Focus On Solutions for ICSE Class 9 History Civics Chapter 9 The Delhi Sultanate

Exercises

Question 1. Who laid the foundation of the Delhi Sultanate?
Answer: Qutub-ud-din Aibak laid the foundation of the Delhi Sultanate.
In simple words: Qutub-ud-din Aibak was the first ruler who established the Delhi Sultanate in India.

📝 Teacher's Note: Explain to students that Aibak was originally a general of Muhammad Ghori and started the Mamluk (Slave) dynasty.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always remember that "foundation" in this context refers to the start of the first dynasty of the Sultanate.

Question 2. Name any two Inscriptions to reconstruct the age of the Delhi Sultanate.
Answer:
1. The Pehowa Inscription,
2. Sarban Inscription.
In simple words: These are two specific stone carvings from that time that help historians learn about life during the Sultanate.

📝 Teacher's Note: Use the term "primary sources" when discussing inscriptions so students understand these were written during the actual historical period.

🎯 Exam Tip: Memorize these two specific names as they are common short-answer questions for history exams.

Question 3. Mention any two ways in which Inscriptions may be used for reconstructing the history of the Delhi Sultanate.
Answer:
1. Inscriptions — These are valuable supplements and not the sole sources of information on the Delhi Sultanate. The inscriptions are found on coins, monuments, milestones and tombstones. Some of the inscriptions are in Sanskrit, some in Arabic and some in both the languages. For example, the first coin issued by Muhammad Bakhtiyar Khilji bears both Arabic and Sanskrit inscriptions. Similarly, the famous traveller Ibn Batuta noticed a commemorative inscription in the Jama Masjid in Delhi, which he deciphered.
2. The Pehowa Inscription of the Pratihara king Mahendrapala suggests that Delhi was founded in 736 AD by the Tomaras, a clan of the Rajputs. It mentions that the Tomaras ruled over the Haryana region with Dhilika (Delhi) as their Capital. The Sarban Inscription (found in the village Sarban, South Delhi) contains a brief account of the history of Delhi until the reign of Muhammad Tughlaq (1325-1351).
In simple words: Inscriptions found on coins and buildings tell us what languages were used and give us dates for when certain kings ruled or cities were founded.

📝 Teacher's Note: Highlight the importance of bilingual inscriptions, like those on coins, in showing how different cultures mixed during this time.

🎯 Exam Tip: Mentioning specific rulers like Muhammad Tughlaq or specific places like Jama Masjid adds weight to your answer.

Question 4. Mention any two architectural features of Qutab Minar.
Answer:
1. The entrance to the tower is through the doorway on the northern side. Inside, there is a spiral stairway leading upto each balcony.
2. Red sandstone, marble and grey quartzite were used to construct the tower which is the highest stone tower in India.
In simple words: The tower has a spiral staircase inside and is built with different stones like red sandstone and marble.

📝 Teacher's Note: Show a picture of the Qutab Minar to help students visualize the different layers of stone and the balconies mentioned.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Highest stone tower in India" is a key phrase that examiners look for when describing the Qutab Minar.

Question 5. Mention any two measures taken by Alauddin Khalji for control of the Market.
Answer:
1. Alauddin is best known in history for his market regulations. He fixed the cost of all commodities from food grains, sugar and cooking oil to a needle, costly imported cloth, horses, cattle, slave boys and girls.
2. He set up three markets at Delhi e.g., for food grains, cloth and horses, slave and cattle, under the control of ‘ Shahna’ or the controller. Strict punishment was given for cheating.
In simple words: He fixed the prices of everything and created special market officers to make sure no one cheated.

📝 Teacher's Note: Explain that Alauddin did this so he could pay his soldiers lower salaries while still ensuring they could afford food and supplies.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the term "Shahna" for the market controller; it is a vital keyword for this topic.

Question 6. Mention any two schemes of Muhammed Tughlaq that failed and made him extremely unpopular.
Answer:
1. Muhammed Tughlaq increased the taxation in the Doab (the territory between the rivers Ganga and Yamuna).
2. His decision to transfer his Capital from Delhi to Devagiri (Daulatabad) with a view to having the Capital situated in the middle of his kingdom. He was bent upon taking all the inhabitants of Delhi to the new Capital. Both of his schemes failed as people never accepted both the schemes of him.
In simple words: He raised taxes in a fertile area during a bad time and forced everyone to move to a new capital city far away.

📝 Teacher's Note: Discuss the concept of "unintended consequences" — how Tughlaq's logical ideas failed because he didn't consider the human cost.

🎯 Exam Tip: Briefly state why they failed (like the move was too long or the tax was during a famine) to get full marks.

Question 7. Why did Muhammad Tughlak’s scheme for increased taxation in Doab fail ?
Answer: There occurred a severe famine because of failure of rains. The people offered resistance, but the Sultan’s officers continued to realise taxes mercilessly. The cultivators were, therefore, forced to abandon their lands. The Sultan tried to help the cultivators by giving them loans to buy seeds bullocks etc. Arrangements were also made for the digging of wells for irrigation purposes. But the scheme failed.
In simple words: A drought caused a famine, so farmers couldn't pay the higher taxes. Even though the Sultan later tried to help with loans, it was too late.

📝 Teacher's Note: Emphasize that timing is everything in leadership; Tughlaq's plan might have worked if not for the natural disaster (famine).

🎯 Exam Tip: Mention both the "famine" and the "harshness of officers" as reasons for the failure.

