NCERT Solutions for Class 8 Social Science Chapter 2 Reshaping India’s Political Map

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1. How did foreign invasions and the rise of new dynasties reshape India’s political boundaries during this period?
See AnswerForeign invasions and the rise of new dynasties significantly reshaped India’s political boundaries during this period. Turkic, Afghan and Mughal forces established powerful empires like the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire, replacing older kingdoms. Regional powers such as the Vijayanagara Empire and Ahom Kingdom also emerged, resisting foreign rule. These changes led to frequent shifts in territorial control, cultural blending and new administrative systems, altering India’s political landscape.

2. How did Indian society respond to invasions? How did India’s economy adapt during times of
political instability?
See AnswerIndian society responded to invasions with resistance, adaptation, and cultural resilience. Some kingdoms like the Ahoms and Rajputs fought back, while others formed alliances. The economy adapted through trade networks, the *hundi* system, and decentralized agriculture, ensuring survival despite instability. Temples and guilds also played key roles in sustaining economic activity.

3. What impact did this period have on the lives of the people?
See AnswerThis period brought both hardship and resilience to people’s lives. Frequent wars and invasions caused destruction, displacement, and heavy taxes, but agriculture, trade, and crafts continued to thrive. The economy adapted through systems like the hundi for secure transactions, guilds for trade, and temple-based economies that supported communities. Despite political instability, India remained prosperous due to its strong agrarian base and skilled artisans. However, wealth was concentrated among rulers and merchants, leaving peasants and laborers struggling. Cultural traditions survived, blending foreign and local influences.

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1. During the time of the Tughlaqs, the Musunuri Nayakas, Telugu chieftains, rallied over 75 more chieftains of the region, formed a confederacy that defeated smaller provinces, formed a confederacy that defeated the Delhi Sultanate forces, and expelled Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s army from Warangal (present-day Telangana) around 1330-1336. Do you think it would have been an easy task to bring together 75 leaders in those days?
See AnswerBringing together 75 chieftains during the Tughlaq period would have been very difficult. Leaders had rivalries, and coordinating them required strong diplomacy, trust and a shared goal. The Musunuri Nayakas succeeded by uniting them against a common enemy—the Delhi Sultanate—showing remarkable leadership and strategy.

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1. Why do you think Akbar employed different strategies to expand his empire, while the earlier rulers of Delhi relied mostly on military might?
See AnswerAkbar used a mix of military force, diplomacy and tolerance to expand his empire, unlike earlier Delhi rulers who relied mostly on conquest. He formed alliances through marriage, abolished discriminatory taxes like the jizya, and promoted sulh-i-kul (peace with all) to gain support from diverse communities. This approach helped him stabilize and strengthen his empire more effectively than brute force alone. His strategies reflected a long-term vision for unity and governance.

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1. Why do you think Guru Tegh Bahadur endured torture rather than convert? Why did he think his sacrifice would make a difference?
See AnswerGuru Tegh Bahadur endured torture and refused to convert because he believed in standing up for religious freedom and protecting the oppressed. His sacrifice was meant to inspire courage and resistance against tyranny, showing that principles matter more than life itself. He trusted that his martyrdom would strengthen the Sikh community and send a powerful message against forced conversions.

2. What values did the Sikh Gurus and the Khalsa embody?
See AnswerThe Sikh Gurus and the Khalsa embodied values like equality, compassion, truthfulness and courage. They stood for justice, selfless service (seva), and defending the oppressed, even at the cost of their lives. Their teachings promoted humility, faith in one God (Ik Onkār) and resistance against tyranny, inspiring a legacy of bravery and moral strength.

3. How are they relevant in today’s world?
See AnswerThe values promoted by early Sikhism—equality, compassion and standing against injustice—remain relevant today. They inspire people to fight discrimination, help others selflessly and uphold truth, making society more just and harmonious. These principles guide modern movements for human rights and social justice.

Questions and activities

1. Compare the political strategies of the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughals. What similarities and differences existed between them?
See AnswerThe Delhi Sultanate and Mughals both used military conquest to expand their empires, but their political strategies differed. The Sultanate relied heavily on force, plunder and the iqta system for administration, often facing rebellions due to harsh rule. The Mughals, especially under Akbar, combined military power with diplomacy, marriage alliances and tolerance (sulh-i-kul). They introduced the mansabdari system for efficient governance and integrated regional leaders into their administration. While the Sultanate frequently replaced dynasties violently, the Mughals maintained longer stability through inclusive policies. Both extracted heavy taxes but the Mughals had a more organized revenue system under officials like Todar Mal.

