CSS Past Paper 2017 British History Descriptive

CSS | Past Paper | Group 4 | 2017 | Part 2 | Descriptive

Below is the solution to PART-II (COMPULSORY) of the CSS Past Paper 2017 British History Descriptive (Part 2).

Question 2

What were the merits and demerits of the Whig rule? What led to the downfall of Whig ascendancy? Analyze comprehensively.

Introduction

The Whig party was one of the two main political parties in Britain during the 17th to 19th centuries. They supported constitutional monarchy, civil liberties, and were often seen as more progressive than the Tories. Their rule brought many changes, both positive and negative, and in the end, some of their weaknesses led to their fall from power.

Merits of the Whig Rule

Support for Constitutional Monarchy:
Whigs believed in limiting the powers of the king and increasing the power of Parliament. This helped in developing democracy in Britain.
Religious Tolerance:
They supported religious freedom, especially for Protestants who were not part of the Church of England. They passed the Toleration Act 1689 which was a big step forward.
Promotion of Trade and Commerce:
The Whigs supported the growing merchant class and helped boost trade. This led to economic growth and development in cities.
Reform Movements:
Whigs introduced many reforms like the Reform Act 1832, which expanded the right to vote and made the political system fairer.
Educational Reforms:
They supported improvements in education, making basic education more available to the general public.

Demerits of the Whig Rule

Ignored the Working Class:
While they helped the middle class, they did not do much for the poor workers, who suffered during the Industrial Revolution.
Corruption and Patronage:
The Whigs often gave government jobs to their friends and supporters, even if they were not capable. This caused corruption and inefficiency.
Slow Reforms:
Even though they believed in reforms, they were often too slow and cautious. This caused frustration among people who wanted quick change.
Class-Based Policies:
Whigs mostly represented the rich middle class and landowners. Their policies often ignored the needs of farmers and poor people.

Reasons for the Downfall of Whig Ascendancy

Rise of the Labour Movement:
As workers demanded more rights and representation, Whigs failed to connect with them. Labour movements began to rise, and Whigs started losing support.
Internal Divisions:
The party was divided into different groups, like Radicals and Moderates. This made the party weak and confused in leadership.
Growth of the Conservative Party:
The Tories (later called Conservatives) became more organized and popular. They started adopting some liberal policies, which took support away from the Whigs.
Failure in Irish Policies:
Whigs failed to solve the Irish question, especially issues like Irish home rule and land reforms. This made them unpopular.
Rebranding into Liberal Party:
The original Whig identity started fading by the mid-19th century. In 1859, many Whigs joined with Radicals and Peelites to form the Liberal Party, which was basically the end of the Whig dominance.

Conclusion

Whig rule played an important role in shaping modern Britain by promoting constitutionalism, trade, and reforms. But their lack of connection with the working class, slow pace of change, and internal problems caused their fall. Their legacy still continued through the Liberal Party, but as a party, Whigs lost their influence by the second half of the 19th century.

Question 3

Industrial Revolution drastically changed methods of production in England. How did it affect the Social, Economic, Political and Cultural life of the English people?

Introduction

The Industrial Revolution started in England in the late 18th century and continued in the 19th century. It changed the way goods were produced — from handmade to machine-made — and brought big changes to society. The use of steam engines, new factories, and inventions like the spinning jenny changed every part of life in England.

Economic Effects

Growth of Factories:
Many factories were built in cities, especially in places like Manchester and Birmingham. This made production faster and cheaper.
Rise of Capitalism:
Businessmen and factory owners became rich. A capitalist economy started growing where profit became the main goal.
Increase in Exports:
Britain became the “workshop of the world” as it exported manufactured goods all over Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Urbanization:
People moved to cities in large numbers for jobs in factories. This led to the fast growth of urban areas.
Poor Working Conditions:
Factory workers, including women and children, worked long hours in unsafe conditions for low wages.

Social Effects

Class Division:
Society got divided into classes — rich industrialists, middle class professionals, and poor working class.
Child Labour and Women Exploitation:
Children and women were employed in factories for cheap labour. They had no legal rights or protection at that time.
Slums and Health Issues:
Because of quick urban growth, people lived in dirty and overcrowded slums. Diseases like cholera and typhoid spread easily.
Rise of Labour Unions:
Workers started forming unions to fight for better wages, working hours, and safety laws.
Population Growth:
Better food production and health services caused a rise in population during this time.

Political Effects

Reform Movements:
Demands for political rights increased. This led to important acts like the Reform Act 1832, which gave the vote to more men.
New Political Ideologies:
Socialism and liberalism started to rise as people wanted equality and rights for the working class.
Chartist Movement:
This movement demanded universal male suffrage, secret ballot, and other political reforms.
Pressure on Parliament:
The voices of common people started becoming important in politics, forcing Parliament to pass reforms.

Cultural Effects

Change in Lifestyle:
Life became fast and mechanical. People had less time for traditional festivals and rural customs.
Education Awareness:
Need for educated workers increased. Many schools were opened to teach reading, writing, and arithmetic.
New Literature and Art:
Writers like Charles Dickens wrote about the sufferings of the poor. Art and literature became more focused on real life.
Scientific Thinking:
People started believing in science and progress. Religion slowly became less dominant in some areas.

Conclusion

The Industrial Revolution was a turning point in British history. It made England rich and powerful, but also created many social and economic problems. The working class faced many hardships, but over time, reforms improved their condition. Overall, it changed England forever — from an agricultural country to an industrial power.

Question 4

Give a comprehensive account of chartist movement. Why did it fail? Explain and Analyse.

Introduction

The Chartist Movement was a working-class movement in Britain during 1838 to 1857. It aimed to get political rights for the common people. The name “Chartist” comes from their document called the People’s Charter (1838), which had six main demands. It was one of the biggest political movements of the 19th century in Britain.

Main Demands of the Chartist Movement

Universal Male Suffrage:
All adult men should have the right to vote.
Secret Ballot:
Voting should be private so no one can influence the voter.
No Property Qualification for MPs:
A person should not need to own property to become a Member of Parliament.
Payment for MPs:
Members of Parliament should be paid so that poor people can also become MPs.
Equal Constituencies:
Voting areas should have equal population so that voting is fair.
Annual General Elections:
Parliament should be elected every year to keep it accountable to the people.

Causes of the Chartist Movement

Industrial Revolution Problems:
Factory workers lived in bad conditions and had no rights. They wanted political change.
Failure of 1832 Reform Act:
This act gave the vote to middle class men but ignored working class people.
Economic Depression:
Poor people were badly affected during economic downturns in the 1830s and 1840s.
Poor Law of 1834:
This law made life harder for the poor and created anger among the working class.

Phases of the Movement

First Petition (1839):
It had over 1 million signatures but was rejected by Parliament. Riots broke out in some cities.
Second Petition (1842):
Over 3 million signatures but again rejected. A general strike happened in some areas.
Third Petition (1848):
Claimed to have 5 million signatures, but many were fake. Parliament again rejected it.

Reasons for the Failure of Chartist Movement

Divisions in Leadership:
Leaders were divided into peaceful (moral force) and violent (physical force) groups. This weakened the unity.
Lack of Middle-Class Support:
The movement was only working-class. The middle class didn’t support it.
Weak Organization:
The movement lacked strong planning and long-term strategy.
Government Suppression:
The government arrested leaders, banned meetings, and used police force to stop protests.
Economic Improvement After 1848:
When economic conditions improved, many workers lost interest in the movement.
Fake Signatures on Petition:
The third petition was embarrassed because it had names like “Queen Victoria” and “Mr Punch”. It hurt the seriousness of the movement.

Significance of the Movement

Even though the Chartist Movement failed in the short term, most of its demands were accepted later in British politics. Today, many of their ideas are part of modern democracy.

Conclusion

The Chartist Movement was a bold step by the working class to demand their rights in 19th century Britain. It failed because of internal problems and strong government opposition, but it made people aware of political rights and helped shape future reforms. In the long run, it was an important step towards a democratic society in Britain.

Question 5

“Gladstone’s domestic policy was the climax of liberalism”. Discuss it comprehensively.