Question 8. Mention any one reason why Muhammad Tughlaq decided to transfer his Capital from Delhi to Devagiri (Daulatabad) ?
Answer: In 1327 he decided to transfer his Capital from Delhi to Devagiri now Daulatabad with a view to having the Capital situated in the middle of his kingdom. He was bent upon taking all the inhabitants of Delhi to the new Capital. No one liked the forced move: it was doomed to failure. As the Sultan was convinced of the failure of his scheme, he ordered the people to return to their homes in Delhi.
In simple words: He wanted the capital to be in the center of his large kingdom so he could rule the South more easily.

📝 Teacher's Note: Ask students to look at a map of India and compare the locations of Delhi and Daulatabad to see why Tughlaq thought it was a "central" spot.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the phrase "centrally located" or "middle of his kingdom" to describe his motivation.

Question 9. Who was the greatest of the Lodi Kings?
Answer: Sikandar Lodi was the greatest of the Lodi Kings.
In simple words: Among all the Lodi rulers, Sikandar Lodi is considered the most successful and powerful.

📝 Teacher's Note: Remind students that the Lodi dynasty was the last dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate before the Mughals arrived.

🎯 Exam Tip: This is a one-word answer type question; keep it simple and direct.

Question 10. Who was the commander-in-chief of the army during the Sultanate period ?
Answer: Sultan was the commander-in-chief of the army during the Sultanate period.
In simple words: The King (Sultan) himself was the top leader of the whole army.

📝 Teacher's Note: Explain that in medieval times, kings had to be strong military leaders to keep their throne, which is why the Sultan held the highest military rank.

🎯 Exam Tip: Don't confuse the "Sultan" with the "Ariz-i-mumalik" (the minister in charge of army management).

Question 11. Who was the highest officer in the government during the Delhi Sultanate ?
Answer: The highest officer in the government was the Wazir, the Chief Minister.
In simple words: The Wazir was like the Prime Minister, helping the Sultan run the whole country.

📝 Teacher's Note: Draw an analogy to modern government where the Sultan is the President and the Wazir is the Prime Minister.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the title "Wazir" as the person responsible for general administration and finance.

Question 12. Name the two important provinces under Khljis and the Tughlaqs.
Answer: The most important provinces under Khaljis and the Tughlaq were those of Jaunpur, Malwa, Khandesh, Gujarat, Bengal and the Dakhin (Deccan).
In simple words: These dynasties ruled over many large areas, including places like Bengal, Gujarat, and the Deccan.

📝 Teacher's Note: You can ask students to find these provinces on a modern map of India to see how much territory the Sultanate covered.

🎯 Exam Tip: You only need to name two, but remembering Gujarat and Bengal is usually easiest.

Question 13. Mention any two sources of revenue during the Sultanate period.
Answer: The main sources of revenue were as under:
1. Land tax, usually one-tenth of the produce,
2. The booty captured, in wars.
In simple words: The government got money from taxes on crops grown by farmers and from things taken during battles.

📝 Teacher's Note: Clarify that "booty" refers to the wealth and resources taken from a defeated enemy after a war.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly distinguish between regular income (land tax) and irregular income (war booty).

Question 14. Name any two archaeological sources to reconstruct the age fo the Delhi Sultanate.
Answer:
1. Qutab Minar,
2. Illahi Darwaza.
In simple words: These are two famous buildings from that time that still stand today and tell us about their history.

📝 Teacher's Note: Differentiate between archaeological sources (buildings, objects) and literary sources (books, poems).

🎯 Exam Tip: Speling "Illahi Darwaza" correctly is important for these types of identification questions.

Question 15. Mention any two ways in which Iltutmish consolidated the Turkish conquests in India?
Answer: Iltutmish effectively suppressed the rebellions of Amirs and also defeated the governors of Sindh and Bengal who had risen in revolt. He then embarked upon a career of conquests. He made Delhi his Capital and was the first Turkish ruler to introduce a purely Arabic coinage. Finding his sons incompetent to rule, Iltutmish chose his daughter Raziya to be his successor.
In simple words: He stopped people from rebelling, made Delhi the capital, and started using a new type of money.

📝 Teacher's Note: Emphasize that Iltutmish is often called the "real founder" of the Delhi Sultanate because he secured its borders and administration.

🎯 Exam Tip: Mentioning his decision to make Raziya his successor shows his forward-thinking nature and consolidation of power.

Question 16. Who was Razia Sultana? Who plotted against her?
Answer: Raziya Sultana was the daughter of Iltutmish. She was put to death by her nobles, who plotted against her and her husband Altunia and got them murdered in 1240.
In simple words: She was the daughter of the King and the first female ruler of Delhi. She was killed by powerful officials who didn't want a woman to rule.

📝 Teacher's Note: Discuss the rarity of female rulers in the 13th century to help students understand the significance of Raziya's reign.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be sure to mention the date 1240 and the role of the "nobles" in her downfall.

Question 17. What measures were taken by Balban to crush the Turkish Nobles?
Answer: Balban adopted a policy of sternness and severity. He established order in the neighborhood of Delhi and instilled fear in the minds of the Turkish nobles by inflicting severe punishment on them even for slight offences. Some of them were even publicity flogged. The north-west frontier posts were strongly garrisoned.
In simple words: Balban was very strict and punished the powerful nobles heavily to make sure they were too afraid to go against him.

