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CBSE Important Questions for Class 10 Social Science History The Making of a Global World - 2025-26

Q: 5. What were the Bretton Woods institutions, and what was their main objective in the post-war international economic order?

The Bretton Woods institutions are the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, which were established at the United Nations Monetary and Financial Conference held in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, USA, in 1944. Their main objective was to preserve economic stability and ensure full employment in the industrial world. They aimed to achieve this by:The IMF: Designed to deal with external surpluses and deficits of its member nations and promote stable exchange rates.The World Bank: Created to finance post-war reconstruction and later, development projects in member countries.These institutions created a framework for international economic cooperation to prevent the kind of economic instability that led to the Great Depression. You can find detailed explanations in the NCERT Solutions for The Making of a Global World.

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The Making of a Global World Class 10 Extra Questions and Answers Free PDF Download

In The Making of Global World Important Question Answer, students explore the fascinating and complex processes that have shaped the interconnected world we live in today. This chapter focuses on the historical events and developments that contributed to globalization, including trade, exploration, colonisation, and the exchange of ideas and cultures.

Table of Content

By studying the Making of Global World Important Questions, students gain insights into how economic, social, and political factors have influenced global interactions and the formation of a global economy. Vedantu makes it easier for students to understand the chapter and the ideas it wants to express in Class 10 History Important Questions. Students can get the PDF of these notes, making it simple to study and review whenever they need with the updated CBSE Class 10 Social Science Syllabus.

Access the Important Questions for Class 10 History Chapter 3 The Making of a Global World

1. Which of the following areas accounts for the majority of the indentured labour population in India?

a) Swampy areas of Kerala

b) Coastal regions of Bengal

c) Forested regions of Assam

d) Eastern Uttar Pradesh

Ans:

b) Coastal regions of Bengal

2. Describe what is meant when we state that throughout the 1500s, the world "shrank."

Ans:

The world 'shrank' in the 1500s, we are referring to the significant advancements in exploration and navigation during that period.
These advancements, primarily driven by European explorers like Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama, and Ferdinand Magellan, led to the discovery of new sea routes and connections between distant parts of the world.
This era marked the beginning of globalisation as it facilitated increased trade, cultural exchange, and interactions between previously isolated civilizations.
The world 'shrank' metaphorically because these voyages expanded people's understanding of the globe, connecting distant continents and paving the way for the integration of global economies and societies.

3. In the premodern age, how did the Silk Roads connect the world? Describe.

Ans:

The Silk Routes enabled the exchange of goods such as silk, spices, precious metals, textiles, and ceramics between China, India, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. These goods were transported overland and by sea, fostering economic prosperity and interdependence among regions.
Alongside trade goods, the Silk Routes facilitated the exchange of religions, philosophies, languages, technologies, and artistic styles. Buddhist monks, Islamic scholars, merchants, and travellers traversed these routes, spreading cultural practices and knowledge.
The Silk Routes also played a crucial role in diplomatic relations between empires and kingdoms. Diplomats and envoys travelled along these routes to establish alliances, negotiate treaties, and resolve disputes, contributing to political stability and cooperation.
The exchange of technologies such as papermaking, printing techniques, compasses, and gunpowder occurred along the Silk Routes. These advancements had profound impacts on scientific discoveries, intellectual pursuits, and military capabilities worldwide.
The Silk Routes facilitated interactions among diverse societies, leading to the formation of cosmopolitan cities and cultural melting pots. These interactions promoted tolerance, multiculturalism, and mutual understanding among different peoples.

4. Talk about the role that language and popular culture play in shaping national identity.

Ans:

Language allows people to communicate effectively and fosters a sense of togetherness among citizens. Shared traditions like festivals and music further unite people by celebrating common values and customs.
These aspects carry stories and memories from the past, linking generations to their cultural heritage. They help individuals connect with their country's history, fostering a sense of belonging over time.
Language and traditions shape how individuals and communities see themselves within their nation. They reflect unique cultural expressions and values, helping people identify with their national community.
During challenges, language and traditions serve as symbols of cultural pride and resistance. They uphold indigenous knowledge and customs, asserting national identity in the face of external pressures.
Nations often use language policies to include diverse linguistic and cultural groups. This promotes a harmonious society where different identities contribute to a broader national identity.

