SECTION 2 The Emergence of Pakistan 1906- 1947

Chapter6 Pakistan Movement during the early 20th century

Q Why was Bengal partitioned in 1905? [7](J2004/Q/2b)
Examiner Comments: In part (b), most candidates were able to score well. The reasons for the
partition of Bengal were well known. However, many candidates wrote irrelevantly on the reasons for
partition to be reversed. Also a description of the events during the Partition of Bengal was equally
unnecessary.
Marking Scheme: Explains reasons
Of the 54 million people in Bengal 42 million were Hindus. It seemed sensible to divide up the
province on religious grounds and also because it was becoming very large and producing significant
administrative problems. By doing this it was felt that the province would be easier to administer
especially at the time of a new British government in power.
Q Why did the Congress Party oppose the Morley-Minto Reforms of 1906? [7] (N2004/Q/2b)
Examiner Comments: In part (b), many candidates were unable to score well and wasted time and
effort in their answers by describing the Morley Minto Reforms. The question required candidates to
explain why these were opposed by the Congress Party.
Marking Scheme: Explains reasons
The British intended that the Indians could voice their opinions in the Councils but the Hindus wanted
more responsibility which the government were not prepared to give. This annoyed the Hindus who
were looking towards self-rule. The British accepted the right of Muslims to have separate electorates
which also annoyed the Hindus who saw it as a concession too far. Again self-rule was the goal for the
whole country with the Hindus as the dominant force. The Hindus also resented the relative high
position of Muslims in the Councils despite their much smaller numbers.
Q ‘The Lucknow Pact of 1916 was the only beacon of hope for Hindu-Muslim unity between 1914 and
1930.’ Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. [14] (N2004/Q/2c)
Examiner Comments: In part (c) many candidates fared better and were able to clearly explain those
events between 1914 and 1930 which had implications for Hindu- Muslim unity. This was a well-
answered question by those candidates who were able to comment on the various reforms and
events that reflected on Hindu-Muslim unity rather than by those who merely described everything
that happened between these years. It was pleasing to note that there is an increasing number of
candidates who are able to make a relevant comment on these issues rather than merely describe
what happened.
Marking Scheme: Explains at least two factors
Lucknow Pact to be included for maximum marks. Also produces a judgement or evaluation.
The Lucknow Pact was an agreement on a scheme of constitutional reforms reached between
Congress and the Muslim League. Both realised that co-operation was the only way to get the British
government to agree to self-rule. For the first time Hindus acknowledged that Muslims had the right
to a separate electorate and was therefore seen as a beacon of hope for the future. The Montague-
Chelmsford Reforms continued this hope by establishing legislative councils in the provinces with a
system of diarchy. It was the first time that government had mentioned the possibility of self-rule in
all internal matters. The Reforms disappointed Congress and Muslim League as both had hoped for
more concessions. Relations between the two remained cordial since self-rule was still their aim and
could only be achieved through cooperation. However the Nehru Report ended this hope. It was
produced in response to demands for future constitutional reforms and the committee, which drew it
up, had minimal Muslim representation. It reported on the future of the sub-Continent by looking to
dominion status with no need for separate electorates. This totally alienated the Muslims and marked
the end of any future cooperation between them and the Congress. However Jinnah made one final
attempt to preserve the relationship in his 14 Points of 1929 in which he proposed three
amendments to the report. These proposals were met with refusal and marked what he called the
parting of the ways.
Q Why was the Muslim League founded in 1906? [7](J2005/Q/2b)
Examiner Comments: In part (b), the reasons explained for the founding of the Muslim League were
rather limited. Most candidates failed to score more than level 3/5 with only the very good scoring
higher. The weaker candidates tended to write irrelevantly about the Partition of Bengal.
Marking Scheme: Explains reasons
Muslim rights would not be advanced if they continued to rely on the Indian National Congress. It was
seen as an organization which would only advance Hindu views. The Congress was demanding that
India should be treated as a cultural whole and Hindi should be declared the official language. By not
organizing a Muslim group they would continue to be disorganized and disunited. Even more
worrying was the growth of extreme Hindu nationalist groups who demanded that Muslims be
forcibly converted to Hinduism. Therefore, a number of prominent Muslim leaders founded the
Muslim League.
Q Why was the Partition of Bengal reversed in 1911? [7] (N2005/Q/3b)
Examiner Comments: In part (b) the question required candidates to explain the reasons why the
Partition of Bengal was reversed in 1911. These reasons were quite well known by many candidates
who were able to access near maximum marks. However, it was important that candidates remained
focused and avoided describing why Partition was introduced. What was required were answers that
dealt with the way in which the Hindus opposed the British and so led to Partition.