📝 Teacher's Note: Introduce the term "Policy of Blood and Iron" to describe Balban's harsh way of ruling.

🎯 Exam Tip: Use the word "sternness" or "severity" to describe his style of administration.

Question 18. Mention any two new elements of architecture style introduced by the Muslims in India.
Answer: Two new elements of architecture style introduced by the Muslims in India are:
1. Open Airy and Spacious Buildings.
2. Mosques and Tombs.
In simple words: They brought in the idea of large, open buildings and built grand places for prayer and burial.

📝 Teacher's Note: Contrast this with earlier Indian architecture which often focused on solid, heavily carved temples with smaller interior spaces.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Domes and Arches" are also acceptable answers for new elements introduced during this period.

Question 19. Mention two important features of mosques.
Answer: Two important features of mosques are:
1. The mosques have an open courtyard surrounded by a pillared varandah.
2. There is a prayer-hall having a recess or alcove called Mehrab in the western wall at the back of the hall.
In simple words: Mosques have a big open area in the middle and a special wall called a Mehrab that shows the direction for prayer.

📝 Teacher's Note: Explain that the Mehrab points toward Mecca, which is why it is on the western wall in India.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the term "Mehrab" and its location on the "western wall" as these are specific technical details.

Question 20. How did Alaudin Khalji expand his empire?
Answer: Alauddin Khalji raided Malwa and Gujarat and also defeated the Rajput rulers of Ranthambhor and Chittor. Next, he faced to the four wealthy kingdoms of the Deccan— Yadavas of Devagiri, the Kakatiyas of Warangal, Hoysalas of Dwarasamudra and Pandya Kingdom with its Capital at Madurai. The task of conquest of Deccan had been entrusted by Alauddin to his military commander, Malik Kafur.
In simple words: He conquered lands in Northern India and sent his general Malik Kafur to win over the rich kingdoms in the South.

📝 Teacher's Note: Highlight that Alauddin was one of the first Delhi Sultans to successfully send an army into deep Southern India.

🎯 Exam Tip: Malik Kafur is an essential name to mention when talking about Alauddin's southern conquests.

Question 21. Who was Timur Lang?
Answer: Timur Lang (Timur the Lame) was a foreign invader who had risen into power in central Asia and invaded Delhi.
In simple words: He was a powerful leader from Central Asia who came to India and attacked Delhi.

📝 Teacher's Note: Mention that Timur's invasion in 1398 weakened the Tughlaq dynasty so much that the Delhi Sultanate almost collapsed.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note that "Timur the Lame" is the translation of his name, often used in historical texts.

Structured Questions

Question 1. Give a brief account of the reign of Alauddin Khalji under the following headings.
(a) His main conquests
(b) Treatment meted out to the rulers of Southern India.
Answer:
(a) Alauddin Khalji raided Malwa and Gujarat and also defeated the Rajput rulers of Ranthambhor and Chittor. Next, he faced to the four wealthy kingdoms of the deccan— Yadavas of Devagiri, the Kakatiyas of Warangal, Hoysalas of Dwarasamudra and Pandya Kingdom with its Capital at Madurai. The task of conquest of Deccan had been entrusted by Alauddin to his military commander, malik Kafur.
(b) The task of conquest of Deccan had been entrusted by Alauddin to his military commander Malik Kafur. Malik Kafur captured an immense booty which consisted of hundreds of elephants, thousands of horses and gold and jewels in large quantities. But Southern India was not annexed. Its rulers had to acknowledge the lordship of Delhi Sultan and pay him tribute in return for peace and protection.
In simple words: Alauddin conquered many places in the north and took treasures from the south. He let the southern kings keep their land as long as they paid him money and followed his rules.

📝 Teacher's Note: Explain the difference between "annexing" (taking over) and "taking tribute" (letting them rule but making them pay). This shows Alauddin's practical strategy.

🎯 Exam Tip: For part (b), emphasize that the south was NOT annexed but made to pay tribute.

Question 2. Why did Muhammad Tughlaq’s following schemes prove a failure?
(a) An increase in taxation in the Doab.
(b) Introduction of Token Currency.
Answer:
(a) He increased the taxation in the Doab, the territory between rivers Ganga and Yamuna with a view to augment his resources. This scheme was defeated because of consecutive years of drought.
(b) In 1329 the Sultan introduced Token Currency by proclaiming that brass and copper coins could have the same use or function as that of gold and silver coins. This experiment also failed. Soon the gold and silver coins disappeared from the market and forged copper coins manufactured by people at their homes came into circulation. Trade and business came to a standstill.
In simple words: The tax failed because of a long drought. The new money failed because people started making their own fake coins at home, which ruined the economy.

📝 Teacher's Note: Discuss why modern "token currency" (like our paper notes) works today but failed for Tughlaq (because the state couldn't stop counterfeiting back then).

🎯 Exam Tip: For token currency, the key result was "Trade and business came to a standstill." Include this to show the impact.

Question 3. Give an account of the administration of the Sultanate of Delhi under the following heads:
(a) Position of the Sultan (b) His Ministers
Answer:
(a) The Sultan of Delhi was an unlimited despot. He was the chief executive of the state; he was also the highest judicial authority. The Sultan was the Commander-in-Chief of the army. His powers were very wide. He was responsible for the safety and security of the state. A direct appeal could be made to him against the highhandedness of any of his officials or judges. There was no constitutional method to remove a king from the throne. He could be removed only by a successful revolt which meant a Civil War.
(b) The Sultan, however, could not manage the task of administration single-handed. The highest officer in the government was the Wazir, the Chief Minister. Other key functionaries and ministers were the Diwan (the Finance Minister), the Qazi (Chief Judge) and the Ariz (the Army Minister). The special responsibility of the Army Minister was to recruit, equip and pay the soldiers.
In simple words: The Sultan had total power over the army and the law. He had a team of ministers, led by the Wazir, to help him manage money, the army, and justice.

