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CBSE Important Questions for Class 8 Social Science The Making of the National Movement: 1870s - 1947 - 2025-26

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The Making of the National Movement: 1870s - 1947 Class 8 Extra Questions and Answers Free PDF Download

Dive into the historical tapestry of India with essential questions for CBSE Class 8 Social Science, Our Past 3, Chapter 8 - "The Making of the National Movement: 1870s-1947." This chapter meticulously unfolds pivotal events and influences that shaped India's National Movement during the years 1870 to 1947. The important questions provided serve as a guide to explore the dynamic journey of the movement, examining key figures, events, and factors that played a central role in India's path toward independence. Download the FREE PDF to deepen your understanding and navigate through the transformative phases of India's National Movement.

Study Important Questions for Class 8 Social Science Chapter 8 – The Making of the National Movement 1870s - 1947

Very Short Answer Questions: (1 Marks)

1. Fill in the Blanks: 

(i) ______ authored the book Poverty and Un-British Rule. 

(ii) ______ used to edit the Marathi newspaper. 

(iii) In August____ , the quit India movement started. 

(iv) The ______leaders did not believe in extreme actions.

Ans: 

(i) Dadabhai Naoroji 

(ii) Bal Gangadhar tilak 

(iii) 1942 

(iv) Moderate


2. State True and False.

(i) The Simon commission had two Indian representatives. 

(ii) Subhash Chandra Bose was not a moderate leader. 

(iii) After the partition of Bengal the swadeshi movement started. 

(iv) The Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place in Amritsar.

Ans: 

(i) False 

(ii) True 

(iii) True 

(iv) True


3. Match the Following:

(i) Rowalatt act

1906

(ii) Simon Commission

1930

(iii) Civil disobedience movement

1927

(iv) All India Muslim League

1919


Ans: 

(i) 1919 

(ii) 1927 

(iii) 1930 

(iv) 1906


4. Choose the Correct Option. 

(i) ______ was the free India‟s first governor general. 

(a) Motilal Nehru 

(b) Lala Lajpat Rai 

(c) C. Rajagopalchari 

(d) Sardar Ballabbhai Patel 

(ii) ________ became the first woman president of Indian National Congress. 

(a) Sarojini Naidu 

(b) Kamla Nehru 

(c) Kasturba Gandhi 

(d) None of the above 

Ans: 

(i) C. Rajgopalachari 

(ii) Sarojini Naidu 


5. Define the Following 

(i) Sovereign 

(ii) Sarvajanik 

Ans: 

(i) Sovereignty is the ability to act autonomously without interference from others.

(ii) Sarvajanik is a Hindi word that translates as "of or for the people”.


Short Answer Questions: (2 Marks)

6. What was the demand of Muslim League in 1940? 

Ans: The Muslim League resolution of 1940 called for the establishment of autonomous nations for Muslims in the country's northwestern and eastern regions. 


7. What was the misconception in the mind of the leaders of the Congress during British India? 

Ans: Since the British valued justice and freedom, the leaders of the Congress believed that they would accept the Indians' demands. 


8. Who were called “Lal-Bal-Pal”? 

Ans: For revolution against the British, Lala Lajpat Rai, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and Bepin Chandra Pal were dubbed “Lal-Bal-Pal.”


9. When did the Non-Cooperation movement strengthen? 

Ans: Between 1921 and 1922, the Non-Cooperation Movement gained traction in several sections of India. Many Indians abandoned their schools and careers to join the liberation struggle. 


10. Who was A.O.Hume? What was his role in the history of India? 

Ans: A.O.Hume was a British administrator who gathered Indians from various locations together.


Short Answer Questions: (3 Marks)

11. When did the British start to accept the demand of the Indians? 

Ans: In the 1937 elections, the Congress won in seven of the eleven provinces. This occurred in the wake of the "Quit India" agitation, which resulted in the British gradually conceding the Indians' quest for freedom.


12. Discuss the demands of the Congress when it was newly formed. 

Ans: The following were the Congress's demands:

1. Congress requested a more prominent role in administration and governing.

2. Congress asked that the judiciary and the executive be separated.

3. They wanted a reduction in the military budget as well as increased funding for irrigation.

4. Congress demanded that revenue be decreased. 


13. Why did the British divide Bengal? 

Ans: Bengal was a relatively large state prior to its breakup. It included parts of Bihar and Orissa. The British split Bengal in order to improve administration. In general, the division of Bengal was solely for the benefit of industrialists and the administration. Another key reason for dividing Bengal was that the British wished to divide its politicians and people. 


14. What was the demand of Muslim League? 

Ans: The Muslim League resolution of 1940 called for the establishment of autonomous nations for Muslims in the country's northwestern and eastern regions. They were afraid of being oppressed by the Hindus. This resulted in a societal schism between Hindus and Muslims. 


