it. The Sikhs gave this honour of receiving the ‘Jagir’ and the title of Nawab to Sardar Kapoor Singh Faizalpuria.

6. Organisation of Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal: The compromise with the Mughals gave the Sikhs a golden opportunity to organise their power/ Nawab Kapoor Singh sent a message to the Sikhs that they should return to their homes from their hideouts in jungles and hills. Thus, the two decade old struggle between the Mughals and Sikhs came to an end. The Sikhs heaved a sigh of relief. In order to strengthen the power of the Sikhs Nawab Kapoor Singh organised them in two groups in 1734 A.D. These groups were known as Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal.

The Sikhs above the age of 40 were recruited in the Buddha Dal and below the age of 40 in the Taruna Dal. The Taruna Dal was further divided into five groups. Each group had its own leader and banner. The Buddha Dal looked after the religious places and the Taruna Dal fought with the enemies.

7. Renewed struggle between the Mughals and the Sikhs: After organising their power, the Sikhs again started creating disturbance in Punjab. They again began to plunder the government treasuries. This enraged Zakariya Khan and in 1735 A.D. he confiscated the ‘Jagir’ which he had given to the Sikhs. He again announced awards for getting the Sikhs arrested or killed. He gave full freedom to the Hindus and the Muslims to burgle Sikh houses. The Sikhs again began to be arrested and killed. Thus, the Sikhs were once again compelled to take shelter in forests. Taking advantage of this opportunity, the Mughals took possession of Sri Harmandir Sahib.

8. Martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji: The martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji occupies a significant place in the Sikh History. He had been the head priest of Harmandir Sahib since 1721 A.D. The Sikhs were greatly perturbed when the soldiers of Zakariya Khan occupied Harmandir Sahib. In 1738 A.D. Bhai Mani Singh Ji requested Zakariya Khan to allow the Sikhs to enter Sri Harmandir Sahib on the Diwali festival and he would offer him Rs. 5000. Zakariya Khan readily accepted the offer. In fact, he hatched a plan. According to this plan he wanted to make a surprise attack and completely decimate the Sikhs who were supposed to gather at Amritsar on Diwali.

Zakariya Khan took the Sikhs unawares and killed a large number of them. Consequently, the festival of Diwali could not be observed at Sri Harmandir Sahib. Afterwards Zakariya Khan demanded Rs. 5000/- as promised by Bhai Mani Singh Ji.

Because the government had prevented the Sikhs from entering Sri Harmandir Sahib, Bhai Mani Singh Ji was unable to pay the stipulated amount. On his inability to pay, the government arrested Bhai Mani Singh Ji and sent him to Lahore. Bhai Sahib Ji was asked to embrace Islam but he refused. Therefore, he was cut to pieces limb by limb in 1738 A.D. This martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji supplied the much.needed fillip to the Sikh struggle for independence. In the words of Khushwant Singh, “The killing of the pious and venerable head priest caused deep resentment among the Sikhs.”

9. Sikhs robbed Nadir Shah : The Sikhs were on the look out for a golden opportunity to avenge the martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji. They got this opportunity in 1739 A.D. at the time of Nadir Shah’s invasion on India. After ruthless looting in Delhi, he was going back to Iran via Punjab. When the Sikhs came to know of it, they suddenly attacked and made away with most of the booty. Nadir Shah made enquiries from Zakariya Khan about these Sikhs and warned him that the day is not distant, when the Sikhs would rule in Punjab.

10. Zakariya Khan’s actions against the Sikhs : Nadir Shah’s warning had made a deep impact on Zakariya Khan’s mind. So, he decided to annihilate the Sikhs. The Sikhs again began to be killed ruthlessly daily as before. Here is given a brief description of some prominent martyrs :

(a) Bhai Bota Singh Ji : Zakariya Khan killed many Sikhs. In haughtiness, he announced that he had annihilated all the Sikhs. In order to show the existence of the Sikhs, Bhai Bota Singh Ji had set up a toll-post at Sarai Nurdin and began to charge one anna as toll-tax per cart and one paisa per donkey-load. When Zakariya Khan learnt of it, he could not tolerate it. He sent some soldiers under Jalal Khan. Jalal Khan asked him to surrender, but the brave warrior refused to do so. He fought valiantly with the enemy and finally achieved martyrdom.

(b) Bhai Mehtab Singh Ji and Bhai Sukha Singh Ji: Chaudhary Massa Rangar of village Mandiala, District Amritsar had desecrated Sri Harmandir Sahib by his activities. Therefore, the blood of the Sikhs was boiling for revenge. They wanted to teach Massa Rangar a lesson. Bhai Mehtab Singh Ji and Bhai Sukha Singh Ji hatched a plan. They packed some bags with pieces of stone and covered them with some coins, and reached Sri Harmandir Sahib. When enquired by the soldiers, they told them that they had brought revenue which they wanted to present to Massa Rangar.

Seeing the bags full of coins, they were allowed to go in. At that time, Massa Rangar was busy in merry-making. He was immensely pleased to see the bags full of coins. The moment he bowed forward to receive the bags, Mehtab Singh beheaded him with his sword. Later on Bhai Mehtab Singh and Bhai Sukha Singh were arrested and martyred mercilessly in 1740. A. D.

(c) Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji : Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji was the resident of Sialkot. One day a Muslim boy uttered some words, which were derogatory to the Hindu deities. Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji could not tolerate it. He said some offensive words about Prophet Mohammad and his. daughter Fatima. So, Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji was arrested. In order to, save himself, he was asked to embrace Islam. Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji spurned this offer. As a result, Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji was beheaded in 1742 A.D. The martyrdom of Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji inflammed the feelings of the Hindus and the Sikhs.

(d) Bhai Taru Singh Ji: Bhai Taru Singh Ji was the resident of village Puhla in the Majha region. He did farming and hepled the Sikhs with his incdme. In the eyes of the government, it was a blatant crime. He was brought to Lahore. Here Zakariya Khan offered him the usual choice of Islam or death. Bhai Sahib Ji refused to embrace Islam. Complying with the order of Zakariya Khan, the executioners removed his skull. When Bhai Sahib Ji’s skull was being removed, he was reciting Japji Sahib. This unique martyrdom in 1745 A.D. deeply stirred the Sikhs.

Zakariya Khan undoubtedly committed great cruelties on the Sikhs till his end. However, he failed to crush the power of the Sikhs. Zakariya Khan died on 1st July, 1745 A.D. In the words of Patwant Singh, “No one persecuted the Sikhs with greater zeal than Zakariya Khan.”

Question 3.
Briefly describe the relations of Abdus Samad Khan and Zakariya Khan with the Sikhs.
Answer:

Abdus Samad Khan was made the Governor of Lahore by the Mughal emperor, Farrukh Siyar in 1713 A.D. He was appointed to this post with the aim of completely crushing the power of the Sikhs. He started his administration with an iron hand. After defeating Banda Singh Bahadur in the battle of Gurdas Nangal in 1715 A.D. he arrested him along with many other (740) Sikhs. They were brutally martyred in Delhi on 19th June 1716 A.D. Farrukh Siyar was very happy over Abdus Samad Khan’s action. He honored Abdus Samad Khan with many rewards. Abdus Samad Khan remained on this post till 1726 A.D. The main events of his rule were as follows :

1. Farrukh Siyar’s Edict: In 1716 A.D., the Mughal emperor Farrukh Siyar, issued a royal edict. In this edict, he ordered the Mughal officials to kill any Sikh they could lay their hands on, but pardon those who embraced Islam. All the Hindus were ordered to shave off their heads and beards. He, who violated this order, was to be treated as a Sikh and to be killed. Even those, who gave help or provided shelter to the Sikhs, were also to be killed. Any person, who gave any clue about the whereabouts of any Sikh or helped the government in arresting the Sikhs, was to be amply rewarded.

2. Steps taken by Abdus Samad Khan against the Sikhs: After the issuance of the edict, Abdus Samad Khan started torturing the Sikhs in various ways. Hundreds of innocent Sikhs were daily arrested and brought to Lahore. They were tempted to embrace Islam in exchange for their life but the Guru’s Sikhs preferred death to this type of life. The executioners killed such Sikhs after subjecting them to untold tortures. In order to escape this bloody policy of Abdus Samad Khan, many Sikhs took shelter in the jungles and in the Shivalik hills.

There they had to face many hardships. In this way during the early years of Abdus Samad Khan’s rule, this policy paid rich dividends. Feeling happy with him Farrukh Siyar honoured him with the title of ‘Sword of the State’.

3. Split among the Sikhs: After the martyrdom of Banda Singh Bahadur, the Sikhs were divided into two chief sects “Tat Khalsa’ and ‘Bandai Khalsa’. Tat Khalsa’ were the firm advocates of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s religious principles. ‘Bandai Khalsa’ began to regard Banda Singh Bahadur as their leader. The followers of Tat Khalsa used to greet each other with ‘Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa and Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh’, while those of Bandai Khalsa used to greet each other with ‘Fateh Darshan’ and ‘Fateh Dharam’.

The disciples of Tat Khalsa wore blue robes, while those of Bandai Khalsa wore red ones. As a consequence of their differences the Sikhs could not jointly resist the cruelties of Abdus Samad Khan.

4. Change in Circumstances: After 1720 A.D, things began to change and events turned in favour of the Sikhs. The royal court had become a den of conspiracies. In view of political instability, the central govt, could not pay due attention towards the Sikhs. In Punjab too, Abdus Samad Khan was involed in crushing the revolts of Isa Khan and Hussain Khan. Therefore, laxity crept into the action against the Sikhs. In 1721 A.D., with the efforts of Bhai Mani Singh Ji a compromise was made between ‘Tat Khalsa’ and ‘Bandai Khalsa’ at Amritsar on the occasion of Baisakhi. Consequently, Bandai Khalsa merged itself into Tat Khalsa. Thus, they were united.

5. Activities of the Sikhs: The changed circumstances and the newly achieved unity gave a new impetus to the Sikhs. They formed Jathas consisting of one hundred Sikhs each and started looting the Mughal provinces. They began to inflict heavy punishments on those Hindus and Muslims, who had handed over the Sikh women and children to the Mughals and had seized their property. In order to teach the Sikhs a lesson, Abdus Samad Khan sent a force under Aslam Khan to Amritsar. The Sikhs launched a surprise attack and gave a crushing defeat to the imperial forces. Har Sahai was killed in this battle, and Aslam Khan and Dev fled for their lives.

6. Failure of Abdus Samad Khan: Despite his best efforts, Abdus Samad Khan failed to crush the power of the Sikhs. There were many reasons for it. Firstly, Abdus Samad Khan had started aging, so-he lacked the enthusiasm of his youthful days. Secondly, the Sikhs had forged unity. So they were able to counter the cruelties of Abdus Samad Khan. Thirdly, Abdus Samad Khan became the victim of the conspiracies of the Mughal nobles. So, Abdus Samad Khan was removed from his office in 1726 A.D.

After Abdus Samad Khan, his eldest son Zakariya Khan succeeded him as the Governor of Lahore in 1726 A.D. He continued to occupy this post till 1745 AiD. Zakariya Khan was even a greater tyrant than his father. That is why he was honoured with the title of ‘Khan Bahadur’.

1. Harsh measures against the Sikhs: Immediately after assuming his office, Zakariya Khan started taking repressive measures against the Sikhs. In order to crush the power of the Sikhs completely, he recruited 20,000 soldiers in his army. The villagers were warned against giving shelter to the Sikhs. They were required to inform the Government, if they sighted any Sikh. Through an order, it was declared that anybody who gave information about a Sikh, got him arrested, handed him over to the Government or presented his head to the Government, would be awarded Rs. 10, Rs. 25, Rs. 50 and Rs. 100 respectively. Hundreds of Sikhs began to be martyred everyday at Delhi gate in Lahore. Therefore the place began to be called ‘Shahid Ganj’.

2. Martyrdom of Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van: Bhai Tara Singh Ji was a resident of village Van in district Amritsar. He was very popular among the Sikhs for his bravery and services to the Sikh Panth. He had taken active part in the battles of Banda Singh Bahadur. The Chaudhary of Naushera, Sahib Rai, used to let loose his horses into the farms of the Sikhs, so as to damage their crops. When the Sikhs objected to it he used to insult them.

The Sikhs could not tolerate this insult. One day Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van caught hold of a mare of Sahib Rai and sold it. He bought grain with that money and gave it to the ‘langar’. When Sahib Rai came to know about it, he sought help from Zakariya Khan. Zakariya Khan sent a troop of 2200 cavaliers under the command of his General Moman Khan. Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van and his 22 companions inflicted a heavy loss on the Mughal force.

All these Sikhs became martyrs while fighting. Before their martyrdom they had killed 300 Mughal soldiers and wounded many more. This event took place in February, 1726 A.D. In the words of S.S. Seetal, “The news of his martyrdom deeply moved the feelings of the Sikhs.”

3. Retaliatory measures of the Sikhs: All the Sikhs of Punjab were provoked to avenge the martyrdom of Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van and his companions. The Sikhs who had hidden themselves in jungles and hills took a pledge to end the Mughal rule. They began to raid and loot the government treasuries. Besides, they attacked certain places and killed the government henchmen. Whenever, Zakariya Khan sent his soldiers to take action against the Sikhs, they would at once take shelter in jungles and hills.

4. Incident of Haidri Flag : Zakariya Khan was greatly disturbed due to the growing activities of the Sikhs. He raised the slogan of ‘Jihad’ to crush the Sikhs. As a result, thousands of Muslims gathered under the banner of Innayatullah Khan. The command of this army was entrusted to Inayatulla Khan. On the auspicious day of Id, they were given a Haidri flag and it was proclaimed that God would certainly bestow victory on those who fought under this flag. One day about seven thousand Sikhs suddenly attacked these Ghazis and caused havoc in their ranks. Thousands of Ghazis were killed. It gave a great jolt to the Government.

5. Agreement of Zakariya Khan with the Sikhs : Now, Zakariya Khan realised that it was not easy to annihilate the Sikhs. So, he adopted the policy of placating the Sikhs; In 1733 A.D., he sent a message that if the Sikhs stopped their anti-government activities, they would be given ‘Jagir’ which would yield an annual revenue of one lakh rupees, and their leader would be honoured with the title of ‘Nawab’. At first the Sikhs were opposed to this compromise, but later they accepted it. The Sikhs gave this honour of receiving the ‘Jagir’ and the title of Nawab to Sardar Kapoor Singh Faizalpuria.

6. Organisation of Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal: The compromise with the Mughals gave the Sikhs a golden opportunity to organise their power/ Nawab Kapoor Singh sent a message to the Sikhs that they should return to their homes from their hideouts in jungles and hills. Thus, the two decade old struggle between the Mughals and Sikhs came to an end. The Sikhs heaved a sigh of relief. In order to strengthen the power of the Sikhs Nawab Kapoor Singh organised them in two groups in 1734 A.D. These groups were known as Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal.

The Sikhs above the age of 40 were recruited in the Buddha Dal and below the age of 40 in the Taruna Dal. The Taruna Dal was further divided into five groups. Each group had its own leader and banner. The Buddha Dal looked after the religious places and the Taruna Dal fought with the enemies.

7. Renewed struggle between the Mughals and the Sikhs: After organising their power, the Sikhs again started creating disturbance in Punjab. They again began to plunder the government treasuries. This enraged Zakariya Khan and in 1735 A.D. he confiscated the ‘Jagir’ which he had given to the Sikhs. He again announced awards for getting the Sikhs arrested or killed. He gave full freedom to the Hindus and the Muslims to burgle Sikh houses. The Sikhs again began to be arrested and killed. Thus, the Sikhs were once again compelled to take shelter in forests. Taking advantage of this opportunity, the Mughals took possession of Sri Harmandir Sahib.

8. Martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji: The martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji occupies a significant place in the Sikh History. He had been the head priest of Harmandir Sahib since 1721 A.D. The Sikhs were greatly perturbed when the soldiers of Zakariya Khan occupied Harmandir Sahib. In 1738 A.D. Bhai Mani Singh Ji requested Zakariya Khan to allow the Sikhs to enter Sri Harmandir Sahib on the Diwali festival and he would offer him Rs. 5000. Zakariya Khan readily accepted the offer. In fact, he hatched a plan. According to this plan he wanted to make a surprise attack and completely decimate the Sikhs who were supposed to gather at Amritsar on Diwali.

Zakariya Khan took the Sikhs unawares and killed a large number of them. Consequently, the festival of Diwali could not be observed at Sri Harmandir Sahib. Afterwards Zakariya Khan demanded Rs. 5000/- as promised by Bhai Mani Singh Ji.

Because the government had prevented the Sikhs from entering Sri Harmandir Sahib, Bhai Mani Singh Ji was unable to pay the stipulated amount. On his inability to pay, the government arrested Bhai Mani Singh Ji and sent him to Lahore. Bhai Sahib Ji was asked to embrace Islam but he refused. Therefore, he was cut to pieces limb by limb in 1738 A.D. This martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji supplied the much.needed fillip to the Sikh struggle for independence. In the words of Khushwant Singh, “The killing of the pious and venerable head priest caused deep resentment among the Sikhs.”

9. Sikhs robbed Nadir Shah : The Sikhs were on the look out for a golden opportunity to avenge the martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji. They got this opportunity in 1739 A.D. at the time of Nadir Shah’s invasion on India. After ruthless looting in Delhi, he was going back to Iran via Punjab. When the Sikhs came to know of it, they suddenly attacked and made away with most of the booty. Nadir Shah made enquiries from Zakariya Khan about these Sikhs and warned him that the day is not distant, when the Sikhs would rule in Punjab.

10. Zakariya Khan’s actions against the Sikhs : Nadir Shah’s warning had made a deep impact on Zakariya Khan’s mind. So, he decided to annihilate the Sikhs. The Sikhs again began to be killed ruthlessly daily as before. Here is given a brief description of some prominent martyrs :

(a) Bhai Bota Singh Ji : Zakariya Khan killed many Sikhs. In haughtiness, he announced that he had annihilated all the Sikhs. In order to show the existence of the Sikhs, Bhai Bota Singh Ji had set up a toll-post at Sarai Nurdin and began to charge one anna as toll-tax per cart and one paisa per donkey-load. When Zakariya Khan learnt of it, he could not tolerate it. He sent some soldiers under Jalal Khan. Jalal Khan asked him to surrender, but the brave warrior refused to do so. He fought valiantly with the enemy and finally achieved martyrdom.

(b) Bhai Mehtab Singh Ji and Bhai Sukha Singh Ji: Chaudhary Massa Rangar of village Mandiala, District Amritsar had desecrated Sri Harmandir Sahib by his activities. Therefore, the blood of the Sikhs was boiling for revenge. They wanted to teach Massa Rangar a lesson. Bhai Mehtab Singh Ji and Bhai Sukha Singh Ji hatched a plan. They packed some bags with pieces of stone and covered them with some coins, and reached Sri Harmandir Sahib. When enquired by the soldiers, they told them that they had brought revenue which they wanted to present to Massa Rangar.

Seeing the bags full of coins, they were allowed to go in. At that time, Massa Rangar was busy in merry-making. He was immensely pleased to see the bags full of coins. The moment he bowed forward to receive the bags, Mehtab Singh beheaded him with his sword. Later on Bhai Mehtab Singh and Bhai Sukha Singh were arrested and martyred mercilessly in 1740. A. D.

(c) Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji : Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji was the resident of Sialkot. One day a Muslim boy uttered some words, which were derogatory to the Hindu deities. Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji could not tolerate it. He said some offensive words about Prophet Mohammad and his. daughter Fatima. So, Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji was arrested. In order to, save himself, he was asked to embrace Islam. Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji spurned this offer. As a result, Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji was beheaded in 1742 A.D. The martyrdom of Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji inflammed the feelings of the Hindus and the Sikhs.

(d) Bhai Taru Singh Ji: Bhai Taru Singh Ji was the resident of village Puhla in the Majha region. He did farming and hepled the Sikhs with his incdme. In the eyes of the government, it was a blatant crime. He was brought to Lahore. Here Zakariya Khan offered him the usual choice of Islam or death. Bhai Sahib Ji refused to embrace Islam. Complying with the order of Zakariya Khan, the executioners removed his skull. When Bhai Sahib Ji’s skull was being removed, he was reciting Japji Sahib. This unique martyrdom in 1745 A.D. deeply stirred the Sikhs.

Zakariya Khan undoubtedly committed great cruelties on the Sikhs till his end. However, he failed to crush the power of the Sikhs. Zakariya Khan died on 1st July, 1745 A.D. In the words of Patwant Singh, “No one persecuted the Sikhs with greater zeal than Zakariya Khan.”

Yahiya Khan 1746-47 A.D.

Question 4.
What steps were taken by Yahiya Khan to crush the power of the Sikhs?
Answer:
After the death of Zakariya Khan, Yahiya Khan became the Governor of Lahore in 1746 A.D. He remained on this post till 1747 A.D. In the matter of committing oppressions on the Sikhs, Yahiya Khan did not lag behind his father, Zakariya Khan.

1. Activities of the Sikhs : When Yahiya Khan assumed the charge, the atmosphere of anarchy was prevalent in the Punjab. Taking advantage of the opportunity, the Sikhs had organised their power. They attacked many villages and killed their Chaudharis and Muqaddams for co-operating with the government and taking actions against the Sikhs. The Sikh jathas intensified their activities in many regions of Punjab.

2. Death of Jaspat Rai: In 1746 A.D. a Sikh jatha which was proceeding on a pilgrimage to Gurdwara Rohri Sahib in Eminabad took away a few goats and sheep from the village Gondlawala. On the complaint of the people, Jaspat Rai, who was the Faujdar of Eminabad, ordered the Sikhs to return the goats and sheep . The Sikhs refused to do so. Consequently, Jaspat Rai with some of his soldiers attacked the Silkhs. In the course of action, Jaspat Rai was killed. With the death of Jaspat Rai his soldiers ran for their lives. This event happened in March 1746 A.D.

3. Actions of Lakhpat Rai against the Sikhs,; Diwan Lakhpat Rai’s blood began to boil on hearing the news of his brother Jaspat Rai’s death. He took a pledge that he would annihilate the Sikhs. Yahiya Khan was already thinking of crushing the power of the Sikhs. He ordered Diwan Lakhpat Rai to crush’the Sikhs. Lakhpat Rai imposed many restrictions on the Sikhs. Thereafter, no one could utter the word ‘Guru’. He told the people to use ‘Rori’ for ‘Gud’ because the word ‘Gud’ sounded like ‘Guru.’ Likewise, he ordered to use the word ‘Pothi’ for the ‘Granth’. Those who defied these orders were sentenced to death. Many Sikhs inhabiting Lahore were arrested and executed.

4. First Holocaust: With a view to decimate the Sikhs, Yahiya Khan and Lakhpat Rai raised a huge army. This army, unexpectedly, besieged 15,000 Sikhs at Kahnuwan. The Sikhs escaped from there and took shelter in the hills of Basoli. The Mughal soldiers gave them a hot chase. Here the Sikhs were trapped in a difficult situation. On one side there were high hills, while on the other the river .Ravi was in full spate. The Mughal soldiers were chasing them from behind while in front they were faced by the Hill Chiefs and, those people, who were their bitter enemies.

The Sikhs were short of food-stuffs. Owing to the shortage of fodder, the horses too were suffering from starvation. In this attack, 7000 Sikhs were killed and 3000 arrested. These Sikhs were butchered at Lahore. It was the first occasion in Sikh history, when the Sikhs suffered such a heavy loss of life. That is why this event is known as first Ghallughara or small holocaust in history. This holocaust took place in May 1746 A.D. Gurbaksh Singh aptly says, “This devastating blow to the Sikhs in 1746 made them more determined than ever to put an end to the genocide.”

5. Fall of Yahiya Khan: In November 1746 A.D., the younger brother of Yahiya Khan, Shah Nawaz Khan, raised the banner of revolt. It resulted in a civil war between the two brothers. This war continued till 1747 A.D. In this war, Shah Nawaz Khan ultimately succeeded and he threw Yahiya Khan and Diwan Lakhpat Rai into the prison on 17 March, 1747 A.D. In this way, their cruelties came to an end, but they could not put an end to the Sikhs.

Question 5.
What steps were taken by Zakariya Khan and Yahiya Khan from 1726-1746 A.D. in order to crush the power of the Sikhs?
Or
Describe the persecution of the Sikhs during the rule of Zakariya Khan and Yahiya Khan.
Answer:

After Abdus Samad Khan, his eldest son Zakariya Khan succeeded him as the Governor of Lahore in 1726 A.D. He continued to occupy this post till 1745 AiD. Zakariya Khan was even a greater tyrant than his father. That is why he was honoured with the title of ‘Khan Bahadur’.

1. Harsh measures against the Sikhs: Immediately after assuming his office, Zakariya Khan started taking repressive measures against the Sikhs. In order to crush the power of the Sikhs completely, he recruited 20,000 soldiers in his army. The villagers were warned against giving shelter to the Sikhs. They were required to inform the Government, if they sighted any Sikh. Through an order, it was declared that anybody who gave information about a Sikh, got him arrested, handed him over to the Government or presented his head to the Government, would be awarded Rs. 10, Rs. 25, Rs. 50 and Rs. 100 respectively. Hundreds of Sikhs began to be martyred everyday at Delhi gate in Lahore. Therefore the place began to be called ‘Shahid Ganj’.

2. Martyrdom of Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van: Bhai Tara Singh Ji was a resident of village Van in district Amritsar. He was very popular among the Sikhs for his bravery and services to the Sikh Panth. He had taken active part in the battles of Banda Singh Bahadur. The Chaudhary of Naushera, Sahib Rai, used to let loose his horses into the farms of the Sikhs, so as to damage their crops. When the Sikhs objected to it he used to insult them.

The Sikhs could not tolerate this insult. One day Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van caught hold of a mare of Sahib Rai and sold it. He bought grain with that money and gave it to the ‘langar’. When Sahib Rai came to know about it, he sought help from Zakariya Khan. Zakariya Khan sent a troop of 2200 cavaliers under the command of his General Moman Khan. Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van and his 22 companions inflicted a heavy loss on the Mughal force.

All these Sikhs became martyrs while fighting. Before their martyrdom they had killed 300 Mughal soldiers and wounded many more. This event took place in February, 1726 A.D. In the words of S.S. Seetal, “The news of his martyrdom deeply moved the feelings of the Sikhs.”

3. Retaliatory measures of the Sikhs: All the Sikhs of Punjab were provoked to avenge the martyrdom of Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van and his companions. The Sikhs who had hidden themselves in jungles and hills took a pledge to end the Mughal rule. They began to raid and loot the government treasuries. Besides, they attacked certain places and killed the government henchmen. Whenever, Zakariya Khan sent his soldiers to take action against the Sikhs, they would at once take shelter in jungles and hills.

4. Incident of Haidri Flag : Zakariya Khan was greatly disturbed due to the growing activities of the Sikhs. He raised the slogan of ‘Jihad’ to crush the Sikhs. As a result, thousands of Muslims gathered under the banner of Innayatullah Khan. The command of this army was entrusted to Inayatulla Khan. On the auspicious day of Id, they were given a Haidri flag and it was proclaimed that God would certainly bestow victory on those who fought under this flag. One day about seven thousand Sikhs suddenly attacked these Ghazis and caused havoc in their ranks. Thousands of Ghazis were killed. It gave a great jolt to the Government.

5. Agreement of Zakariya Khan with the Sikhs : Now, Zakariya Khan realised that it was not easy to annihilate the Sikhs. So, he adopted the policy of placating the Sikhs; In 1733 A.D., he sent a message that if the Sikhs stopped their anti-government activities, they would be given ‘Jagir’ which would yield an annual revenue of one lakh rupees, and their leader would be honoured with the title of ‘Nawab’. At first the Sikhs were opposed to this compromise, but later they accepted it. The Sikhs gave this honour of receiving the ‘Jagir’ and the title of Nawab to Sardar Kapoor Singh Faizalpuria.

6. Organisation of Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal: The compromise with the Mughals gave the Sikhs a golden opportunity to organise their power/ Nawab Kapoor Singh sent a message to the Sikhs that they should return to their homes from their hideouts in jungles and hills. Thus, the two decade old struggle between the Mughals and Sikhs came to an end. The Sikhs heaved a sigh of relief. In order to strengthen the power of the Sikhs Nawab Kapoor Singh organised them in two groups in 1734 A.D. These groups were known as Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal.

The Sikhs above the age of 40 were recruited in the Buddha Dal and below the age of 40 in the Taruna Dal. The Taruna Dal was further divided into five groups. Each group had its own leader and banner. The Buddha Dal looked after the religious places and the Taruna Dal fought with the enemies.

7. Renewed struggle between the Mughals and the Sikhs: After organising their power, the Sikhs again started creating disturbance in Punjab. They again began to plunder the government treasuries. This enraged Zakariya Khan and in 1735 A.D. he confiscated the ‘Jagir’ which he had given to the Sikhs. He again announced awards for getting the Sikhs arrested or killed. He gave full freedom to the Hindus and the Muslims to burgle Sikh houses. The Sikhs again began to be arrested and killed. Thus, the Sikhs were once again compelled to take shelter in forests. Taking advantage of this opportunity, the Mughals took possession of Sri Harmandir Sahib.

8. Martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji: The martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji occupies a significant place in the Sikh History. He had been the head priest of Harmandir Sahib since 1721 A.D. The Sikhs were greatly perturbed when the soldiers of Zakariya Khan occupied Harmandir Sahib. In 1738 A.D. Bhai Mani Singh Ji requested Zakariya Khan to allow the Sikhs to enter Sri Harmandir Sahib on the Diwali festival and he would offer him Rs. 5000. Zakariya Khan readily accepted the offer. In fact, he hatched a plan. According to this plan he wanted to make a surprise attack and completely decimate the Sikhs who were supposed to gather at Amritsar on Diwali.

Zakariya Khan took the Sikhs unawares and killed a large number of them. Consequently, the festival of Diwali could not be observed at Sri Harmandir Sahib. Afterwards Zakariya Khan demanded Rs. 5000/- as promised by Bhai Mani Singh Ji.

Because the government had prevented the Sikhs from entering Sri Harmandir Sahib, Bhai Mani Singh Ji was unable to pay the stipulated amount. On his inability to pay, the government arrested Bhai Mani Singh Ji and sent him to Lahore. Bhai Sahib Ji was asked to embrace Islam but he refused. Therefore, he was cut to pieces limb by limb in 1738 A.D. This martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji supplied the much.needed fillip to the Sikh struggle for independence. In the words of Khushwant Singh, “The killing of the pious and venerable head priest caused deep resentment among the Sikhs.”

9. Sikhs robbed Nadir Shah : The Sikhs were on the look out for a golden opportunity to avenge the martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji. They got this opportunity in 1739 A.D. at the time of Nadir Shah’s invasion on India. After ruthless looting in Delhi, he was going back to Iran via Punjab. When the Sikhs came to know of it, they suddenly attacked and made away with most of the booty. Nadir Shah made enquiries from Zakariya Khan about these Sikhs and warned him that the day is not distant, when the Sikhs would rule in Punjab.

10. Zakariya Khan’s actions against the Sikhs : Nadir Shah’s warning had made a deep impact on Zakariya Khan’s mind. So, he decided to annihilate the Sikhs. The Sikhs again began to be killed ruthlessly daily as before. Here is given a brief description of some prominent martyrs :

(a) Bhai Bota Singh Ji : Zakariya Khan killed many Sikhs. In haughtiness, he announced that he had annihilated all the Sikhs. In order to show the existence of the Sikhs, Bhai Bota Singh Ji had set up a toll-post at Sarai Nurdin and began to charge one anna as toll-tax per cart and one paisa per donkey-load. When Zakariya Khan learnt of it, he could not tolerate it. He sent some soldiers under Jalal Khan. Jalal Khan asked him to surrender, but the brave warrior refused to do so. He fought valiantly with the enemy and finally achieved martyrdom.

