Plus One History Second Terminal Christmas Exam Answer Key 2025

FIRST YEAR HIGHER SECONDARY SECOND TERMINAL EXAMINATION, DECEMBER 2025

Part – III: HISTORY

Maximum: 80 Scores | Time: 2½ Hours

Section A: Objective Type Questions (1-7)

1. Match Column 'A' with appropriate items from Column 'B'. 4 Scores

Column A	Column B	Answer
Charles Darwin	On the origin of species	Charles Darwin - On the origin of species
Spain	Altamira cave paintings	Spain - Altamira cave paintings
Homo Sapiens	Wise man	Homo Sapiens - Wise man
Australopithecus	Southern Ape	Australopithecus - Southern Ape

2. Name the author of Almagest. 1 Score

B) Ptolemy

3. Who was the first to dissect the human body? 1 Score

A) Andreas Vesalius

4. Identify the sculptor of the Pieta. 1 Score

D) Michelangelo

5. Who launched the Protestant Reformation? 1 Score

D) Martin Luther

6. Arrange the following in chronological order: 4 Scores

1. Beginning of Hijra year (622 CE)
2. Establishment of Umayyad rule (661 CE)
3. The Abbasid uprising (750 CE)
4. The Crusades (1096-1291 CE)

7. Mark the following on the outline map of the World provided: 4 Scores

Note: Students should correctly locate and label the following on the provided map:

• Mediterranean sea - Between Europe and Africa
• Rome - In Italy, on the Tiber River
• Constantinople - Modern-day Istanbul, Turkey
• Sahara desert - Northern Africa

Section B: Short Answer Questions (8-17) - Answer any 8

8. Point out any two features of the primates. 2 Scores

1. Opposable thumbs that allow grasping objects
2. Binocular vision with forward-facing eyes for depth perception

Other acceptable answers: Larger brains relative to body size, complex social behavior, nails instead of claws, flexible limbs.

9. Name two theories connected with the origin of modern humans. 2 Scores

1. Out of Africa theory (Replacement hypothesis): Modern humans originated in Africa and migrated to other parts of the world, replacing existing hominid populations.
2. Multiregional theory: Modern humans evolved simultaneously in different regions from local populations of Homo erectus.

10. Mention any two ways through which the early humans obtained food. 2 Scores

1. Hunting and gathering: Hunting wild animals and collecting edible plants, fruits, and nuts.
2. Scavenging: Collecting remains of animals killed by predators.

Later development: Agriculture and domestication of animals.

11. Write any two uses of writing in Mesopotamia. 2 Scores

1. Record keeping for administrative and economic purposes (taxes, trade, storage).
2. Legal documentation of laws, contracts, and property rights (Code of Hammurabi).

Other uses: Literary works (Epic of Gilgamesh), religious texts, scientific records, correspondence.

12. Point out the differences between the Roman empire and the Iranian empire. 2 Scores

1. Religion: Roman Empire was initially polytheistic, later Christian; Iranian (Persian) Empire followed Zoroastrianism.
2. Administrative structure: Roman Empire had provinces governed by appointed officials; Persian Empire had satrapies ruled by satraps with considerable autonomy.

13. Write a short note on Quriltai. 2 Scores

Quriltai was the political and military council of the Mongol Empire where important decisions were made. It was a gathering of Mongol chiefs and nobles to elect the Great Khan, plan military campaigns, and decide on laws and policies. The most famous Quriltai was in 1206 when Temujin was proclaimed Genghis Khan.

14. Define feudalism. 2 Scores

Feudalism was a medieval European political, economic, and social system based on a hierarchy of lords and vassals. Land (fief) was granted by a lord to a vassal in exchange for military service and loyalty. It involved a decentralized structure of authority with reciprocal obligations between different levels of society.

15. Prepare a short note on the Cathedral towns. 2 Scores

Cathedral towns were medieval European towns that grew around cathedrals (major church buildings). They served as religious, educational, and economic centers. The construction of cathedrals attracted artisans, traders, and scholars, stimulating urban growth. These towns often had cathedral schools that later evolved into universities.

16. Mention any two causes of the 14th Century Crisis in Europe. 2 Scores

1. The Black Death (1347-1351): A devastating plague that killed 30-50% of Europe's population, causing labor shortages and social upheaval.
2. The Hundred Years' War (1337-1453): Prolonged conflict between England and France that drained resources and destabilized the region.