5. Do you agree that the finding of new sea routes to America brought about changes in the pre-modern world? Provide evidence to back up your response.

Ans:

The establishment of sea routes to the Americas opened up new avenues for trade. Valuable commodities such as gold, silver, spices, and agricultural products flowed between continents, enriching economies and stimulating global commerce.
The interaction between previously isolated civilizations led to a significant exchange of cultures, ideas, technologies, and languages. This cultural diffusion played a crucial role in shaping the global landscape and fostering cultural diversity.
Navigational technologies, including improved ships and navigational instruments like the compass and astrolabe, were developed to facilitate long-distance voyages. These advancements not only supported exploration but also laid the groundwork for further maritime expansion.
European powers, primarily Spain and Portugal, established vast colonial empires in the Americas. This colonization exerted political, economic, and cultural dominance over indigenous populations, reshaping social structures and geopolitical dynamics worldwide.
The discovery of new sea routes marked the beginning of a more interconnected world. It spurred global integration by connecting distant regions and laying the foundation for future globalization processes, including the exchange of goods, people, and ideas on a global scale.

6. Are you familiar with the Nattukottai Chettiars and the Shikaripuri Shroffs? Describe.

Ans:

The Shikaripuri Shroffs and Nattukottai Chettiars were prominent communities of financiers and merchants who played a crucial role in the economic landscape of pre-colonial and colonial India.

Financial Powerhouses: Both groups functioned as bankers, providing vital financial backing to agricultural enterprises in Southeast and Central Asia. They used their capital or funds borrowed from European banks to fund the cultivation of export crops.
Masters of Money Movement: They were known for their sophisticated money transfer systems. This network enabled them to efficiently move funds across vast distances, facilitating trade and commerce.
Indigenous Business Structures: Interestingly, these communities developed their unique forms of business organisation. These structures were likely based on traditional practices and adapted to their specific needs.

7. According to the lamentations of jute growers, who benefits from jute cultivation? Describe.

Ans:

The growers allege that middlemen and moneylenders reap most of the profits. These figures control the market, dictating prices and leaving the farmers with a meagre share.
Jute mills and processing facilities are seen as profiting handsomely. The growers believe the final product's value is much higher than what they receive for the raw jute.
The lamentations suggest a broken system where the sweat and labour of the growers aren't reflected in their earnings. They feel trapped in a cycle of debt and low returns, despite their crucial role in the entire jute production chain.

8. Describe what is meant by "canal colonies."

Ans:

"Canal colonies" refer to areas of land that were developed or settled alongside irrigation canals, often created as part of large-scale irrigation projects.
These projects aimed to bring water to arid or semi-arid regions for agricultural purposes, thereby transforming previously uncultivated land into fertile agricultural zones.
During the British colonial era in India, canal colonies were established in regions like Punjab and Sind.
The construction of canals, such as the Upper Bari Doab Canal and the Lower Bari Doab Canal, facilitated extensive irrigation, allowing for the cultivation of crops like wheat, cotton, and sugarcane in large quantities.
The development of canal colonies led to significant agricultural expansion, improved land productivity, and increased settlement by farmers who benefited from the irrigation facilities provided by these canals.

9. What are the two key takeaways from the interwar economic experience that economists and politicians should know?

Ans:

The instability and economic downturns during the inter-war years, notably the Great Depression of 1929, highlighted the critical need for economic stability. Policymakers recognized the necessity of robust financial regulations, stable monetary policies, and mechanisms to prevent speculative bubbles and market crashes.
The global nature of economic problems during this period underscored the importance of international cooperation. Initiatives like the establishment of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank aimed to promote economic stability and development globally. These institutions emphasized the need for coordinated efforts among nations to address economic crises and ensure sustainable growth.