Introduction

William Ewart Gladstone was one of the most important British politicians of the 19th century. He served as Prime Minister four times. His domestic policy focused on liberal values like individual freedom, equality, and limited government interference. Many historians say his domestic reforms were the high point — or climax — of liberalism in British politics.

What is Liberalism?

Liberalism means giving people more rights, reducing the power of the monarchy and church, and promoting free trade and education. It also supports peace, justice, and reform instead of violence and conservatism.

Main Domestic Reforms by Gladstone

1. Education Reforms

Education Act 1870:
For the first time, elementary schools were set up in areas where there were no schools. It gave children of the working class access to education.
University Tests Act (1871):
Allowed people of all religions to attend Oxford and Cambridge universities. Earlier, only Anglicans could enter.

2. Civil Service Reform

Jobs were now given by competitive exams, not by family connections or favouritism.
It made the system fairer and more based on merit.

3. Army Reforms (Cardwell Reforms)

Bought commissions (buying army rank) were ended.
Military promotions were now based on skill and experience.

4. Legal and Judicial Reforms

The Judicature Act (1873) simplified the court system.
Everyone was treated equally under law, rich or poor.

5. Trade Union Act (1871)

Legalized trade unions.
Workers could now form unions to protect their rights without being punished.

6. Secret Ballot Act (1872)

Voting became private to reduce pressure from landlords or bosses.
It was a big step towards a fair democracy.

7. Irish Land Act (1870)

Gave rights to Irish tenants.
It tried to solve the land problems in Ireland, though not completely successful.

How Was This the Climax of Liberalism?

Focused on Individual Rights:
Gladstone wanted every citizen to have equal opportunities — especially in education and jobs.
Reduced Aristocratic Power:
His reforms made it harder for the rich elite to control everything.
Promoted Social Justice:
By legalizing trade unions and improving law and courts, he supported justice for all.
Expanded Democracy:
Secret voting and civil service reforms gave power to ordinary people.
Peaceful Reforms:
He believed in peaceful change, not revolution. This was a true liberal method.

Criticism and Limitations

Slow Reforms for Women:
Gladstone didn’t support votes for women. That was a weak point in his liberalism.
Limited Working-Class Support:
Some reforms helped workers, but many felt it was still not enough.
Irish Problems Unsolved:
His Irish land reform helped a bit, but the larger issue of Home Rule was still a big problem.

Conclusion

Gladstone’s domestic policies showed the best example of liberal values in action. He focused on fairness, freedom, education, and democratic rights. While not perfect, his efforts laid the foundation for future liberal reforms in Britain. That’s why many historians call his rule the climax of liberalism in the 19th century.

Question 6

Explain the Eastern Question and critically analyse the attitude of England towards this question from 1820 to 1913.

Introduction

The Eastern Question was about the decline of the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century and how European powers like Britain, France, Russia, and Austria would deal with it. Everyone was worried about what would happen to Ottoman lands when the empire collapsed. For Britain, this was very important because it affected the balance of power in Europe and control over trade routes, especially to India.

Main Causes of the Eastern Question

Weakness of the Ottoman Empire:
The empire was called the “Sick Man of Europe” because it was getting weaker and couldn’t control its own territories.
Rising Nationalism:
Greeks, Serbs, Bulgarians and other nations wanted independence from Ottoman rule.
Russian Ambitions:
Russia wanted access to warm-water ports and tried to expand into the Balkans and Black Sea region.
Strategic Importance:
The Middle East, Balkans, and Mediterranean were important for trade and military power.

England’s Attitude (1820–1913)

1. 1820s – Support for Greek Independence (but carefully):

Britain supported the Greek War of Independence (1821–1832), but only to limit Russian influence in the region.
Joined the Battle of Navarino (1827) with Russia and France against the Ottoman navy.

2. 1830s–40s – Policy of Preserving Ottoman Empire:

Britain supported the integrity of the Ottoman Empire to stop Russian expansion.
Opposed Mehmet Ali of Egypt (an Ottoman governor) who tried to become independent.
Britain helped Ottomans in the Treaty of London (1840) to keep Egypt under Ottoman control.

3. 1850s – Crimean War (1853–1856):

Britain fought with France and the Ottomans against Russia.
Main reason: to stop Russia from gaining control over the Black Sea and threatening British routes to India.
Treaty of Paris (1856) limited Russian power in the Black Sea.