Other causes: Climate change (Little Ice Age), famine, peasant revolts, religious instability.

17. How did Venice and Genova differ from the other Italian cities? 2 Scores

1. Maritime power: Both were major maritime republics with powerful navies and extensive trade networks across the Mediterranean, unlike inland cities.
2. Political system: They had unique republican systems with elected doges, while many other Italian cities were governed by signorie (lordly rule) or were part of the Papal States.

Section C: Medium Answer Questions (18-20) - Answer any 2

18. List out the administrative measures taken by Abd al Malik. 3 Scores

Abd al Malik (685-705 CE) was the fifth Umayyad caliph who implemented important administrative reforms:

1. Arabization of administration: Made Arabic the official language of administration throughout the empire.
2. Coinage reform: Introduced standardized Islamic coinage to replace Byzantine and Sassanian coins.
3. Centralization of authority and improved communication systems across the empire.
4. Construction projects: Built the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem as an Islamic architectural symbol.

19. Write a short note on the courier system of Genghis Khan. 3 Scores

The Yam system was Genghis Khan's sophisticated courier and communication network:

1. Relay stations were established at regular intervals (about 20-30 miles apart) across the Mongol Empire.
2. Fresh horses and riders were available at each station, allowing messages to travel quickly (up to 200 miles per day).
3. The system facilitated rapid communication across vast distances, crucial for military coordination and administration.
4. It also served as postal service for officials and merchants, promoting trade and governance.

20. What is Copernican Revolution? 3 Scores

The Copernican Revolution refers to the paradigm shift in astronomy initiated by Nicolaus Copernicus (1473-1543) in his work "On the Revolutions of the Heavenly Spheres" (1543):

1. Heliocentric model: Proposed that the Sun, not the Earth, was at the center of the universe with planets revolving around it.
2. Challenged geocentrism: Contradicted the Ptolemaic Earth-centered model that had been accepted for over a millennium.
3. Scientific revolution: Paved the way for modern astronomy and challenged religious and philosophical views about humanity's place in the universe.

Section D: Long Answer Questions (21-25) - Answer any 4

21. List out the features of Australopithecus. 4 Scores

Australopithecus ("Southern Ape") were early hominids that lived in Africa between 4 and 2 million years ago:

1. Bipedal locomotion: Walked upright on two legs, though still adapted for tree climbing.
2. Small brain size: About 400-500 cc, roughly 35% of modern human brain size.
3. Prognathic face: Projecting jaw and large teeth adapted for chewing tough plant material.
4. Sexual dimorphism: Males significantly larger than females.
5. Tool use: Possibly used simple tools (though debate exists about which species first used tools).
6. Varied species: Included several species like A. afarensis (Lucy), A. africanus, and robust forms like Paranthropus.

22. "Mesopotamia is a land of diverse geographical features." Substantiate the statement. 4 Scores

Mesopotamia (Greek for "land between rivers") had diverse geography that shaped its civilization:

1. Tigris and Euphrates Rivers: Provided water for irrigation, transportation, and fertile silt through annual flooding.
2. Fertile Crescent: Arc of fertile land ideal for agriculture, especially in the south (Sumer).
3. Varied regions: Included marshes in the south, alluvial plains in central areas, and foothills in the north.
4. Natural resources: Clay for bricks and tablets, reeds for building and writing, but lacked stone, metals, and timber which had to be imported.
5. Climate: Hot, dry summers and seasonal rains, necessitating irrigation systems for agriculture.

23. Elucidate the contributions of Mesopotamians in the fields of time reckoning and mathematics. 4 Scores

Mesopotamian contributions to time reckoning and mathematics:

Time Reckoning:

1. Lunar calendar: 12 lunar months (354 days) with periodic intercalary months to synchronize with solar year.
2. Division of time: 60-based system: 60 seconds in a minute, 60 minutes in an hour, 360 degrees in a circle.
3. Seven-day week: Possibly influenced by seven celestial bodies visible to naked eye.

Mathematics:

1. Sexagesimal system: Base-60 numeral system still used for time and angles.
2. Place value system: Early concept of place value in their number system.
3. Algebra and geometry: Solved quadratic equations, calculated areas, understood Pythagorean theorem.
4. Advanced calculations: Multiplication tables, reciprocals, square and cube roots.