10. What Do MNCs Mean? Explain.

Ans:

MNCs, or Multinational Corporations, are large companies that operate and have assets, facilities, and operations in multiple countries around the world.
These corporations typically engage in business activities such as manufacturing, sales, and services on a global scale, often with headquarters in one country and subsidiaries or branches in others.
MNCs play a significant role in the global economy by facilitating international trade, contributing to technological advancements, and providing employment opportunities across different regions.
They are known for their ability to leverage economies of scale, access diverse markets, and adapt to varying regulatory environments in different countries.

11. Speculate on the "corn law." Describe the reasons behind and consequences of the law's repeal.

Ans:

The "Corn Laws" were British regulations that restricted the import of grain to protect local farmers but resulted in higher food prices for consumers. They were in effect from 1815 to 1846.

Reasons for Abolition: The laws were unpopular because they raised food prices, hurting the working class. In 1846, pressure from industrialists and advocates for free trade led Parliament to abolish the laws. This shift aimed to lower food costs and boost economic growth by allowing cheaper grain imports.

After-Effects:

Economic Impact: Abolishing the Corn Laws lowered food prices, improving living standards and integrating Britain more into global trade.
Political Impact: It showed public influence on policy and reduced the power of wealthy landowners.
Global Trade: The move influenced other countries towards free trade policies, promoting international commerce and economic openness.

12. Give two instances of various international trade that existed before the seventeenth century, one from Asia and one from the Americas.

Ans:

Treasures of the East: Across Asia, a vibrant trade network flourished for centuries before the 17th century. This network saw the flow of luxury goods from East to West. Spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg from Southeast Asia, along with fine textiles from India and exquisite porcelain from China, were highly sought-after by European nobility. In exchange, European traders offered gold and silver, which fuelled Asian economies.
Columbian Exchange: While the term "Columbian Exchange" is often associated with the 15th century, the exchange of plants and animals between the Americas and other continents had begun much earlier through transoceanic voyages by Polynesians. For example, evidence suggests the transfer of the sweet potato from South America to Polynesia as early as 1,100 AD. This pre-Columbian exchange highlights the long-distance connections that existed before European dominance in global trade.

13. Provide two historical instances to illustrate how technology has affected the availability of food.

Ans:

Transportation Revolution: In the 19th century, advancements in transportation significantly impacted food availability. The development of faster railways, larger ships, and lighter wagons dramatically reduced transportation costs and times. This allowed for perishable goods like meat, butter, and eggs to be efficiently transported over long distances. Previously, these items were luxuries limited to those living near production areas. This technological leap broadened access to a wider variety of food for a wider population.
Cold Storage and Refrigeration: The invention of refrigeration techniques in the late 19th and early 20th centuries further revolutionised food availability. Cold storage facilities and refrigerated ships made it possible to preserve food for longer periods, drastically reducing spoilage. This innovation not only increased access to fresh food in regions far from production sites but also allowed for the import of food from across the globe, creating a more diverse and year-round food supply.

14. Describe the meaning of the trade surplus. What was the reason behind Britain's trade surplus with India?

Ans:

Britain had become a powerhouse of industrial production during the Industrial Revolution. This meant they were churning out massive quantities of textiles, machinery, and other manufactured goods.
India, on the other hand, was a rich source of raw materials like cotton and spices. Britain needed these materials to feed its factories and fuel its industrial engine.
As the colonial ruler, Britain had significant control over India's trade policies. This allowed them to manipulate prices and ensure a steady flow of cheap raw materials from India.
Under British rule, India's industrial development was discouraged. This meant they had a limited capacity to produce finished goods that could compete with British imports.

15. Describe two strategies that European companies employed to find and hire workers in Africa.

Ans:

Manipulating Taxation: Colonial governments imposed high taxes that could only be paid with cash. This forced Africans to seek wage labour in European-owned mines and plantations. Africans who previously relied on subsistence farming or herding were compelled to enter the formal workforce to fulfil their tax obligations.
Disrupting Land Ownership: European powers altered inheritance laws in some regions. Traditionally, land might be communally owned or passed down to multiple heirs. By favouring single inheritance, they dispossessed some Africans of their land, pushing them towards wage labour to survive. This strategy not only provided a labour pool, but also weakened traditional social structures and increased dependence on European employers.