(b) Bhai Mehtab Singh Ji and Bhai Sukha Singh Ji: Chaudhary Massa Rangar of village Mandiala, District Amritsar had desecrated Sri Harmandir Sahib by his activities. Therefore, the blood of the Sikhs was boiling for revenge. They wanted to teach Massa Rangar a lesson. Bhai Mehtab Singh Ji and Bhai Sukha Singh Ji hatched a plan. They packed some bags with pieces of stone and covered them with some coins, and reached Sri Harmandir Sahib. When enquired by the soldiers, they told them that they had brought revenue which they wanted to present to Massa Rangar.

Seeing the bags full of coins, they were allowed to go in. At that time, Massa Rangar was busy in merry-making. He was immensely pleased to see the bags full of coins. The moment he bowed forward to receive the bags, Mehtab Singh beheaded him with his sword. Later on Bhai Mehtab Singh and Bhai Sukha Singh were arrested and martyred mercilessly in 1740. A. D.

(c) Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji : Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji was the resident of Sialkot. One day a Muslim boy uttered some words, which were derogatory to the Hindu deities. Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji could not tolerate it. He said some offensive words about Prophet Mohammad and his. daughter Fatima. So, Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji was arrested. In order to, save himself, he was asked to embrace Islam. Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji spurned this offer. As a result, Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji was beheaded in 1742 A.D. The martyrdom of Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji inflammed the feelings of the Hindus and the Sikhs.

(d) Bhai Taru Singh Ji: Bhai Taru Singh Ji was the resident of village Puhla in the Majha region. He did farming and hepled the Sikhs with his incdme. In the eyes of the government, it was a blatant crime. He was brought to Lahore. Here Zakariya Khan offered him the usual choice of Islam or death. Bhai Sahib Ji refused to embrace Islam. Complying with the order of Zakariya Khan, the executioners removed his skull. When Bhai Sahib Ji’s skull was being removed, he was reciting Japji Sahib. This unique martyrdom in 1745 A.D. deeply stirred the Sikhs.

Zakariya Khan undoubtedly committed great cruelties on the Sikhs till his end. However, he failed to crush the power of the Sikhs. Zakariya Khan died on 1st July, 1745 A.D. In the words of Patwant Singh, “No one persecuted the Sikhs with greater zeal than Zakariya Khan.”

After the death of Zakariya Khan, Yahiya Khan became the Governor of Lahore in 1746 A.D. He remained on this post till 1747 A.D. In the matter of committing oppressions on the Sikhs, Yahiya Khan did not lag behind his father, Zakariya Khan.

1. Activities of the Sikhs : When Yahiya Khan assumed the charge, the atmosphere of anarchy was prevalent in the Punjab. Taking advantage of the opportunity, the Sikhs had organised their power. They attacked many villages and killed their Chaudharis and Muqaddams for co-operating with the government and taking actions against the Sikhs. The Sikh jathas intensified their activities in many regions of Punjab.

2. Death of Jaspat Rai: In 1746 A.D. a Sikh jatha which was proceeding on a pilgrimage to Gurdwara Rohri Sahib in Eminabad took away a few goats and sheep from the village Gondlawala. On the complaint of the people, Jaspat Rai, who was the Faujdar of Eminabad, ordered the Sikhs to return the goats and sheep . The Sikhs refused to do so. Consequently, Jaspat Rai with some of his soldiers attacked the Silkhs. In the course of action, Jaspat Rai was killed. With the death of Jaspat Rai his soldiers ran for their lives. This event happened in March 1746 A.D.

3. Actions of Lakhpat Rai against the Sikhs,; Diwan Lakhpat Rai’s blood began to boil on hearing the news of his brother Jaspat Rai’s death. He took a pledge that he would annihilate the Sikhs. Yahiya Khan was already thinking of crushing the power of the Sikhs. He ordered Diwan Lakhpat Rai to crush’the Sikhs. Lakhpat Rai imposed many restrictions on the Sikhs. Thereafter, no one could utter the word ‘Guru’. He told the people to use ‘Rori’ for ‘Gud’ because the word ‘Gud’ sounded like ‘Guru.’ Likewise, he ordered to use the word ‘Pothi’ for the ‘Granth’. Those who defied these orders were sentenced to death. Many Sikhs inhabiting Lahore were arrested and executed.

4. First Holocaust: With a view to decimate the Sikhs, Yahiya Khan and Lakhpat Rai raised a huge army. This army, unexpectedly, besieged 15,000 Sikhs at Kahnuwan. The Sikhs escaped from there and took shelter in the hills of Basoli. The Mughal soldiers gave them a hot chase. Here the Sikhs were trapped in a difficult situation. On one side there were high hills, while on the other the river .Ravi was in full spate. The Mughal soldiers were chasing them from behind while in front they were faced by the Hill Chiefs and, those people, who were their bitter enemies.

The Sikhs were short of food-stuffs. Owing to the shortage of fodder, the horses too were suffering from starvation. In this attack, 7000 Sikhs were killed and 3000 arrested. These Sikhs were butchered at Lahore. It was the first occasion in Sikh history, when the Sikhs suffered such a heavy loss of life. That is why this event is known as first Ghallughara or small holocaust in history. This holocaust took place in May 1746 A.D. Gurbaksh Singh aptly says, “This devastating blow to the Sikhs in 1746 made them more determined than ever to put an end to the genocide.”

5. Fall of Yahiya Khan: In November 1746 A.D., the younger brother of Yahiya Khan, Shah Nawaz Khan, raised the banner of revolt. It resulted in a civil war between the two brothers. This war continued till 1747 A.D. In this war, Shah Nawaz Khan ultimately succeeded and he threw Yahiya Khan and Diwan Lakhpat Rai into the prison on 17 March, 1747 A.D. In this way, their cruelties came to an end, but they could not put an end to the Sikhs.

Question 6.
Explain in brief the persecution of the Sikhs during 1716 to 1747 A.D.
Or
What steps did the Mughal Governors take to crush the Sikhs between 1716-1747 A.D.? Why did the Mughal Governors fail to suppress the Sikhs?
Answer:
Abdus Samad Khan was made the Governor of Lahore by the Mughal emperor, Farrukh Siyar in 1713 A.D. He was appointed to this post with the aim of completely crushing the power of the Sikhs. He started his administration with an iron hand. After defeating Banda Singh Bahadur in the battle of Gurdas Nangal in 1715 A.D. he arrested him along with many other (740) Sikhs. They were brutally martyred in Delhi on 19th June 1716 A.D. Farrukh Siyar was very happy over Abdus Samad Khan’s action. He honored Abdus Samad Khan with many rewards. Abdus Samad Khan remained on this post till 1726 A.D. The main events of his rule were as follows :

1. Farrukh Siyar’s Edict: In 1716 A.D., the Mughal emperor Farrukh Siyar, issued a royal edict. In this edict, he ordered the Mughal officials to kill any Sikh they could lay their hands on, but pardon those who embraced Islam. All the Hindus were ordered to shave off their heads and beards. He, who violated this order, was to be treated as a Sikh and to be killed. Even those, who gave help or provided shelter to the Sikhs, were also to be killed. Any person, who gave any clue about the whereabouts of any Sikh or helped the government in arresting the Sikhs, was to be amply rewarded.

2. Steps taken by Abdus Samad Khan against the Sikhs: After the issuance of the edict, Abdus Samad Khan started torturing the Sikhs in various ways. Hundreds of innocent Sikhs were daily arrested and brought to Lahore. They were tempted to embrace Islam in exchange for their life but the Guru’s Sikhs preferred death to this type of life. The executioners killed such Sikhs after subjecting them to untold tortures. In order to escape this bloody policy of Abdus Samad Khan, many Sikhs took shelter in the jungles and in the Shivalik hills.

There they had to face many hardships. In this way during the early years of Abdus Samad Khan’s rule, this policy paid rich dividends. Feeling happy with him Farrukh Siyar honoured him with the title of ‘Sword of the State’.

3. Split among the Sikhs: After the martyrdom of Banda Singh Bahadur, the Sikhs were divided into two chief sects “Tat Khalsa’ and ‘Bandai Khalsa’. Tat Khalsa’ were the firm advocates of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s religious principles. ‘Bandai Khalsa’ began to regard Banda Singh Bahadur as their leader. The followers of Tat Khalsa used to greet each other with ‘Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa and Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh’, while those of Bandai Khalsa used to greet each other with ‘Fateh Darshan’ and ‘Fateh Dharam’.

The disciples of Tat Khalsa wore blue robes, while those of Bandai Khalsa wore red ones. As a consequence of their differences the Sikhs could not jointly resist the cruelties of Abdus Samad Khan.

4. Change in Circumstances: After 1720 A.D, things began to change and events turned in favour of the Sikhs. The royal court had become a den of conspiracies. In view of political instability, the central govt, could not pay due attention towards the Sikhs. In Punjab too, Abdus Samad Khan was involed in crushing the revolts of Isa Khan and Hussain Khan. Therefore, laxity crept into the action against the Sikhs. In 1721 A.D., with the efforts of Bhai Mani Singh Ji a compromise was made between ‘Tat Khalsa’ and ‘Bandai Khalsa’ at Amritsar on the occasion of Baisakhi. Consequently, Bandai Khalsa merged itself into Tat Khalsa. Thus, they were united.

5. Activities of the Sikhs: The changed circumstances and the newly achieved unity gave a new impetus to the Sikhs. They formed Jathas consisting of one hundred Sikhs each and started looting the Mughal provinces. They began to inflict heavy punishments on those Hindus and Muslims, who had handed over the Sikh women and children to the Mughals and had seized their property. In order to teach the Sikhs a lesson, Abdus Samad Khan sent a force under Aslam Khan to Amritsar. The Sikhs launched a surprise attack and gave a crushing defeat to the imperial forces. Har Sahai was killed in this battle, and Aslam Khan and Dev fled for their lives.

6. Failure of Abdus Samad Khan: Despite his best efforts, Abdus Samad Khan failed to crush the power of the Sikhs. There were many reasons for it. Firstly, Abdus Samad Khan had started aging, so-he lacked the enthusiasm of his youthful days. Secondly, the Sikhs had forged unity. So they were able to counter the cruelties of Abdus Samad Khan. Thirdly, Abdus Samad Khan became the victim of the conspiracies of the Mughal nobles. So, Abdus Samad Khan was removed from his office in 1726 A.D.

After Abdus Samad Khan, his eldest son Zakariya Khan succeeded him as the Governor of Lahore in 1726 A.D. He continued to occupy this post till 1745 AiD. Zakariya Khan was even a greater tyrant than his father. That is why he was honoured with the title of ‘Khan Bahadur’.

1. Harsh measures against the Sikhs: Immediately after assuming his office, Zakariya Khan started taking repressive measures against the Sikhs. In order to crush the power of the Sikhs completely, he recruited 20,000 soldiers in his army. The villagers were warned against giving shelter to the Sikhs. They were required to inform the Government, if they sighted any Sikh. Through an order, it was declared that anybody who gave information about a Sikh, got him arrested, handed him over to the Government or presented his head to the Government, would be awarded Rs. 10, Rs. 25, Rs. 50 and Rs. 100 respectively. Hundreds of Sikhs began to be martyred everyday at Delhi gate in Lahore. Therefore the place began to be called ‘Shahid Ganj’.

2. Martyrdom of Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van: Bhai Tara Singh Ji was a resident of village Van in district Amritsar. He was very popular among the Sikhs for his bravery and services to the Sikh Panth. He had taken active part in the battles of Banda Singh Bahadur. The Chaudhary of Naushera, Sahib Rai, used to let loose his horses into the farms of the Sikhs, so as to damage their crops. When the Sikhs objected to it he used to insult them.

The Sikhs could not tolerate this insult. One day Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van caught hold of a mare of Sahib Rai and sold it. He bought grain with that money and gave it to the ‘langar’. When Sahib Rai came to know about it, he sought help from Zakariya Khan. Zakariya Khan sent a troop of 2200 cavaliers under the command of his General Moman Khan. Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van and his 22 companions inflicted a heavy loss on the Mughal force.

All these Sikhs became martyrs while fighting. Before their martyrdom they had killed 300 Mughal soldiers and wounded many more. This event took place in February, 1726 A.D. In the words of S.S. Seetal, “The news of his martyrdom deeply moved the feelings of the Sikhs.”

3. Retaliatory measures of the Sikhs: All the Sikhs of Punjab were provoked to avenge the martyrdom of Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van and his companions. The Sikhs who had hidden themselves in jungles and hills took a pledge to end the Mughal rule. They began to raid and loot the government treasuries. Besides, they attacked certain places and killed the government henchmen. Whenever, Zakariya Khan sent his soldiers to take action against the Sikhs, they would at once take shelter in jungles and hills.

4. Incident of Haidri Flag : Zakariya Khan was greatly disturbed due to the growing activities of the Sikhs. He raised the slogan of ‘Jihad’ to crush the Sikhs. As a result, thousands of Muslims gathered under the banner of Innayatullah Khan. The command of this army was entrusted to Inayatulla Khan. On the auspicious day of Id, they were given a Haidri flag and it was proclaimed that God would certainly bestow victory on those who fought under this flag. One day about seven thousand Sikhs suddenly attacked these Ghazis and caused havoc in their ranks. Thousands of Ghazis were killed. It gave a great jolt to the Government.

5. Agreement of Zakariya Khan with the Sikhs : Now, Zakariya Khan realised that it was not easy to annihilate the Sikhs. So, he adopted the policy of placating the Sikhs; In 1733 A.D., he sent a message that if the Sikhs stopped their anti-government activities, they would be given ‘Jagir’ which would yield an annual revenue of one lakh rupees, and their leader would be honoured with the title of ‘Nawab’. At first the Sikhs were opposed to this compromise, but later they accepted it. The Sikhs gave this honour of receiving the ‘Jagir’ and the title of Nawab to Sardar Kapoor Singh Faizalpuria.

6. Organisation of Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal: The compromise with the Mughals gave the Sikhs a golden opportunity to organise their power/ Nawab Kapoor Singh sent a message to the Sikhs that they should return to their homes from their hideouts in jungles and hills. Thus, the two decade old struggle between the Mughals and Sikhs came to an end. The Sikhs heaved a sigh of relief. In order to strengthen the power of the Sikhs Nawab Kapoor Singh organised them in two groups in 1734 A.D. These groups were known as Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal.

The Sikhs above the age of 40 were recruited in the Buddha Dal and below the age of 40 in the Taruna Dal. The Taruna Dal was further divided into five groups. Each group had its own leader and banner. The Buddha Dal looked after the religious places and the Taruna Dal fought with the enemies.

7. Renewed struggle between the Mughals and the Sikhs: After organising their power, the Sikhs again started creating disturbance in Punjab. They again began to plunder the government treasuries. This enraged Zakariya Khan and in 1735 A.D. he confiscated the ‘Jagir’ which he had given to the Sikhs. He again announced awards for getting the Sikhs arrested or killed. He gave full freedom to the Hindus and the Muslims to burgle Sikh houses. The Sikhs again began to be arrested and killed. Thus, the Sikhs were once again compelled to take shelter in forests. Taking advantage of this opportunity, the Mughals took possession of Sri Harmandir Sahib.

8. Martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji: The martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji occupies a significant place in the Sikh History. He had been the head priest of Harmandir Sahib since 1721 A.D. The Sikhs were greatly perturbed when the soldiers of Zakariya Khan occupied Harmandir Sahib. In 1738 A.D. Bhai Mani Singh Ji requested Zakariya Khan to allow the Sikhs to enter Sri Harmandir Sahib on the Diwali festival and he would offer him Rs. 5000. Zakariya Khan readily accepted the offer. In fact, he hatched a plan. According to this plan he wanted to make a surprise attack and completely decimate the Sikhs who were supposed to gather at Amritsar on Diwali.

