Understanding the Socio-economic Condition in 18th century India is essential for grasping the complexities of the country’s historical development. This period was marked by significant changes in trade, agriculture, and society, which influenced the daily lives of people and shaped the economy. In this set of Socio-economic Condition in 18th century India GK MCQs, we provide detailed answers and explanations to help you better understand these pivotal events and prepare effectively for your exams. Dive into these well-researched questions and gain insights into this critical era in India’s history.
1.Which of the following imports was not a major component in 18th-century India?
- Bullion
- Textiles
- Ivory
- Perfumes
Show Answer
Answer: Textiles
During the 18th century, India engaged in a significant trade network with various countries, and its imports and exports reflected the commodities in demand during that era. Imports included valuable items like bullion (precious metals), raw silk, horses, metals, ivory, precious stones, luxury textiles like velvets and brocades, perfumes, medicinal drugs, and porcelain. These items were sought after by both Indian and foreign markets. In contrast, India’s exports consisted of textiles, particularly cotton and silk fabrics, as well as goods like pepper, indigo, opium, saltpeter (used in gunpowder production), and various miscellaneous items. Textiles were a significant Indian export, particularly the fine Muslin fabrics and other cotton textiles.
2. During the 18th century in India, which industry was considered the most important?
- Metal Handicrafts
- Cotton Cloth
- Wooden Products
- Fisheries
Show Answer
Answer: Cotton Cloth
Cotton cloth manufacturing was one of the most prominent industries in 18th-century India. The country had numerous centers for cotton production and weaving, with different regions specializing in various types of textiles. Dacca, located in present-day Bangladesh, was especially famous for producing fine Muslin fabric. Muslin was celebrated for its delicate texture and quality, and it was regarded as one of the finest cotton cloths in the world. India’s cotton textile industry played a crucial role in the country’s economy and trade during this period.
3. In 18th century India, what did the term “Tol” refer to?
- Schools
- Hospitals
- Cantonments
- Stables
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Answer: Schools
During the 18th century, the term “Tol” referred to centers of higher education in India. These centers, known as Chatuspathis or Tols, were particularly prominent in the regions of Bihar and Bengal. They primarily focused on the teaching and promotion of Sanskrit education, including subjects related to philosophy, literature, and the arts. Some of the well-known Tols included those in Kasi (Varanasi), Tirhut (Mithila), Nadia, and Utkala. These institutions played a crucial role in preserving and advancing Sanskrit learning and were key hubs for the dissemination of knowledge in classical Indian scholarship.
4. In 18th century India, who developed Jij Muhammad-shahi?
- Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula
- Nizam ul Mulk
- Sawai Jai Singh
- Akbar-II
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Answer: Sawai Jai Singh
Sawai Jai Singh II, the Maharaja of Jaipur during the early 18th century, was a notable patron of science and astronomy. He is credited with the construction of the pink city of Jaipur, a city known for its unique urban planning and architecture. Jai Singh also established five astronomical observatories, known as Jantar Mantars, in different cities, including Delhi, Jaipur, Benares (Varanasi), Mathura, and Ujjain. These observatories were built to facilitate astronomical observations and were equipped with large, precisely designed instruments for measuring celestial phenomena. Jai Singh’s contributions to astronomy included preparing a set of time-tables called “Jij Muhammad-shahi,” which aided scholars and astronomers in studying the movements of celestial bodies.
5. Which of the following was not a successor state that rose in 18th century India?
- Awadh
- Hyderabad
- Bengal
- Mysore
Show Answer
Answer: Mysore
In the 18th century, the political landscape of India witnessed the emergence of three categories of states:
Successor States: These were regions where new leaders or administrators took over the governance, often gaining a degree of autonomy. Examples include Hyderabad under Nizam-ul-Mulk from 1724, Bengal under Murshid Quli Khan from 1717, and Awadh under Saadat Khan Burhan-ul-Mulk from 1722.
Independent States: These were regions ruled by local leaders with a significant degree of sovereignty. Notable examples include Mysore, governed by Haidar Ali, the kingdom of Kerala under King Martanda Varma, and various Rajput States, such as Amber under Raja Sawai Singh.
New States: During this period, entities like the Marathas, Sikhs, Jats, and Afghans emerged as political forces, expanding their influence and establishing new states or territories. These groups played a crucial role in the political dynamics of 18th-century India.
6. What was the primary source of revenue for the Mughal Empire in the 18th century?
- Agriculture
- Trade
- Tribute from vassal states
- Mining
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Answer: Agriculture
The Mughal Empire relied heavily on agricultural revenue, mainly through the land revenue system, which was a significant source of income in the 18th century.
7. Which European power established the first factory in India?
- Dutch
- Portuguese
- British
- French
Show Answer
Answer: Portuguese
The Portuguese established the first factory in India in the early 16th century, though their influence diminished by the 18th century.
8. What was the impact of the Carnatic Wars (18th century) on South India’s socio-economic conditions?
- Economic prosperity
- Agricultural decline
- Social stability
- Cultural revival
Show Answer
Answer: Agricultural decline
The Carnatic Wars disrupted agriculture and trade, leading to economic hardships in the region.
9. Who was the founder of the Bengal School of Art in the 18th century?
- Raja Ravi Varma
- Abanindranath Tagore
- Jamini Roy
- Nandalal Bose
Show Answer
Answer: Abanindranath Tagore
Abanindranath Tagore played a key role in founding the Bengal School of Art, which aimed to revive traditional Indian art forms.
10. Which region in India witnessed the emergence of the Maratha Confederacy in the 18th century?
- Punjab
- Maharashtra
- Bengal
- Gujarat
Show Answer
Answer: Maharashtra
The Maratha Confederacy originated in Maharashtra and played a significant role in the 18th-century political landscape.
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