The Thirteenth Century: History Optional PYQs

Establishment of the Delhi Sultanate: The Ghurlan Invasions — factors behind Ghurlan success;

Economic, social and cultural consequences;

Foundation of Delhi Sultanate and early Turkish Sultans;

Consolidation: The rule of Iltutmlsh and Balban

PYQs: The Thirteenth Century [1985-2025]

History Optional Notes {PDF}

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1. What were the problems Balban faced? How far did he succeed in solving them? Was he a trend-setter in his theory of kingship? (1985)
2. Comment in about 200 words: Balban’s theory of kingship. (1995)
3. Give an estimate of Ghiasuddin Balban. (1996)
4. “The inferior cavalry of the Rajputs was not the only cause of their defeat at the hands of Turko-Afghans and Mughals.” Comment. (2001)
5. Write brief essay on The ‘Corps of Forty’ and its relations with the Sultans. (2004)
6. Write short essay on The ‘Corps of Forty’ and its relations with the Sultan. (2008)
7. Assess the contribution of Iltutmish for the expansion and consolidation of the Delhi Sultanate. (2011)
8. Analyze the steps taken by Razia Sultan to strengthen her position as an independent ruler despite the various obstacles. (2013)
9. What measures did Balban adopt to combat the Mongol menace? (2015)
10. Critically examine the ‘blood and iron’ policy of Balban. (150 words) (2017)
11. “The battles of Tarain and Chanawar laid the foundations of Turkish rule in India”. Elaborate. (2018)
12. Internal strife and conflict beset with personal ambitions was enough of an invitation for the Ghurids to invade India. Discuss. (2019)
13. Assess the causes of the defeat of Northern Indian States against the Turkish invasion. (2020)
14. Do you consider Sultan Iltutmish to be the real founder of the Delhi Sultanate? Discuss, (in about 150 words) (2021)
15. Discuss the importance of Iqta system. How did it help in centralization of administration of the Delhi Sultanate? (2021)
16. Much of the political instability after the death of Iltutmish was the doing of the Chahalgan. Elucidate. (2022)
17. Why did Balban prefer ‘consolidation over ‘expansion’ of the Delhi Sultanate? (2023)