16. What features distinguish the silk trading route? Select any two.

Ans:

Network of Paths, Not a Single Road: Envision a web of caravan trails, sea routes, and oasis stopovers spanning vast distances. The Silk Road wasn't a single, defined highway, but a network of interconnected paths that traversed mountains, deserts, and coastlines. This network flexibility allowed for trade to flourish despite geographical challenges.
Exchange Beyond Goods: While silk was a prominent commodity, the Silk Road facilitated the movement of much more. It served as a conduit for ideas, religions (like Buddhism), technologies, and cultural practices. This exchange fostered a richer tapestry of knowledge and understanding between civilizations across Asia, Europe, and Africa.

17. Write a brief remark about how the World War killed many men in Europe who were of working age.

Ans:

World War I, also known as the Great War, unleashed unprecedented death and destruction in Europe. A particularly devastating consequence was the immense loss of men of working age. This decimated workforce had a profound impact on European societies in several ways:

Millions of young men, the backbone of the workforce, perished in the trenches. This resulted in a significant shortage of skilled and unskilled labour across various industries. Industries crucial for rebuilding war-torn nations, like agriculture and manufacturing, suffered greatly.
With fewer workers, production declined, leading to economic hardship. Household incomes plummeted as families lost their breadwinners. This economic strain further hampered recovery efforts.
To fill the labour gap, women increasingly entered the workforce, taking on jobs previously considered "men's work." This shift in gender roles challenged traditional norms and ultimately paved the way for greater equality for women in the long run.
The loss of a generation of young men left a deep emotional scar on European societies. Widows, orphans, and grieving families faced immense social and emotional challenges. Rebuilding communities and families became a crucial aspect of the postwar period.

18. Compose a note about the impact of the Great Depression on the Indian economy. Describe the reasons.

Ans:

The Great Depression crippled India's colonial economy, as falling global demand plummeted prices for agricultural exports like jute and cotton.
This, coupled with British policies like increased taxes and a strong rupee peg, squeezed farmers' incomes and led to rural hardship.
The Depression exposed the vulnerability of India's dependence on a single market and highlighted the need for a more diversified and resilient economic structure.

19. Describe the three different kinds of flows or movements that occur in international trade. Write a brief description of one instance of each kind of flow involving India and Indians.

Ans:

Trade Flows: This refers to the exchange of goods and services across borders. A historical example involving India is the spice trade. For centuries, India exported spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg to Europe and other regions, fetching high prices and establishing itself as a major trading hub.
Capital Flows: This involves the movement of financial resources, such as investments and loans, between countries. During British rule in India, significant capital flow occurred. Britain heavily invested in Indian infrastructure projects like railways, using some of the borrowed funds to finance World War I. This investment boosted British trade but left India in significant debt.
Human Capital Flows: This refers to the movement of labour across borders for work purposes. In the colonial era, India witnessed a large-scale flow of human capital under the indentured labour system. Millions of Indians were recruited to work on plantations in British colonies like Fiji, Mauritius, and Trinidad, facing harsh working conditions and contributing to the development of those economies.

20. Describe the countries collectively known as the G-77. How might one see G-77's actions as a response to the Bretton Woods twins' actions?

Ans:

The G-77, officially known as the Group of 77, is a large coalition of developing countries established in 1964. Originally consisting of 77 nations, it has grown to encompass over 134 member states as of 2024.

