Studying for your Class 7 ICSE History exam? This worksheet on Aurangzeb and the Marathas provides everything you need to revise the chapter efficiently. It includes long answer questions, multiple-choice questions (MCQs), true or false, give reasons, and fill in the blanks—all designed to help students understand important topics like Aurangzeb’s rise to power, his religious policies, Shivaji’s administration, and the rise of the Maratha Empire. Perfect for ICSE 2024–25 exam prep.
A. Answer the Following Questions
1. How did Aurangzeb occupy the throne of Delhi?
Ans:
Aurangzeb became the ruler by defeating his brothers in the war of succession. After Shah Jahan fell ill, his sons fought for the throne. Aurangzeb defeated Dara Shikoh and imprisoned his father to become the emperor in 1658.
2. Why were the peasants unhappy during the reign of Aurangzeb?
Ans:
Peasants were unhappy due to heavy taxes, continuous wars, and lack of support during droughts and famines. They had to give a large part of their produce as tax, which made life very difficult.
3. Describe briefly Shivaji’s administration.
Ans:
Shivaji ran an efficient administration. He divided the empire into provinces and appointed honest officers. He maintained a strong army and navy, followed a fair revenue system, and took care of the welfare of his people.
4. What made the Marathas establish a strong and powerful state?
Ans:
The Marathas became strong due to Shivaji’s leadership, use of guerrilla warfare, strategic forts, and the support of the people. Their administration was well-organized, and they were determined to protect their independence.
B. Tick the Correct Answer (MCQs)
- Aurangzeb defeated his brother Dara Shikoh in the war of succession.
a) Shah Shuja
b) Dara Shikoh ✅
c) Murad
d) Bahadur - Shivaji was the founder of the:
a) Mughal Empire
b) British Empire
c) Maratha Empire ✅
d) Vijayanagar Empire - Aurangzeb ruled for about:
a) 10 years
b) 20 years
c) 49 years ✅
d) 60 years
C. True or False (Quick Revision)
- Aurangzeb was known for his strict religious policies. – True
- Shivaji followed a cruel and unfair revenue system. – False
- The Marathas used guerrilla warfare to fight. – True
- Aurangzeb gave full freedom to all religions. – False
D. Give Reasons (Long-Form Practice)
- Aurangzeb imprisoned his father Shah Jahan.
- Ans: To eliminate any opposition and secure his claim to the throne.
- Peasants suffered during Aurangzeb’s rule.
- Ans: They faced high taxes, long wars, and received little help during natural disasters like famines.
- Shivaji built many forts across his kingdom.
- Ans: To protect his territory and use them as safe bases during enemy attacks.
E. Fill in the Blanks
- Aurangzeb became the emperor in the year 1658.
- Shivaji used guerrilla warfare to defeat the Mughals.
- The Maratha Empire was founded by Shivaji.
- Aurangzeb ruled the Mughal Empire for about 49 years.
- The capital of Shivaji’s kingdom was Raigad.