CBSE Important Questions for Class 10 Social Science History The Rise of Nationalism in Europe - 2025-26

1. Who was given the power to vote in revolutionary France?

a) Only men and women who owned property

b) All men

c) All men and women

d) Only men who owned property

Ans:  

b) All Men

2. What day did the Bastille get demolished?

a) 17 July 1790

b) 9 June 1789

c) 14 July 1789

d) 14 May 1786

Ans: 

c) 14 July 1789

3. What was the year when the British Monarchy was overthrown by the English Parliament?

a)1866

b)1789

c)1512

d)1688

Ans: 

d) 1688

4. List the characteristics of a country as Renan perceives them. Why are nations important, in his opinion?

Ans: 

• Ernest Renan, a 19th-century French philosopher, believed that a nation is formed through a shared history, collective will to live together, cultural unity, and mutual sacrifice.

• He emphasized that nations are important because they foster social cohesion, preserve cultural identity, ensure political stability, and enable collective development.

• For Renan, the essence of a nation lies in the shared experiences and common aspirations of its people, making it an important entity for maintaining unity and achieving common goals.

5. What values did Liberal Nationalism uphold?

Ans: 

• Liberal Nationalism stood for the promotion of individual freedoms, equality before the law, and democratic governance. 

• It advocated for the sovereignty of the people, constitutional rule, and the protection of civil rights. 

• Economically, it supported free markets and the removal of trade barriers. Culturally, Liberal Nationalism emphasized the importance of a shared national identity and the right of nations to self-determination. 

• It sought to unify people with common linguistic, cultural, and historical backgrounds into independent nation-states, aiming to create a more just and equitable society.

6. Explain the political goals that List intends to accomplish by economic sanctions.

Ans: 

• Friedrich List, a 19th-century German economist, aimed to achieve several political ends through economic measures. He believed in the importance of developing a strong national economy to ensure political independence and power. 

• By promoting Industrialisation and protecting domestic industries through tariffs, List hoped to reduce dependency on foreign goods and strengthen the nation's economic self-sufficiency. 

• This economic strength would, in turn, enhance national unity, increase political stability, and elevate the nation's status on the global stage.

• Ultimately, List saw economic development as a means to achieve national prosperity, political sovereignty, and a robust, unified state capable of competing with other powerful nations.

7. Talk about the role that language and popular culture play in forming a country's identity.

Ans: 

• Language and popular traditions play an important role in the creation of national identity. Language serves as a powerful tool for communication and cultural expression, uniting people by enabling them to share ideas, literature, and historical narratives.

• It fosters a sense of belonging and common understanding among individuals. Popular traditions, such as festivals, folklore, and customs, reinforce this bond by celebrating shared practices and values.

• These traditions help preserve a community's heritage and pass it down through generations. Together, language and popular traditions create a collective identity, giving people a sense of pride and connection to their nation.

• They are essential for building and maintaining the cultural and social fabric that defines a national identity.

8. Explain what led to the rebellion of the Silesian weavers. Remark on the journalist's point of view

Ans: 

• The Silesian weavers' uprising of 1844 happened because the weavers were suffering from very low wages and harsh working conditions due to increased competition and mechanization. They asked for fair pay and better conditions but were ignored, leading them to revolt.

• A journalist covering the event sympathized with the weavers, describing their difficult situation and the desperation that led to the uprising.

• The report highlighted the unfair treatment and poor conditions faced by the weavers, aiming to draw attention to the need for reforms and better treatment of workers.

9. In Europe during the 19th century, what factors were thought to be impeding the development of the new commercial classes and economic exchange?

Ans: 

• Multiple Currencies: Different regions used various currencies, complicating trade and transactions.

• Customs Barriers: Numerous customs duties and tolls between regions made it costly and time-consuming to transport goods.

• Diverse Laws and Regulations: Varying local laws and regulations across regions hindered uniform business practices.

• Poor Infrastructure: Inadequate roads, canals, and railways limited efficient transportation and communication.

• Political Fragmentation: The presence of many small, independent states with their policies created a fragmented market.

• Lack of Standardization: Differences in weights, measures, and standards made trade more complex.

10. How would women's equality and liberty be defined?

Ans: 

• Liberty and equality for women in the 19th century were defined by the pursuit of several key rights. Women sought access to education to empower themselves and gain independence.