Marking Scheme: Explains reasons
The Hindus objection to Partition was so great that it caused the British to reconsider it. The Hindus
opposed it by holding meetings and mass rallies which put pressure on the British government. They
thought it was a deliberate attempt to ‘divide and rule’ on the part of the British. The Hindus were so
angry that they attempted to assassinate Lord Minto and stated their boycott of British goods under
the ‘Swadeshi Movement’. There was also an outbreak of terrorist activities
Q Were the Morley-Minto reforms the most important attempt by either the Muslims, the Hindus or
the British in seeking a solution to the problems in the sub-continent between 1906 and 1920? Explain
your answer. [14] (N2005/Q/3c)
Examiner Comments: Part (c) seemed to cause some candidates a few problems. Most candidates
knew the facts about the political attempts to seek a solution to the problems in the sub-continent
between 1906 and 1920 by focusing on the Morley-Minto and Montague-Chelmsford reforms and the
Lucknow Pact. They often had no problem describing these. However, as before in part (c) questions,
the mark limit for such descriptive answers was only six. In order to access the higher marks in Levels
3 and 4 candidates were required to explain and make comments on such attempts rather than
merely describe the political reforms. Such questions are not easy ones to answer and hence only the
better candidates were able to score highly on this question. However, it does highlight the need of
Centres and their candidates to focus more clearly on explanation rather than description.
Marking Scheme: Explains at least two factors (Morley-Minto to be explained for maximum marks)-Also
produces a judgement or evaluation.
The Morley-Minto Reforms became law in 1909 as the Indian Councils Act. The importance of the
Councils which were enlarged was to ensure that Indian legislators were given a chance to express
their opinions. The British also accepted the right of Muslims to have a separate electorate. However
there were other attempts to solve the problems in the sub- continent during these years. The
Lucknow Pact of 1916 as an agreement between the Muslims and Hindus which placed a number of
political demands to the British government in an attempt to show a united front and produce
common aims. Little was done by the British government about the sub-continent during the First
World War but shortly afterwards in 1919 came the Montague-Chelmsford Reforms. These Reforms
disappointed the Muslims and Hindus as they had hoped for greater concessions. Central government
reserved sweeping powers for itself with only minor concessions for the locals. The Reforms did hold
out concessions to political parties provided that they accepted the right of the British to remain in
control. The Rowlatt Act of the same year increased the resentment of the political parties by
including the right of arrest without a warrant and detention without bail.
Q Explain why the Lucknow Pact of 1916 came about. [7](J2006/Q/2b)
Examiner Comments: In part (b), the reasons explained for the Lucknow Pact coming about were
rather limited. Most candidates failed to score more than Level 3/5, with only the very good scoring
higher. Many candidates tended to write about the terms of the Lucknow Pact, which were not
strictly required by the question.
Marking Scheme: Explains reasons
The Muslims and Hindus wanted to work together on constitutional reform. The Muslim League and
the Congress agreed to co-operate to persuade the British government to accept their demands. The
LP was an agreement on a scheme of constitutional reforms reached between Congress and the ML.
Both realised that co-operation was the only way to get the British government to agree to self-rule.
For the first time Hindus acknowledged that Muslims had the right to a separate electorate and was
therefore seen as a beacon of hope for the future. They believed that by holding the sessions of both
the Congress and the Muslim League in one place, feelings of goodwill and friendship would be
generated between the two communities.
Q ‘Bengal was partitioned in 1905 because of geographical factors.’ Do you agree?
Explain your answer. [14] (J2006/Q/2c)
Examiner Comments: In part (c) there were a number of problems. The question focused on the
reasons for the Partition of Bengal. For those candidates who had been adequately prepared for the
examination this caused few problems for them and many answers from these candidates were
focused, accurate and relevant. However there were many candidates who saw the words Partition of
Bengal and proceeded to write all they knew about its origins, causes and events leading up to its
reversal mainly in chronological order. As a result many answers were merely descriptive and only
partially relevant, often gaining no more than half marks as a result. Equally, there were also many
candidates who having explained a number of reasons for Partition (and many did this well) then
proceeded to go further and dealt with the events/reasons for its reversal. This only served to waste
valuable time in the examination and stored up problems for the final question.
Marking Scheme: Explains at least two. Geographical factors to be explained for maximum marks: Also
produces a judgement or evaluation.