24. Describe the changes that occurred in Rome during the late antiquity period. 4 Scores

Late Antiquity (approximately 3rd to 7th centuries CE) was a period of transformation in Rome:

1. Political changes: Division of Roman Empire into Western and Eastern (Byzantine) empires; moving of capital to Constantinople; eventual fall of Western Roman Empire (476 CE).
2. Religious transformation: Rise of Christianity from persecuted sect to state religion (Edict of Milan 313 CE, Theodosius making it state religion 380 CE).
3. Economic shifts: Decline of long-distance trade, shift to more localized economies, decreased urban populations.
4. Military reorganization: Increased reliance on barbarian mercenaries, changes in army structure.
5. Cultural synthesis: Blending of Roman, Christian, and Germanic traditions; preservation of classical knowledge in monasteries.

25. What is Crusades? Give two impacts. 4 Scores

Crusades were a series of religious wars (1096-1291 CE) sanctioned by the Latin Church to reclaim holy lands from Muslim rule.

Two major impacts:

1. Cultural exchange: Despite conflict, Crusades increased contact between Europe and Islamic world, leading to transfer of knowledge in science, medicine, philosophy, and technology to Europe.
2. Economic changes: Stimulated trade between Europe and Middle East; Italian merchant cities (Venice, Genoa) prospered; introduced new goods to Europe (silks, spices, citrus fruits).
3. Other impacts: Strengthened papal authority initially but later led to criticism of Church; increased persecution of Jews in Europe; legacy of Christian-Muslim conflict.

Section E: Essay Type Questions (26-28) - Answer any 2

26. Evaluate the features of Mari. 5 Scores

Mari was an ancient Mesopotamian city (modern Tell Hariri, Syria) flourishing around 2900-1759 BCE:

1. Strategic location: On the Euphrates River at crossroads of major trade routes between Mesopotamia, Syria, and Anatolia.
2. Economic importance: Major trading center for timber, metals, and other goods; extensive archives document complex trade networks.
3. Political structure: Ruled by a king (shakkanakku) with a palace-centered administration; famous for the "Mari Letters" - diplomatic correspondence revealing international relations.
4. Cultural achievements: Magnificent palace complex with over 300 rooms, wall paintings, statues; cuneiform archives with 25,000+ tablets.
5. Religious significance: Temple of Ishtar and other religious structures; Mari was known for worship of various deities.
6. Architectural features

27. Explain the military organisation of Genghis Khan. 5 Scores

Genghis Khan's military organization was key to Mongol conquests:

1. Decimal system: Army organized in units of 10 (arban), 100 (jaghun), 1000 (mingghan), and 10,000 (tumen).
2. Merit-based promotion: Officers promoted based on ability rather than nobility, increasing efficiency.
3. Discipline and training: Strict discipline with severe punishments for disobedience; constant training in horsemanship and archery.
4. Cavalry-based force: Primarily light and heavy cavalry; each soldier maintained multiple horses for endurance.
5. Tactical innovations: Feigned retreats, encirclement tactics, use of siege weapons adapted from conquered peoples.
6. Intelligence network: Extensive spy networks gathered information before campaigns.
7. Psychological warfare: Reputation for brutality encouraged surrender without fighting.
8. Logistical support: Efficient supply systems and the Yam courier network for communication.

28. Describe the features of the Protestant Reformation. 5 Scores

The Protestant Reformation (16th century) was a religious movement that challenged Catholic Church authority:

1. Key figures: Martin Luther (95 Theses, 1517), John Calvin, Ulrich Zwingli, John Knox.
2. Core theological principles:
   • Sola Scriptura (Scripture alone as authority)
   • Sola Fide (Justification by faith alone)
   • Priesthood of all believers
   • Rejection of papal authority
3. Criticisms of Catholic practices: Indulgences, simony, nepotism, clerical corruption, Latin liturgy inaccessible to common people.
4. Spread factors: Printing press enabled rapid dissemination of reform ideas; support from German princes (Peace of Augsburg 1555).
5. Major branches: Lutheranism, Calvinism (Reformed), Anglicanism, Anabaptists.
6. Impacts:
   • Religious wars (Thirty Years' War)
   • Catholic Counter-Reformation
   • Increased literacy through vernacular Bibles
   • Strengthened state power over church
   • Contributions to individualism and capitalism (Weber's thesis)

Section F: Comprehensive Essays (29-31) - Answer any 2

29. Prepare an essay on the Roman empire. Areas to be considered: Economic expansion, Social hierarchy. 8 Scores

The Roman Empire: An Overview

Introduction: The Roman Empire (27 BCE - 476 CE in West, until 1453 in East) was one of history's most influential civilizations, known for its military prowess, engineering achievements, legal systems, and cultural legacy.