📝 Teacher's Note: Use the term "absolute monarchy" or "despot" to describe the Sultan's total control over all government branches.

🎯 Exam Tip: List the specific titles: Wazir, Diwan, Qazi, and Ariz, as these represent the core of the Sultanate administration.

Question 4. Study the picture of Qutab Minar and answer the following questions:
(a) Where is it located ?
(b) Name the rulers who started and completed the construction of the structure.
(c) Name the Muslim Saint after whom the structure is named.
(d) Mention three important features of the structure.
Answer:
(a) Qutab Minar is located in Delhi.
(b) The construction of Qutab Minar was started by Qutub-ud- din Aibak. It was completed by Iltutmish.
(c) Qutub-ud-din, a Muslim saint of Ush, near Baghdad.
(d) 1. The structure is a circular tower which rises to a height of 72.5 metres;
2. It has five storeys, tapering as they ascend and separated from each other by projected balconies. Each storey has a different pattern and has finely wrought Arabic inscription
3. The entrance to the tower is through the doorway on the northern side. Inside, there is a spiral stairway leading upto each balcony.
In simple words: It is in Delhi, started by Aibak and finished by Iltutmish. It's named after a saint and has five floors with beautiful carvings and a staircase inside.

📝 Teacher's Note: Clarify that the "Qutub-ud-din" the saint is different from "Qutub-ud-din Aibak" the ruler.

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing features, mention the height (72.5m) and the number of storeys (five) for a complete answer.

Additional Questions

Short Answer Questions:

Question 1. Who was the founder of the slave dynasty in India ?
Answer: Qutubuddin Aibak is regarded as the founder of the Slave dynasty.
In simple words: Qutubuddin Aibak started the first dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate, known as the Slave dynasty.

📝 Teacher's Note: Explain that it's called the "Slave" dynasty because the founding rulers were originally high-ranking military slaves.

🎯 Exam Tip: This is a very common foundational question; ensure the spelling of "Aibak" is correct.

Question 2. Why was Qutubuddin known as Lakhbaksh ?
Answer: Qutubuddin known as Lakhbaksh because of liberal distribution of money, he earned the title of ‘Lakhbaksh’.
In simple words: He was called "Lakhbaksh" (giver of lakhs) because he was very generous and gave away a lot of money to the poor.

📝 Teacher's Note: This highlights the importance of charity and generosity in the image of a medieval ruler.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect the name to "Lakhs" (the number) to help remember why he was called that.

Question 3. Mention any two military reforms introduced by Alauddin.
Answer: Military Reforms: Alauddin Khilji was the first ruler of Delhi who laid the foundation of a permanent standing army. He imported qaulity horses and started the system of branding horses (dagh) so that the soldiers could not replace them with inferior quality horses. He also introduced the system of chehra, i.e., giving a kind of identity card for every soldier.
In simple words: He created a permanent army and used a "branding" system for horses and "ID cards" for soldiers so no one could cheat.

📝 Teacher's Note: Explain that "dagh" and "chehra" were early forms of military record-keeping to prevent corruption.

🎯 Exam Tip: Use the specific terms "dagh" and "chehra" to score full marks.

Question 4. How did Alauddin Khalji expand his empire ?
Answer: A large region was ruled in northern India by Alauddin. Alauddin Khalji conquered many southern states in 1313, the states of Devagiri, Warangal, Dwarasamudra and Madurai. The annual tribute payed by these states was used for maintenance of his army.
In simple words: He took over lands in the north and then forced several southern kingdoms to pay him money every year.

📝 Teacher's Note: Point out that this expansion was fueled by the need for more revenue to pay his massive army.

🎯 Exam Tip: Listing the specific southern states like Warangal and Madurai will make your answer stronger.

Question 5. Mention the two controversial steps taken by Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq.
Answer: Two controversial steps taken by Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq, were as follows:
1. Shifting of Capital from Delhi to Devagiri.
2. Introduction of the “token currency”.
In simple words: He is famous for two unpopular choices: moving the capital and changing the type of coins used.

📝 Teacher's Note: Use these examples to discuss why Tughlaq is often called a "mixture of opposites" — he was brilliant but lacked practical judgment.

🎯 Exam Tip: These are the "big two" failures of Tughlaq; if you remember these, you can answer most questions about his reign.

Question 6. Which dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate built The Qutab Minar ?
Answer: Slave dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate i.e. Qutb-ud-din Aibak in AD 1199, built the Qutab Minar.
In simple words: The first dynasty, called the Slave dynasty, started building the Qutab Minar.

📝 Teacher's Note: Remind students that while one dynasty started it, others contributed to its completion or repair later.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be sure to name the specific ruler (Aibak) and the dynasty (Slave) together.

Question 7. Who was the commander-in-chief of the army during the Sultanate period ?
Answer: Sultan was the commander-in-chief of the army during the Sultanate period.
In simple words: The Sultan himself was the top boss of the entire army.