Of the 54 million people in Bengal 42 million were Hindus. It seemed sensible to divide up the
province on religious grounds and also because it was becoming very large and producing significant
administrative problems. By doing this it was felt that the province would be easier to administer
especially at the time of a new British government in power. The Muslims believed that partition
would bring an end to Hindu oppression and that they would enjoy true recognition in a province in
which they were in a majority. The Hindus believed that the partition would come about as part of the
British ‘divide and rule’ policy which would weaken Hindu unity and its influence in the new East
Bengal.
Q Why was the Simla Delegation of 1906 an important turning point for the Muslims of the sub-
continent? [7] (N2006/Q/2b)
Examiner Comments: In part (b), candidates were required to explain why the Simla Delegation of
1906 was an important turning-point for Muslims. Some only described the demands of the Simla
Delegation. However, those candidates who understood the question found little difficulty in gaining
a good mark.
Marking Scheme: Explains reasons:
The Muslim demands for separate representation, election by only Muslim voters and weightage in all
elected bodies were accepted by the British. This resulted in a sudden upturn in Muslim-British
relations and helped to remove the previous bad feelings between the 2 sides. It also paved the way
for demands for a separate homeland with the granting of a separate electorate. It also guaranteed
Muslims an independent role in the political process and as a result led to the formation of the All-
Indian Muslim League later in the year.
Q Why did the British decide to reverse the partition of Bengal in 1911? [7] (J2007/Q/2b)
Examiner Comments: In part (b), the question focused on the reasons for the reversal of the partition
of Bengal. For those candidates who had been adequately prepared for the examination, this caused
few problems and many answers from such candidates were accurate and relevant. However, there
were some who ignored the question (why) and proceeded simply to write all they knew about the
origins of Partition, together with the causes and events leading up to its reversal - mainly in
chronological order. As a result, many answers were at best only partially relevant, often failing to
gain a level 3 mark.
Marking Scheme: Explains reasons:
The Hindus’ objection to Partition was so great that it caused the British to reconsider it. Congress
opposed it by holding meetings and there were mass rallies which put pressure on the British
government. They thought it was a deliberate attempt to ‘divide and rule’ on the part of the British.
The Hindus were so angry that they attempted to assassinate Lord Minto and started their boycott of
British goods under the ‘Swadeshi Movement’. There was also an outbreak of terrorist activities.
Further Lord Curzon, originator of the idea, was no longer viceroy so a change of policy was easier.
Q ‘The Morley-Minto reforms were more important than any other political developments between
1909 and 1919’. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer. [14] (N2007/Q/3c)
Examiner Comments: Part (c) depended on candidates’ ability to explain their answers rather than
adopt a narrative approach to their answer. The question focused on the attempts of political
developments to solve the problems in the sub-continent between 1909 and 1919 and required
candidates to explain the importance of these. This type of question does not require a narrative
approach. Candidates must not fall into the trap of describing answers to questions that clearly signal
the need for an explanation since they are only going to be able to achieve level 2 marks when they
should be capable of reaching marks within levels 3 or 4. It does highlight the need for Centres and
their candidates to focus more clearly on explanation rather than description especially with regard to
political reform.
Marking Scheme: The Morley-Minto Reforms became law in 1909 as the Indian Councils Act. The
importance of the Councils which were enlarged was to ensure that Indian legislators were given a
chance to express their opinions. The British also accepted the right of Muslims to have a separate
electorate. However there were other attempts to solve the problems in the sub-continent during
these years. The Lucknow Pact of 1916 was an agreement between the Muslims and Hindus which
placed a number of political demands to the British government in an attempt to show a united front
and produce common aims. Little was done by the British government about the sub-continent during
the First World War but shortly afterwards in 1919 came the Montague-Chelmsford Reforms. These
Reforms disappointed the Muslims and Hindus as they had hoped for greater concessions. Central
government reserved sweeping powers for itself with only minor concessions for the locals. The
Reforms did hold out concessions to political parties provided that they accepted the right of the
British to remain in control. The Rowlatt Act of the same year increased the resentment of the
political parties by including the right of arrest without a warrant and detention without bail.
Q Why did Congress oppose the Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909? [7] (N2008/Q/2b)
Examiner Comments: In part (b), candidates were required to explain why Congress opposed the
Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909. Many responses were good and candidates clearly knew their facts.
However, some candidates struggled to explain the importance of separate electorates and self-rule
to opposition. As a result, many struggled to reach a good Level 3 mark.
Marking Scheme: Explains reasons:
The British intended that the Indians could voice their opinions in the Councils but Congress wanted
more responsibility which the government were not prepared to give. This annoyed many who were
looking towards self-rule. The British accepted the right of Muslims to have separate electorates
which also annoyed some Hindus who saw it as a concession too far. Some Hindus also resented the
relative high position of Muslims in the Councils despite their much smaller numbers.
