Q1. What role did the Carnatic region play in 18th-century Indian politics?
- It remained under direct Mughal control
- It became a battlefield for European interference
- It was annexed by the Marathas
- It joined hands with the Bengal Nawabs
Correct Option: 2. It became a battlefield for European interference.
Explanation: Carnatic Power Struggles & European Involvement
Background on the Carnatic
-The Carnatic was a subah (province) of the Mughal Deccan, under the nominal control of the Nizam of Hyderabad.
-However, over time, the Nawabs of Carnatic became practically independent, just like many other provincial rulers.
-Succession disputes and internal rivalries weakened the region’s political stability.
Both British East India Company & French East India Company were:
-Originally trading bodies, interested in commerce.
-But in the power vacuum, they started to support rival claimants to the Nawabship.
-Each tried to install a friendly ruler who would grant them privileges, trade rights, and land.
Key Conflicts: Carnatic Wars (1746–1763)
These were a series of military conflicts between the British and French, fought in South India as an extension of European wars:
First Carnatic War (1746–1748)
-Linked to the War of Austrian Succession in Europe.
-French captured Madras, but returned it later.
Second Carnatic War (1749–1754)
-Fought over succession disputes in Hyderabad and Carnatic.
-French supported Chanda Sahib, the British backed Muhammad Ali.
-British victory at Battle of Arcot (1751) under Robert Clive was a turning point.
Third Carnatic War (1756–1763)
-Linked to the Seven Years’ War.
-Ended with British victory, and the Treaty of Paris (1763), where the French lost political ambitions in India
Q2. Which ruler of Avadh is noted for forming an alliance with the Marathas to stabilize his province?
- Nizam-ul-Mulk
- Saadat Khan
- Murshid Quli Khan
- Safdar Jang
Correct Option: 4. Safdar Jang.
Explanation: Safdar Jang allied with the Marathas and Jats by paying them to help suppress internal rebellions and protect his territories. He also negotiated with the Peshwa to secure imperial interests.
Q3. What was a common feature in the administration of Bengal, Hyderabad, and Avadh?
- Exclusive preference for Muslim officials
- Religious intolerance
- Equal employment opportunities for Hindus and Muslims
- Heavy promotion of Christian missionaries
Correct Option: 3. Equal employment opportunities for Hindus and Muslims.
Explanation: All three states followed a secular administrative policy. Hindus held high positions in both civil and military administration. This showed a pragmatic, inclusive approach rather than communal governance.
Q4. Which of the following statements is TRUE about the personal lives of 18th-century regional rulers like Nizam-ul-Mulk and Safdar Jang?
- They lived extravagantly
- They led austere and morally upright lives
- They converted to Christianity
- They avoided all political intrigue
Correct Option: 2. They led austere and morally upright lives.
Explanation: Contrary to the belief that nobles led luxurious lives, rulers like Nizam-ul-Mulk, Murshid Quli Khan, and Safdar Jang lived simple lives and were morally upright in their personal conduct.
Q5. What was one major cultural development under the Avadh Nawabs?
- Spread of Western education
- Emergence of Lucknow as a center of art and culture
- Construction of Taj Mahal
- Establishment of Hindu monasteries
Correct Option: 2. Emergence of Lucknow as a center of art and culture.
Explanation: Under the Nawabs, especially post-1775, Lucknow became known for its refined culture, literature, music, and handicrafts, rivaling even Delhi in cultural vibrance..