Zakariya Khan took the Sikhs unawares and killed a large number of them. Consequently, the festival of Diwali could not be observed at Sri Harmandir Sahib. Afterwards Zakariya Khan demanded Rs. 5000/- as promised by Bhai Mani Singh Ji.

Because the government had prevented the Sikhs from entering Sri Harmandir Sahib, Bhai Mani Singh Ji was unable to pay the stipulated amount. On his inability to pay, the government arrested Bhai Mani Singh Ji and sent him to Lahore. Bhai Sahib Ji was asked to embrace Islam but he refused. Therefore, he was cut to pieces limb by limb in 1738 A.D. This martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji supplied the much.needed fillip to the Sikh struggle for independence. In the words of Khushwant Singh, “The killing of the pious and venerable head priest caused deep resentment among the Sikhs.”

9. Sikhs robbed Nadir Shah : The Sikhs were on the look out for a golden opportunity to avenge the martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji. They got this opportunity in 1739 A.D. at the time of Nadir Shah’s invasion on India. After ruthless looting in Delhi, he was going back to Iran via Punjab. When the Sikhs came to know of it, they suddenly attacked and made away with most of the booty. Nadir Shah made enquiries from Zakariya Khan about these Sikhs and warned him that the day is not distant, when the Sikhs would rule in Punjab.

10. Zakariya Khan’s actions against the Sikhs : Nadir Shah’s warning had made a deep impact on Zakariya Khan’s mind. So, he decided to annihilate the Sikhs. The Sikhs again began to be killed ruthlessly daily as before. Here is given a brief description of some prominent martyrs :

(a) Bhai Bota Singh Ji : Zakariya Khan killed many Sikhs. In haughtiness, he announced that he had annihilated all the Sikhs. In order to show the existence of the Sikhs, Bhai Bota Singh Ji had set up a toll-post at Sarai Nurdin and began to charge one anna as toll-tax per cart and one paisa per donkey-load. When Zakariya Khan learnt of it, he could not tolerate it. He sent some soldiers under Jalal Khan. Jalal Khan asked him to surrender, but the brave warrior refused to do so. He fought valiantly with the enemy and finally achieved martyrdom.

(b) Bhai Mehtab Singh Ji and Bhai Sukha Singh Ji: Chaudhary Massa Rangar of village Mandiala, District Amritsar had desecrated Sri Harmandir Sahib by his activities. Therefore, the blood of the Sikhs was boiling for revenge. They wanted to teach Massa Rangar a lesson. Bhai Mehtab Singh Ji and Bhai Sukha Singh Ji hatched a plan. They packed some bags with pieces of stone and covered them with some coins, and reached Sri Harmandir Sahib. When enquired by the soldiers, they told them that they had brought revenue which they wanted to present to Massa Rangar.

Seeing the bags full of coins, they were allowed to go in. At that time, Massa Rangar was busy in merry-making. He was immensely pleased to see the bags full of coins. The moment he bowed forward to receive the bags, Mehtab Singh beheaded him with his sword. Later on Bhai Mehtab Singh and Bhai Sukha Singh were arrested and martyred mercilessly in 1740. A. D.

(c) Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji : Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji was the resident of Sialkot. One day a Muslim boy uttered some words, which were derogatory to the Hindu deities. Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji could not tolerate it. He said some offensive words about Prophet Mohammad and his. daughter Fatima. So, Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji was arrested. In order to, save himself, he was asked to embrace Islam. Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji spurned this offer. As a result, Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji was beheaded in 1742 A.D. The martyrdom of Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji inflammed the feelings of the Hindus and the Sikhs.

(d) Bhai Taru Singh Ji: Bhai Taru Singh Ji was the resident of village Puhla in the Majha region. He did farming and hepled the Sikhs with his incdme. In the eyes of the government, it was a blatant crime. He was brought to Lahore. Here Zakariya Khan offered him the usual choice of Islam or death. Bhai Sahib Ji refused to embrace Islam. Complying with the order of Zakariya Khan, the executioners removed his skull. When Bhai Sahib Ji’s skull was being removed, he was reciting Japji Sahib. This unique martyrdom in 1745 A.D. deeply stirred the Sikhs.

Zakariya Khan undoubtedly committed great cruelties on the Sikhs till his end. However, he failed to crush the power of the Sikhs. Zakariya Khan died on 1st July, 1745 A.D. In the words of Patwant Singh, “No one persecuted the Sikhs with greater zeal than Zakariya Khan.”

After the death of Zakariya Khan, Yahiya Khan became the Governor of Lahore in 1746 A.D. He remained on this post till 1747 A.D. In the matter of committing oppressions on the Sikhs, Yahiya Khan did not lag behind his father, Zakariya Khan.

1. Activities of the Sikhs : When Yahiya Khan assumed the charge, the atmosphere of anarchy was prevalent in the Punjab. Taking advantage of the opportunity, the Sikhs had organised their power. They attacked many villages and killed their Chaudharis and Muqaddams for co-operating with the government and taking actions against the Sikhs. The Sikh jathas intensified their activities in many regions of Punjab.

2. Death of Jaspat Rai: In 1746 A.D. a Sikh jatha which was proceeding on a pilgrimage to Gurdwara Rohri Sahib in Eminabad took away a few goats and sheep from the village Gondlawala. On the complaint of the people, Jaspat Rai, who was the Faujdar of Eminabad, ordered the Sikhs to return the goats and sheep . The Sikhs refused to do so. Consequently, Jaspat Rai with some of his soldiers attacked the Silkhs. In the course of action, Jaspat Rai was killed. With the death of Jaspat Rai his soldiers ran for their lives. This event happened in March 1746 A.D.

3. Actions of Lakhpat Rai against the Sikhs,; Diwan Lakhpat Rai’s blood began to boil on hearing the news of his brother Jaspat Rai’s death. He took a pledge that he would annihilate the Sikhs. Yahiya Khan was already thinking of crushing the power of the Sikhs. He ordered Diwan Lakhpat Rai to crush’the Sikhs. Lakhpat Rai imposed many restrictions on the Sikhs. Thereafter, no one could utter the word ‘Guru’. He told the people to use ‘Rori’ for ‘Gud’ because the word ‘Gud’ sounded like ‘Guru.’ Likewise, he ordered to use the word ‘Pothi’ for the ‘Granth’. Those who defied these orders were sentenced to death. Many Sikhs inhabiting Lahore were arrested and executed.

4. First Holocaust: With a view to decimate the Sikhs, Yahiya Khan and Lakhpat Rai raised a huge army. This army, unexpectedly, besieged 15,000 Sikhs at Kahnuwan. The Sikhs escaped from there and took shelter in the hills of Basoli. The Mughal soldiers gave them a hot chase. Here the Sikhs were trapped in a difficult situation. On one side there were high hills, while on the other the river .Ravi was in full spate. The Mughal soldiers were chasing them from behind while in front they were faced by the Hill Chiefs and, those people, who were their bitter enemies.

The Sikhs were short of food-stuffs. Owing to the shortage of fodder, the horses too were suffering from starvation. In this attack, 7000 Sikhs were killed and 3000 arrested. These Sikhs were butchered at Lahore. It was the first occasion in Sikh history, when the Sikhs suffered such a heavy loss of life. That is why this event is known as first Ghallughara or small holocaust in history. This holocaust took place in May 1746 A.D. Gurbaksh Singh aptly says, “This devastating blow to the Sikhs in 1746 made them more determined than ever to put an end to the genocide.”

5. Fall of Yahiya Khan: In November 1746 A.D., the younger brother of Yahiya Khan, Shah Nawaz Khan, raised the banner of revolt. It resulted in a civil war between the two brothers. This war continued till 1747 A.D. In this war, Shah Nawaz Khan ultimately succeeded and he threw Yahiya Khan and Diwan Lakhpat Rai into the prison on 17 March, 1747 A.D. In this way, their cruelties came to an end, but they could not put an end to the Sikhs.

Mir Mannu 1748-53 A.D.

Question 7.
Discuss the persecution of Sikhs under Mir Mannu. Explain the causes of his failure also.
Or
Describe Mir Mannu’s relations with the Sikhs. Why did he fail to achieve his objective?
Or
Who was Mir Mannu? What were the causes of his failure to crush the Sikhs?
Or
Describe the relations between Mir Mannu and the Sikhs.
Or
What were the main reasons of the failure of Mir Mannu against the Sikhs?
Or
Why did Mir Mannu fail to crush the Sikhs?
Or
Explain the causes of failure of Mir Mannu.
Answer:
Mir Mannu who was also known by the name of Muin-ul-Mulk, was the son of Mughal emperor Mohammad Shah Rangila’s Wazir Qamar-ud-Din. He was known for his bravery, strict discipline and wise diplomat. He remained the Governor of Punjab from 1748 to 1753 A.D. According to Harbans Singh, “Mir Mannu proved a worse foe of the Sikhs than his predecessors.”

1. Difficulties of Mir Mannu: When Mir Mannu became the Subedar of Punjab he had to face many uphill tasks. Owing to the struggle for power between Yahiya Khan and Shah Nawaz Khan anarchy had prevailed in Punjab. The invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali further complicated the political situation of Punjab. Taking advantage of this situation, the Sikhs had intensified their activities of looting. Besides these, the state treasury was almost empty. Mir Mannu paid special attention to overcome these difficulties.

2. Action against tjie Sikhs: Mir Mannu first of all turned his attention towards the Sikhs. In order to crush the Sikhs, he. sent military troops to different regions of Punjab. He issued strict orders to Adina Beg* the Faujdar of Jalandhar Doab, to take severe action against the Sikhs. As a result, the Sikhs were arrested and martyred daily in Lahore. In June 1748 A.D. in a battle between Adina Beg and the Sikhs, 600 Sikhs were martyred. For their self-defence the Sikhs took shelter in their hideouts in hills and forests.

3. Siege of Ram Rauni Fort: The Sikhs had assembled at Amritsar orr the occasion of Diwali in October 1748. When Mir Mannu came to know about it, he decided to take action against the Sikhs. On hearing this news 500 Sikhs took shelter in the Ram Rauni fort and others fled to their hideouts. Mir Mannu besieged the Ram Rauni fort. This siege continued for four months. Under such trying times, Jassa Singh Ramgarhia came to the help of the Sikhs.

His arrival encouraged the morale of the besieged Sikhs. At that time Mir Mannu got the information that Ahmad Shah Abdali was about to attack Punjab. Therefore, Mir Mannu compromised with the Sikhs and lifted the siege. According to the compromise, Mir Mannu gave the estate of Patti to the Sikhs so that they might give up their activities of looting and live peacefully.

4. Second Invasion of Abdali: Ahmad Shah Abdali invaded Punjab for the second time in December 1748 A. D. In the absence of any help from Delhi, the defeat of Mir Mannu was certain. Acting wisely, Mir Mannu entered into a pact with Abdali. According to this pact, Mir Mannu agreed to give Abdali the revenue of four mahals (districts) that included Sialkot, Gujarat, Pasrur and Aurangabad.

5. Persecution of the Sikhs: The second invasion of Ahmad Shah Abdali gave an excellent opportunity to the Sikhs to indulge in looting. Taking advantage of Mir Mannu’s absence from Lahore, the Sikhs under the leadership of Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, ruthlessly looted Lahore. When Mir Mannu came to know about it, he flew into a rage. He took a pledge to annihilate the Sikhs completely. He confiscated the estate, which he had given to the Sikhs. Awards were announced for arresting and killing the Sikhs. Thus, the persecution of the Sikhs was started once again with full vigour.

6. Revolts of Nasir Khan and Shah Nawaz Khan: At the instigation of Wazir Safdarjang of Delhi, Nasir Khan, the Faujdar of four mahals revolted against Mir Mannu. He was defeated near Sialkot by Mir Mannu and succeeded in fleeing to Delhi. At the insistence of Safdarjang, Shah Nawaz Khan, the Governor of Multan also revolted. Shah Nawaz Khan instigated the Sikhs to create disturbance in the region around Lahore. Mir Mannu could not tolerate it. He sent Kaura Mai to crush the revolt of Shah Nawaz Khan. In this battle, Shah Nawaz Khan was defeated and killed.

7. Third Invasion-of Abdali: ‘Ahmad Shah Abdali invaded Punjab for the third time towards the end of 1751 A.D. A fierce battle was fought near Lahore between the forces of Ahmad Shah Abdali and Mir Mannu on 6th March, 1752. A.D. In this battle Kaura Mai was killed and Mir Mannu was arrested. In this way, Ahmad Shah Abdali took possession of Punjab in 1752 A.D. and annexed it to his kingdom. Ahmad Shah Abdali appointed Mir Mannu as the Governor of Punjab and ordered him to take strict action against the Sikhs.

8. Renewal of Sikh Persecution : Mir-Mannu once again pledged to annihilate the Sikhs. Prices (awards) were fixed for the heads of the Sikhs. Severe punishments were awarded to those who gave shelter to the Sikhs. In March 1753 A.D. on the occasion of Hola Mohalla the Sikhs assembled at Makhowal (Anandpur Sahib), Adina Beg suddenly attacked them and killed many Sikhs. Mir Mannu sent his troops to different places of Punjab in order to quell the power of the Sikhs. When they could not lay hand on the Sikhs, these troops arrested large number of women and children and took them to Lahore.

The atrocities committed on these women and children defy description. Despite such fierce persecution, the number of the Sikhs continued to increase rather than showing the downward trend. The following couplet was in vogue :

“Mannu is our sickle,
We the fodder for him to mow,
The more he reaps the more we grow.”

9. Death of Mir Mannu : Mir Mannu’s actions against the Sikhs had reached their climax. On November 3,1753 A.D. when he received the information that some Sikhs had hidden themselves in a sugarcane farm, he immediately rode on a horse to teach sikhs a lesson. His horse frightened by the bullet shots of the Sikhs went berserk and overturned Mir Mannu, but one of his feet was trapped in the stirrup. The horse kept on dragging Mir Mannu leading to his death. Thus, nature avenged Mir Mannu’s cruelties. Famous historian, Dr. N.K. Sinha has rightly written, “Indirectly Mir Mannu was responsible for the growth of the power of the Sikhs.”

Causes of the Failure of Mir Mannu:

Question 8.
What were the main reasons for the failure of Mir Mannu against the the Sikhs?
Or
Why did Mir Mannu fail to crush the Sikhs?
Or
Explain the main reasons of the failure of Mir Mannu.
Answer:
During his rule of five years, Mir Mannu left no stone unturned to crush the growing power of the Sikhs. Despite all this, he failed in his objective. The following were the chief factors, which contributed to his failure :

1. Organisation of the Dal Khalsa: The main cause of Mir Mannu’s failure was the organisation of Dal Khalsa. There were 65 Jathas of the Sikhs before 1748 A.D. Now they had regrouped themselves into 12 Jathas to resist the cruelties of Mir Mannu. The Sikhs greatly respected Dal Khalsa and were always ready to make any sacrifice at its call. As a result, it became difficult for Mir Mannu to crush the power of the Sikhs.

2. Uncommon qualities of the Sikhs: Another factor responsible for the failure of Mir Mannu was the uncommon qualities of the Sikhs. They had firm determination, unlimited zeal, bravery and spirit of sacrifice for their Panth. They never lost heart despite big hurdles. Mir Mannu subjected Sikh women and children to numerous persecutions, but they remained firm like a rock. It was not an easy task to crush such a community.

3. Guerilla tactics of the Sikhs: The Sikhs’ Guerilla tactics contributed a great deal to defeat the purpose of Mir Mannu. The Sikhs adopted guerilla tactics because of their limited resources. According to this policy, whenever the Sikhs found an opportunity, they would attack the Mughal forces, plunder their regions and again take shelter in forests and hills. Since the Sikhs did not confront Mir Mannu in the open field, he failed to crush their power.