• The right to vote was important for political participation and having a voice in governance.

• Equal employment opportunities and equal pay for equal work were essential for economic independence.

• Property rights allowed women to own, inherit, and manage assets independently. Additionally, equal legal rights in matters of marriage, divorce, and custody were vital for ensuring justice and fairness.

• These principles aimed to provide women with the same freedoms and opportunities as men, promoting their full participation in society.

11. Describe the French Revolutionaries' primary goal.

Ans: 

• The main aim of the French Revolutionaries was to overthrow the absolute monarchy and establish a republic based on the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity.

• They sought to eliminate the feudal privileges of the nobility and clergy, ensuring that all citizens had equal rights and opportunities.

• The revolutionaries aimed to create a democratic government where power was derived from the people, ensuring freedom from oppression and promoting social justice.

• Their goals included the establishment of a fair legal system, economic reforms to address inequality, and the protection of individual freedoms.

12. Describe the reasons behind the 1830s' reputation as Europe's "great economic hardship." Give justifications.

Ans: 

The decade of the 1830s is known as the 'great economic hardship' in Europe due to the rapid Industrialisation that caused widespread :

• Unemployment Among Artisans

• Poor harvests lead to food shortages and high prices.

A surge in population increased demand for jobs and resources, trade barriers hindering economic growth, and significant economic inequality with wealth concentrated among the industrialists while the working classes faced low wages and poor working conditions. These factors collectively resulted in severe economic distress and social unrest across Europe.

13. How did the French revolutionaries help the French people develop a feeling of national identity?

Ans: 

• The French revolutionaries helped the French people develop a feeling of national identity by abolishing feudal privileges, which promoted equality and unity among citizens.

• They introduced national symbols like the tricolour flag, the national anthem "La Marseillaise," and the slogan "Liberty, Equality, Fraternity," fostering a shared identity. Implementing the Napoleonic Code provided a uniform legal framework, reinforcing the idea of a single national identity governed by common laws.

• Education reforms were established to instil patriotic values and a common national history in the youth.

• Additionally, the levée en masse, or mass conscription, encouraged people to see themselves as part of a collective national effort, defending the nation together. These measures collectively helped create a sense of national pride and unity, fostering a strong national identity among the French people.

14. Give a brief overview of the German unification process.

Ans: 

• The unification of Germany began in the early 19th century with rising nationalism. It progressed with the Congress of Vienna in 1815, forming the German Confederation of 39 states. The Zollverein customs union in 1834 promoted economic unity. The 1848 revolutions called for unification and reforms but failed.

• Prussia, led by Otto von Bismarck, then took charge. The Danish War in 1864 gained Prussia and Austria control of Schleswig and Holstein. In the Austro-Prussian War of 1866, Prussia defeated Austria and formed the North German Confederation.

• The Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871) united northern and southern German states against France. On January 18, 1871, the German Empire was proclaimed at Versailles, with King Wilhelm I of Prussia as Emperor, completing Germany's unification.

15. What concepts does Johann Gottfried offer for fostering the authentic national spirit? Describe.

Ans: 

• Johann Gottfried Herder, an 18th-century German philosopher, believed that the true spirit of a nation comes from its unique culture, including language, traditions, and customs.

• He introduced the idea of Volksgeist, the collective spirit of the people, which reflects a nation's character and values. Herder emphasized the importance of common people as the true carriers of national spirit, rather than the elites.

• He advocated for preserving and promoting the native language as a vital expression of a nation’s identity and unity.

• Additionally, he suggested that nations should develop naturally from their cultural roots, rather than imitating foreign models, to maintain their unique identity. Herder's ideas aimed to foster national pride and unity by encouraging people to embrace and preserve their cultural heritage.

16. What adjustments did Napoleon undertake to improve the effectiveness of the administrative framework in the areas he controlled?

Ans: 

• Napoleon introduced several changes to make the administrative system more efficient in the territories he ruled. He implemented the Napoleonic Code, which standardised laws and abolished feudal privileges, ensuring legal uniformity and civil rights. He centralized the administration, reducing local authorities' power and increasing central government control for better governance.

• Napoleon reformed the tax system for fairer and more efficient tax collection, boosting state revenues. He introduced a merit-based bureaucracy, appointing officials based on ability and performance rather than social status. Additionally, he invested in infrastructure like roads, bridges, and canals to improve transportation and communication, facilitating trade and economic growth.

• Educational reforms established state-controlled schools and universities to create a skilled bureaucracy, ensuring competent administration. These changes collectively made the administrative system more organized, efficient, and unified.

17. Explain what "imperialism" means.

Ans: 

• Imperialism is the policy or practice by which a country extends its power and influence over other territories through colonization, military force, or other means.

• It often involves the domination and exploitation of the colonized regions' resources, economies, and populations for the benefit of the imperial power.

• This expansionist approach aims to increase the political, economic, and cultural influence of the dominant country over the subjugated areas.

18. Describe the meaning of the liberal revolution of 1848. Which political, social, and economic theories were endorsed by liberals? 

Ans: 

• The 1848 Revolution of the Liberals, known as the Revolutions of 1848, was a series of political upheavals across Europe aimed at achieving democratic and liberal reforms.

• Politically, liberals sought constitutional governments, universal male suffrage, and national unification. Socially, they championed civil liberties like freedom of speech and equality before the law and called for improved education and welfare.

• Economically, they supported free market principles, Industrialisation, and the protection of property rights. These revolutions aimed to replace absolute monarchies with more democratic systems, promote social equality, and foster economic growth, leaving a lasting impact on Europe's political landscape despite many being suppressed.

19. Describe how nations changed over the nineteenth century, concentrating on any two of them.

Ans: 

• In the nineteenth century, nations like Germany and Italy developed through processes of unification driven by nationalism and strategic political actions.

• In Germany, the unification was led by Prussia under Otto von Bismarck, who used a series of wars—the Danish War (1864), Austro-Prussian War (1866), and Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871)—to rally the German states and exclude Austria from German affairs, culminating in the proclamation of the German Empire in 1871.

• Similarly, Italy's unification was spearheaded by key figures like Count Camillo di Cavour, who unified northern Italy through diplomacy and alliances, and Giuseppe Garibaldi, who led the Redshirts in conquering southern Italy.

• The combined efforts of these leaders, along with popular nationalist movements, resulted in the formation of a unified Italy in 1861, with Rome becoming its capital in 1870. Both Germany and Italy's unification involved overcoming regional divisions, foreign domination, and complex political manoeuvring, highlighting the power of nationalism in shaping modern nation-states.

20. Why did Balkan nationalist tensions start to arise? Talk about it.

Ans:

• Nationalist tensions emerged in the Balkans during the 19th and early 20th centuries due to ethnic diversity and the decline of the Ottoman Empire.

• Various ethnic groups, like Serbs, Croats, and Bulgarians, sought independence and their nation-states based on cultural and historical identities.

• Influenced by nationalism spreading across Europe, these aspirations often led to conflicts over territory and sovereignty.

• Major European powers also intervened, supporting different nationalist movements to expand their influence. These tensions eventually sparked conflicts such as the Balkan Wars and played a role in triggering World War I, highlighting the region's volatility and the impact of nationalist aspirations.

21. What was the French Revolutionaries' primary goal?

Ans:

• The main aim of the French Revolutionaries was to bring about significant political, social, and economic changes in France.

• Initially, their focus was on limiting the absolute power of the monarchy and establishing a constitutional government that would guarantee the rights of citizens. They sought to replace the Old Regime's feudal privileges with principles of equality and justice for all citizens, regardless of their social or economic status.

• Additionally, the revolutionaries aimed to promote ideals of liberty, fraternity, and equality, as well as to address economic inequalities and create a more just society. These goals were symbolized by events such as the storming of the Bastille in 1789 and the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, which outlined fundamental rights and freedoms.

22. List three reasons why there have been conflicts in the "Balkan area" since 1871.

Ans:

• Nationalism and Ethnic Identity: Various ethnic groups, including Serbs, Croats, Bulgarians, and Greeks, sought independence and self-determination based on their cultural and historical identities, leading to conflicts over territory and sovereignty.

• Great Power Interests: Major European powers, such as Austria-Hungary and Russia, intervened in the Balkans to expand their influence and control, often supporting different nationalist movements and exacerbating local tensions.

• Territorial Disputes: The breakup of the Ottoman Empire and later Austro-Hungarian Empire created numerous territorial disputes among the Balkan states, particularly over regions like Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia, and Kosovo, which were ethnically diverse and claimed by multiple groups.

23. Write a note on The Role of Women in Nationalist Struggles

Ans:

• The role of women in nationalist struggles varied across different contexts and historical periods but often played important roles despite facing significant societal and cultural challenges. 

• In many nationalist movements, women actively participated in various capacities, contributing to the cause through activities such as fundraising, propaganda dissemination, nursing wounded soldiers, and even direct combat in some instances. 

• They also played pivotal roles in organizing protests, boycotts, and underground resistance movements against colonial or oppressive regimes. 

• Despite their contributions, women often faced discrimination and marginalization within nationalist movements, with their roles and achievements frequently overlooked or downplayed in historical narratives. 

• Over time, the recognition of women's contributions to nationalist struggles has grown, leading to greater acknowledgement and appreciation of their pivotal roles in shaping national identities and aspirations for independence.

24. Write a note on Guiseppe Mazzini

Ans:

• Giuseppe Mazzini (1805-1872) was a key figure in Italy's struggle for independence and unity, known as the Risorgimento. He founded Young Italy in 1831, a secret society aiming to rally young Italians for the cause of a unified, independent Italy. 

• Mazzini passionately promoted Italian nationalism and republicanism, advocating for moral and civic education to inspire ordinary citizens to fight for their country's freedom. 

• Despite facing exile and setbacks, his vision influenced future leaders like Giuseppe Garibaldi and Count Camillo di Cavour, contributing greatly to Italy's eventual unification in 1861. Mazzini's legacy remains a symbol of Italy's journey towards national unity and independence.

25. Write a note on the Frankfurt parliament

Ans: 

• The Frankfurt Parliament met in 1848-1849 to create a unified German nation under a constitution. It brought together representatives from various German states to discuss reforms and end feudal privileges. 

• Led by figures like Heinrich von Gagern, the parliament aimed to unite Germany based on shared culture and language. However, it faced challenges including disagreements over government structure, opposition from German princes, and interference from Austria and Prussia. 

• Despite its efforts, the parliament disbanded without achieving its goal. Yet, it remains significant for highlighting Germany's desire for unity and democracy during a time of revolutionary change in Europe.

26. How was the history of nationalism in Britain, unlike the rest of Europe?

Ans:

• Unlike many European countries that developed nationalism around cultural and ethnic identities seeking political unity, Britain had a different path. It formed a unified Kingdom of Great Britain in 1707, blending English and Scottish identities under a common monarchy and Parliament. 

• Britain's identity was also influenced by its expansive empire, which extended national pride beyond its borders. 

• Additionally, Britain's stable political evolution and gradual democratization fostered a broad sense of national unity and shared civic values, contrasting with Europe's more fragmented nationalist movements and struggles for independence.

Important Topics of Class 10 History Chapter 1 The Rise of Nationalism in Europe

In The Rise of Nationalism in Europe Important Questions, students explore the emergence of nations during a period marked by significant social and political changes across Europe.

Benefits of learning with Class 10 History The Rise of Nationalism in Europe Important Questions

• Exploring the Class 10 History Chapter 1 Important Questions and Answers provides students with a profound understanding of important historical events and concepts.

• These questions are designed to align with exam patterns and expectations. Practising them helps students familiarise themselves with the types of questions likely to appear in exams, enhancing their preparedness and confidence.

• It helps in comprehending the significance of the French Revolution, the strategies employed by key figures such as Garibaldi and Bismarck in unification movements, and the impact of Industrialisation on national identities. 

• By focusing on important questions, students can manage their study time more effectively.

• Students can allocate time based on the weightage and relevance of topics, ensuring a balanced approach to their overall study schedule.

Conclusion 

The Rise of Nationalism in Europe Important Questions offers students a comprehensive view of how nationalism shaped Europe during the 19th century. It underscores the significance of events like the French Revolution and the unification of Italy and Germany, highlighting the transformative impact of ideologies and socio-economic changes. By engaging with Class 10 History Chapter 1 Important Questions and Answers, students not only gain historical insights but also develop critical thinking skills essential for understanding the complexities of nationalism and its enduring global implications. Download the important questions for chapter 1 of Class 10 History to prepare effectively for your exams.

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