The G-77 can be seen as a reaction to the activities of the Bretton Woods twins, the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), established in 1944. Here's how:

Focus on the Developed World: The Bretton Woods institutions were largely designed to benefit the economies of developed nations, particularly the United States and its allies. Developing countries felt their specific needs and challenges weren't adequately addressed. The G-77 provides a platform for developing countries to collectively push for a more equitable international economic order.
Debt and Structural Adjustment: The IMF's policies often focused on loan repayment and structural adjustment programs that developing countries viewed as harsh and detrimental to their long-term growth. The G-77 allows developing nations to negotiate as a bloc for more favourable loan terms and development assistance programs that better suit their circumstances.
Representation and Voice: Developing countries felt they lacked a strong voice in shaping international economic and trade policies. The G-77 provides a united front to advocate for their interests in negotiations with developed nations and international institutions.

21. In the late 19th century, there was a change in the meat trade. Describe how.

Ans:

The late 19th century saw a radical shift in the meat trade. Previously, limited by spoilage, meat consumption was local and seasonal, often relying on preserved options.
The invention of refrigeration revolutionized everything. Now, ships and warehouses can maintain cool temperatures, enabling long-distance transport of fresh meat.
This birthed a global market, with countries like Argentina exporting to meat-hungry Europe.
Consumers benefitted from consistent quality, year-round availability, and a wider variety of meats. This transformation spurred the rise of large-scale meatpacking factories and significantly altered global food systems and dietary habits.

22. What was the agreement at Brenton Woods? Describe.

Ans:

The Bretton Woods Agreement, finalized in 1944 at a conference in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, aimed to establish a stable and predictable international monetary system following the devastation of World War II. Here are its key features:

Fixed Exchange Rates: The agreement established a system of fixed exchange rates, where the value of a country's currency was pegged to the U.S. dollar, which in turn was backed by a specific amount of gold (initially $35 per ounce). This aimed to prevent competitive devaluations that could disrupt international trade.
International Monetary Fund (IMF): The agreement created the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to act as a watchdog for the system. The IMF would monitor exchange rates, provide short-term loans to countries facing temporary balance of payments problems, and promote international monetary cooperation.
World Bank: Another key institution established was the World Bank (originally called the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development). The World Bank's purpose was to provide financial assistance for post-war reconstruction and economic development projects in war-torn countries.

23. For what purposes were the World Bank and the IMF established? Why did they decide to concentrate on developing nations?

Ans:

International Monetary Fund (IMF): Designed to be a watchdog for the newly established fixed exchange rate system. The IMF's initial focus was on:

Monitoring exchange rates to prevent competitive devaluations.
Offering short-term loans to countries facing temporary financial difficulties, helping them maintain their pegged exchange rates.
Promoting international monetary cooperation to ensure a stable global financial system.

World Bank (Initially called IBRD): Created to address the immediate need for post-war reconstruction in war-torn countries, particularly Europe and Japan. The World Bank's initial focus included:

Providing financial assistance for rebuilding infrastructure, industries, and economies.
Offering loans for specific development projects in war-affected regions.

Several factors contributed to the IMF and World Bank's increasing focus on developing countries in the later decades:

Decolonization: The wave of decolonization after World War II led to the emergence of numerous newly independent nations in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. These countries faced significant economic challenges, lacking the infrastructure and resources for sustainable development.
Cold War Dynamics: The Cold War rivalry between the US and the USSR created a competition for influence in developing countries. Both superpowers saw economic aid as a tool to gain allies and promote their respective ideologies. The IMF and World Bank, heavily influenced by the West, became instruments for promoting capitalist development models in these regions.
Focus on Global Development: As the global economy became more interconnected, developed nations recognized the importance of fostering growth in developing countries. A more stable and prosperous developing world would create new markets for their exports and contribute to overall global economic stability.

24. How did the Great Depression affect the world? Who was most negatively impacted by this depression?

Ans:

Economic Collapse: Stock markets crashed, plunging countries into deep recessions. Industrial production plummeted, leading to widespread factory closures and mass unemployment. International trade contracted sharply, further crippling economies.
Deflation: Prices of goods and services fell dramatically, hurting businesses and consumers alike. While this may seem positive on the surface, it discouraged spending and investment, hindering economic recovery.
Social Unrest: With unemployment soaring, millions faced poverty, hunger, and homelessness. Social unrest and labour strikes erupted in many countries as people struggled to survive.

Industrial Workers: Factory closures resulted in mass unemployment, particularly in industrialized nations. Millions lost their livelihoods and faced immense hardship.
Farmers: Falling agricultural prices severely impacted farmers' incomes. Many lost their land due to foreclosures, leading to rural hardship and migration to cities in search of work.
The Urban Poor: Those already living in poverty were hit the hardest. With job opportunities scarce, many faced hunger and homelessness.
Developing Countries: Reliant on exports of raw materials to developed nations, developing countries were severely affected by the decline in global trade. This hampered their economic development further.

Important Topics of Class 10 History Chapter 3 The Making of a Global World

Making of Global World Important Questions covers key topics such as the origins and expansion of global trade networks, the impact of colonisation on different parts of the world, and the role of the Industrial Revolution in accelerating global connections.

Important Topic	Explanation
Pre-Modern Trade and Global Interactions	Early trade routes like the Silk Road and Indian Ocean trade facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures across continents, laying the foundations for global interactions.
The Age of Exploration and Colonisation	European powers explored new lands, leading to colonization that impacted indigenous populations and established global trade networks.
The Industrial Revolution and its Global Impact	Starting in the 18th century, industrialization increased production and technology, driving global integration through increased demand for resources and economic changes.
The Inter-War Economy and the Great Depression	Between World War I and II, the Great Depression of 1929 caused global economic downturns, a rise in protectionism, and an eventual recovery that reshaped international economic relations.
Post-War Global Economy and Decolonization	After World War II, decolonization in Asia and Africa led to newly independent nations navigating global economies, establishing international institutions, and fostering a more interconnected global economy.

Benefits of Learning with Class 10 History Chapter 3 Important Questions and Answers

Studying the important questions from The Making of Global World Important Question Answer offers students several benefits.

Class 10 History Chapter 3 Important Questions and Answers provides insights into how early trade routes and explorations connected civilizations, fostering cultural exchanges and shaping global relationships.
Students learn about the consequences of European colonisation on indigenous societies worldwide, including economic exploitation, cultural assimilation, and political upheavals.
Studying economic conditions during the Inter-War period and the Great Depression helps in understanding global economic interconnectedness and the resilience of international trade networks.
The Making of Global World Important Question Answer promotes cultural sensitivity by exploring how global interactions and exchanges have enriched diverse societies and contributed to the global heritage we inherit today.

Conclusion

In conclusion, studying Class 10 History Chapter 3: The Making of a Global World through its important questions offers students a comprehensive understanding of how historical events have shaped our interconnected world. In Class 10 History Chapter 3 Important Questions and Answers learn about early trade routes and colonisation to the Industrial Revolution and modern globalisation, each topic provides valuable insights into economic shifts, cultural exchanges, and geopolitical transformations. To prepare for your exams, download the important questions from Chapter 3 of Class 10 History.

Important Study Materials for Class 10 History Chapter 3

S.No.	Important Study Materials Links for The Making of a Global World
1	Class 10 History The Making of a Global World Revision Notes
2	Class 10 History The Making of a Global World NCERT Solutions
3	Class 10 History The Making of a Global World MCQ

CBSE Class 10 History Chapter-wise Important Questions

S.No	Chapter-wise Important Questions for Class 10 History
1	Chapter 1 - The Rise of Nationalism in Europe Important Questions
2	Chapter 2 - Nationalism in India Important Questions
3	Chapter 4 - The Age of Industrialisation Important Questions
4	Chapter 5 - Print Culture and the Modern World Important Questions

Additional Study Materials for Class 10 History

S.No	Additional Study Materials for Class 10 History
1	CBSE Class 10 History NCERT Solutions
2	CBSE Class 10 History Revision Notes
3	CBSE Class 10 History NCERT Book

FAQs on CBSE Important Questions for Class 10 Social Science History The Making of a Global World - 2025-26

1. What were the 'Corn Laws' in Britain? Explain why they were abolished and one major consequence of their abolition for the British economy.