Economic Expansion:

1. Agriculture: Backbone of economy; latifundia (large estates) using slave labor; crop specialization by region (olives, grapes, grain).
2. Trade networks: Extensive Mediterranean trade (Mare Nostrum); Silk Road connections to China; Indian Ocean trade.
3. Infrastructure: Roads (50,000+ miles), ports, bridges facilitating trade and military movement.
4. Currency: Standardized coinage (denarius, aureus) promoting commerce across empire.
5. Industrial production: Pottery, glassware, metalwork, textiles produced in workshops.
6. Taxation system: Complex system financing army, bureaucracy, and public works.

Social Hierarchy:

1. Patricians vs. Plebeians: Originally distinct classes; gradually blurred but social distinctions remained.
2. Senatorial class: Wealthy landowners with political power; required property qualification.
3. Equestrian class: Businessmen, merchants, lower officials; wealth-based but less political power.
4. Common citizens: Small farmers, urban plebs, soldiers; received grain dole in Rome.
5. Freedmen: Former slaves with limited rights but could become wealthy.
6. Slaves: 20-30% of population; varied conditions from household servants to mine workers.
7. Women: Under paternal authority (paterfamilias); limited legal rights but varying social freedom by class.
8. Social mobility: Possible through military service, wealth accumulation, imperial favor.

Conclusion: The Roman Empire's economic integration and complex social structure were key to its longevity and influence on subsequent Western civilization.

30. Analyse the features of the Central and South American cultures. Hints: The Aztecs, The Mayas, The Incas. 8 Scores

Central and South American Cultures: Aztecs, Mayas, and Incas

Introduction: These three civilizations developed independently in the Americas with advanced agricultural, architectural, and astronomical knowledge before European contact.

The Aztecs (Mexica) - Central Mexico (c. 1300-1521 CE):

1. Capital: Tenochtitlan (island city in Lake Texcoco, now Mexico City).
2. Political structure: Triple Alliance empire with tribute system; emperor (Huey Tlatoani) as semi-divine ruler.
3. Economy: Intensive agriculture (chinampas/floating gardens); major market at Tlatelolco.
4. Religion: Polytheistic with human sacrifice to nourish gods, especially sun god Huitzilopochtli.
5. Achievements: Calendar system, pictographic writing, monumental architecture (Templo Mayor).

The Maya - Yucatan Peninsula and Central America (c. 2000 BCE-900 CE classic period):

1. Political structure: City-states (Tikal, Palenque, Chichen Itza) with divine kings.
2. Achievements:
   • Most advanced writing system in Americas (hieroglyphic)
   • Mathematics: Concept of zero, vigesimal (base-20) system
   • Astronomy: Accurate calendars (Haab' solar, Tzolk'in sacred)
   • Architecture: Pyramids, observatories, ball courts
3. Decline: Classic Maya collapse c. 900 CE due to environmental, political factors.

The Incas - Andes Mountains, South America (c. 1438-1533 CE):

1. Capital: Cusco, "navel of the world."
2. Political structure: Highly centralized empire with divine emperor (Sapa Inca).
3. Administration: Efficient bureaucracy using quipu (knotted strings) for record-keeping.
4. Engineering: Extensive road network (25,000 miles), terrace farming, suspension bridges.
5. Economy: State-controlled with redistribution system; mit'a labor tax.
6. Architecture: Machu Picchu, precise stone masonry without mortar.

Comparative Analysis:

• Similarities: Polytheistic religions, agricultural innovations, monumental architecture, stratified societies.
• Differences: Political organization (city-states vs. empires), writing systems (Maya had full writing), geographical adaptations.

Conclusion: These civilizations developed sophisticated cultures adapted to their environments, with lasting legacies in art, architecture, and knowledge systems.

31. Evaluate the features of the three orders of European feudalism. 8 Scores

The Three Orders of European Feudalism

Introduction: Medieval European society was often described as divided into three functional orders: those who pray (clergy), those who fight (nobility), and those who work (peasants). This structure reflected both social hierarchy and mutual obligations.

1. Those Who Pray: The Clergy (First Estate)

1. Spiritual function: Conduct religious services, administer sacraments, guide souls to salvation.
2. Hierarchy: