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