📝 Teacher's Note: This is a repeat question from the main exercises, highlighting its importance for students to know.

🎯 Exam Tip: Keep the answer simple: the Sultan held all final military authority.

Question 8. Name the department which dealt with state correspondence during the Sultanate period.
Answer: Diwan-i-insha was department which dealt with state correspondence during the Sultanate period.
In simple words: Diwan-i-insha was the office that handled all the official letters and messages for the government.

📝 Teacher's Note: Explain that "correspondence" means sending and receiving letters, like a government's communication center.

🎯 Exam Tip: The term "Diwan-i-insha" is a technical term; memorize its spelling for history exams.

Question 9. What was the iqta system ?
Answer: During Sultanate the empire was divided into provinces called iqtas’. During this period, the practice of giving grants of revenue from a terrritory came to be known as the ‘ iqta system’. Those who were given iqtas were called ‘iqtadars’. Out of this grant, the iqtadars had to maintain themselves, their families and some soldiers for use by the Sultan during war.
In simple words: The King gave pieces of land (iqtas) to officers. These officers collected taxes from that land to pay for themselves and their soldiers.

📝 Teacher's Note: Compare this to the feudal system in Europe to help students understand how land was used to pay for military service.

🎯 Exam Tip: Define both the land ("iqta") and the person who held it ("iqtadar") for a complete answer.

Question 10. Name the author of the book, Tarikh-i-Firuzshahi.
Answer: The book, Tarikh-i-Firuzshahi was written by Ziauddin Barani.
In simple words: Ziauddin Barani is the writer who wrote this important history book.

📝 Teacher's Note: Point out that Barani was a contemporary of several Sultans, making his book a primary historical source.

🎯 Exam Tip: Match the author's name "Barani" with the book title for quick recall.

Question 11. Why were the early rulers of slave dynasty called the Mamluk Sultans ?
Answer: The early rulers of slave dynasty were called the Mamluk Sultans because these Sultans were earlier either the slaves of the Turks or were the sons of the slaves.
In simple words: "Mamluk" means a soldier who was once a slave. Since these kings started out that way, their dynasty was named after them.

📝 Teacher's Note: Clarify that these were "elite slaves" who were trained in warfare and leadership, not laborers.

🎯 Exam Tip: Mention that the word "Mamluk" is Arabic to show extra knowledge.

Question 12. Mention any two reasons for the defeat of Rajputs by the Turks.
Answer:
1. The Turkish army comprised expert military leaders from different lands who employed new tactics of wars. The Rajputs, on the other hand, followed outdated tactics.
2. The Rajput soldiers were highly efficient in the use of spear and sword and excellent in hand-to-hand fighting. But as archers, they were inferior to the Turks. The Turks were aware of the weak points of their opponents.
In simple words: The Turks used better war strategies and were much better at using bows and arrows compared to the Rajputs.

📝 Teacher's Note: Discuss how technological or tactical advantages (like superior archery or cavalry) often win wars even if the other side is very brave.

🎯 Exam Tip: Contrast the "new tactics" of the Turks with the "outdated tactics" of the Rajputs.

Question 13. Who was Muhammad Ghori ? Why did he invade India ?
Answer: Shahabuddin Muhammad, also known as Muizzuddin Muhammad bin Sam or Muhammad Ghori, ascended the throne at Ghazni (in present Afghanistan) in 1173. He was an ambitious ruler and wanted to establish his empire in India. The wealth and military resources of India attracted Mohammad Ghori’s attention, which he thought could be utilised to safeguard the Ghurid empire. Therefore, he strengthened his position at Ghazni and turned his attention towards India. He invaded India several times between 1175 and 1206.
In simple words: He was a ruler from Ghazni who wanted to build an empire and take India's great wealth to help his own kingdom.

📝 Teacher's Note: Contrast Ghori with Mahmud of Ghazni; Ghori wanted to *rule* India, whereas Mahmud mostly wanted to *raid* it.

🎯 Exam Tip: Mention both "wealth" and "building an empire" as his main motives.

Question 14. Mention the four architectural features brought in by the Turks in India.
Answer: The architectural style brought in by the Turks in India had four main characteristic features — dome, minarets, ‘arches and propped roofs. In the sphere of decoration, the Turks used geometrical and floral designs, combining them with panels of inscriptions containing verses from the Holy Quran.
In simple words: They introduced domes, tall towers (minarets), arches, and used patterns of flowers and writing from the Quran for decoration.

📝 Teacher's Note: Show images of Indian architecture before and after the Turks to help students spot these four features.

🎯 Exam Tip: Make sure to list all four: dome, minarets, arches, and propped roofs.

Question 15. Who was Razia Sultana ? To which dynasty did she belong?
Answer: Razia Sultana was the daughter of Iltutmish. She belonged to the Slave Dynasty.
In simple words: She was a queen of Delhi and the daughter of King Iltutmish, part of the Slave (Mamluk) dynasty.

📝 Teacher's Note: Remind students she was the only female ruler of the Delhi Sultanate.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always associate Raziya with the Slave Dynasty and her father Iltutmish.

Question 16. What measures were taken by Alauddin Khalji for regulating the prices ?
Answer: Alauddin was best known in history for his market regulations. He fixed the cost of all commodities from food grains, sugar and cooking oil to a needle, costly imported cloth, horses, cattle, slave boys and girls. He set up three markets at Delhi e.g. for food grains, cloth and horses, slave and cattle, under the control of ‘Shahna’ or the controller. Strict punishment was given for cheating.
In simple words: He made sure every item had a fixed price and opened special markets with controllers to stop anyone from overcharging.