Examiner Comments:
The question required candidates to explain why the Simla Deputation of 1906 was an important
event for Muslims. This was a well-known topic and few candidates had many problems scoring a
Level 3 mark. However, for some candidates who strayed unnecessarily into details about the
Partition of Bengal and too much detail on the foundation of the Muslim League, marks were harder
to come by. Nevertheless answers were generally good on this question. The Muslim demands for
separate representation, election by only Muslim voters and weightage in all elected bodies were
accepted by the British. This resulted in a sudden upturn in Muslim-British relations and helped to
remove the previous bad feelings between the 2 sides. It also paved the way for demands for a
separate homeland with the granting of a separate electorate. It also guaranteed Muslims an
independent role in the political process and as a result led to the formation of the All-Indian Muslim
League later in the year.
Q ‘The Morley-Minto reforms were more important than any other political developments between
1909 and 1919’. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer. [14] (N2007/Q/3c)
Marking Scheme: The Morley-Minto Reforms became law in 1909 as the Indian Councils Act. The
importance of the Councils which were enlarged was to ensure that Indian legislators were given a
chance to express their opinions. The British also accepted the right of Muslims to have a separate
electorate. However there were other attempts to solve the problems in the sub- continent during
these years. The Lucknow Pact of 1916 was an agreement between the Muslims and Hindus which
placed a number of political demands to the British government in an attempt to show a united front
and produce common aims. Little was done by the British government about the sub-continent during
the First World War but shortly afterwards in 1919 came the Montague-Chelmsford Reforms. These
Reforms disappointed the Muslims and Hindus as they had hoped for greater concessions. Central
government reserved sweeping powers for itself with only minor concessions for the locals. The
Reforms did hold out concessions to political parties provided that they accepted the right of the
British to remain in control. The Rowlatt Act of the same year increased the resentment of the
political parties by including the right of arrest without a warrant and detention without bail.
Q ‘The reasons for partitioning Bengal in 1905 were more important than those that caused its reversal
in 1911.’ Do you agree? Explain your answer. [14] (J2009/Q/3c)
Marking Scheme: Explains BOTH. Also produces a judgement or evaluation.
Partition
Supporters of Partition among the British thought it would be sensible to divide up the province for
administrative convenience. Bengal was very large and producing significant administrative problems.
By doing this, the British felt that the province would be easier to administer, especially at the time of
a new British government in power. Many Muslims supported Partition because they believed that it
would give them dominance in the new province. Of the 54 million people in pre-Partition Bengal, 42
million were Hindus, but a new separate East Bengal would have a Muslim majority.
Reversal
Congress argued that Partition was part of the British ‘divide and rule’ policy which would weaken
India and Indian unity. Major protest (meetings and mass rallies) organised by Congress, supported by
many Hindus, was so great that it caused the British to reconsider it. Many Hindus started a mass
boycott of British goods under the ‘Swadeshi Movement’. A few extreme Hindus adopted terrorist
behaviour and, among other attacks, attempted to assassinate Lord Minto.
Q. Describe the Amritsar Massacre. [4](Specimen 2010/Q/2a)
Marking Scheme: Reward each correct statement with 1 mark. 2 marks can be awarded for a
developed statement. Candidates may refer to: General Dyer, banning of public meetings in the city,
20000 crowd gathered, Jallianwala Bagh/ park, narrow entrances etc., no warning, troops fired on
crowd, the well, high casualties, further measures followed the meeting, response of Dyer.
Q ‘The Muslim League was established in 1906 because the Hindus had their own political party.’ Do
you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer. [14] (J2010/Q/2c)
Marking Scheme: Explains at least two factors including the Hindu party. Also produces a judgement
or evaluation.
The Congress was demanding that India should be treated as a cultural and political whole and Hindi
should be declared the official language. It was seen as an organisation which would only advance
Hindu views. Muslim rights would not be advanced if they continued to rely on the Indian National
Congress. By not organising a Muslim group they would continue to be disorganised and disunited.
They didn’t feel that had the same influence as Congress with the British. Also the Hindus were
beginning to protest against the partition of Bengal and the Muslims saw this as a sign of the
influence the Hindus had and they were worried about their own interests. Even more worrying was
the growth of extreme Hindu nationalist groups who demanded that Muslims be forcibly converted to
Hinduism. Therefore a number of prominent Muslim leaders founded the Muslim League.
Q What was the Swadeshi Movement? [4](N2010/Q/3a)
Marking Scheme:
Candidates might refer to:
A boycott of British goods by the Hindus during the time of the Partition of Bengal (1905–11), British
cloth thrown onto bonfires, wearing of locally produced clothes, series of strikes by Indian workers
especially in Calcutta.
