CSS Past Paper 2024 British History Descriptive

CSS | Past Paper | Group 4 | 2024 | Part 2 | Descriptive

Below is the solution to PART-II (COMPULSORY) of the CSS Past Paper 2024 British History Descriptive (Part 2).

Question 2

How far did Robert Peel’s methods of governance differ from those of his predecessors, viz-a-viz; Liverpool, Canning, and Wellington?

Introduction

Robert Peel was a key figure in 19th century British politics. He served twice as Prime Minister and is most famous for founding the modern Conservative Party. His approach to governance was very different from his predecessors—Lord Liverpool, George Canning, and the Duke of Wellington. While they were more traditional and followed the old Tory methods, Peel tried to reform and modernize the system.

Political Ideology

Peel believed in practical conservatism. He accepted that reforms were necessary to maintain stability. His predecessors, especially Liverpool and Wellington, mostly followed old conservative values and resisted change. Peel was more flexible.

Example: Peel accepted the Reform Act 1832 as a reality, while others had opposed it strongly.

Economic Policies

Peel’s economic policy was based on free trade and sound finance. He focused on reducing tariffs and taxes to support trade and industry.

Example: His repeal of the Corn Laws in 1846 was a major break from Tory tradition, while Liverpool supported protectionist policies.
Peel also introduced income tax in 1842 to balance the budget—his predecessors did not take such bold steps.

Administrative Reforms

Peel was more professional in governance. He believed in efficiency and accountability.

Example: The 1829 creation of the Metropolitan Police under Peel was a major reform in law and order. Earlier leaders hadn’t done much to modernize administration.

Attitude towards Parliament

Peel respected Parliament and public opinion. He used facts, reports, and logic in debates. His style was modern and more democratic.

In contrast, Wellington once said he hated democracy and didn’t care for public opinion. Canning was clever and popular, but not as systematic as Peel.

Religious Policies

Peel supported Catholic Emancipation in 1829, even though it hurt his political standing. This shows he could go against party lines for national interest.

Liverpool and Wellington were hesitant and resisted such changes for long.

Party Management

Peel tried to organize the Conservative Party better. He issued the Tamworth Manifesto in 1834, which gave a clear policy direction. This was new.

His predecessors ruled with less focus on party unity or modern campaigning.

Conclusion

Robert Peel’s governance was clearly different and more modern than Liverpool, Canning, and Wellington. He used logic, planning, and reform to lead, instead of just tradition and aristocratic views. Even though he faced opposition, especially from his own party, he shaped British politics in a more practical and progressive way.

Question 3

Define “Irish Question”. Also, discuss the policy of Liberal party on the said issue from 1886 to 1894.

Introduction

The “Irish Question” was one of the biggest political problems in British history during the 19th century. It referred to the demand of Irish people for more rights, especially self-rule or Home Rule. Ireland had been under British rule, and most Irish wanted freedom to run their own local affairs. This issue caused many divisions in British politics.

Definition of Irish Question

The Irish Question meant:

How should Britain deal with the rising demand for Irish self-government?
Should Ireland get Home Rule and control over its own parliament?
Or should it stay under full control of Westminster?

It was also about religion and land. Most Irish were Catholic, and the landlords were Protestant. There were also many poor peasants who wanted land reforms.

Background before 1886

The Irish Nationalist leader Charles Stewart Parnell had pushed hard for Home Rule. In 1885, his party held the balance in Parliament, and he supported the Liberals, led by William Gladstone. This made Home Rule a key issue in British politics.

Liberal Party Policy (1886–1894)

1. First Home Rule Bill (1886)

In 1886, Gladstone introduced the First Home Rule Bill in Parliament.
It aimed to give Ireland its own parliament in Dublin but still stay part of the UK.
Many people feared this would break the United Kingdom.
There was strong opposition from the Conservatives and even from some Liberals.
The bill was defeated in the House of Commons.

→ Result: Liberal Party split. A new group called the Liberal Unionists formed, and they joined Conservatives. This weakened the Liberals badly.

2. Political Effects (1886–1892)

After the failure of the 1st bill, Liberals lost elections.
The Conservative Party ruled with support from Liberal Unionists.
Irish tensions increased during this time.
Parnell, the Irish leader, got into a scandal in 1890 and lost support.

3. Second Home Rule Bill (1893)

Gladstone returned as Prime Minister in 1892.
In 1893, he introduced the Second Home Rule Bill.
This bill was passed in the House of Commons, but the House of Lords rejected it.

