Akbar: History Optional PYQs

Akbar Conquests and consolidation of Empire

Establishment of Jagir and Mansab systems; Rajput policy;

Evolution of religious and social outlook, theory of Sulh-i-kul and religious policy;

Court patronage of art and technology

History Optional PYQs: Akbar [1985-2024]

1. Bringout the main features of the MANSAB and JAGIR systems with special reference to the reign of Akbar. (1987)
2. ‘In medieval Indian history Akbar is unique for his religiopolitical ideas and policies.’ Discuss the statement and compare Akbar with Sher Shah in regard to their administrative policies and revenue administration. (1990)
3. Analyse the merits and demerits of the Mansabdari System. How did it work under Akbar’s successors? (1993)
4. Highlight the catholicity of Akbar’s regime with suitable examples. (1997)
5. Write brief essay-Rana Pratap’s patriotism was his only offence. (1999)
6. Write brief essay on Mansabdari System. (2002)
7. Trace the evolution of the religious views of Akbar. Write a note on his policy of Sulh-i-kul. (2002)
8. Write brief essay: Was Din-i-Ilahi ‘a monument of Akbar’s folly’? (2004)
9. Write brief essay on Religious Tolerance of Akbar. (2006)
10. Write short essay on Implications of Akbar’s notions of Sulh-i-kul. (2009)
11. Give an estimate of Akbar as a promoter of technology. (2009)
12. Examine the mansab and jagir system by Akbar and its subsequent failure in the 18th century. (2011)
13. Analyze how the political process of state formation of Mewar from 10th-15^th century CE was challenged in the 16^th century CE by imperialist policy of Akbar. (2013)
14. “In medieval Indian history Akbar was unique for his religio – political ideas and policies.” Analyse this statement. (2015)
15. Do you think that akbar’s Rajput policy was a conscious attempt to incorporate the Indian ruling elite with the Mughal Imperial System? (2017)
16. “Akbar wished to assert his strong belief in God, but his concept of the way God is to be worshipped was independent of either orthodox Islam or Hinduism”. Comment. (2018)
17. Critically analyse whether the success of the Mughals is to be credited to their robust Jagirdari and Mansabdari system. (2019)
18. Discuss with relevant illustrations the relations between Akbar and the Rajput states. (2021)
19. Examine the nature of the Mansabdari system during the reign of Akbar. (2022)
20. “Instead of bringing credit, the Ibadat Khana brought growing discredit to Akbar.” Comment. (2024)