📝 Teacher's Note: Discuss the concept of "price control" and why it is difficult for governments to do even today.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note that he even fixed the price of small things like "needles" to show how detailed his system was.

Question 17. Mention any two measures taken by Alauddin Khilji to crush the power of the nobles.
Answer:
1. The Nobles were not allowed to hold parties or festivities or to form marriage alliances without the permission of the Sultan.
2. The use of wine and intoxicants was banned.
3. Gambling was forbidden and gamblers were severely punished.
In simple words: He stopped nobles from gathering together or getting married without his okay, and he banned alcohol and gambling.

📝 Teacher's Note: Explain that he did this to prevent the nobles from making secret plans against him during social events.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on "no marriage alliances without permission" as it was his strongest way to control them.

Question 18. With reference to the Delhi Sultanate, mention to which dynasties the following belonged:
(a) Razia Sultana
(b) Ibrahim Lodhi
(c) Firoz Shah
(d) Qutb-ud-Din Aibak
Answer:
(a) Slave Dynasty
(b) Lodhi Dynasty
(c) Tughlaq Dynasty
(d) Slave Dynasty
In simple words: These rulers belonged to three different families that ruled Delhi at different times.

📝 Teacher's Note: This is a great matching exercise to help students keep the five dynasties of the Sultanate in order.

🎯 Exam Tip: Practice grouping rulers by dynasty; it’s a favorite topic for match-the-column questions.

Structured Questions.

Question 1. With reference to the sources of information about the Delhi Sultanate, give the significance of the following:
(a) Inscriptions (b) Qutub Minar
Answer:
(a) Inscriptions — These are valuable supplements and not the sole sources of information on the Delhi Sultanate. The inscriptions are found on coins, monuments, milestones and tombstones. Some of the inscriptions are in Sanskrit, some in Arabic and some in both the languages. For example, the first coin issued by Muhammad Bakhtiyar Khilj i bears both Arabic and Sanskrit inscriptions. Similarly, the famous traveller Ibn Batuta noticed a commemorative inscription in the Jama Masjid in Delhi, which he deciphered.
(b) Qutub Minar — It began to be built in AD 1199. It was started by Qutub-ud-din Aibak and was dedicated to the Sufi saint, Qutb-ud-din Bakhtiyar Kaki, who was greatly venerated by the people of Delhi. The structure was completed in 1230 by Iltutmish. Verses from the Holy Quran and some intricate carvings, floral motifs are inscribed on this tower.
In simple words: Inscriptions tell us about languages and dates from various objects. The Qutub Minar is a grand building that shows the religious and architectural goals of the rulers.

📝 Teacher's Note: Discuss how physical evidence like buildings and writing on coins is more reliable than stories that might have changed over time.

🎯 Exam Tip: Mention the name of the Sufi saint (Bakhtiyar Kaki) to show you understand why the Minar was named "Qutub."

Question 2(a). Why were the early rulers of the Slave dynasty called the Mamluk Sultans ?
Answer: The word Mamluk is an Arabic word that means ‘owned’. Since these Sultans were earlier either the slaves of the Turks or were the sons of the slaves, they were called Mamluk Sultans.
In simple words: They were called Mamluks because that's the Arabic word for a person who was once owned as a slave.

📝 Teacher's Note: This is a repeat question from the additional section, emphasizing the term "Mamluk."

🎯 Exam Tip: Define the word "Mamluk" as "owned" to get the marks for the meaning.

(b). Who was Qutubuddin Aibak ? State any two of his qualities.
Answer: Qutubuddin Aibak is regarded as the founder of the Slave dynasty. Qutubuddin Aibak was a man of letters. Scholars like Hasan Nizami and Fakhre Mudir adorned his court. Because of liberal distribution of money, he earned the title of ‘ Lakhbaksh ’. Qutubuddin Aibak laid the foundation of Qutub Minar in Delhi, after the name of the famous Sufi saint Khwaja Qutub-ud-din Bakhtiyar Kaki.
In simple words: He founded the Slave dynasty and was known for being very generous and supporting smart writers and scholars.

📝 Teacher's Note: Use this to show that medieval kings weren't just warriors; they also valued education and art.

🎯 Exam Tip: The two qualities to remember are being a "man of letters" and his "generosity" (Lakhbaksh).

Question 3(a). What were the steps taken by Alauddin Khilji to regulate prices ?
Answer: He fixed the cost of all commodities such as food grains, sugar and cooking oil. For this purpose, he set up three markets at Delhi — one market for food grains, the second for costly cloth, and the third for horses, slaves and cattle. Each market was put under the charge of a controller of market (Shahna). Very strict punishments were prescribed for cheating and under weighing the goods.
In simple words: He controlled the prices of food and goods and set up separate markets with strict officers to prevent cheating.

📝 Teacher's Note: Point out that the "strict punishments" were the main reason his system actually worked for a long time.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be sure to mention the three specific types of markets he created.

(b). What were the methods adopted by Alauddin Khilji to crush the power of the nobility ?
Answer: When Alauddin Khilji came to the throne, he had to face a series of rebellions from the nobles. So he took a number of measures to crush their power.
1. The Nobles were not allowed to hold parties or festivities or to form marriage alliances without the permission of the Sultan.
2. The use of wine and intoxicants was banned.
3. Gambling was forbidden and gamblers were severely punished.
4. He stopped paying the soldiers in land and introduced cash salaries.
5. He established an efficient spy system to keep a check on the activities of the nobles.
In simple words: He banned parties and drinking for nobles, paid his soldiers in cash instead of land, and used spies to watch everyone.