4. Cooperation of Diwan Kaura Mai to the Sikhs : Diwan – Kaura Mai was an adviser of Mir Mannu. He was a Sahijdhari Sikh. So, he was compassionate towards the Sikhs. On the other hand, Mir Mannu too had deep faith in him. He did not take any action against the Sikhs. Whenever Mir Mannu decided to take any strict action against the Sikhs, Kaura Mai persuaded him to adopt a soft attitude towards the Sikhs. It was because of Kaura Mai that Mir Mannu gave an estate to the Sikhs. Owing to this valuable co-operation, the Sikhs used to call him ‘Mitha Mai’. This co-operation of Kaura Mai proved helpful in the rise of the Sikh power.

5. Dual Policy of Adina Beg: Mir Mannu also failed to crush the Sikh power owing to the dual policy of Adina Beg. He was the Faujdar of Jalandhar.Doab and dreamt of becoming the Governor of Punjab after Mir Mannu. So, whenever Mir Mannu ordered him to take strict action against the Sikhs, he left the action incomplete. He had made a secret alliance with the Sikhs to create disturbance off and on. He knew it well that if he took strict action against the Sikhs, the atmosphere of unrest will continue. Then, his dream to become the Governor of Punjab would not come true.

6. Problems of Mir Mannu: During his rule, Mir Mannu was surrounded by several problems, because of which he could not pay his undivided attention to crush the power of the Sikhs. His greatest problem was the invasions of Ahmad Shah Abdali. For fear of these invasions, Mir Mannu had to postpone action against the Sikhs. Secondly, the Wazir of Delhi, Safdarjang, was jealous of Mir Mannu. So, he was always busy hatching conspiracies to remove Mir Mannu from his post. It was at his instigation that Nasir Khan and Shah Nawaz Khan raised the banner of revolt against Mir Mannu. Mir Mannu remained busy in crushing these revolts. Consequently, he failed to crush the power of the Sikhs.

Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Write a note on Abdus Samad Khan.
Or
Briefly explain the repressions done on the Sikhs by Abdus Samad Khan.
Answer:
Abdus Samad Khan remained the Governor of Lahore from 1713-1726 A.D. Abdus Samad Khan succeeded in 1715 A. D. in arresting Banda Singh Bahadur and some of his Sikh companions. With this opened a new chapter of perpetrating tyranny on the Sikhs. The Mughal Emperor Farrukh Siyar was pleased with the success of Abdus Samad Khan and honoured him with the title ‘Sword of the State’. However, Abdus Samad Khan failed to check the of the Sikhs power. As a result, he was .removed from his post in 1726 A. D.

Question 2.
What is meant by Bandai Khalsa and Tat Khalsa? How were their differences resolved?
Or
How were the differences between Bandai Khalsa and Tat Khalsa finished?
Or
What was the difference between Tat Khalsa and Bandai Khalsa? Who compromised them?
Or
What was the position of the Sikhs after the martyrdom of Banda Singh Bahadur?
Answer:
After the martyrdom of Banda Singh Bahadur, the Sikhs were divided into two Dals-Bandai Khalsa and Tat Khalsa. The Sikhs who continued to follow the principles of Guru Gobind Singh Ji came to be known as Tat Khalsa while those who followed the principles of Banda Singh Bahadur came to be known as Bandai Khalsa. In 1721 A.D. Bhai Mani Singh Ji, Head priest of Sri Harmandir Sahib Ji, resolved the differences between them.

Question 3.
Describe the tyrannies inflicted on the Sikhs during the time of Zakariya Khan.
Or
How did Zakariya Khan try to deal with the Sikhs?
Or
Discuss the persecution of the Sikhs under Zakariya Khan.
Or
Describe briefly the persecution of Sikhs under Zakariya Khan.
Or
What measures were adopted by Zakariya Khan to crush the power of the Sikhs?
Or
What measures were adopted by Zakariya Khan to crush the power of Sikhs? How far did he succeed in his efforts?
Answer:
Zakariya Khan became the Governor of Punjab in 1726 A.D. He adopted a tough policy to deal with the Sikhs. He arrested the Sikhs in a large number and executed them. But when he did not succeed in crushing the Sikhs completely, he planned to placate them. After some time the Sikhs once again started their activities against the Mughals. So Zakaria Khan had to change his policy towars the Sikhs. He started massacre of the Sikhs once again.

Question 4.
Who was Tara Singh Van? What is the importance of his martyrdom in Sikh History?
Or
Write a short note on Tara Singh Van.
Answer:
Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van was very popular among the Sikhs for his bravery and services to the Sikh Panth. The Chaudhary of Naushera, Sahib Rai, used to let loose his horses into the farms of the Sikhs, to damage their crops. One day, Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van caught hold of a mare of Sahib Rai and sold it. He bought grain with that money and gave it in the ‘langar’. When Sahib Rai came to know about it he attacked the Sikhs to teach them a lesson. Bhai Tara Singh Van and his 22 companions became martyrs while fighting in Feb, 1726. It deeply moved the feelings of the Sikhs.

Question 5.
Who was Bhai Mani Singh Ji? What was the impact of his martyrdom?
Or
What were the causes of the martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji?
Or
What do you know about Bhai Mani Singh Ji and his martyrdom?
Or
Write a note on martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji.
Or
Write any three causes of the martyrdom of Bhai Mani Singh Ji.
Or
Who was Bhai Mani Singh Ji? What were the causes of his martyrdom?
Answer:
Bhai Mani Singh was the Head Priest of Sri Darbar Sahib, Anlritsar. Zakariya Khan imposed a ban on the Sikhs visiting Sri Darbar Sahib. Bhai Mani Singh Ji got a sanction from Zakariya Khan for the Sikhs to gather at Sri Darbar Sahib on the eve of Diwali by promising to give him Rs. 5000. But one day before Diwali, Zakariya Khan attacked Amritsar. Bhai Mani Singh Ji could not pay this amount. He was ruthlessly executed at Lahore in 1738 A.D. His martyrdom infused a new confidence among the Sikhs.

Question 6.
Who was Bhai Taru Singh Ji and what is the significance of his martyrdom in Sikh History?
Or
Write a short note on Bhai Taru Singh Ji.
Answer:
Bhai Taru Singh Ji belonged to. Puhla village in Majha region. His profession was agriculture and he used to help the Sikhs with his income. It was a great offence in the eyes of the government. So Bhai Taru Singh was arrested. He was asked to accept Islam but Bhai Taru Singh Ji refused to accept. On the orders of Zakaria Khan he was martyred on July 1, 1745. His unique martyrdom deeply stirred the Sikhs.

Question 7.
Who was Nadir Shah? When did he invade India? What was the effect of his invasion on the Punjab?
Or
Give a brief account of Nadir Shah’s invasion on Punjab and its impacts.
Answer:
Nadir Shah was the emperor of Iran. He invaded India in 1739 A.D. During this invasion his forces ravaged and ransacked many cities of India including Delhi. When he was passing through Punjab, the Sikhs suddenly pounced upon him and seized a large amount of booty. Nadir Shah was wonder struck. He warned Zakaria Khan that if he did not take stern steps immediately against the Sikhs, they would one day get hold of Punjab. As a.result, Zakariya Khan stepped up his tyranny over the Sikhs.

Question 8.
Write a brief note on Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal.
Or
When were Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal organised? What is their importance in Sikh History?
Or
What do you mean by ‘Buddha Dal’ and ‘Taruna Dal’?
Or
Write a short note on Taruna Dal.
Answer:
In 1734 A.D. Nawab Kapoor Singh formed two Jathas or Dais in order to strengthen the Sikh power. These two Jathas came to be known as Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal. The Sikhs above 40 were included in Buddha Dal and below 40 years were included in Taruna Dal. Taruna Dal was further divided into five groups. Buddha Dal looked after the religious places while Taruna Dal fought against the enemies of the Sikhs.

Question 9.
Who was Yahiya Khan? Give information about his rule.
Answer:
Yahiya Khan became the Governor of Punjab in 1746 A.D. and remained on this post upto 1747 A.D. He followed the policy of persecution of the Sikhs. In a battle with the Sikhs in 1746 A.D. Jaspat Rai, the brother of Diwan Lakhpat Rai of Lahore, was killed. In order to take revenge on the Sikhs, Lakhpat Rai perpetrated tyranny on the Sikhs. As a result, 7000 Sikhs were killed and 3000 were taken prisoners. This ghastly massacre is known as Chhota Ghallughara (Small Holocaust) in Sikh History. In 1747 A. D. Yahiya Khan was toppled.

Question 10.
What do you know about the First Holocaust of 1746 or the Chhota Ghallughara?
Or
What do you know about First Holocaust?
Or
Write a short note on Chhota Ghallughara?
Or
What do you know about the ‘Chhota Ghallughara’?
Answer:
Yahiya Khan and Lakhpat Rai had raised a vast army in order to wipe out the Sikhs. This army suddenly surrounded about 15000 Sikhs at Kahnuitwan. In this attack 7,000 Sikhs were killed and 3,0 00 were taken prisoness. The Sikhs suffered a heavy loss of life. That is why this event is known as First Holocaust or Chotta Ghallughara in Sikh History. It occurred in May, 1746 A.D. Despite this bloody holocaust, morale of the Sikhs remained high.

Question 11.
Who was Mir Mannu? What steps did he take against the Sikhs during his period of rule?
Or
Describe briefly the Sikh persecution under Mir Mannu.
Or
Study the persecution of the Sikhs by Mir Mannu.
Or
What do you know about the relations between Mir Mannu and the Sikhs?
Or
Write briefly the relations of Mir Mannu with the Sikhs.
Answer:
Mir Mannu remained the Governor of Punjab from 1748 A. D. to 1753 A. D. Everyday the Sikhs were arrested and brought to Lahore for execution. They were executed in thousands at Shahid Ganj. They were hard pressed. Consequently, they had to take shelter in forests and hills. When the soldiers of Mir Mannu could not get hold of the Sikhs, they started arresting Sikh women and children. The cruelty with which they were tortured cannot be explained in words. Despite his extreme cruelty, Mir Mannu could not crush the Sikh power till his end.

Question 12.
Why did Mir Mannu fail to crush the Sikh power?
Or
What were the causes of the failure of Mir Mannu against the Sikhs?
Or
Write any three causes of the failure of Mir Mannu against the Sikhs.
Answer:

• The Sikhs never lost heart despite heavy odds. They founded Dal. Khalsa in 1748 A.D. It organised the Sikh power in 12 Jathas. All the Sikhs respected the instructions of Dal Khalsa and were ready to sacrifice everything on its directive,
• The guerilla warfare of the Sikhs played a major role in the failure of Mir Mannu’s plans,
• Mir Mannu’s Diwan Kaura Mai was sympathetic towards the Sikhs.
• The dual policy of Adina Beg, the Faujdar of Jalandhar Doab also became the cause of the failure of Mir Mannu.
• Mir Mannu had to face several problems during his period of the rule so he could not crush the Sikh power.

Objective Type Questions:

Question 1.
Give the name of one Mughal Governor who persecuted the Sikhs.
Or
Name anyone Mughal Governor of Punjab from 1716 A.D. to 1752 A.D.
Answer:
Abdus Samad Khan.

Question 2.
When was Abdus Samad Khan appointed the Governor of Lahore?
Answer:
1713 A.D.

Question 3.
Which was the most important success of Abdus Samad Khan?
Answer:
The defeat of Banda Singh Bahadur.

Question 4.
With which title Abdus Samad Khan was honoured by the Mughal emperor, Farrukh Siyar?
Answer:
The Sword of the State.

Question 5.
Name the two sects of the Sikhs after the death of Banda Singh Bahadur.
Answer:
Bandai Khalsa and Tat Khalsa.

Question 6.
What was the difference between Banzai and Tat Khalsa?
Or
What do you understand by Bandai Khalsa and Tat Khalsa?
Answer:
Tat Khalsa believed in the principles of Guru Gobind Singh Ji while Bandai Khalsa believed in the principles of Banda Singh Bahadur.

Question 7.
When were the differences between Tat Khalsa and Bandai Khalsa solved?
Answer:
In 1721 A.D.

Question 8.
Who abolished dispute between Bandai Khalsa and Tat Khalsa?
Answer:
Bhai Mani Singh Ji.

Question 9.
Who were called Sahajdhari Sikhs?
Answer:
Sahajdhari Sikhs were those persons who believed in the principles of Khalsa but had not embraced it.

Question 10.
Who was Zakariya Khan?
Answer:
Governor of Lahore.

Question 11.
When did Zakariya Khan become the Subedar of Lahore?
Answer:
In 1726 A.D.

Question 12.
Name any one famous Sikh who was martyred during Zakariya Khan’s period as Governor.
Answer:
Bhai Mani Singh Ji.

Question 13.
When did Zakariya Khan make a treaty with the Sikhs?
Answer:
In 1733 A.D.

Question 14.
Name the Sikh leader who was given the title of Nawab according to the treaty of 1733 A.D.
Answer:
Sardar Kapoor Singh.

Question 15.
Name the two Dais of the Sikhs.
Answer:
Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal.

Question 16.
When were Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal established?
Answer:
In 1734 A.D.

Question 17.
Where were Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal founded?
Answer:
Amritsar.

Question 18.
Who founded Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal?
Answer:
Nawab Kapoor Singh.

Question 19.
What is meant by Buddha Dal?
Answer:
Buddha Dal included the Sikhs above the age of 40.

Question 20.
What is meant by Taruna Dal?
Answer:
It included the young Sikhs.

Question 21.
During whose reign occur the incident of Haidri Flag?
Answer:
Zakaria Khan.

Question 22.
When was Bhai Tara Singh Ji Van martyred?
Answer:
1726 A.D.

Question 23.
Who was Bhai Mani Singh Ji?
Answer:
Bhai Mani Singh Ji was the Head Granthi of Sri Harmandir Sahib, Amritsar.

Question 24.
When was Bhai Mani Singh Ji martyred?
Answer:
1738 A.D.

Question 25.
Who was Nadir Shah?
Answer:
The ruler of Iran.

Question 26.
When did Nadir Shah invade India?
Answer:
1739 A.D.

Question 27.
Who was Massa Ranghar?
Answer:
Chaudhary of Mandiala village in Amritsar district.

Question 28.
When was Haqiqat Rai executed?
Answer:
1742 A.D.

Question 29.
Why was Bal Haqiqat Rai executed?
Answer:
Because he had said some objectionable words for Bibi Fatima.

Question 30.
When did Zakariya Khan die?
Answer:
1745 A.D.

Question 31.
For how long Yahiya Khan remained the Governor of Punjab?
Answer:
1746 A.D. to 1747 A.D.

Question 32.
When did the First or Small Holocaust (Chhota Ghallughara) take place?
Or
When did First Ghallughara take place?
Answer:
1746 A.D.

Question 33.
Where did the Small Holocaust take place?
Answer:
Kahnuwan.

Question 34.
When did Mir Mannu become the Governor of Lahore?
Answer:
1748 A.D.

Question 35.
With what other name Muin-u-Mulk became popular?
Answer:
Mir Mannu.

Question 36.
Who was the last Mughal Governor of Punjab?
Or
Who was the first Afgan Governor of Punjab?
Answer:
Mir Mannu.

Question 37.
Who was Mir-Mannu?
Answer:
Son of Qamru-ud-din, the Wazir of Delhi.

Question 38.
Why did Mir Mannu oppress the Sikhs?
Answer:
Because of increasing influence of the Sikhs in Punjab.

Question 39.
Give any one reason for success of the Sikhs against the Mughals.
Answer:
Their policy of guerilla warfare.

Question 40.
Why did Mir Mannu fail in suppressing the power of the Sikhs?
Answer:
The guerilla warfare of the Sikhs.

Question 41.
When did Mir Mannu die?
Answer:
In 1753 A.D.

Question 42.
Who was Mughlani Begum?
Answer:
The Subedar of Punjab in 1753 A.D.

