Q1. Which ruler re-imposed the jizyah tax that was later abolished after his death?
- Akbar
- Shah Jahan
- Aurangzeb
- Bahadur Shah
Correct Option: 3. Aurangzeb
Explanation: Aurangzeb re-imposed the jizyah (a tax on non-Muslims), but it was soon abolished after his death as later rulers pursued more secular, political alliances with Hindu nobles and Marathas.
Q2. What was the primary reason for factionalism among the Mughal nobles in the 18th century?
- Paucity of jagirs and increased competition
- Religious divisions
- Foreign invasions
- European interference
Correct Option: 1. Paucity of jagirs and increased competition
Explanation: There weren’t enough jagirs (land grants) for the growing number of nobles, leading to intense rivalry and factionalism for wealth and influence.
Q3. What factor most weakened the Mughal army in the 18th century?
- Loss of territory to the British
- Lack of technological advancement
- Financial difficulties and unpaid soldiers
- Introduction of firearms by Europeans
Correct Option: 3. Financial difficulties and unpaid soldiers
Explanation: The Mughal army suffered due to lack of funds—soldiers were unpaid, commanders didn’t maintain their full quotas, and morale was extremely low.
Q4. Which of the following statements best describes the behavior of regional powers like Marathas and Sikhs in the 18th century?
- They fought for religious unity.
- They aimed to consolidate personal or regional power.
- They supported the Mughal Emperor.
- They tried to protect peasants.
Correct Option: 3. They aimed to consolidate personal or regional power.
Explanation: Groups like the Marathas, Jats, Sikhs, and Rajputs focused on expanding their own influence, not creating national unity or championing religion.
Q5. Which practice became more common after Aurangzeb’s death and worsened peasant oppression?
- Abolition of land revenue
- Establishment of zamindari system
- Granting of pensions to peasants
- Ijarah (farming out revenue collection)
Correct Option: 3. They aimed to consolidate personal or regional power.
Explanation: Groups like the Marathas, Jats, Sikhs, and Rajputs focused on expanding their own influence, not creating national unity or championing religion.