📝 Teacher's Note: Focus on the "spy system" — this was a major way for the Sultan to know if anyone was planning a revolt.

🎯 Exam Tip: Paying "cash salaries" instead of "land" is a very important point about his reforms.

(c). What measures did Alauddin Khilji take to increase the revenue?
Answer: Alauddin Khilji introduced a number of important measures to get maximum revenue. He brought all the land of the empire into his direct control. He introduced the practice of measuring land and fixing the state share accordingly. He increased the land revenue from one-third to one-half and demanded it to be paid in cash and not kind. He also appointed special officers to collect land revenue.
In simple words: He measured all the land, increased the tax to half of the crop, and made people pay in cash.

📝 Teacher's Note: This was a huge increase in taxes. Explain that "in cash" meant farmers had to sell their grain first, which further controlled the economy.

🎯 Exam Tip: "Measuring land" and "paying in cash" are the two most important parts of his revenue system.

Question 4(a). His attempts to transfer the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad.
Answer: During Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq’s reign the empire had also spread to the south. He shifted his capital to Devagiri near modern Aurangabad and renamed it Daulatabad. He did it for the following reasons:
1. Daulatabad was centrally located from where he could control the Deccan territories ; and
2. Delhi was in the grip of severe famine; and
3. Delhi was constantly threatened by the Mongol invasions. He ordered the people of Delhi including religious heads to shift to Daulatabad in 1328-29.
In simple words: He moved the capital because it was in the middle of his empire, Delhi was starving, and he wanted to hide from invaders.

📝 Teacher's Note: Remind students that moving the "religious heads" (holy people) made him very unpopular with the general public.

🎯 Exam Tip: List all three reasons: location, famine, and Mongol threats.

(b). Introduction of token currency.
Answer: Muhammad Bin Tughlaq introduced the “token currency”. It meant introduction of bronze tanka in place of silver tankas. This was done because of the shortage of silver. But this experiment failed due to the circulation of counterfeit or fake coins on a very large scale.
In simple words: He tried to use bronze coins instead of silver ones, but it failed because too many people made fake coins at home.

📝 Teacher's Note: This is a classic example of a "good idea, bad execution." Tughlaq didn't have a way to make his coins unique or hard to copy.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly state that "shortage of silver" was the reason he started this scheme.

(c). Increased taxation in Doab and its consequences.
Answer: Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq wanted to conquer territories not only in India but also in Central Asia. He required a large army and, therefore, large amounts of money to pay for the army. So in order to get more revenue, he increased the land tax in the fertile region of Ganga-Yamuna doab. At the same time, a severe famine broke out in the area and the people refused to pay the extra taxes and rose in rebellion. But the tax collectors showed no mercy and took stern measures to collect the taxes. This made some of the peasants to abandon their lands and flee to jungles.
In simple words: He raised taxes to pay for a bigger army, but a famine happened. Farmers revolted and eventually ran away to the jungles to escape the cruel tax collectors.

📝 Teacher's Note: Discuss why it was a mistake for the tax collectors to be "merciless" during a natural disaster like a famine.

🎯 Exam Tip: The "consequence" was that peasants "abandoned their lands and fled to jungles." Be sure to include that part.

Question 5. With reference to the administrative system of the Delhi Sultanate, give the functions of each of the following officials:
(a) Ariz-i-mumalik
(b) Wazir
Answer:
(a) Ariz-i-mumalik — The minister in charge of the army was called ariz-i-mumalik’. The ariz was not the commander- in-chief of the army, since the Sultan himself commanded all the armed forces. The special responsibility of the ariz’s department was to recruit, equip and pay the army.
(b) Wazir — the key figure in administration was the wazir, who acted as the Prime Minister. The wazir supervised the work of the other officials.
In simple words: The Ariz managed the soldiers' pay and gear, while the Wazir was the head of all government work.

📝 Teacher's Note: Clarify that the Ariz was like a "Secretary of Defense" today, while the Wazir was the "Prime Minister."

🎯 Exam Tip: Specifically mention that the Ariz did NOT lead the army in battle (the Sultan did) but handled the business side of the army.

Question 6. Study the picture of Qutab Minar and answer the following questions:
(a) Who began erecting this monument ? Where is it located?
(b) Name the saint after whom the monument is named.
(c) Name the ruler who completed the construction of Qutab Minar.
(d) Mention three important features of the monument.
Answer:
(a) Qutub-ud-Din Aibak began to erect this monument. It is located in Delhi.
(b) This monument is named after the Sufi saint, Qutb-ud-din Bakhtiyar Kaki.
(c) The structure was completed only in AD 1230 by Iltutmish.
(d) It has five storeys separated by balconies. Its height is 71.4 meters. It is of 13.8 meters in diameter. It is made of red sandstone, marble and grey quartzite.
In simple words: It was started by Aibak in Delhi, named for a saint, and finished by Iltutmish. It is a tall stone tower with five levels.

📝 Teacher's Note: This question is very similar to Structured Question 4, showing it is a key piece of history to study.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note the different heights given (71.4m vs 72.5m) — follow your school textbook's exact number if it varies.