Question 43.
Who was the widow of Mir Manuu?
Answer:
Mughlani Begum.

Question 44.
When did Mughlani Begum become the Subedar of Punjab?
Answer:
In 1753 A.D.

Question 45.
Why did the Sikhs call Kaura Mai as Mitha Mai?
Answer:
For his sympathy towards the Sikhs.

Fill in the blanks:

1. Abdus Samad Khan was appointed the Governor of Lahore in ………………
Answer:
1713 A.D.

2. For the persecutation of Sikhs, Abdus Samad Khan was honoured with the title of ………………
Answer:
The Sword of the State

3. The names of the two sects of Sikhs after the death of Banda Singh Bahadur were ………….. and ……………
Answer:
Bandai Khalsa, Tat Khalsa

4. In 1721 A.D. the conflict between Bandai Khalsa and Tat Khalsa came to an end with the efforts of …………….
Answer:
Bhai Mani Singh Ji

5. The Subedar of Punjab was …………….. before Zakariya Khan.
Answer:
Abdus Samad Khan

6. Zakariya Khan was appointed the Governor of Lahore in ………………
Answer:
1726 A.D.

7. Zakariya Khan compromised with the Sikhs in …………………
Answer:
1733 A.D.

8. Sardar ……………… was given the title of Nawab according to the treaty of 1733 A.D.
Answer:
Kapoor Singh)

9. Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal were organised in …………….
Answer:
1734 A.D.

10. Bhai Mani Singh Ji was martyred in ………………..
Answer:
1738 A.D.

11. Chaudhary ……………….. of Mandiala Village of Amritsar district broke the sanctity of Sri Harmandir Sahib.
Answer:
Massa Ranghar

12. Chaudhary Massa Ranghar was the chaudhary of ……………… village.
Answer:
Mandiala

13. Nadir Shah invaded India in ………………..
Answer:
1739 A.D.

14. Nadir Shah was the emperor of ………………
Answer:
Iran

15. First or Chotta Ghallughara occurred in ………………
Answer:
1746 A D.

16. ……………….. was the Governor of Punjab when First Ghallughara occurred.
Answer:
Yahiya Khan

17. Mir Mannu was also known by the name of ………………
Answer:
Muin-ul-Mulk

18. Mir Mannu was elected Governor of Punjab in …………….
Answer:
1748 A.D.

19. Mir Mannu appointed …………………. as the Faujdar of Jalandhar Doab.
Answer:
Adina Beg

20. Mir Mannu died in ……………..
Answer:
1753 A.D.

True or False:

1. Abdus Samad Khan became the Subedar of Lahore in 1716 A.D.
Answer:
False

2. Mughal Emperor, Furrukh Siyar appointed Abdus Samad Khan as Subedar of Punjab.
Answer:
True

3. Abdus Samad Khan was called ‘Sword of the State.
Answer:
True

4. After the martyrdom of Banda Singh Bahadur the Sikhs of Punjab were divided into two sects Tat Khalsa and Bandai Khalsa.
Answer:
True

5. Bhai Mani Singh Ji made a compromise between two sects i.e. Tat Khalsa and Bandai Khalsa.
Answer:
True

6. In 1721 A.D. a compromise was made between Tat Khalsa and Bandai Khalsa.
Answer:
True

7. Zakariya Khan was appointed the Subedar of Lahore in 1720 A.D.
Answer:
False

8. Tara Singh Ji Van was martyred in 1726 A.D.
Answer:
True

9. An agreement was made between Zakariya Khan and the Sikhs.
Answer:
True

10. Sardar Jassa Singh Ramgarhia founded Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal.
Answer:
False

11. Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal were established in 1734 A.D.
Answer:
True

12. Nadir Shah invaded India in 1739 A.D.
Answer:
True

13. Zakariya Khan executed Bhai Mani Singh Ji in 1738 A.D.
Answer:
True

14. Bal Haqiqat Rai Ji was martyred in the time of Abdus Samad Khan.
Answer:
False

15. Bhai Taru Singh Ji was martyred in 1745 A.D.
Answer:
True

16. Zakariya Khan died in 1745 A.D.
Answer:
True

17. The Chotta Ghallughara happened in 1746.
Answer:
True

18. Mir Mannu became the Governor of Lahore in 1748 A.D.
Answer:
True

19. Ahmad Shah Abdali occupied Punjab in 1752 A.D.
Answer:
True

20. Mir Mannu died in 1754 A.D.
Answer:
False

Multiple Choice Questions:

1. Who was the Governor of Lahore in 1716 A.D.?
(a) Abdus Samad Khan
(b) Ahmad Shah Abdali
(c) Mir Mannu
(d) Zakariya Khan
Answer:
(a) Abdus Samad Khan

2. With which title Abdus Samad Khan was honoured by Farrukh Siyar?
(a) Khan Bhadur
(b) The Sword of the State
(c) Nasir Khan
(d) Mittha Mai
Answer:
(b) The Sword of the State

3. When were the differences with .Tat Khalsa and Bandai Khalsa solved?
(a) In 1711 A.D.
(b) In 1716 A.D.
(c) In 1721 A.D.
(d) In 1726 A.D.
Answer:
(c) In 1721 A.D.

4. With whose efforts did the conflict between Bandai Khalsa and Tat Khalsa come to an end?
(a) Baba Deep Singh Ji
(b) Nawab Kapoor Singh
(c) Bhai Mani Singh Ji
(d) Bhai Taru Singh Ji.
Answer:
(c) Bhai Mani Singh Ji

5. When was Zakariya Khan appointed the Governor of Lahore?
(a) In 1716 A.D.
(b) In 1717 A.D.
(c) In 1726 A.D.
(d) In 1728 A.D.
Answer:
(c) In 1726 A.D.

6. In whose rule the incident of Haidri flag took place?
(a) Abdus Samad Khan
(b) Yahihya Khan
(c) Ahmad Shah Abdali
(d) Zakariya Khan.
Answer:
(d) Zakariya Khan.

7. When did compromise take place between Zakariya Khan and the Sikhs?
(a) In 1721 A.D.
(b) In 1724 AD.
(c) In 1733 A.D.
(d) In 1734 A.D. .
Answer:
(c) In 1733 A.D.

8. When were Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal organised?
(a) In 1730 A.D.
(b) In 1735 A.D.
(c) In 1734 A.D.
(d) In 1733 A.D.
Answer:
(c) In 1734 A.D.

9. By whom were Buddha Dal and Taruna Dal established?
(a) Nawab Kapoor Singh
(b) Bhai Mani Singh Ji
(c) Baba Deep Singh Ji
(d) Bhai Mehtab Singh Ji
Answer:
(a) Nawab Kapoor Singh

10. When was Bhai Mani Singh Ji martyred?
(a) In 1721 AD.
(b) In 1733 AJ).
(c) In 1734 A.D.
(d) In 1738 A.D.
Answer:
(d) In 1738 A.D.

11. When did Nadir Shah invade India?
(a) In 1736 A.D.
(b) In 1737 A.D.
(c) In 1738 A.D.
(d) In 1739 A-D.
Answer:
(d) In 1739 A-D.

12. Who was Massa Ranghar?
(a) Chaudhary of Mandiala
(b) Chaudhary of Vaan
(c) Faujdar of Jalandhar
(d) Faujdar of Sirhind
Answer:
(a) Chaudhary of Mandiala

13. When was Bal Haqiqat Rai martyred?
(a) In 1739 A.D.
(b) In 1740 A.D.
(c) In 1741 A.D.
(d) In 1742 A.D.
Answer:
(d) In 1742 A.D.

14. When did Zakariya Khan die?
(a) In 1742 A.D.
(b) In 1743 A.D.
(c) In 1744 A.D.
(d) In 1745 A.D.
Answer:
(d) In 1745 A.D.

15. Where did First Ghallughara take place?
(a) Kahnuwan
(b) Kup
(c) Sirhind
(d) Mandiala
Answer:
(a) Kahnuwan

16. When did First Ghallughara take place?
(a) In 1733 A.D.
(b) In 1734 A.D.
(c) In 1739 A.D.
(d) In 1746 A.D.
Answer:
(d) In 1746 A.D.

17. When did Mir Mannu become the Subedar of Punjab?
(a) In 1748 A.D.
(b) In 1749 A,D.
(c) In 1752 A.D.
(d) In 1753 A.D.
Answer:
(a) In 1748 A.D.

18. Who was Adina Begh?
(a) Advisor of Mir Mannu
(b) Diwan of Zakariya Khan
(c) Faujdar of Jalandhar Doab
(d) Chaudhary of Mandiala Village
Answer:
(c) Faujdar of Jalandhar Doab

19. When did Mir Mannu die?
(a) In 1750 A.D.
(b) In 1751 A.D.
(c) In 1752 A.D.
(d) In 1753 A.D.
Answer:
(d) In 1753 A.D.

20. Why did Mir Mannu fail against the Sikhs?
(a) Dual policy of Adina Beg
(b) Guerilla warfare of the Sikhs
(c) Cruelity of Mir Mannu
(d) All of the above.
Answer:
(d) All of the above.

21. When did Mughlani Begum become the Subedar of Punjab?
(a) In 1751 A.D.
(b) In 1752 A.D.
(c) In 1753 A.D.
(d) In 1754 A.D.
Answer:
(c) In 1753 A.D.

Punjab State Board PSEB 12th Class History Book Solutions Chapter 19 Ranjit Singh’s relations with Afghanistan and his N.W.F. Policy Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.

PSEB Solutions for Class 12 History Chapter 19 Ranjit Singh’s relations with Afghanistan and his N.W.F. Policy

Long Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
How did Maharaja Ranjit Singh conquer Attock? What was its significance?
Or
Give a brief account of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s conquest of Attock and the battle of Hazro.
Answer:
The fort of Attock was geographically very significant. During Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time Jahandad Khan, the Afghan Governor, was ruling over Attock. He was under the Kabul government only in name, otherwise, he was ruling independently. In 1813 A.D. when the Wazir of Kabul, Fateh Khan attacked Kashmir and defeated his brother Ata Mohammad Khan, he was alarmed. He was confident that Fateh Khan’s next target would be Attock.

Therefore, he started negotiations with Ranjit Singh. In exchange of a big Jagir yielding an annual revenue of Rs. 1 lakh he agreed to surrender the fort of Attock to Ranjit Singh. When Fateh Khan came to know about it, he flew into a rage.

In order to bring the fort of Attock under his control, he with his army proceeded towards Attock. On 13th July, 1813 A.D., at a place called Hazro or HaiXdru a fierce battle was fought between the armies of Ranjit Singh and Fateh Khan. In this battle Ranjit Singh gave a crushing defeat to Fateh Khan. It was the first battle fought between the Afghans and the Sikhs. This victory not only strengthened Ranjit Singh’s hold on Attock but also spread his fame far and wide.

Question 2.
Write about the battle of Hazro or Haidro or Chuch.
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh had got the fort of Attock from Governor Jahandad Khan in exchange for Jagir of one lakh rupees, in March 1813 A.D. This fort was very important from the geographical point of view. When Fateh Khan came to know about it, he flew into rage. He started from Kashmir to Attock with heavy military force. He declared Jihad (religious war) against the Sikhs. A force for help from Kabul was also sent for Fateh Khan. On the other hand Maharaja Ranjit Singh also sent a vast army for the defence of the fort of Attock under General Hari Singh Nalwa, S. Jodh Singh Ramgarhia and Diwan Mohkam Chand.

A bloody battle between the two forces took place at Hazro, Haidro or Chuch. On July 13, 1813 A.D. the forces of Maharaja Ranjit Singh gave Fateh Khan’s army a crushing defeat. It not only confirmed the control of Maharaja Ranjit Singh over the fort of Attock but also his fame spread far and wide.

Question 3.
Write a brief note on Shah Shuja.
Or
Give a brief account of Shah Shuja’s relations with Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Shah Shuja was the emperor of Afghanistan. He ruled from 1803 to 1809 A.D. He proved a very incompetent ruler. In 1809 A.D. he left the throne and fled away. He was arrested by Ata Mohammad Khan, the Afghan Governor of Kashmir. In the first expedition of Kashmir in 1813 A.D. the forces of Maharaja Ranjit Singh got him released and brought him to Lahore. In exchange for it, Maharaja Ranjit Singh got the world famous diamond Koh-i-noor from his wife Wafa Begum.

In 1833 A.D. Shah Shuja made an agreement with Maharaja Ranjit Singh in order to regain his lost throne, but he did not succeed in his efforts. On June 26, 1838″ A.D. a Tripartite Treaty was signed among the English, Shah Shuja and Maharaja Ranjit Singh. According to this treaty, efforts were made to make Shah Shuja the emperor of Afghanistan. As a result of the efforts of the English, Shah Shuja became the emperor of Afghanistan in 1839 A.D. but soon he was. killed in a rebellion against him.

Question 4.
Write a short note on the relations between Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Dost Mohammad Khan.
Answer:
Dost Mohammad Khan became the ruler of Afghanistan in 1826 A.D. Dost Mohammad Khan could never accept the fast growing influence of Maharaja Ranjit S Singh. A gulf had been created between them on the issue of Peshawar. A tussle started between Shah Shuja the ex-ruler of Afghanistan and Dost Mohammad Khan over the throne. Taking advantage of the situation, Maharaja Ranjit Singh took control of Peshawar very easily on May 6, 1834 A.D. After defeating Shah Shuja, Dost Mohammad Khan tried again to bring Peshawar under his control but he did not succeed.

In 1837 A.D. Dost Mohammad Khan sent a vast army to Peshawar under his son Akbar Khan. In the bloody battle of Jamraud, although General Hari Singh Nalwa was killed, but he ensured victory for the Sikhs. After this, Dost Mohammad Khan never turned his face towards Peshawar.

Question 5.
Write a brief note on Syed Ahmad.
Or
Write a note on the Zihad (Religious War) of Syed Ahmad.
Answer:
During 1827 to 1831 A.D. a fanatic named Syed Ahmad continued a rebellion against the Sikhs in the Attock and Peshawar regions. He hailed from Bareilly. He used to say, “Allah has sent me to conquer the Punjab and India and to expel the Sikhs from Afghan states and to finish them.” Taken in by his utterances, many Afghan sardars became his followers. In a very short period, he collected a vast army. It was a challenge to the authority of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

He was defeated by the Sikh forces first at Saidu and then at Peshawar but luckily on both occasions he succeeded in saving himself. In spite of his defeats, he continued his struggle against the Sikhs. At last, Syed Ahmad was killed at Balakot, fighting against Prince Sher Singh in 1831 A.D. Thus, a great headache of the Sikhs came to an end.

Question 6.
Write a short note on the Battle of Jamraud.
Answer:
Dost Mohammad Khan did not sit quietly on reaching Kabul. He wanted to avenge the insult suffered by him at the hands of the Sikhs. On the other side, the Sikhs were also busy in consolidating their position in Peshawar. In order to, prevent the Afghans from invading Peshawar, General Hari Singh Nalwa got a strong fort constructed at Jamraud. Dost Mohammad Khan could not tolerate the growing power of the Sikhs in Peshawar. So, he sent twenty thousand soldiers under the command of Mohammad Akbar and Shamsudin to invade Jamraud.

This army attacked Jamraud on 28th April, 1837 A&D. Sardar Mahan Singh with his 600 soldiers bravely resisted the Afghans for two days. At that time, General Hari Singh Nalwa was lying seriously ill at Peshawar. When he heard the news of Afghan attack, roaring like a lion, he reached Jamraud with his 10,000 soldiers. He trounced the Afghan forces. Being hit by a shell, General Hari Singh Nalwa died a martyr’s death on 30th April, 1837 A.D.

In order to, avenge his martyrdom, the Sikh army made so powerful attack on the Afghans that they fled to Kabul like jackals. Thus, the Sikhs emerged victorious in this decisive battle of Jamraud. When Maharaja Ranjit Singh heard the news of the death of his great general, Hari Si»gh Nalwa, tears kept flowing down his eyes for days together. After the battle of Jamraud, Dost Mohammad Khan never dared to attack Peshawar again. He felt assured that it was not possible to recover Peshawar from the Sikhs.