4. 1870s – Russo-Turkish War & Congress of Berlin:

Russia defeated Ottomans in Russo-Turkish War (1877–78).
The Treaty of San Stefano gave Russia and Balkan states big gains.
Britain didn’t like this and forced the Congress of Berlin (1878) where Disraeli (British PM) reduced Russian gains.
Britain took control of Cyprus to protect its interests.

5. 1880s–1900 – Focus on Egypt and Suez Canal:

In 1882, Britain occupied Egypt to control the Suez Canal, the lifeline to India.
Though Egypt was still officially under the Ottomans, Britain had full control.

6. 1900–1913 – Balkan Wars and Decline of Ottoman Power:

Britain was less active now but still feared growing German influence in the Ottoman Empire.
Britain supported Balkan independence movements to stop Ottoman revival.
By 1913, the Ottoman Empire had lost most of its European territories.

Critical Analysis of British Attitude

Positives

Britain helped balance power in Europe and stopped Russia from becoming too strong.
Supported independence of nations like Greece (for political reasons).
Maintained peace for some time through diplomacy (e.g. Congress of Berlin).

Negatives

British policies were mostly selfish, not for peace or justice.
Supported Ottomans only when it benefited their own empire (especially to protect India).
Their occupation of Egypt showed imperial greed, not liberalism.
Sometimes they supported nationalism, and other times opposed it, depending on their interests.

Conclusion

The Eastern Question lasted for almost a century, and Britain played a key role. Its main goal was to protect its empire, especially India, and stop Russian expansion. While Britain sometimes acted in the name of peace or support for small nations, in reality, its policies were mostly based on national interest. The Eastern Question finally ended with the First World War, which destroyed the Ottoman Empire completely.

Question 7

What do you understand by British Commonwealth of Nations and how it developed? How does it differ from the term British Empire?

Introduction

The British Commonwealth of Nations, now known as the Commonwealth, is a group of independent countries that were once part of the British Empire. These nations chose to remain connected with Britain after gaining independence. The Commonwealth promotes cooperation, peace, democracy, and development. It is different from the British Empire, which was based on control and colonization.

Meaning of British Commonwealth

The British Commonwealth was created to maintain friendly relations between Britain and its former colonies.
It is a voluntary association of sovereign nations.
All members are equal and independent but share common values, language (mostly English), legal systems, and historical ties.

Development of the Commonwealth

1. Early Stage – Empire to Commonwealth

Before World War I, Britain ruled a huge empire with colonies in Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Caribbean.
After the war, colonies like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa wanted more freedom.

2. Balfour Declaration (1926)

Declared that all Dominions (self-governing colonies) were equal in status with Britain.
This was a turning point. It recognized that they were not colonies anymore but independent nations under the Crown.

3. Statute of Westminster (1931)

Gave legal independence to Dominions.
Now they could make their own laws without British interference.

4. After World War II – New Members Join

Many Asian and African countries got independence from Britain (like India, Pakistan, Nigeria).
They joined the Commonwealth as independent republics, not under the British Crown.

5. Modern Commonwealth (Post-1949)

London Declaration (1949): India wanted to stay in the Commonwealth as a republic.
Britain agreed. So now, countries could be republics or monarchies and still be members.
The word “British” was dropped, and it became simply the Commonwealth of Nations.

6. Present Day

The Commonwealth now has 56 member countries.
It includes both rich and poor nations from all continents.
They cooperate in areas like education, health, climate change, and democracy.
The Commonwealth Games are also held every 4 years among member nations.

Difference Between British Empire and British Commonwealth

British Empire	British Commonwealth
Based on colonial rule and expansion.	Based on voluntary cooperation.
Britain had full control over colonies.	All members are equal and independent.
Focused on power and wealth for Britain.	Focuses on development, peace, and equality.
Colonies had no say in government.	Members have sovereign governments.
Used force and administration.	Uses dialogue and shared values.
Empire is dead, no longer exists.	Commonwealth is still active and growing.