2. Why did kingdoms like the Vijayanagara Empire and the Ahom Kingdom manage to resist conquest for a longer time compared to others? What geographical, military and social factors contributed to their success?
See AnswerKingdoms like the Vijayanagara Empire and the Ahom Kingdom resisted conquest longer due to strong geographical advantages, military strategies and social unity. The Vijayanagara Empire had a well-fortified capital and alliances with regional powers, while the Ahoms used Assam’s dense forests and rivers for guerrilla warfare. Both had efficient administrative systems and loyal subjects, making them harder to defeat. Their knowledge of local terrain and innovative tactics, like the Ahom “paik” system, gave them an edge over invaders. Cultural pride and resilient leadership also motivated their people to fight fiercely for independence.

3. Imagine you are a scholar in the court of Akbar or Krishnadevaraya. Write a letter to a friend describing the politics, trade, culture and society you are witnessing.
See AnswerDear Friend,
Life here in Akbar’s court is fascinating! The emperor blends military strength with wisdom, welcoming scholars of all faiths. Trade thrives—textiles, spices and gems flow through bustling markets. Persian and Sanskrit texts are translated, while art and music flourish. Society is diverse, with Hindus, Muslims and others living side by side, though taxes burden peasants. Every day brings new debates and grand projects!
If in Krishnadevaraya’s court:
The Vijayanagara Empire is at its peak! King Krishnadevaraya patronizes poets, builds grand temples and leads victorious battles. Trade bustles—foreign merchants bring horses, while our textiles and gems travel afar. Temples are centers of learning and culture. Society thrives, though wars loom. The city’s splendor is unmatched!
Yours,
Yogesh Bhandari

4. How come Akbar, a ruthless conqueror in his young days, grew tolerant and benevolent after some years? What could have led to such a change?
See AnswerAkbar started as a ruthless conqueror but later became more tolerant and benevolent due to his growing wisdom and political strategy. As his empire expanded, he realized that unity and stability required cooperation, not just force. He married Rajput princesses, abolished the discriminatory “jizya” tax and promoted “sulh-i-kul” (peace with all) to gain support from diverse communities. His interest in different faiths and discussions with scholars also broadened his perspective. Additionally, maintaining a vast empire demanded loyalty from all subjects, which harsh policies could not ensure. Over time, Akbar prioritized governance and harmony over brute conquest, making his rule more inclusive and effective.

5. What might have happened if the Vijayanagara Empire had won the Battle of Talikota? Imagine and describe how it could have changed the political and cultural history of south India
See AnswerIf the Vijayanagara Empire had won the Battle of Talikota in 1565, South India’s history might have been very different. The empire would have remained a powerful Hindu kingdom, preventing the Deccan Sultanates from gaining dominance. Cultural and architectural achievements, like the grand temples of Hampi, would have flourished further. Trade with foreign powers, especially the Portuguese, would have continued boosting the economy. The region might have seen prolonged stability, preserving its distinct traditions instead of facing destruction and fragmentation. This could have delayed or altered Mughal influence in the south, shaping a more unified and resilient political landscape in South India.

6. Many values promoted by early Sikhism, including equality, seva, and justice, remain relevant today. Select one of these values and discuss how it remains relevant in contemporary
society.
See AnswerThe Sikh value of equality remains highly relevant in today’s world. It teaches that all people, regardless of caste, gender or religion, deserve equal respect and opportunities. In modern society, this principle fights discrimination, promotes social justice and encourages fairness in education, employment and governance. Movements for gender equality, racial justice, and human rights reflect these ideals, showing how Sikh teachings continue to inspire a more inclusive world. By practicing equality, we can reduce prejudice and build communities where everyone has a fair chance to succeed.

7. Imagine you are a trader in a port city (Surat, Calicut or Hooghly). Describe the scenes you see as regards goods, people you trade with, movement of ships, etc.
See AnswerAs a trader in Surat, I see a bustling port filled with ships from Arabia, Persia, and Europe. The docks are busy with workers unloading spices, textiles and precious stones while others load goods like cotton, indigo, and sugar onto outgoing vessels. Merchants from different lands haggle over prices, their languages mixing in the air. The markets nearby overflow with silk, pearls, and exotic goods, and the scent of spices lingers everywhere. Carts and animals crowd the streets, carrying goods to and from warehouses. The constant movement of people and goods makes the city vibrant and alive, a hub of trade connecting India to the world.