Q. Describe the Rowlatt Act. [4] (J2011/Q/3a)
Marking Scheme: Candidates might refer to:
1919, people could be tried in private by 3 High Court Judges, no right of appeal, people could be
ordered to live in a particular place, stopped from holding meetings or arrested without warrant and
kept in prison without trial, fear of a communist style revolution, Indian protests
Q ‘Partition or reversal?’ Were the reasons why Bengal was partitioned in 1905 more important than
those regarding its reversal in 1911? Explain your answer. [14] (J2011/Q/3c)
Marking Scheme: Explains BOTH. Also produces a judgement or evaluation.
Partition
Of the 54 million people in Bengal, 42 million were Hindus. It seemed sensible to divide up the
province on religious grounds and also because it was becoming very large and producing significant
administrative problems. By doing this it was felt that the province would be easier to administer
especially at the time of a new British government in power. The Muslims believed that partition
would bring an end to Hindu oppression and that they would enjoy true recognition in a province in
which they were in a majority. The Hindus believed that the partition would come about as part of the
British ‘divide and rule’ policy which would weaken Hindu unity and its influence in the new East
Bengal.
Reversal
The Hindus’ objection to Partition was so great that it caused the British to reconsider it. The Hindus
opposed it by holding meetings and mass rallies which put pressure on the British government. They
thought it was a deliberate attempt to ‘divide and rule’ on the part of the British. The Hindus were so
angry that they attempted to assassinate Lord Minto and started their boycott of British goods under
the ‘Swadeshi Movement’. There was also an outbreak of terrorist activities. Part (c) was a well-
known topic and the question on the reasons for the partition and reversal of Bengal was well
answered. Many candidates found little difficulty in explaining the reasons why Bengal was
partitioned in 1905 and then reversed in 1911. Candidates who were able to go into detail and explain
each side achieved a mark in Level 4.
Q ‘The Montague-Chelmsford reforms were more important than any other political developments
between 1909 and 1919.’ Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer. [14] (N2011/Q/3c)
Marking Scheme: Explains at least two factors including MC reforms. Also produces a judgement or
evaluation.
The Morley-Minto Reforms became law in 1909 as the Indian Councils Act. The importance of the
Councils (which were enlarged) was to ensure that Indian legislators were given a chance to express
their opinions. The British also accepted the right of Muslims to have a separate electorate. However,
there were other attempts to solve the problems in the sub- continent during these years. The
Lucknow Pact of 1916 was an agreement between the Muslims and Hindus which placed a number of
political demands to the British government, in an attempt to show a united front and produce
common aims. Little was done by the British government about the sub- continent during the First
World War, but shortly afterwards in 1919 came the Montague- Chelmsford Reforms. These Reforms
disappointed the Muslims and Hindus as they had hoped for greater concessions. Central government
reserved sweeping powers for itself, with only minor concessions for the locals. The Reforms did hold
out concessions to political parties, provided that they accepted the right of the British to remain in
control. The Rowlatt Act of the same year increased the resentment of the political parties by
including the right of arrest without a warrant and detention without bail.
Q What was the Lucknow Pact? [4](J2012/Q2a)
Marking Scheme:
(Dec) 1916, Congress agreed to concessions with ML – right to separate electorates, one third of seats
in Councils. Both wanted more seats in Councils, protection of Minorities, provinces to have
autonomy, proposals to be binding on British. First time joint agreement, C accepted some form of
partition needed, HR seemed a possibility and ML realised they needed to work with C.
Q .Explain why the Lucknow Pact of 1916 came about? [7] (J2013/Q3b)
Marking Scheme:
The Muslims and Hindus wanted to work together on constitutional reform. The Muslim League and
the Congress agreed to co-operate to persuade the British government to accept their demands. The
Lucknow Pact was an agreement on a scheme of constitutional reforms reached between Congress
and the Muslim League. Both realised that co-operation was the only way to get the British
government to agree to self-rule. For the first time Hindus acknowledged that Muslims had the right
to a separate electorate and was therefore seen as a beacon of hope for the future. They believed
that by holding the sessions of both the Congress and the Muslim League in one place, feelings of
goodwill and friendship would be generated between the two communities.
Q. Was the need for their own political party the most important reason why the Muslim League was
established in 1906? Explain your answer. [14] (N2013Q2c)
Marking Scheme:
Muslims were increasingly aware that their political rights would not be advanced if they continued to
rely on the Indian National Congress. By not organising a Muslim group they would continue to be
disorganised and disunited. It was also set up because of the growth of a better understanding
between the British and Muslims that was reflected in the Simla Declaration in 1905. In 1905 a new
Liberal government had taken office that seemed likely to make changes in political representation
and Muslims felt that they needed their own political party. The Congress was demanding that India
should be treated as a cultural and political whole and Hindi should be declared the official language.