Conclusion

The British Commonwealth of Nations is the modern version of what was once a vast empire. It shows how Britain changed from a colonial power to a promoter of friendship and cooperation. While the Empire was about domination, the Commonwealth is about partnership. It helps former colonies stay connected through shared goals and respect, not control.

Question 8

What are the advantages and disadvantages of Brexist for England? Analyse with arguments.

Introduction

Brexit means British Exit from the European Union (EU). On 23rd June 2016, the people of the UK voted in a referendum, and 52% chose to leave the EU. The official exit happened on 31st January 2020. Brexit was one of the most important events in modern British history and had many positive and negative effects on England.

Advantages of Brexit for England

1. Control Over Laws

After Brexit, Britain got full control over its own laws without needing EU approval.
The British Parliament became fully sovereign again.

2. Border Control and Immigration

Britain could now control immigration and set its own rules.
Many people supported Brexit because they felt EU immigration was too high.

3. Trade Freedom

Britain is now free to sign its own trade deals with other countries like the USA, India, and Australia.
No need to follow EU trade policies anymore.

4. Budget Savings

Britain used to pay billions of pounds every year to the EU budget.
After Brexit, it could save that money and spend it on local needs like the NHS (healthcare).

5. National Identity and Independence

Many people felt that the EU was making the UK lose its national identity.
Brexit gave them a sense of freedom and self-respect.

Disadvantages of Brexit for England

1. Economic Uncertainty

Many businesses faced problems after Brexit due to new trade rules, taxes (tariffs), and paperwork.
Some companies moved their offices from London to other EU cities.

2. Loss of Free Market Access

Before Brexit, Britain had free access to the EU single market (over 400 million people).
Now, there are barriers to trade, especially for goods and services.

3. Damage to the Pound and Investment

After the Brexit vote, the British Pound fell in value.
Some foreign investors lost confidence in the UK economy.

4. Travel and Study Restrictions

UK citizens lost freedom to live, work, or study in EU countries easily.
Programs like Erasmus (student exchange) were affected.

5. Northern Ireland Issue

Brexit created a problem between Northern Ireland (part of the UK) and Republic of Ireland (EU member).
A hard border could bring back political tension, so a special protocol was made, but it’s still a big issue.

Analysis

Brexit was supported more by the older generation, while young people mostly voted to stay in the EU.
Many promises made during the Brexit campaign (like more money for NHS) were not fully delivered.
The final impact of Brexit depends on how Britain manages its new policies and builds strong global relations.
Some experts say Brexit is a chance for long-term growth, but others fear it has weakened the UK’s global position.

Conclusion

Brexit brought both opportunities and challenges for England. It gave the country more independence, but also created economic and political problems. The real success of Brexit depends on how the UK government uses this freedom to improve the economy, protect unity, and maintain global partnerships. It will take years to fully judge if Brexit was a good or bad decision.

📘 Benefits of Practicing This Descriptive Paper

✅ These CSS Past Paper 2017 British History Descriptive questions are compiled from authentic FPSC CSS past papers, following the real written exam format.
💬 Attempting this CSS Past Paper 2017 British History Descriptive helps students master structured writing and analytical skills for CSS exams.
🧾 Every question in this CSS Past Paper 2017 British History Descriptive strictly follows the official CSS exam syllabus approved by FPSC.
📊 Students preparing for CSS 2017 can rely on this CSS Past Paper 2017 British History Descriptive to practice time management and topic selection.
🔍 The solved CSS Past Paper 2017 British History Descriptive contains concise explanations to improve conceptual understanding and writing clarity.
🎯 Regular revision of this CSS Past Paper 2017 British History Descriptive builds confidence and strengthens your preparation for the CSS written paper.
🏆 This CSS Past Paper 2017 British History Descriptive is essential for mastering exam techniques and achieving success in the FPSC CSS 2017 examination.

Download CSS Past Paper 2017 – British History

🏁 Final Note

Keep revising these CSS Past Paper 2017 British History Descriptive to strengthen your grip on important concepts and improve accuracy in upcoming CSS exams. Regular practice with these CSS Past Paper 2017 British History Descriptive will help you score higher and build full command over the CSS exam syllabus.

📰 Check out other years’ past papers of British History.

🔗 Check FPSC past papers directly from the official FPSC website.

Post Views: 370