→ Result: The second failure disappointed Irish Nationalists again.

4. End of Gladstone’s Career (1894)

After the bill failed, Gladstone lost motivation.
He resigned in 1894.
The Liberal Party became weaker after this and could not solve the Irish problem.

Conclusion

The Irish Question showed the weakness of British politics when it came to dealing with Ireland. The Liberal Party under Gladstone tried to solve it by giving Home Rule, but they failed both in 1886 and 1893. Their own party split, and the House of Lords blocked their efforts. The Irish people remained angry, and the issue was not solved until much later in the 20th century.

Question 4

Describe the reasons due to which million people united in support of the Chartist Movement in the mid-19th century for attaining the democratic rights for the working classes.

Introduction

The Chartist Movement was a massive working-class protest in Britain during the 1830s and 1840s. Its main aim was to get political and democratic rights for the poor and working people. The movement was named after the People’s Charter of 1838, which had six demands for political reform. Millions supported it because they felt ignored, hungry, and powerless.

Reasons for Mass Support

1. Lack of Political Rights

After the Reform Act 1832, most working-class people still had no right to vote.
Only rich landowners could vote or sit in Parliament.
Workers felt it was unfair that they paid taxes but had no say in laws.

2. Economic Hardships

The Industrial Revolution brought jobs but also low wages and bad working conditions.
Many workers lived in poverty and poor housing.
During 1837–1842, there was a deep economic depression—unemployment increased, food prices rose.

→ People blamed the system and joined Chartism to demand change.

3. Unfair Factory System

Long working hours, child labor, and unsafe factories made life worse.
Workers were treated like machines.
They wanted laws to protect workers, but Parliament did nothing.

4. Six Points of the Charter

The People’s Charter asked for:

Vote for all men (universal male suffrage)
Secret ballot
Payment for MPs
No property qualification for MPs
Equal constituencies
Yearly elections

→ These points gave hope to millions that they could change their future.

5. Failure of Parliament to Listen

Parliament rejected Chartist petitions in 1839, 1842, and 1848.
Even though millions signed them, politicians still ignored poor people.
This made workers more united in protest.

6. Inspiration from Other Movements

The French Revolution and American democracy inspired British workers.
They saw how other countries fought for rights and believed they could too.

7. Leadership and Organization

Leaders like Feargus O’Connor and William Lovett gave energy to the movement.
Newspapers like The Northern Star spread awareness.
Mass meetings and protests made working-class people feel strong and connected.

Conclusion

The Chartist Movement was a powerful voice of the working class. Even though it failed to achieve all its demands at that time, it showed the growing desire for democracy in Britain. The reasons behind its support were real—poverty, injustice, and lack of voice. Later reforms in the late 19th and early 20th century gave many of the rights Chartists had asked for. So, the movement was not useless—it planted the seeds for future change.

Question 5

How did the Methodist Movement begin? Also, explain its salient features and reasons of success.

Introduction

The Methodist Movement was a major religious revival that started in Britain in the 18th century. It began as a reaction to the spiritual laziness and corruption inside the Church of England. The movement gave new hope, especially to the poor and working-class people. It was led by John Wesley and later became a separate church known as Methodism.

How Did the Movement Begin?

In the 1730s, John Wesley, his brother Charles Wesley, and their friend George Whitefield started a small group at Oxford University to study the Bible and live a holy life.
People mocked them by calling them “Methodists” because they followed strict methods of worship.
John Wesley began preaching in open fields because many churches didn’t welcome him.
He travelled across Britain, often on horseback, preaching to the poor, workers, and miners who were ignored by the official church.

Salient Features of the Methodist Movement

1. Emotional and Heart-Based Religion

Methodism focused on personal faith, not just rituals.
It taught that salvation is possible for everyone, not only the rich or educated.

2. Preaching to the Poor

Methodist preachers went directly to coal mines, factories, and rural areas.
They gave religious hope to people suffering from poverty and harsh lives.

3. Simple Worship

Their style was simple and different from the formal Church of England.
No expensive robes, no Latin prayers—just plain language and emotional sermons.

4. Discipline and Morality

Followers were told to avoid drinking, gambling, and immoral life.
They followed strict discipline in daily life—called the “Methodist Rules.”

5. Strong Organization

Wesley divided the followers into societies, classes, and bands.
These groups helped each other in spiritual life and supported the poor.