It was seen as an organisation which would only advance Hindu views. They did not feel that had the
same influence as Congress with the British. Also the Hindus were beginning to protest against the
partition of Bengal and the Muslims saw this as a sign of the influence the Hindus had and they were
worried about their own interests. Even more worrying was the growth of extreme Hindu nationalist
groups who demanded that Muslims be forcibly converted to Hinduism. Therefore a number of
prominent Muslim leaders founded the Muslim League.
Q. Describe what happened at Lucknow in 1916. [4] [N/2016/Q3 (a)]
Congress agreed to concessions with Muslim League – right to separate electorates,1/3 of seats in
Councils. Both wanted more seats in Councils, protection of minorities, provinces to have autonomy,
proposals to be binding on British. First time joint agreement, Congress accepted some form of
partition needed, Home Rule seemed a possibility and Muslim League realised they needed to work
with Congress.
Q. Was the partition of Bengal the main reason for the formation of the Muslim League in 1906? Give
reasons for your answer.[14] [N/2016/Q3(c)]
Partition of Bengal
Hindus protested against the partition of Bengal - Muslims saw this as a sign of the influence the
Hindus had over the British. The Muslims started to think about their own survival and political
Representation. Muslims were also increasingly aware that their political rights would not be
advanced if they continued to rely on the Indian National Congress. By not organizing a Muslim group
they would continue to be disorganised and disunited over the partition.
Other reasons
The growth of a better understanding between the British and Muslims that was reflected in the Simla
Declaration in 1905.In 1905, a new Liberal government had taken office that seemed likely to make
changes in political representation, so Muslims felt that they needed their own political party. The
Congress was seen as an organisation which would only advance Hindu views as it demanded that
India should be treated as a cultural and political whole and Hindi should be declared the official
language. They did not feel they had the same influence as Congress with the British. The growth of
extreme Hindu nationalist groups which demanded that Muslims be forcibly converted to Hinduism.
LEVEL 5: As Level 4 – also produces a judgement or evaluation [14]
Q Explain why the Muslim community felt it necessary to form their own political party in 1906. [7]
[May/June 2018 3(b)]
Level 3: Explains reasons 5–7
(Five marks for one explanation, six marks for two explanations, seven marks
e.g. • They felt that Muslim rights would not be advanced if they continued to
rely on the Indian National Congress (Congress) which was seen as an
organisation that promoted views of the Hindu community.
• Congress was demanding that India should be treated as a cultural whole
and Hindi should be declared the official language.
• Congress opposed the Partition of Bengal and the Muslim community
realised that Hindus would achieve its reversal, so wanted their own
political party to safeguard their interests as Congress was not doing this.
• The growth of Hindu nationalist groups demanding that Muslims be
forcibly converted to Hinduism.
• The Simla Agreement showed that Muslims were a separate community
and needed their own political party.
Question
SOURCE A
The Defence of India Act 1915
The Defence of India Act came into force in 1915 for the duration of the First World War and for six
months after it. The Act gave the Governor General special powers to ensure the safety of the people
and the defence of the British Empire in India. Public servants were given powers to uphold the law.
Violation of the Act was punishable with fines, prison sentences of up to seven years and death for
offences considered to be terrorism or plotting against the British Government.
From a website on the history of India
Q According to Source A, what reasons are suggested for the introduction of the Defence of India Act in
1915? [3] (October/November 2018/1a)
Level 1: One mark for each correct statement identified from the source; allow a second mark for a
developed statement from the source 1–3
e.g. (October/November 2018/3a)
• To secure safety of population
• To uphold the law
• To punish violations of the law
• Defence of British Empire in India
• To deter plots / conspiracies against British government
SOURCE B
An entrance to Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar

A photograph of an entrance to Jallianwala Bagh, which is largely unchanged since 1919

Q How does Source B help us to understand what happened at Jallianwala Bagh in 1919?[ 5]
[October/November 2018 (1b)]
Level 3: Inference(s) supported by detail from the source and/or contextual knowledge 4–5 (Four
marks for one supported valid inference, five marks for two or more supported valid inferences)
e.g. • There would have been a panic when Dyer and his troops opened fire on 13 April 1919 • With
thousands of people in the park, there would have been a rush to get out, but the narrow entrance
shown in the source would hem people in • It would have been a crush, a stampede, and the high
walls shown in the source would have added to the panic • Many would have been killed because of
the narrow alleyway shown in the source.
