Q1. Who laid the foundation of Peshwa dominance in the Maratha Empire?
- Baji Rao I
- Balaji Vishwanath
- Raghunath Rao
- Madhav Rao I
Correct Option: 2. Balaji Vishwanath
Explanation: Balaji Vishwanath, appointed Peshwa in 1713, was the first to centralize power in the office of the Peshwa. He used diplomacy to unite Maratha sardars and secured revenue rights from the Mughals, laying the groundwork for Peshwa dominance.
Q2. What was a major cause of the Marathas’ defeat at the Third Battle of Panipat in 1761?
- Lack of alliances and internal unity
- Smaller army size
- Weak artillery
- Poor leadership
Correct Option: 1. Lack of alliances and internal unity
Explanation: Despite a large army, the Marathas were isolated due to their past behavior towards regional powers like the Rajputs, Jats, and Sikhs. Their earlier aggressive policies alienated potential allies, and internal discord among commanders also contributed to the defeat.
Q3. Which Maratha Peshwa helped transform the Maratha kingdom into an empire?
- Baji Rao II
- Nana Phadnis
- Madhav Rao I
- Balaji Vishwanath
Correct Option: 4. Balaji Vishwanath
Explanation: Balaji Vishwanath’s administrative reforms, revenue agreements with the Mughals, and military expansions transformed Shivaji’s kingdom into an expanding empire.
Q4. What was the major weakness of Maratha expansion under Baji Rao I and his successors?
- No centralized army or administration
- Lack of support from Maharashtra
- Use of outdated weapons
- Religious intolerance
Correct Option: 1. No centralized army or administration
Explanation: Territories were conquered by individual sardars with personal armies, not a centralized force. These sardars later became semi-independent, weakening the central authority and making cohesive governance difficult.
Q5. Why did Shahu release Balaji Vishwanath and make him Peshwa?
- He was Shivaji’s descendant
- He had military experience
- He was a Brahmin
- He rendered loyal and useful service
Correct Option: 4. He rendered loyal and useful service
Explanation: Balaji Vishwanath supported Shahu during his civil war against Tarabai and helped in consolidating power, for which he was rewarded with the post of Peshwa.