The 'Corn Laws' were tariffs and restrictions imposed by the British government on imported food and grain ('corn'). They were designed to protect domestic agricultural producers from foreign competition. These laws were abolished for the following reasons:

Pressure from Industrialists and Urban Dwellers: A growing urban population and powerful industrialists demanded cheaper food. They argued that lower food prices would allow them to pay lower wages, making British manufactured goods more competitive.

A major consequence of their abolition was that food could be imported into Britain more cheaply than it could be produced within the country. This led to a decline in British agriculture as vast areas of land were left uncultivated, and many farmers and rural workers lost their livelihoods, forcing them to migrate to cities or overseas.

2. From an exam perspective, what were the three main causes of the Great Depression of 1929?

For the CBSE Class 10 board exams, the three most important causes of the Great Depression were:

Agricultural Overproduction and Falling Prices: After World War I, agricultural production recovered and even expanded. This led to a surplus of grains, causing prices to collapse. Farmers tried to produce even more to maintain their income, which worsened the glut and pushed prices down further, leading to rural debt.
Withdrawal of US Loans: In the mid-1920s, many countries financed their investments through loans from the US. However, when US overseas lenders panicked in 1928, they drastically cut back on loans. This created a severe crisis in Europe and Latin America, causing banks to fail and currencies to collapse.
Stock Market Crash: The US stock market crash of 1929 triggered a cycle of panic, leading to the failure of American banks. Unable to recover investments, collect loans, or repay depositors, thousands of banks went bankrupt, and factories shut down, creating mass unemployment.

3. Describe the role of technology in transforming the nineteenth-century world. How did it contribute to the making of a global world?

Technology played a crucial role in the economic, social, and colonial processes of the nineteenth century. Key technological advancements that contributed to making a global world include:

Railways: Faster and cheaper than traditional transport, railways connected agricultural regions to ports, allowing for the mass transport of raw materials and food.
Steamships: Larger and more powerful steamships made it easier to transport goods, migrants, and capital across oceans in bulk, significantly reducing shipping costs and time.
The Telegraph: This invention revolutionised long-distance communication, allowing financial and commercial information to be transmitted instantly across continents. It was a vital tool for managing global trade and colonial administration.
Refrigerated Ships: This innovation made it possible to transport perishable foods like meat over long distances, connecting distant agricultural economies like Australia and America to European markets.

4. Who were 'indentured labourers'? Explain the conditions under which they migrated from India in the nineteenth century.

Indentured labourers were bonded workers hired under contract to work on plantations and in mines in various parts of the British Empire for a specific period, usually five years. Often described as a 'new system of slavery', their migration was driven by harsh conditions in their home regions. For a comprehensive overview, you can refer to the Important Questions for Class 10 History Chapter 3.

Conditions leading to their migration included:

Poverty and Debt: Many came from regions in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Tamil Nadu where cottage industries had declined and land rents were high, leaving them deeply in debt.
Deception: Recruiting agents often provided false information about the final destination, the nature of the work, and living conditions. Many did not even know they were going to leave India.
Harsh Working Conditions: On arrival in places like the Caribbean islands, Mauritius, or Fiji, they faced extremely difficult working and living conditions with few legal rights.

5. What were the Bretton Woods institutions, and what was their main objective in the post-war international economic order?

The Bretton Woods institutions are the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, which were established at the United Nations Monetary and Financial Conference held in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, USA, in 1944. Their main objective was to preserve economic stability and ensure full employment in the industrial world. They aimed to achieve this by:

The IMF: Designed to deal with external surpluses and deficits of its member nations and promote stable exchange rates.
The World Bank: Created to finance post-war reconstruction and later, development projects in member countries.

These institutions created a framework for international economic cooperation to prevent the kind of economic instability that led to the Great Depression. You can find detailed explanations in the NCERT Solutions for The Making of a Global World.

6. Beyond goods and trade, what else travelled along the ancient Silk Routes that made them a prime example of a pre-modern global network?