Q Why was India not granted self-rule by Britain in 1919? [7] [October/November 2018 (1c)]
Level 3: Explains reasons 5–7
(Five marks for one explanation, six marks for two explanations, seven marks for three explanations)
e.g. • Britain was severely weakened after WW1, especially economically. All colonial nations were
facing demands from their colonies for independence in one form or another, and Britain viewed
India as the jewel of the Empire. • Britain’s standing as a world power would be weakened if it gave in
to Indian demands. • Strategically, India was important for the British navy and British influence in the
region. Therefore the British were reluctant to give in to Indian demands • There were many
thousands of British people living in India who could not be abandoned. The British government did
not want to lose these businessmen, missionaries and civil servants.
Q. Which of the following had the most important effect on the Pakistan Movement between 1909 and
1919? [10] [October/November 2018 (1c)]
(i) the Morley-Minto reforms, 1909
(ii) the reversal of the partition of Bengal, 1911
(iii) the Lucknow Pact, 1916
Explain your answer with reference to all three above.Level 5: Explains and makes judgement /
evaluation 10(As top of Level 4 plus judgement / evaluation)
• Morley-Minto Reforms became law in 1909 as the Indian Councils Act. The importance of the
Councils, which were enlarged, was to ensure that Indian legislators were given a chance to express
their opinions. The British also accepted the right of the Muslim community to have a separate
electorate • The Hindu community reacted to the Partition of Bengal with protests. The decision by
the British to reverse the partition was seen as a victory by the Hindu community, but as betrayal by
the Muslim community who now realised how important it was to ensure the success of the Muslim
League for the Muslim community to prosper in India. They felt they could no longer rely on either
Congress or the British to protect their interests. • The Lucknow Pact of 1916 was an agreement
between the Muslim and Hindu communities, which presented a number of political demands to the
British government to show a united front and produce common aims. For the first time, the Hindu
community acknowledged that the Muslim community had the right to a separate electorate and the
Lucknow Pact was seen as a promise of hope for the future.
Q What was the Communal Award? [4] (October/November 2018/3a)
Level 1: One mark for each relevant point, two marks for a developed statement 1–4 e.g.
1932. Announced by Ramsey MacDonald after the Second Round Table Conference Right of separate
electorate recognised for all minorities. Principle of weightage applied. Unpopular with the Muslim
community as it reduced their majority in Punjab and Bengal. The Muslim community accepted it.
Congress rejected it. Gandhi protested by fasting. Untouchables were recognised as a mainstream
member of Hindu society.
Question
Q Explain how the British reacted to Hindu-led protests against the Partition of Bengal between 1906
and 1908. [7] (October/November 2018/3b)
5–7 (Five marks for one explanation, six marks for two explanations, seven marks for three
explanations)
Newspapers and public meetings had restrictions placed upon them and editors of newspapers /
journalists were prosecuted and imprisoned. The Press Act of 1908 placed further restrictions on
newspapers and gave the government greater control over them. One organiser of Hindu-led
demonstrations, Tilak of Poona was sentenced to 6 years imprisonment. Others were deported or left
the country of their own accord rather than face imprisonment. Another approach intended to win
support of the more moderate Hindus by making reforms. Lord Minto the Viceroy worked with John
Morley, the Secretary of State for India, on reforms that became the Morley Minto reforms in 1909.
Q Was the Simla Deputation of 1906 the most important reason for the formation of the Muslim
League later that same year? Explain your answer. [14] (October/November 2019 3/c)
e.g. Simla Deputation
The acceptance of demands from Muslim groups proved that there was a better understanding
between the British and the Muslim community as a result of the work of leaders like Sir Syed Ahmed
Khan;
• Many Muslims now recognised that they were a separate community who should be treated
differently to Hindu groups. Other reasons
• In 1905 a new Liberal government had taken office that seemed likely to make changes in political
representation. Thus the Muslim community felt they needed their own political party to protect their
own interests;
• Congress was demanding that India should be treated as a cultural and political whole
and Hindi should be declared the official language and therefore was seen by Muslim groups as an
organisation which would primarily advance the views of the Hindu community leading Muslim
groups to conclude that their own political party was needed;
• The growth of Hindu nationalist groups demanding that Muslims be forcibly converted to Hinduism
led to a number of prominent Muslim leaders founding the Muslim League as a means of promoting
and safeguarding Muslim identity;
• When the Hindu community started to protest against the partition of Bengal, Muslim groups saw
this as a sign of Hindu influence and became concerned about their own interests – and began to
consider their own survival and political representation;
• The Muslim community became increasingly concerned that their political rights would not be
advanced if they continued to rely on the Indian National Congress and that by organising a single
Muslim political group they would be organised and united.
Level 5: Explains with evaluation 14 (As top of Level 4 plus judgement / evaluation)
Q Who was General Dyer? [4] (May/June 2020/3a)
Level 1: One mark for each relevant point, two marks for a developed statement. 1–4
e.g.
• A British commander;
• Following demonstrations in Amritsar [1], in early 1919 [1], he moved troops there to restore order
following riots [1];
• On April 13th [1] he ordered the troops to confront a peaceful gathering of thousands of people [1]
in the Jallianwala Bagh/public park [1]
• The troops opened fire killing many people;
• Dyer was later removed from command because of his cruel actions.
Q How successful was the 1905 Partition of Bengal? Explain your answer. [14] [May/June 2020 3(c)]
Successes
•Largest province in India. 54 million people were Hindu, out of a population of 84 million. The
province had become too large and complex for the British to govern;
• Two smaller provinces were more efficient for the British to administer;
• The Muslim community were pleased. After partition they were fully recognised in East Bengal
province where they were the majority;
• The separation of Bengal along religious lines ended the oppression of Muslims under Hindu rule.
Lack of success
• Bengali Hindu groups objected. They believed that the partition was a deliberate British policy to
‘divide and rule’. Hindus believed that partition would weaken Hindu unity and influence in East
Bengal;
• Many Hindus protested. The Hindu’s demands put pressure on the British government to reverse
their decision.
• There was also an attempted assassination of Lord Minto.
• British goods were boycotted under the ‘Swadeshi Movement’ which ultimately succeeded.
Level 5: Explains with evaluation 14 (As top of Level 4 plus judgement / evaluation)
SOURCE A
We must say that today, behind the ranks of one of the finest armies in the world, there are millions
of Indian people, ready to cooperate with the British government in defence of an Empire to which
we are proud to belong. In the presence of a common enemy, be it Germany or anyone else, we set
aside our differences. India has always been loyal. Our future development in terms of prosperity and
the recognition of our rights as citizens depends on our loyalty now in Britain’s hour of need. Adapted
from an editorial in the Calcutta Bengali newspaper commenting on India’s entry into the First World
War, 1914
According to Source A, what were the reasons for India supporting Britain in the First World War?
• ‘in defence of an Empire’
• to fight ‘a common enemy’
• ‘India has always been loyal’
• India’s ‘future development in terms of prosperity’
• India’s recognition of ‘our rights as citizens’ One mark for each relevant statement correctly
identified from the source. Note: candidates may paraphrase but content must be derived from the
bullet point statements above.
SOURCE B
A vintage postcard celebrating the coronation of King George V and Queen Mary in Delhi, 1911
Q What can we learn from Source B about the British presence in India at this time? [5] [May/June 2021
-1(b)]
1(b) Indicative content Surface feature
• there is a ceremony/coronation taking place
• there are many soldiers there
• there are some buildings
• the soldiers are standing to attention/on parade
• the soldiers are organised into rows
• the soldiers have guns
• A crowd of people (civilians) are watching the ceremony Valid inference
• it looks like an important occasion/ceremony
• it looks like a formal/organised event
• it looks like Indian soldiers are showing loyalty to the monarchy
• it shows the British presence in India was powerful
• Indian people wanted to be part of the occasion Contextual knowledge
• the King and Queen are the new Emperor and Empress of India
• the British had a large army in India
• there were a large number of Indians in the British army in India
• it was the first imperial coronation to take place on Indian soil
Other relevant responses should also be credited.
Q Explain the importance of the Lucknow Pact of 1916. [4] [May/June 2021 -1c]
Target: AO1, AO2 Mark according to the level of response descriptors in Table 1
. Indicative content
• a pact was made between the Muslim League and Congress
• Muslim League and Congress hoped that self-government was possible
• the Muslim League saw the benefit of working with Congress
• the Muslim League and Congress were working together for the first time
• they never co-operated again
• Congress accepted the principle of separate electorates for the Muslim community Other relevant
responses should also be credited.
May agree
that India had benefitted by the early 1920s from supporting the British in the First World War
because:
• in 1917 India was told it would be given a greater say in government
• a report in 1918 suggested that India might have self-government
• the Government of India Act 1919 announced separate electorates counter-arguments might
include:
• the 1919 Act retained most of the power in India in British hands
• minority groups were not given separate electorates
• the Rowlatt Act of 1919 was very restrictive on Indian peoples lives Other relevant responses