Question 7.
Write a short note on Akali Phula Singh.
Or
Who was Akali Phula Singh? Write a note on his military achievements.
Answer:
Akali Phula Singh was a pillar of the Sikh empire. He greatly contributed towards strengthening the foundations and expansion of Sikh empire. Maharaja Ranjit Singh respected him very much due to his exemplary bravery, fearlessness, love for Sikhism and high moral character. Maharaja Ranjit Singh succeeded in taking control of Kasur due to the bravery of Akali Phula Singh in 1807 A.D. In the same year, Akali Phula Singh brought Jhang also under his control. It was due to him that in 1816 A.D., the revolts by Muslim rulers against the Sikh rule in Multan, Bhakhar and Bahawalpur could be crushed. His contribution in the conquest of Multan in 1818 A.D., was also significant.

In the same year, Maharaja Ranjit Singh got his services during the Peshawar expedition. During the conquest of Kashmir in 1819 A.D. also, he was with Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Akali Phula Singh was killed in a battle against the Afghans at Naushehra on March 14, 1823 A.D. Undoubtedly Akali Phula Singh was a great saviour of the Sikh empire.

Question 8.
Write a brief note on Hari Singh Nalwa.
Or
Who was Hari Singh Nalwa? What do you know about him? Give a brief account.
Answer:
Hari Singh Nalwa was the greatest and most fearless general of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. He was matchless in the art of horse riding, swordsmanship and shooting. Besides being a great warrior, he was also a great administrator. Impressed by his bravery Maharaja Ranjit Singh had enlisted him in the army. Very soon he attained the high post of general. Once he had killed a lion with his hands, at which he was awarded the title of Nalwa by the Maharaja. He was so brave that the enemy trembled before him. He took part in most of the hazardous expeditions of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and achieved success in them. He remained the Nazim (governor) of Kashmir in 1820-21 A.D. and became Nazim of Peshawar in 1834 A.D. and remained on this post till 1837 A.D.

While working on-these posts, he not only created law and order in these regions but also initiated many reforms. He was killed on April 30, 1837 A.D. fighting against the Afghans at Jamraud. His death was a great blow to Maharaja Ranjit Singh and he kept weeping for many days. Undoubtedly, Hari Singh Nalwa had contributed greatly in consolidating and expanding the empire of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

Question 9.
Explain the features of North-West Frontier Policy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Write down the main five features of the North-West Frontier Policy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Describe the five features of North-West Frontier Policy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh had conquered and annexed Attock, Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Dera Ismail Khan and Peshawar etc. of north-west frontier region to his empire. Acting wisely, he did not try to occupy Afghanistan at all. He was already facing many problems in north-west frontier states, so he did not want to invite a new headache for himself. Maharaja Ranjit Singh took many steps to make north-west frontiers safe. He got many new forts constructed at strategic points and repaired old ones. A well-trained army was kept in these forts.

Mobile military squads were formed to crush the rebels. Maharaja Ranjit Singh showed an excellent grasp of the realities of the situation in running the administration of this region. He allowed the conventions and customs of this region to continue and did not interfere with the matters of tribal people unnecessarily. Army generals were appointed as the governors to run the administration. This step was taken keeping in view the temperament of the local tribes.

Question 10.
What is the significance of North-West Frontier Policy of Ranjit Singh?
Answer:
The North-West Frontier Policy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh occupies a special place in the history of Punjab. It speaks volumes about his far-sightedness, diplomacy and administrative ability. By bringing Multan, Kashmir, Peshawar etc. under his control, Ranjit Singh was able to put an end to the Afghan influence in this region. As a result Maharaja Ranjit Singh succeeded in making his empire safe from Afghan invasions.

It was a great political achievement of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Because of his successful policy Ranjit Singh brought the various tribal people under his control. Moreover, he was able to establish law and order in this region. The revolts were crushed with iron hands. Means of transport were developed. Special steps were taken to encourage agriculture. Land revenue was reduced to a considerable extent. Trade was also given a new boost. Consequently, the people of North-West Frontier region became prosperous and happy.

Essay Type Questions:

Question 1.
Briefly describe Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s relations with the Afghans.
Or
Give a brief account of the main stages of relations of Maharaja Ranjit Singh with Afghanistan.
Answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s relations with Afghanistan can be divided into the following four stages:

• First stage of Sikh-Afghan relations 1797-1812 A.D.
• Second stage of Sikh-Afghan relations 1813-1834 A.D.
• Third stage of Sikh-Afghan relations 1834-1837 A.D.
• Fourth stage of Sikh-Afghan relations 1838-1839 A.D.
• First Stage of Sikh-Afghan Relations 1797-1812 A.D.

1. Ranjit Singh and Shah Zaman : The relations between Ranjit Singh and the Afghans started at the time, when in 1797 A.D. Ranjit Singh took over the reins of the Sukarchakia Misl. At that time, Shah Zaman was the king of Afghani¬stan. He considered Punjab as his personal heritage, because his grandfather Ahmad Shah Abdali had occupied it in 1752 A.D. Shah Zaman had invaded Punjab thrice by 1797 A.D., before Ranjit Singh ascended the throne. During his fourth invasion, Shah Zaman besieged Lahore on 27th November, 1798. At that time, Lahore was ruled over by the three Bhangi Misl Sardars (Chet Singh, Sahib Singh and Mohar Singh). They fled from the city without giving any resistance to Shah Zaman.

Shah Zaman had to go back to Kabul to crush the revolt. The Bhangi Sardars once again took possession of Lahore in January, 1799 A.D. Ranjit Singh defeated the Bhangi Sardars and occupied Lahore on 7th July, 1799 A.D.. After¬wards, with a view to improrve his relations with Shah Zaman, Ranjit Singh sent to Kabul his 12 to 15 guns, which had fallen in the river Jhelum. Shah Zaman felt pleased with Ranjit Singh and acknowledged his control over Lahore.

2. Political Instability in Afghanistan: In 1800 A.D., a war of succession for the royal throne started in Kabul. Shah Zaman was dethroned and Shah Mehmud became the new king of Afghanistan. He ruled only for three years (1800-03 A.D.). In 1803 A.D. Shah Shuja forcibly took possession of the throne from Shah Mehmud. He ruled till 1809 A.D. He proved to be an unworthy king. It led to chaos in Af¬ghanistan.

On finding this golden opportunity, the Afghan Governors of Attock, Kashmir, Multan and Derajat declared their independence. Maharaja Ranjit Singh also took advantage of the weakness of the Kabul government and took possession of the Afghap areas like Kasur, Jhang, Khushal and Sahiwai. In 1809 A.D. Shah Shuja was dethroned and Shah Mehmud again became the new king of Afghani-stan.

Since Fateh Khan had rendered every possible help to Shah Mehmud in getting the royal throne, so he appointed him his Prime Minister. By 1812 A.D. Fateh Khan had greatly consolidated his position in Afghanistan- In 1812 A.D. the ruler of Attock, Jahandad Khan had imprisoned Shah Shuja and sent him to Kashmir. The ruler of Kashmir Ata Mohammad Khan had thrown him into the prison.

(B) Second Stage of Sikh-Afghan Relations 1813-1834 A.D.

came to know of it, he lost his temper. He himself proceeded with a huge army to drive out the Sikhs from Attock. On July 13,1813 A.D. a fierce battle was fought at a place called Hazro or Haidru, in which Maharaja Ranjit Singh inflicted a crushing defeat on Fateh Khan. This victory gave a severe blow to the power of the Afghans and enhanced the prestige of the Sikhs.

5. Conquest of Kashmir 1819 A.D.: Encouraged by the victory of Multan in 1818 A.D. Maharaja Ranjit Singh made a plan in 1819 A.D. to conquer Kashmir. A large army under the command of Misar Diwan Chand, was sent to Kashmir. The army succeeded in defeating the Kashmir ruler, JaJbbar Khan and capturing Kash¬mir. This significant victory greatly enhanced the prestige of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. It dealt a severe blow to the Afghan power.

6. Battle of Naushera 1823 A.D.: Azim Khan made Ayub Khan the new king of Afghanistan and himself became the Wazir. Taking advantage of the disturbed situation in Afghanistan, Maharaja Ranjit Singh attacked Peshawar in 1818 A.D. Yar Mohammad Khan and Dost Mohammad Khan, who ran the Government of Peshawar jointly accepted the suzerainty of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Azim Khan could not tolerate it.

As a result on 14th March 1823 A.D., a decisive battle was fought between the two forces at Naushera or Tibba Tehri. In this battle, the Sikhs inflicted such a crushing defeat on the Afghans, that they fled from the battlefield. According to Dr. B.J. Hasrat, “The Sikh victory at Naushera sounded the deathknell of Afghan supremacy beyond the?iver Indus.”

7. Revolt of Sayyed Ahmad 1827-31 A.D. : During the period 1827 A.D. to 1831 A.D., a man named Sayyed Ahmad had created disturbance against the Sikhs in Attock and Peshawar. He declared that God has sent him to conquer Punjab and India, and to drive out the Sikhs from the Afghan territories. Taken in by his utterances, many Afghan Sardars became his disciples. In no time, he was able to organise a big army.

It was a challenge to Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s power. The Sikh forces defeated him first at Saidu and then at Peshawar, but fortunately he escaped both the times. Despite these defeats, he continued his struggle against the Sikhs. At last in 1831 A.D., he died at Balakot while fighting against. Prince Sher Singh. In this way a big nuisance for the Sikhs was over.

8. Treaty with Shah Shuja 1833 A.D.: On 12th March, 1833 AJD., a treaty was signed between Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Shah Shuja. According to the treaty, Shah Shuja accepted Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s suzerainty on all the areas conquered in the North-West of river Indus. In return Maharaja Ranjit Singh gave help him help to fight against Dost Mohammad Khan.

9. Annexation of Peshawar to the Lahore Kingdom 1834 A.D. : In 1834 A.D. Maharaja Ranjit Singh decided to annex Peshawar to the Lahore Raj. With this objective, he sent to Peshawar a large army under the command of prince Naunihal Singh, Hari Singh Nalwa and General Ventura. When, Sultan Mohammad heard the news of attack by the Sikhs, he fled to Kabul without putting up any resistance. Thus, on 6th May, 1834 A.D., Peshawar was annexed to the Lahore Kingdom. In order to run the administration of Peshawar, Hari Singh Nalwa was appointed the first Governor.

(C) Third Stage of Sikh-Afghan Relations 1834,1837 A.D.

The annexation of Peshawar to the Lahore Kingdom in 1834 A.D., ushered in a new era in the Sikh-Afghan relations. During this period, the Afghans tried to recapture Peshawar, but the Sikh forces frustrated all their efforts.

10. Efforts to recapture Peshawar by Dost Mohammad Khan 1835 A.D.: In 1834 A.D., when Maharaja Ranjit Singh annexed Peshawar to his empire, Dost Mohammad Khan lost this temper. He could not tolerate the rule of the Sikhs over an important territory like Peshawar. But, at that time, he was involved in a civil war with Shah Shuja. After defeating Shah Shuja, he asked Ranjit Singh either to hand over Peshawar to him or be ready to fight with him.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh chose the second option. In order to consolidate his position, Dost Mohammad Khan raised the slogan of Jihad (religious war). As a result, Afghan tribes in large numbers gathered under his banner. He won over to his side, his brother, Sultan Mohammad, who was the governor of Peshawar.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh was not fully prepared for the battle, so he sent Faqir Aziz-ud-Din and Harlan to hold talks. Another objective of this mission was to create a wedge between Dost Mohammad Khan and Sultan Mohammad Khan. This mission succeeded in achiev¬ing both the objectives. Near Peshawar, when both the forces came face to face, Sultan Mohammad with his soldiers went over to the side of the Sikhs.

On seeing this, Dost Mohammad Khan retreated to Kabul with his soldiers without putting up any resistance on 11th May, 1835 A.D. In this’tvay, Maharaja Ranjit Singh won a significant victory without shedding a drop of blood.

11. Battle of Jamraud 1837 A.D.: Dost Mohammad Khan wanted to avenge his humiliation suffered at the hands of the Sikhs. On the other hand, the Sikhs also wanted to consolidate their position in Peshawar. In <?rder to counter the Af¬ghan invasions, Hari Singh Nalwa got a strong fort constructed at Jamraud. In order to check this operation of Hari Singh Nalwa, Dost Mohammad Khan sent a huge army of 20,000 soldiers under the command of his son Mohammad Akbar and Shamsudin.

This army attacked the fort of Jamraud on 28th April, 1837 A.D. Hari Singh Nalwa was then lying seriously ill at Peshawar. When he heard the news of Afghan attack, he with his 10,000 soldiers attacked the Afghans at Jamraud with a view to teach them a lesson. Although Hari Singh Nalwa was killed in this battle, the Sikhs caused such a havoc among the Afghans that they never turned their face towards Peshawar thereafter.

(D) Fourth Stage of Sikh-Afghan Relations 1838-39 A.D.

Britishers wanted to establish Mendly relations with the Afghanistan ruler. Dost Mohammad Khan. With this end in view, they sent Captain Alexander Burns to Afghanistan. But the talks could not mature. Then the British made a plan to make the ex-ruler of Afghanistan, Shah Shuja, the new ruler of Afghanistan. The British forced Ranjit Singh, also to become a party to the treaty. In this way, a tripartite treaty between the British, Shah Shuja and Maharaja Ranjit Singh was signed on 26th June 1838 A.D.

The prominent terms of the tripartite treaty were :

• Shah Shuja would be made the king of Afghanistan with the co-operation of the British and Maharaja Ranjit Singh,
• Shah Shuja would accept Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s suzerainty over the Afghan territories conquered by him.
• Shah Shuja promised to abide by all those decisions concerning Sind taken by the British and Maharaja Ranjit Singh,
• Shah Shuja would have no contact with any world power without the permission of the British and the Sikhs,
• The enemy of one power would be

Question 2.
Describe the chief characteristics of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s North-West Frontier Policy. Was the Maharaja successful in this policy?
Or
Discuss the North-West Frontier Policy of Ranjit Singh.
Or
Explain the North-West Frantier Policy of Maharaja Single.
Or
Which problems had Maharaja Ranjit Singh to face in the North-West Frontier territories? What steps did the Maharaja take to solve these problems?
Or
Examine the main features of the North-West Frontier Policy of Ranjit Singh. What was its significance?
Answer:
The North-West Frontier has always formed a vital problem for the rulers ‘ of Punjab, as well as, of India. The reason was that the foreign invaders coming through this route caused much havoc in Punjab and India. Besides, this territory was inhabited by very savage tribes. Their chief occupation was to carry on loot and arson. They were indisciplined by nature. They were staunch fanatics and remained ever ready to die in the name of religion. It was not an easy task to . encounter them. Maharaja Ranjit*Singh was the first ruler, who paid his attention to solve this tangle.

Main Features of North-West frontier Policy

The main features of North-West Frontier Policy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh were as given below:

1. Conquests of North-Western Territories : There were two stages of the conquests of North-Western territories by Ranjit Singh. After conquering Attock, Multan and Kashmir, he had annexed them to his kingdom. After these conquests, Maharaja Ranjit Singh paid attention to the territories beyond Indus river. He conquered Peshawar in 1818 A.D., Bhawalpur in 1820 A.D. and Dera Ismail Khan and Mankera in 1821 A.D. Acting wisely, Maharaja Ranjit Singh did not annex these areas to his kingdom.

He left them under the-care of the Muslims in return for the annual revenue (khiraj) from these areas. By 1827 A.D. to 1831 A.D. Maha raja Ranjit Singh’s power had greatly increased, he decided to annex these areas to his kingdom. Consequently, Maharaja Ranjit Singh annexed to his kingdom, Dera Gazi Khan in 1831 A.D., Tonk in 1832 A.D., Bannu in 1833 A.D., Peshawar in 1834 A.D. and Dera Ismail Khan in 1836 A.D.