15. What was the idea of the Indian National Congress? 

Ans: The Indian National Congress wanted to advocate for equal rights for all Indians without regard to class, caste, creed, colour, gender, or language. They thought that India and its resources did not belong to anyone class or society, but rather to all of India's communities.


Long Answer Questions: (5 Marks)

16. What was the impact of the First World War on Indians? 

Ans: The First World War had a significant impact on India's economic and political environment. This time saw a significant increase as a result of the Government of India's increased defense spending, which resulted in higher taxes on individuals and corporations. The rising commodity prices have made life difficult for the average person. As a result of the war, demand for industrial items increased, resulting in a further decrease in European goods shipped into India. As a result, Indian industries were able to boost their output. 


17. How can you say that the leaders of the Congress were moderates? Express your views. 

Ans: Congress was moderate in its procedures and goals following its establishment and throughout the next twenty years. Moderate leaders included Dadabhai Naoroji, W.C.Bonnerjee, Romesh Chandra Dutt, and S. Subramania Iyer. In their fight against the British, they chose nonviolence. These politicians aimed to raise public awareness about the inequitable nature of British rule. They accomplished this by establishing newspapers and writing articles that illustrated how British control was harming the Indian economy. They believed that because the British respected justice and freedom, they would accept the Indians' demands. As a result, they felt compelled to express their demands in order to make the administration aware of the Indian attitude. 


18. How did the moderates and radicals have different thoughts for the British? Explain. 

Ans: In various areas, the Radicals' politics in Congress differed from those of the Moderates. The Moderates were chastised by the Radicals for being too nice to the British by opting for nonviolence. They insisted on fighting for freedom by unconventional means. Maharashtra, Bengal, and Punjab were hotbeds of the radical movement. Before Gandhi entered politics, leaders such as Lala Lajpat Rai, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and Bepin Chandra Pal were dubbed "Lal Bal Pal" for their resistance to the British. They were adamant that the people should rely on their own power rather than the good intentions of the British. 


19. Discuss the role of Mahatma Gandhi in the eyes of people during the freedom struggle. 

Ans: Mahatma Gandhi was viewed as a rescuer with the capacity to liberate India from British rule and to assist the people in overcoming poverty and sorrow. The peasants also expected Gandhiji to help them in their revolt against the zamindars. The peasants of Pratapgarh were tremendously inspired by Gandhiji because they believed he was the one who put an end to the illegal deportation of tenants. As a result, Gandhiji was seen as a potent icon in their quest for independence. 


20. Why were the people dissatisfied with British rule? 

Ans: People were dissatisfied with British rule for a variety of reasons in the 1870s and 1880s, some of which are as follows:

1. The Arms Act of 1878 prohibited Indians from possessing firearms.

2. The Vernacular Press Act of 1878 authorized the government to seize any newspaper's assets, including printing facilities if they published anything "objectionable”. 

In 1883, the government attempted to establish the Ilbert Bill, which would have permitted Indians to try British or European citizens. However, whites opposed the Bill and demanded that the government rescind it.


What are the Benefits of Important Questions from Vedantu for Class 8 Social Chapter 8 - The Making of the National Movement: 1870s -1947

As you dive into Class 8 Social Studies and explore Chapter 8 - "The Making of the National Movement: 1870s-1947," Vedantu's Important Questions are here to make your learning experience easier. This brief introduction highlights the benefits of using these questions, helping you understand the historical events in a simple and effective way. Let's discover how Vedantu's Important Questions can enhance your grasp of this essential chapter.


  • Focus on key topics for efficient studying.

  • Prepares students for exams and reduces anxiety.

  • Reinforces understanding of fundamental concepts.

  • Teaches effective time management.

  • Enables self-assessment and progress tracking.

  • Strategic approach for higher scores.

  • Covers a wide range of topics for comprehensive understanding.

  • Supports exam preparation and boosts confidence.


Conclusion

The Making of the National Movement: 1870s -1947 is an integral part of Class 8 Chapter 8 - The Making of the National Movement: 1870s -1947 and plays a crucial role from an examination perspective. The important questions for Class 8 Social, as discussed by NCERT, cover a wide range of topics within the subject. They also provide a concise guide to critical points and details related to the topic.


A solid understanding of each section of Class 8 Social is fundamental as it forms the basis for higher-level studies. However, this section primarily focuses on important questions within the context of Class 8 Social.


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FAQs on CBSE Important Questions for Class 8 Social Science The Making of the National Movement: 1870s - 1947 - 2025-26

1. What were the key factors that led to the rise of nationalism in India after the 1870s, as per the CBSE Class 8 syllabus?

Several factors contributed to the rise of nationalism in India. Key among them were:

  • Political and Administrative Unification: British rule brought the entire country under a single administration, which created a sense of oneness.

  • Economic Exploitation: British policies drained India's wealth, leading to widespread discontent among peasants, artisans, and the working class.

  • Introduction of Western Education: Access to Western ideas of liberty, equality, and democracy inspired Indian intellectuals to demand self-rule.

  • Controversial Laws: The implementation of repressive laws like the Arms Act (1878) and the Vernacular Press Act (1878) created a strong feeling of being oppressed and united people against the British.

2. Who were the 'Moderates' in the early phase of the Indian National Congress? What kind of methods did they use to struggle against British rule?

The 'Moderates' were the early leaders of the Indian National Congress during its first twenty years (1885-1905). Prominent leaders included Dadabhai Naoroji, Pherozeshah Mehta, and Surendranath Banerjea. Their method of struggle was non-confrontational and often called 'petition politics'. They believed in demanding reforms through:

  • Writing articles and speeches to raise public awareness about the unjust nature of British rule.

  • Sending petitions and resolutions to the British government, hoping to persuade them to introduce reforms.

  • Demanding greater representation for Indians in the legislative councils and civil services.

3. How were the methods of the 'Radicals' different from the 'Moderates'? Why is this an important question for exams?

The methods of the 'Radicals' (or Extremists) were fundamentally different from the Moderates. This is a frequently asked comparative question in exams. The key differences are:

  • Goal: While Moderates aimed for gradual reforms within the British framework, Radicals, led by figures like Lala Lajpat Rai, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and Bipin Chandra Pal, demanded 'Swaraj' or complete self-rule.

  • Method: Instead of petitions, Radicals advocated for mass mobilisation, strikes, and the boycott of British institutions and goods.

  • Philosophy: Radicals emphasised self-reliance, national pride, and constructive work, a contrast to the Moderates' faith in British justice. Understanding this contrast is crucial for long-answer questions.

4. What was the significance of the Partition of Bengal in 1905 for the national movement?

The Partition of Bengal in 1905, ordered by Viceroy Curzon, was a major turning point in the Indian national movement. Its significance lies in the fact that it sparked widespread protests and led to the Swadeshi Movement. The official reason given was administrative convenience, but the real motive was to divide Hindus and Muslims and weaken the nationalist hub of Bengal. This act enraged Indians and led to the adoption of radical methods like boycott and mass protests on a large scale for the first time.

5. What were the main objectives of the Khilafat and Non-Cooperation Movements?

The Khilafat and Non-Cooperation Movements (1920-22) were combined under Mahatma Gandhi's leadership with twin objectives. This is an important topic for 3-mark questions. The goals were:

  • Khilafat Issue: To protest against the harsh treaty imposed on the Turkish Sultan (or Khalifa), who was considered the spiritual head of Muslims worldwide, after World War I.

  • Indian Issues: To protest against the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and the repressive Rowlatt Act, and to work towards achieving Swaraj (self-rule).

The movement aimed to boycott all British goods, institutions, and government posts to bring the administration to a halt.

6. Beyond just breaking the salt law, what was the symbolic importance of the Dandi March (1930)?

The Dandi March was symbolically powerful and went far beyond the act of illegally making salt. Its deeper importance, a key concept for HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills) questions, was:

  • Challenge to British Authority: Salt was a basic necessity, and the state monopoly over it showed the most oppressive face of British rule. By breaking the salt law, Gandhiji challenged the legitimacy of the entire British government in a simple, relatable way.

  • Mass Mobilisation: It was a universally understandable issue that united people from all classes, religions, and regions, including a large number of women, in a common cause.

  • Global Attention: The march drew significant international media attention, highlighting the non-violent nature of India's freedom struggle to the world.

7. What was the 'Quit India Movement' and why is it considered a decisive phase of the freedom struggle?

Launched by Mahatma Gandhi in August 1942, the Quit India Movement was a mass civil disobedience movement demanding an end to British rule in India. Gandhi gave the famous call of 'Do or Die'. It is considered a decisive phase because:

  • It was a spontaneous mass uprising where people themselves took the lead after all major Congress leaders were arrested.

  • The movement severely weakened the British administration and made it clear that they could not govern India without the consent of its people.

  • It laid the final groundwork for India's independence, as the British realised their hold on India was no longer tenable after World War II.

8. For the 2025-26 exams, what types of important questions can be expected from the topic of 'The Advent of Mahatma Gandhi' in this chapter?

From the section on the advent and impact of Mahatma Gandhi, students should prepare for various question types for the 2025-26 exams:

  • 1-Mark Questions (MCQ/Fill-ups): The year Gandhi returned to India (1915), the location of his first Satyagraha movements (Champaran, Kheda, Ahmedabad).

  • 3-Mark Questions (Short Answer): Explain the cause and consequence of the Rowlatt Satyagraha. Why was the Khilafat Movement started?

  • 5-Mark Questions (Long Answer): Describe the causes, methods, and impact of the Non-Cooperation Movement. Analyse the role of Gandhi in transforming the national movement into a mass struggle.