While the Silk Routes are famous for the trade of silk, spices, and precious metals, they were also vibrant conduits for cultural, intellectual, and biological exchange. This interconnectedness is what makes them a key feature of the pre-modern global world. Other important things that travelled along these routes were:

Ideas and Religions: Christian missionaries and early Muslim preachers travelled these routes, but most significantly, Buddhism spread from India to Central Asia and China through this network.
Knowledge and Culture: Art, literature, and philosophical ideas were exchanged between distant civilisations like Rome, Persia, India, and China.
Diseases: Unfortunately, these routes also facilitated the spread of epidemic diseases. The germs that caused the plagues of the ancient world were carried by traders and travellers, demonstrating the downside of global connectivity.

7. How did Rinderpest, the cattle plague in Africa, demonstrate the vulnerability of colonial economies in the late 19th century?

Rinderpest was a fast-spreading cattle disease that arrived in Africa in the late 1880s. Its devastating impact illustrates the fragility of colonial economies in a powerful way. Rinderpest killed about 90% of the cattle in Africa, which had a catastrophic effect because:

Destruction of Livelihoods: For Africans, cattle were the primary source of wealth and livelihood. Losing their cattle destroyed their economic independence.
Strengthening Colonial Power: With their traditional livelihoods gone, Africans were forced to work for wages on European-owned plantations and in mines to survive. This allowed colonial governments to easily recruit labour and consolidate their control over the continent.

This single event shows how interconnected the world had become, where a disease from Asia (brought in with infected cattle) could completely reshape the economic and political landscape of another continent. For more details on this topic, refer to the Revision Notes on The Making of a Global World.

8. The introduction of potatoes and maize from the Americas is a well-known fact. How did this food exchange fundamentally change life in Europe beyond just improving diets?

The introduction of 'new' crops from the Americas, particularly the potato, had a profound impact that went far beyond just adding variety to European diets. It fundamentally altered European society by:

Enabling Population Growth: Potatoes were cheap to grow and highly nutritious. The better food security allowed Europe's poor to live longer and healthier lives, leading to significant population growth in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Creating Dependency: The reliance on a single crop became a major vulnerability. The most famous example is the Irish Potato Famine of the 1840s, where a disease destroyed the potato crop, leading to mass starvation and migration. This showed how global food exchange could create new forms of economic dependency.

9. Compare the nature of globalisation in the nineteenth century with the globalisation experienced by countries like India after the Bretton Woods era.

While both periods involved global integration, the nature of globalisation was very different:

19th Century Globalisation: This was largely driven by colonialism and imperialism. The flow of trade was dictated by the needs of colonial powers. For India, this meant exporting raw materials like cotton and indigo and importing finished textiles from Britain. It was an unequal relationship that often led to the de-industrialisation of the colonies.
Post-Bretton Woods Globalisation: This era was managed by international institutions like the IMF, World Bank, and later the WTO. For developing countries like India, which began to liberalise their economies in the 1990s, this meant opening up to foreign investment and trade. While it offered new opportunities, it also exposed domestic industries to intense global competition.

The key difference lies in the power dynamics: the first was a forced integration under colonial rule, while the second is a more complex integration shaped by global financial institutions and market forces.

10. Why is it important for a Class 10 student to study 'The Making of a Global World' to understand India's modern economy?

Studying 'The Making of a Global World' provides the historical context necessary to understand the foundations of India's modern economy. It helps a student appreciate that:

India has always been global: The chapter shows that India was central to pre-modern trade networks (Silk Routes, Indian Ocean trade) long before the British arrived.
Colonialism shaped our economy: It explains how the British systematically integrated India into the world economy as a supplier of raw materials, which shaped our economic structure for centuries.
Modern challenges have deep roots: Issues like India's relationship with the WTO, global competition, and migration of labour are not new. This chapter shows that the processes of globalisation, with their opportunities and challenges, have been unfolding for a very long time.

In essence, this chapter provides the historical 'why' behind the economic structures and global connections that define India today.