2. Decision of not conquering Afghanistan: Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a wise statesman. So he never tried to conquer Afghanistan. He was already facing many hardships in the North-West frontier areas. Under such a situation, he did not want to invite any more trouble by conquering Afghanistan. Perhaps on one occasion only did he think seriously of attacking Afghanistan. This idea occurred to him in 1837 A.D. to avenge the death of his great General Hari Singh Nalwa who was killed in the battle of Jamraud. Soon his anger cooled down and he gave up the idea of attacking Afghanistan. It is true that Maharaja Ranjit Singh joined the Tripartite Treaty in June 1838 A.D., but he did not want to attack Afghani¬stan. He joined this treaty so that the British might not harm his interests.

3. Efforts to crush the Tribes: Many Afghan tribes lived in the North-West¬ern Frontier areas which were under the control of Ranjit Singh. Of these tribes Yussufazai, Mohammadzai, Daudzai, Afridi and Khattak were the most savage. During the period 1827 and 1831 A.D. Sayyed Ahmad instigated the tribes of these territories against the Sikhs. Ranjit Singh sent many military campaigns to crush these tribes.

In 1831 A.D. Sayyed Ahmad was killed along with his 500 companions, while fighting against Prince Sher Singh at Balakot. In spite of this, these tribes continued to create disturbances against the Sikhs. In 1834 A.D. when Peshawar was annexed to the Sikh empire, Hari Singh Nalwa was appointed as Governor there. Hari Singh Nalwa followed a very strong policy to crush these tribes.

4. Measures for the defence of the North-West Frontier: Maharaja Ranjit Singh took many steps for the defence of the North-West Frontiers. He got con¬structed new forts like the fort of Attock, Khairabad, Jahangira, Jamraud and Fatehgarh at places of strategical importance. In addition, old forts were repaired. Trained soldiers were deployed in these forts. These soldiers were always ready to crush the rebels. Besides, mobile squads were also raised. These squads had cre¬ated such a panic in the hearts of these tribes that they would seldom raise their heads.

5. Administration of North-West Frontier Territories : In order to keep the tribes of North-West Frontier territories under control, Maharaja Ranjit Singh appointed military Governors. He did not bring about any revolutionary change in the administration of these territories. Old laws, customs and traditions were not interfered with. Every Khan enjoyed a good status in this area, as enjoyed by him previously. He would collect taxes from the people belonging to his tribe.

He settled their disputes and punished them according to the prevalent customs. With a view to encourage agriculture, canals and wells were dug up in the area. The rate of revenue was greatly reduced. By virtue of these efforts, Maharaja Ranjit Singh tried to win the confidence of the people living there. On the other hand, the trouble¬shooters were severely dealt with.

Importance of N.W.E Policy

The N.W.F. Policy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh succeeded to a-considerable ex¬tent. Undoubtedly it was one of his greatest achievements. By conquering Multan, Kashmir and Peshawar etc. Maharaja Ranjit Singh had ended the Afghan influ¬ence. He succeeded in establishing peace by crushing the turbulent tribes living in North-Western Frontiers. He took special steps to encourage agriculture. It led to the economic prosperity of the people living there. Dr. G.S. Nayyar aptly says, “It was the first time after Anangpal that the series of invasions from the North-West were checked and the tribesmen ruled.”

Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
How did Maharaja Ranjit Singh conquer Attock? What was its significance?
Or
Give a brief account of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s conquest of Attock and the battle of Hazro.
Answer:
In exchange of a big Jagir yielding an annual revenue of Rs. 1 lakh Jahandad Khan agreed to surrender the fort of Attock to Maharaja Ranjit Singh. When Fateh Khan came to know about it, he flew into a rage. In order to bring the fort of Attock under his control, he proceeded towards Attock with his army. On I3th July, 1813 A.D., at a place called Hazro or Haidru, a fierce battle was fought between the armies of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Fateh Khan. In this battle Maharaja Ranjit Singh gave a crushing defeat to Fateh Khan. It boosted the morale of the Sikh army.

Question 2.
Write a brief note on Shah Shuja.
Or
Give a brief account of Shah Shuja’s relations with Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
He ruled Afghanistan from 1803 to 1809 A.D. In 1809 A.D. he left the throne and fled away. He was arrested by Ata Mohammad Khan, the Afghan Governor of Kashmir. In the first expedition of Kashmir in 1813 A.D. the forces of Maharaja Ranjit Singh got him released and brought him to Lahore. On June 26, 1838 A.D. a Tripartite Treaty was signed between the English, Shah Shuja and Maharaja Ranjit Singh. According to this treaty, efforts were made to make Shah Shuja the emperor of Afghanistan but it remained unsuccessful.

Question 3.
Write a short note on the relations between Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Dost Mohammad Khan.
Answer:
Dost Mohammad Khan became the ruler of Afghanistan in 1826 A.D. Dost Mohammad Khan could never accept the fast growing influence of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Maharaja Ranjit Singh took control of Peshawar very easily on May 6, 1834 A.D; In 1837 A.-D. Dost Mohammad Khan sent a vast army to Peshawar under his son Akbar Khan. In the bloody battle of Jamraud, although S. Hari Singh Nalwa was killed, yet the Sikhs, ultimately came out victorious. After this, Dost Mohammad Khan never turned his face towards Peshawar.

Question 4.
Write a brief note on Sayyed Ahmad.
Or
Write a note on the Jihad (Religious War) of Sayyed Ahmad.
Answer:
During 1827 to 1831 A.D. a fanatic named Sayyed Ahmad continued a rebellion against the Sikhs in the Attock and Peshawar regions. He hailed from Bareilly. He used to say, “Allah has sent me to conquer the Punjab and India and to expel the Sikhs from Afghan states and to finish them.” Taken in by his utterances, many Afghan sardars became his followers. He was killed at Balakot, fighting against Prince Sher Singh in 1831 A.D. .

Question 5.
Write a short note on Akali Phula Singh.
Or
Who was Akali Phula Singh? Write a note on his military achievements.
Answer:
Akali Phula Singh was a pillar of the Sikh empire. He greatly contributed . towards strengthening the foundations and expansion of Sikh empire. Maharaja Ranjit Singh succeeded in taking control of Kasur due to the bravery of Akali Phula Singh in 1807 A.D. His contribution in the conquest of Multan in 1818 A.D., was also significant. During the conquest of Kashmir in 1819 AD. also, he was with Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Akali Phula Singh was killed in a battle against the Afghans at Naushehra on March 14, 1823 A.D.

Question 6.
Write a short note on the battle of Jamraud.
Answer:
General Hari Singh Nalwa had got a strong fort built at Jamraud with the objective of consolidating his position in Peshawar. Dost Mohammad Khan could never tolerate it. So he sent a vast army to Jamraud under the command of his son Akbar Khan. His forces surrounded the fort of Jamraud on April 28, 1837 A.D. Hari Singh Nalwa attacked the Afghans but he was killed. Inspite of that the Sikhs gave a crushing defeat to the Afghans on April 30,1837 A.D. After this the Afghans never dared to conquer Peshawar.

Question 7.
Write a brief note on Hari Singh Nalwa.
Or
What do you know about Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa?
Or
Write a note on S&rdar Hari Singh Nalwa.
Answer:
Hari Singh Nalwa was the greatest and most fearless General of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. He took part in most of the hazardous expeditions of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and achieved success in them. He remained the Nazim (Governor) of Kashmir in 1820-21 A.D. and Nazim of Peshawar from 1834 A.D. to 1837 A.D. While working on these posts, he not only created law and order in these regions but also initiated many reforms. He was killed on April 30, 1837 AD. fighting against the Afghans at Jamraud.

Question 8.
Describe the main features of North-West Frontier policy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Or
Write down the main features of the North-West Frontier Policy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer: (a) Maharaja Ranjit Singh took many steps. To make north-west frontiers safe. He got many new forts constructed at strategic points and repaired old ones.
(b) Mobile military squads were formed to crush the rebels. (Hi) He allowed the conventions and customs of this region to continue (d) He did not interfere with the matters of tribal people unnecessarily, (v) Army Generals were appointed as the Governors to run the administration.

Question 9.
What is the significance of North-West Frontier Policy of naraja Ranjit Singh?
Or
Write down the three main features of the North-West Frontier Policy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
The North-West Frontier policy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh speaks volumes for his far-sightedness, diplomacy and administrative ability. By bringing Multan, Kashmir, Peshawar etc. under his control, Maharaja Ranjit Singh was able to put an end to the Afghan influence in this region. As a result Maharaja Ranjit Singh succeeded in making his empire safe from Afghan invasions. He was able to establish law and order in this region. Means of transport were developed. Special steps were taken to encourage agriculture. Trade was also given a new boost.

Objective Type Questions:

Question 1.
Name any one ruler of Afghanistan during the rule of Maharaja RanjitSingh.
Answer:
Shah Shuja.

Question 2.
Name any two Barkzai Brothers.
Answer:
Dost Mohammad Khan and Yar Mohammad Khan.

Question 3.
Who was Shah Zaman?
Or
What was Shah Shuja?
Answer:
He was the ruler of Afghanistan.

Question 4.
When did Shah Zaman occupy Lahore?
Answer:
On Nov. 27,1798 AD.

Question 5.
Who was ruling at Lahore when Shah Zaman occupied it in 1798 AD.?
Answer:
Three Bhangi Sardars or Bhangi Misl.

Question 6.
Who was Fateh Khan?
Answer:
Wazir of Shah Mahmud, the ruler of Afghanistan.

Question 7.
Where did the alliance take place between Mdharqja Ranjit Singh and Fateh Khan regarding the control over Kashmir?
Answer:
At Rohtas.

Question 8.
When was the battle of Hazro or Haidru fought?
Answer:
July 13, 1813 A.D.

Question 9.
Give one result of the battle of Hazro?
Answer:
It gave a crushing blow to the Afghan pow

Question 10.
When did Maharaja Ranjit Singh occupy Kashmir?
Answer:
1819 A.D.

Question 11.
When was the battle of Naushera fought?
Answer:
March 14, 1823 AD.

Question 12.
Who was defeated in the battle of Naushera?
Answer:
Azim Khan.

Question 13.
Who was Akali Phula Singh?
Answer:
A famous army general of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

Question 14.
Name the battle in which Akali Phula Singh died.
Or
In which battle Akali Phula Singh died?
Answer:
The battle of Naushera.

Question 15.
Who was Syed Ahmad?
Answer:
He called himself the Caliph of the Muslims.

Question 16.
By whom was the religious war (Jihad) led against Maharaja Ranjit Singh?
Answer:
Syed Ahmad.

Question 17.
When did Maharaja Ranjit Singh annex Peshawar to his empire?
Answer:
1834 A.D.

Question 18.
Whom did Maharaja Ranjit Singh appoint the first Governor of Peshawar?
Answer:
Hari Singh Nalwa.

Question 19.
When did the battle of Jamraud take place?
Answer:
30 April, 1837

Question 20.
Who was Hari Singh Nalwa?
Answer:
Famous General of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

Question 21.
When was the Tripartite Treaty signed?
Answer:
June 26, 1838 A.D.

Question 22.
Mention any one clause of Tripartite Treaty.
Answer:
Shah Shuja was to be made the ruler of Afghanistan.

Question 23.
Name any one problem of Maharaja Ranjit Singh regarding the North-West Frontier States.
Answer:
He had to deal with the tribes of North-West Frontier States.

Question 24.
Give a characteristic of Maharaja Raqjit Singh’s North-West Frontier Policy.
Answer:
He never tried to capture control over Afghanistan,

Question 25.
Name a barbaric tribe of North-West at the time of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Yusufjais.

Question 26.
Mention any one effect of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s North-West Frontier Policy.
Answer:
Peace was established.

Fill in the blanks :

1. The ruler of Afghanistan during the rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was ……………..
Answer:
Shah Zaman

2. ……………. became the new king of Afghanistan in 1800 A.D.
Answer:
Shah Mehmud

3. In 1813 A.D., a pact was signed between Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Fateh Khan at …………….
Answer:
Rohtas

4. Maharaja Ranjit Singh took hold of ………….. from Jahandad Khan.
Answer:
Attock

5. The battle of Naushera was fought between Maharaja Ranjit Singh and the Afghans in …………..
Answer:
1823 A.D.

6. Maharaja Ranjit Singh annexed Peshawar to his empire in ……………
Answer:
1834 A.D.

7. In 1838 A.D., the Tripartite Treaty was signed among the English ………………. and Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
Shah Suja

8. Hari Singh Nalwa died in ……………….
Answer:
1837 A.D.

True or False:

1. Shah Zaman was the ruler of Afghanistan during the rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Answer:
True

2. Shah Mehmood became the new ruler of Afghanistan in 1805 A.D.
Answer:
False

3. A settlement took place between Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Fateh Khan in 1813 A.D. at Rohtas.
Answer:
True

4. The battle of Hazro was fought on July 13, 1818 A.D.
Answer:
True

5. Maharaja Ranjit Singh occupied Multan in 1818 A.D.
Answer:
True

6. Mahafaja Ranjit Singh conquered Kashmir in 1819 A.D.
Answer:
True

7. Hari Singh Nalwg was appointed new Governor of Kashmir in 1820.
Answer:
True

8. Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa was honoured by Zaffarjung.
Answer:
False

9. The battle of Naushera was fought on March 14, 1828 A.D.
Answer:
False

10. Maharaja Ranjit Singh annexed Peshawar to his empire in 1834 A.D.
Answer:
True

11. The battle of Jamraud was fought in 1837 A.D.
Answer:
True

12. The North-West Frontier Policy of Maharaja Ranjit-Singh succeeded to a considerable extent in solving the N.W.F. problems.
Answer:
True

Multiple Choice Questions:

1. When did Shah Zaman occupy Lahore?
(a) 1796 A.D.
(b) 1797 A.D.
(c) 1798 A.D.
(d) 1799 A.D.
Answer:
(c) 1798 A.D.

Who was Fateh Khan?
(a) Wazir of Afghanistan
(b) Wazir of Ranjit Singh
(c) Wazir of Iran
(d) None of these.
Answer:
(a) Wazir of Afghanistan

3. When did the alliance take place between Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Fateh Khan regarding the control over Kashmir?
(a) 1803 A.D.
(b) 1805 A.D.
(c) 1809 A.D.
(d) 1813 AD.
Answer:
(d) 1813 AD.

4. Where did the alliance take place between Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Fateh Khan?
(a) Rohtas
(b) Rohtang
(c) Supeen
(d) Hazro,
Answer:
(a) Rohtas

5. When did Akali Phuila Singh get martyrdom while fighting with the Afghans?
(a) 1813 A.D.
(b) 1815 A.D.
(c) 1819 A.D.
(d) 1823 A.D.
Answer:
(d) 1823 A.D.

6. In which places Syed Ahmad created disturbance against the Sikhs?
(a) Attock and Peshawar
(b) Peshawar and Kashmir
(c) Kashmir and Multan
(d) Multan and Attock.
Answer:
(a) Attock and Peshawar

7. When did Syed Ahmad revolt against the Sikhs?
(a) 1823 A.D.
(b) 1825 A D.
(c) 1827 A.D.
(d) 1831 A.D.
Answer:
(c) 1827 A.D.

8. When did Maharaja Ranjit Singh annexJPeshawar to his Empire?
(a) 1823 A.D.
(b) 1831 A.D.
(c) 1834 A.D.
(d) 1837 A.D.
Answer:
(c) 1834 A.D.

9. In which battle famous Sikh General Hari Singh Nalwa was killed?
(a) Battle of Jamraud
(b) Battle of Naushera
(c) Battle of Hazro
(d) Battle of Supeen
Answer:
(a) Battle of Jamraud

10. Which person was to be appointed as ruler of Afghanistan according to the Tripartite Treaty?
(a) Shah Zaman
(b) Shah Shuja
(c) Shah Mehmud
(d) Dost Mohammad Khan.
Answer:
(b) Shah Shuja