Reasons for Success

1. Reached the Neglected People

The Church of England mostly served the upper classes.
Methodism spread among miners, factory workers, and poor villagers, so it gained popularity fast.

2. Powerful Leadership

John Wesley was a powerful speaker and organizer.
He gave thousands of sermons and inspired people with his dedication.

3. Social Impact

Methodism helped improve moral values in society.
It gave hope and discipline to the lower classes, making them feel respected.

4. Educational Efforts

Methodists started Sunday schools and small community classes.
They promoted reading, writing, and religious education.

5. Spread to Colonies

As the British Empire expanded, Methodism also spread to America, Africa, and Asia.
It became a global religious force.

Conclusion

The Methodist Movement began as a small revival but became a strong religious and social force in Britain. It was successful because it spoke to the poor, gave moral guidance, and filled the spiritual gap left by the Church of England. Its simple message, organized structure, and emotional appeal made it popular and long-lasting.

Question 6

Define the term “Thatcherism”. Discuss Margaret Thatcher’s economic and educational reforms and their impacts on people’s lives.

Introduction

Thatcherism is the name given to the political and economic ideas of Margaret Thatcher, the first female Prime Minister of Britain (1979–1990). Her rule brought huge changes to the British economy, society, and politics. She believed in free market, individual responsibility, and less government control. Her ideas were very different from the post-WW2 welfare state model.

Definition of Thatcherism

Thatcherism is a set of political beliefs based on:

Privatization of state-owned industries
Deregulation of economy
Reducing power of trade unions
Cutting government spending
Encouraging private enterprise
Strong leadership and law & order

She was influenced by conservative and capitalist thinkers, especially Milton Friedman and Hayek.

Economic Reforms

1. Privatization

Thatcher sold many state-owned companies like British Telecom, British Gas, British Airways, etc.
She believed private companies worked better than public ones.

→ Impact: Some people got rich by buying shares. But many workers lost jobs, and services became expensive.

2. Control of Inflation

In the 1970s, UK had high inflation.
Thatcher controlled it by increasing interest rates and cutting public spending.

→ Impact: Inflation dropped, but unemployment increased in short term.

3. Deregulation

Financial markets were freed from too much government rules.
The “Big Bang” of 1986 changed London’s finance industry.

→ Impact: Boosted economic growth, but also increased income gap.

4. Reducing Union Power

Thatcher passed laws to stop strikes and weaken trade unions.
Famous example: Miners’ Strike 1984–85 which she crushed.

→ Impact: Industries became more productive, but working-class people felt ignored.

5. Tax Reforms

She reduced income tax for the rich but increased indirect taxes like VAT.

→ Impact: Rich got richer, while poor had to pay more for goods.

Educational Reforms

1. National Curriculum (1988)

For the first time, all schools had to follow a standard curriculum.
Focus on maths, science, English, and testing students regularly.

2. Marketization of Education

Schools were encouraged to compete with each other.
Parents could choose schools, and schools had to perform better to attract students.

→ Impact: Improved standards in some areas, but poor areas struggled more.

3. Local Management of Schools

Power was shifted from local councils to school heads.
Schools could control their own budget.

→ Impact: More independence, but inequality increased between schools.

Impact on People’s Lives

The middle class and business owners benefited from low taxes and privatization.
Many working-class communities suffered due to job losses in coal, steel, and factories.
Public services became more expensive.
Social divisions increased between rich and poor.
However, some say she modernized Britain and ended economic decline of the 70s.

Conclusion

Thatcherism was a turning point in British history. It brought free-market reforms, broke the old welfare system, and reduced government role in economy. While some people became successful, many working-class families faced hard times. Her policies are still debated today—some call her a saviour of the economy, others say she divided the nation.

Question 7

How did World War II and the Cold War trigger the decolonization of the British Empire?

Introduction

The British Empire was once the largest empire in history. But after World War II (1939–1945), it started to break apart. The Cold War (1947–1991) also played a key role in pushing Britain to give independence to its colonies. Both global events made it hard for Britain to maintain control and power over its overseas lands.

Impact of World War II on Decolonization

1. Economic Weakness of Britain

After WWII, Britain was financially broke.
The war cost billions of pounds, and the country had to take loans from the USA.
Britain couldn’t afford to run a huge empire anymore.

→ Colonies became a burden instead of profit.

2. Rise of Nationalist Movements

WWII encouraged freedom movements in Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean.
Colonies saw how Britain was weak and began demanding independence.
Example: India’s Quit India Movement grew stronger during the war.