Very Short Type Answers

1. When was the Delhi Sultanate established?
See Answer1206

2. Who founded the Vijayanagara Empire?
See AnswerHarihara and Bukka.

3. When did Timur attack Delhi?
See Answer1398

4. Which ruler called himself the second Alexander?
See AnswerAla-ud-din Khilji

5. Who moved the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad?
See AnswerMuhammad bin Tughlaq

6. What was the jizya?
See AnswerA tax on non-Muslims

7. When was the First Battle of Panipat?
See Answer1526

8. Who founded the Mughal Empire?
See AnswerBabur

9. Who wrote the Telugu epic Amuktamalyada?
See AnswerKrishnadevaraya

10. In which battle was Vijayanagara city destroyed?
See AnswerBattle of Talikota

11. What does sulh-i kul mean?
See AnswerPeace with all

12. Who built the Taj Mahal?
See AnswerShah Jahan

13. Who was the valiant queen of the Garha kingdom?
See AnswerRani Durgavati

14. Which Sikh Guru established the Khalsa?
See AnswerGuru Gobind Singh

15. Who was Akbar’s finance minister?
See AnswerTodar Mal

Short Type Answers

1. How did the Delhi Sultanate come into existence and what characterized its rule?
See AnswerThe Delhi Sultanate was formed after the defeat of King Prithviraj Chauhan in 1192. It saw the rule of five successive Turkic-Afghan dynasties. Its rule was marked by political instability, territorial expansion through military campaigns, plunder of cities, destruction of temples and frequent violent successions.

2. Describe Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s ambitious schemes and their outcomes.
See AnswerMuhammad bin Tughlaq had ambitious schemes that were often poorly executed. One notable instance was moving his capital from Delhi to Daulatabad, which caused great loss of life due to the long distance. Another was introducing token currency, which led to widespread counterfeiting and economic decline.

3. What was the jizya tax and its impact during the Sultanate period?
See AnswerThe jizya was a discriminatory tax imposed by some sultans on non-Muslim subjects, granting them protection and exemption from military service. In practice, it often caused economic burden and public humiliation, serving as a financial and social incentive for subjects to convert to Islam.

4. How did the Vijayanagara Empire emerge as a significant power in southern India?
See AnswerThe Vijayanagara Empire emerged in the 14th century when Harihara and Bukka, former governors under Muhammad bin Tughlaq, rejected Delhi’s authority. They established an independent kingdom that grew into a significant force, known for its military power and cultural renaissance, particularly under Krishnadevaraya.

5. What factors contributed to the decline of the Vijayanagara Empire?
See AnswerThe Vijayanagara Empire declined after Krishnadevaraya’s death in 1529. In 1565, the Deccan Sultanates formed a coalition and defeated Vijayanagara forces at the Battle of Talikota. The city was sacked and destroyed, leading to the empire’s fragmentation into smaller regions ruled by Nayakas, ultimately ending in the mid-17th century.

6. How did Babur establish the Mughal Empire in India?
See AnswerBabur, a Turkic-Mongol ruler and military strategist, turned his sights to India after being driven from Samarkand. He defeated Ibrahim Lodi at the First Battle of Panipat in 1526, using gunpowder, field artillery and matchlock guns. This victory ended the Delhi Sultanate and laid the foundation for the Mughal Empire.

7. Discuss Akbar’s approach to expanding and stabilizing the Mughal Empire.
See AnswerAkbar initially pursued brutal conquests but later adopted political strategies to stabilize his empire. He entered marriage alliances with neighboring kingdoms, welcomed Rajput and regional leaders into his court, abolished the jizya tax and promoted ‘sulh-i kul’ or tolerance of all faiths through interfaith dialogues.

8. How did the Ahom kingdom resist Mughal expansion into the Northeast?
See AnswerThe Ahom rulers offered stiff resistance to Mughal expansion using their unique paik system, which required able-bodied men to provide service to the state for land rights. This allowed them to maintain a large force without a permanent army. They also utilized their knowledge of dense forests, hills and rivers for guerrilla tactics.

9. Explain the evolution of Sikhism from a spiritual movement to a martial brotherhood.
See AnswerSikhism began as a spiritual movement under Guru Nanak. However, growing intolerance and persecution under Mughal rulers, such as Emperor Jahangir’s torture of Guru Arjan, prompted later Gurus to introduce martial training. Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa, a martial brotherhood committed to justice and defense of the faith.