Question 7(a). Why did Muhammad Ghori invade India ?
Answer: The reasons which made Muhammad Ghori to invade India. The wealth and military resources of India, which he thought could be utilised to safeguard the Ghurid empire. Therefore, he strengthened his position at Ghazni and turned his attention towards India. He invaded India several times between 1175 and 1206.
In simple words: He wanted India's riches to help make his own empire stronger and bigger.

📝 Teacher's Note: This is a repeat from the additional questions, highlighting Ghori's strategic thinking.

🎯 Exam Tip: Mentioning the date range (1175 to 1206) shows a deep understanding of his campaign.

(b). Briefly describe the conflict between Prithviraj Chauhan in the two battles of Tarain.
Answer: In 1191, in the First Battle of Tarain, the forces of Muhammad Ghori were completely routed by the forces of Prithviraj. Muhammad Ghori decided to avenge his defeat and made another bid for India in 1192. The Second Battle of Trarain in 1192 is regarded as one of the turning points of Indian history. The Turkish army of Muhammad Ghori won the battle. A large number of Rajput soldiers lost their lives. Prithviraj escaped, but was captured. Later on Turkish army attacked and captured Ajmer. It seems that Prithviraj was allowed to rule over Ajmer for some times as is evident from the coins of the period giving the date and the legend Prithviraj adeva on one side and the words ‘Sri Muhammad Sam’ on the other.
In simple words: Prithviraj won the first fight in 1191, but Ghori came back and won the second fight in 1192, which changed Indian history forever.

📝 Teacher's Note: The "Second Battle of Tarain" is often called the most important battle in the establishment of Muslim rule in India.

🎯 Exam Tip: Make sure to distinguish between 1191 (Rajput victory) and 1192 (Turkish victory).

(c). What were the cause of success of the Turks against the Rajputs ?
Answer: The factors which led to the defeat of the Rajputs against the Turks were the following:
1. The Turkish army consisted mainly of cavalry and its horses had greater stamina and endurance.
2. The Turkish army comprised expert military leaders from different lands who employed new tactics of war. The Rajputs, on the other hand, followed outdated tactics.
3. The Rajput soldiers were highly efficient in the use of spear and sword and excellent in hand-to-hand fighting. But as archers, they were inferior to the Turks. The Turks were aware of the weak points of their opponents. They avoided a close combat and usually made their attack from a safe distance. The Rajputs were divided into a number of clans, each of which laid greater importance to its own family traditions. The Turks had to fight not against a unified army but against a few dynasties
In simple words: The Turks had better horses and leaders, used bows and arrows from a distance, and fought against divided Rajput groups instead of a single united army.

📝 Teacher's Note: Point out that the lack of unity among the Rajputs was just as important as the military technology of the Turks.

🎯 Exam Tip: Mention "superior cavalry" and "lack of Rajput unity" as two separate points for a better answer.

Question 8(a). Explain the caste divisions which existed in the social structure.
Answer: There were hardly any changes in the structure of the Hindu society during the period. According to the Smritis, the Brahmins were at the apex, followed by the Kshatriyas. The duty of the Kshatriyas was to protect the people. The Vaishyas were engaged in trade. It was the duty of the shudras to serve the other castes, but they were allowed to engage in all occupation. However, severe restrictions were placed on mingling with the outcasts. The Muslims were divided into ethnic and racial groups. There were Turkish, Iranian, Arab, Afghan and Abyssinian Muslims. During the 13th century, among all the foreigners, the Turkish Muslims were in a dominating position. Besides, the Muslims were divided into many groups on the basis of origin, religion and occupation. However, the caste divisions did not close social intercourse between the Muslims and the Hindus.
In simple words: Hindus still followed the old system with Brahmins at the top. Muslims also had their own groups based on where they were from, with the Turks being the most powerful.

📝 Teacher's Note: Emphasize that despite these many divisions, people from both religions still lived together and interacted socially.

🎯 Exam Tip: Mention both the "four Hindu castes" and the "different Muslim ethnic groups" for a complete picture of society.

(b). Explain the inequalities which existed between rulers and the ruled during the Sultanate period.
Answer: During the Sultanate period, the society was marked by inequalities. In towns, the nobles and merchants led a life of great luxury. The great mass of people lived in simple life and had to face many hardships. It was, however, not a life without joy, as numerous festivals and fairs held from time to time used to relieve them of their monotonous existence.
In simple words: Rich people and kings lived in luxury, while regular people worked hard and lived simply. However, common people still enjoyed themselves at fairs and festivals.

📝 Teacher's Note: This is a good time to talk about "social class" and how money and power were distributed in medieval times.

🎯 Exam Tip: Mention the difference between "town life for nobles" and the "hardships of the mass of people."

(c). Describe the condition of women during the Sultanate period.
Answer: There was hardly any change in the position of women among the Hindus. The old rules such as early marriage for girls and the wife’s obligation of sender and devotion to the husband continued. A number of travelers refers to the existence of the evil practice of Sati. According to Ibn Batuta, permission from the Sultan had to be taken for the performance of Sati. The practice of purdah was widespread among the upper class wom
In simple words: Women’s lives stayed much the same. Girls were married young, practices like Sati still happened, and upper-class women often stayed behind curtains (purdah).

📝 Teacher's Note: Use the mention of "Ibn Batuta" to explain how historians use the travel diaries of foreigners to learn about daily life.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note that "Sati" and "Purdah" are two specific social practices associated with women during this period.