3. Atlantic Charter 1941

Signed by Churchill and Roosevelt, it supported the right of all people to self-rule.
Though Britain tried to ignore it for colonies, people used it to ask for freedom.

4. Loss of Moral Authority

Britain claimed to fight WWII for freedom and democracy.
But keeping colonies was against these same values.
This made it harder to justify imperialism after the war.

5. Independence of India (1947)

India’s freedom was a turning point.
After that, many other countries also started asking for independence.

Role of Cold War in Decolonization

1. Pressure from Superpowers

After WWII, the world was divided between USA and USSR.
Both superpowers wanted to end colonialism to spread their own influence.
USA pushed Britain to decolonize because it believed in “free markets” and self-determination.

2. Fear of Communism

In colonies, poor people were angry at British rule and wanted equality.
USSR supported anti-colonial struggles, and Britain feared these movements might turn communist.

→ So, to avoid this, Britain gave independence to moderate nationalist groups.

3. United Nations Support

After the war, UN became a strong voice for freedom and anti-colonialism.
Colonies could raise their voices on a global platform.
Britain faced international pressure to let go of its empire.

4. Arms Race and Global Focus

Cold War meant Britain had to focus more on Europe and military alliances like NATO.
Managing distant colonies was no longer a top priority.

Examples of Decolonization

India and Pakistan (1947)
Ghana (1957)
Nigeria (1960)
Kenya (1963)
Malaya (1957)
Caribbean nations in 1960s–70s

Conclusion

World War II weakened Britain economically and morally, while the Cold War changed global politics. Together, they made it almost impossible for Britain to keep ruling its empire. Colonies became confident and demanded freedom. So, both wars didn’t just reshape Europe, they also ended the age of empires.

Question 8

Write short notes on any TWO of the following:

a. Falkland War
b. Reforms under David Cameron
c. Creation of Common Wealth

a. Falkland War (1982)

The Falkland War was a short but intense conflict between Britain and Argentina in 1982. It was fought over the Falkland Islands, a group of islands in the South Atlantic Ocean. Though the islands were under British control, Argentina claimed them as their own (called Islas Malvinas).

On 2 April 1982, Argentine forces invaded the islands.
The British government, under Margaret Thatcher, responded quickly by sending a naval task force to retake the islands.
After fierce fighting, British forces landed and defeated the Argentine troops by 14 June 1982.
The war lasted for 74 days and cost over 900 lives.

Impact

Britain re-established control.
It increased Thatcher’s popularity and helped her win the 1983 elections.
Argentina’s military government lost power after their defeat.
The war showed Britain was still willing to defend its territories.

b. Reforms under David Cameron

David Cameron was the Prime Minister of the UK from 2010 to 2016. He led a coalition government at first (with the Liberal Democrats) and later a full Conservative government. He introduced many economic, social, and political reforms.

Key Reforms

Austerity Measures – To reduce the budget deficit after the 2008 crisis, Cameron cut public spending on welfare, healthcare, and education.
Education Reforms – More academies and free schools were encouraged to improve competition and choice in education.
NHS Reform – Reorganized the National Health Service to give more power to doctors and reduce bureaucracy.
Welfare Reform – Introduced Universal Credit to replace many old benefits and encourage people to work.
Gay Marriage Legalization – Same-sex marriage was legalized in England and Wales in 2013 under his leadership.
EU Referendum – In 2016, Cameron held the famous Brexit referendum. When the people voted to leave the EU, he resigned.

Impact

Some praised him for reducing debt and modernizing policies.
Others blamed him for dividing the country and causing Brexit.

c. Creation of Commonwealth

The Commonwealth is an international organization of mostly former British colonies, now independent nations. It promotes peace, democracy, development, and cooperation.

Creation Background

After World War II, many British colonies gained independence.
Instead of cutting ties completely, they stayed connected through a new group.
In 1949, during a meeting in London, the modern Commonwealth was officially created.
The rule was that countries could join the Commonwealth even if they didn’t recognize the British monarch as head of state.

Main Features

Now has 56 member states from Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and Pacific.
Main values: democracy, human rights, economic cooperation.
Queen Elizabeth II was the symbolic head until her death in 2022. Now King Charles III holds the title.

Importance

Helps small nations with education, health, trade, and development.
Holds Commonwealth Games every 4 years (like Olympics).
A peaceful way to stay linked without colonial rule.

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