10. Describe the economic activities and conditions of people’s lives in India between the 13th and 17th centuries.
See AnswerIndia witnessed vibrant economic activity due to its agrarian foundations, thriving artisanal industries and extensive trade networks. Agriculture was the mainstay, with irrigation systems increasing productivity. Trade flourished and the hundi system facilitated financial transactions. However, wealth was concentrated and peasants often faced harsh economic conditions and severe famines.

Long Answer Type Questions

1. Compare the political strategies of the Delhi Sultanate rulers with early Mughal emperors.
See AnswerDelhi Sultanate: Focused on territorial expansion via military campaigns plunder. Successions were often violent.
-Early Mughals: Babur used gunpowder. Akbar initially brutal then adopted political strategies like marriage alliances abolition of jizya.

2. Explain the significance of the Battle of Talikota for the Vijayanagara Empire.
See AnswerIn 1565 Deccan Sultanates defeated Vijayanagara forces.
-The city was sacked destroyed over months.
-Massacre of civilians occurred.
-Empire fragmented into smaller regions.
-Marked the end of the empire’s dominance.

3. How did the Ahom Kingdom maintain its independence against larger empires?
See AnswerUsed unique paik system for military service public works.
-Leveraged knowledge of dense forests hills rivers for defense.
-Employed persistent guerrilla tactics.
-Defeated Mughals in the Battle of Saraighat (1671).
-Preserved their independence.

4. Discuss the administrative systems introduced by the Delhi Sultanate.
See AnswerCentered on sultan with absolute authority.
-Assisted by council of ministers for various departments.
-Implemented iqta system: territories assigned to nobles (iqtadars) for tax collection.
-Iqtadars maintained army.
-Posts were not hereditary.

5. What were the key economic features of India during the medieval period (13th-17th centuries)?
See AnswerVibrant economic activity based on agriculture artisanal industries.
-Extensive trade networks with exports exceeding imports.
-Coins introduced as currency.
-Hundi system enabled fund transfers.
-Temples functioned as economic centers providing credit.

The political map of India changed greatly from the 11th to 17th centuries. This was mainly due to foreign invasions and new dynasties. Turkic and Afghan invaders crossed the Hindu Kush mountains and established the Delhi Sultanate. The Sultanate was formed after the defeat of Prithviraj Chauhan in 1192. Five main dynasties ruled it: the Mamluks (Slave dynasty), Khiljis, Tughlaqs, Sayyids and Lodis. Rulers like Ala-ud-din Khilji and Muhammad bin Tughlaq tried to expand the empire through military campaigns. However, many of their plans failed due to poor execution. For example, Tughlaq’s move of the capital to Daulatabad and the use of token currency caused confusion and loss of life. The invasions brought political instability, economic stress and acts of iconoclasm, including the destruction of temples and sacred sites.

As the Delhi Sultanate weakened, many powerful regional kingdoms rose. The Vijayanagara Empire, founded by Harihara and Bukka, grew strong in the south. The Bahmani Sultanate and later Deccan Sultanates emerged in central India. Rajput kingdoms like Mewar and Marwar offered strong resistance. Leaders such as Rana Kumbha and Maharana Pratap opposed Mughal expansion. Maharana Pratap, with the support of Bhil warriors, fought the Mughals using guerrilla warfare. In the northeast, the Ahoms used the paik system and their knowledge of the terrain to defeat Mughals in the Battle of Saraighat. Sikh resistance also rose during this time, especially under Guru Tegh Bahadur and Guru Gobind Singh, leading to the formation of the Khalsa. These movements reshaped the boundaries of India and challenged central control.

The Mughal Empire was founded by Babur after the First Battle of Panipat in 1526. His grandson Akbar expanded the empire and used both military and diplomatic strategies. He abolished jizya, promoted sulh-i-kul (peace with all) and encouraged interfaith dialogue. Akbar introduced the mansabdari system and reorganized the administration with ministers like the Diwan, Mir Bakhshi and Khan-i-Saman. His finance minister Todar Mal improved revenue collection. Akbar also supported culture by building Fatehpur Sikri and translating Sanskrit texts like the Mahabharata. His successors, especially Aurangzeb, expanded the empire further but reimposed religious taxes and destroyed temples. After Aurangzeb, rebellions by Jats, tribals and Rajputs increased. Eventually, the empire weakened. Despite political struggles, agriculture, trade, temple economies and the hundi system helped India remain economically strong during this period.