Question Details
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Aspect |
Details |
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Programme Title |
BACHELOR OF ARTS (History) BA GENERAL (BAG) and BA HONOURS (BAHIH) |
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Course Code |
BHIE-141 |
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Course Title |
HISTORY OF CHINA (c. 1840-1978) |
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Assignment Code |
BHIE-141/AST/TMA/ 2024-2025 |
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University |
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) |
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Type |
Free IGNOU Solved Assignment |
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Language |
English |
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Session |
July 2024 – January 2025 |
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Submission Date |
31st March for July session, 30th September for January session |
BHIE-141 Solved Assignment
Assignment-I
Answer the following questions in about 500 words each.
- Write a note on the New Cultural Movement in China after 1911. Discuss the role of intellectuals in China’s Cultural Revolution.
- Analyse the significance of the Opium Wars in the evolution of the Sino-Western relations in the nineteenth century.
Assignment – II
Answer the following questions in about 250 words each.
3. Discuss the emergence of the Chinese bourgeoisie as a social force.
4. Discuss the economic and social reforms introduced in China after the Revolution of 1949 .
5. Write a note on Confucianism and Taoism.
3. Discuss the emergence of the Chinese bourgeoisie as a social force.
4. Discuss the economic and social reforms introduced in China after the Revolution of 1949 .
5. Write a note on Confucianism and Taoism.
Assignment – III
Answer the following questions in about 100 words each.
6. Explain the importance of the Self-Strengthening Movement in China.
7. Describe the Commune system.
8. Explain the important points of the Boxer Protocol.
9. Discuss the rise of Marxism in China.
10. Write a note on the Taiping Uprising.
6. Explain the importance of the Self-Strengthening Movement in China.
7. Describe the Commune system.
8. Explain the important points of the Boxer Protocol.
9. Discuss the rise of Marxism in China.
10. Write a note on the Taiping Uprising.
Expert Answer
Assignment-I
Answer the following questions in about 500 words each.
Question:-01
Write a note on the New Cultural Movement in China after 1911. Discuss the role of intellectuals in China’s Cultural Revolution.
Answer:
1. Introduction to the New Cultural Movement
The New Cultural Movement in China, which began in the early 20th century, was a pivotal period of intellectual and cultural transformation that sought to modernize Chinese society. Emerging in the wake of the 1911 Revolution, which ended over two millennia of imperial rule, this movement was driven by a desire to rejuvenate Chinese culture and governance. It aimed to challenge traditional Confucian values and promote new ideas aligned with Western principles, including democracy, science, and individualism.
2. Objectives and Ideological Foundations
The primary objectives of the New Cultural Movement were to address the perceived stagnation and decline of Chinese society by promoting modernization and reform. Intellectuals and reformers argued that traditional Confucian teachings were outdated and had contributed to China’s political and social problems. They advocated for a new cultural foundation based on democratic ideals, scientific inquiry, and a critical re-evaluation of China’s historical and cultural heritage.
Key ideological influences included Western philosophies and the ideas of the Enlightenment, which emphasized reason, science, and secularism. Intellectuals believed that these principles could provide a framework for social progress and national rejuvenation.
3. Prominent Figures and Their Contributions
Several key figures played crucial roles in the New Cultural Movement. Among them were Chen Duxiu and Hu Shih, who were instrumental in promoting modern ideas and challenging traditional norms.
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Chen Duxiu: A founding member of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), Chen was a strong advocate for modernization and Western learning. He criticized Confucianism and supported the adoption of democratic and scientific principles. His efforts in establishing the journal New Youth were significant in spreading reformist ideas.
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Hu Shih: An influential scholar and reformer, Hu Shih was a proponent of the use of vernacular Chinese (baihua) instead of classical Chinese (wenyan). His advocacy for language reform aimed to make literature and ideas more accessible to the general populace, thus promoting literacy and cultural democratization.
4. The Role of Intellectuals in Shaping Modern China
Intellectuals were central to the New Cultural Movement, serving as both critics of the old order and proponents of new ideas. Their work was instrumental in fostering a climate of debate and discussion, which contributed to significant cultural and political changes.
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Critique of Confucianism: Intellectuals critiqued Confucian values for their role in perpetuating a rigid and hierarchical social order. They argued that Confucianism hindered China’s progress and modernity.
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Promotion of New Ideas: Intellectuals introduced and popularized new concepts such as democracy, individual rights, and scientific thinking. Their advocacy for these ideas helped shape the intellectual and political landscape of modern China.
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Cultural and Educational Reforms: The movement saw significant changes in education, including the promotion of modern curricula and the reform of traditional teaching methods. The push for vernacular language also democratized education and literature, making them more inclusive.
5. The New Cultural Movement’s Legacy
The New Cultural Movement had a profound impact on China’s subsequent political and social developments. It laid the groundwork for the rise of the Communist Party and the eventual establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. The movement’s emphasis on modernization and reform continued to influence Chinese intellectual and political discourse throughout the 20th century.
6. The Role of Intellectuals in China’s Cultural Revolution
The Cultural Revolution (1966-1976), initiated by Mao Zedong, was a radical campaign aimed at consolidating communist ideology and eliminating perceived counter-revolutionary elements within Chinese society. Intellectuals played a complex and often tragic role during this period.
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Targeting Intellectuals: During the Cultural Revolution, intellectuals were frequently targeted as symbols of bourgeois and counter-revolutionary elements. The Red Guards, a mass student movement, often denounced and persecuted intellectuals for their perceived alignment with capitalist or traditional values.
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Struggle and Repression: Many intellectuals were subjected to public humiliation, forced labor, and imprisonment. The campaign aimed to eradicate traditional cultural elements and suppress dissenting voices, resulting in significant suffering and loss of intellectual capital.
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Ideological Conformity: The Cultural Revolution sought to enforce ideological conformity, leading to a decline in academic freedom and intellectual diversity. This period saw a dramatic reduction in scholarly activities and an emphasis on political loyalty over academic merit.
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Rehabilitation and Legacy: Following the end of the Cultural Revolution, China began to rehabilitate many intellectuals who had been persecuted. The period left a lasting impact on Chinese society, with many intellectuals advocating for the need for reform and the revival of intellectual and cultural pursuits.
In conclusion, the New Cultural Movement and the Cultural Revolution represent two contrasting phases in modern Chinese history, each highlighting the complex relationship between intellectuals and political power. The New Cultural Movement marked a period of intellectual awakening and reform, while the Cultural Revolution demonstrated the perils of political radicalism and its impact on intellectual and cultural life. Both periods underscore the crucial role that intellectuals play in shaping and reflecting societal transformations.
Question:-02
Analyse the significance of the Opium Wars in the evolution of the Sino-Western relations in the nineteenth century.
Answer:
1. Introduction to the Opium Wars
The Opium Wars, comprising two conflicts between China and Western powers in the mid-19th century, were pivotal events that significantly impacted Sino-Western relations. The First Opium War (1839-1842) and the Second Opium War (1856-1860) were primarily fought over trade imbalances and the illegal opium trade. These wars not only shaped the trajectory of China’s foreign relations but also marked the beginning of the so-called "Century of Humiliation" for China. The outcomes of the Opium Wars had profound effects on China’s sovereignty, its international relations, and its internal dynamics.
2. Background and Causes of the Opium Wars
The primary cause of the Opium Wars was the trade imbalance between China and Britain. By the early 19th century, China was a major exporter of tea, silk, and porcelain, but had little interest in British manufactured goods. To address this trade imbalance, British traders began exporting opium, grown in British-controlled India, into China.
The Qing Dynasty’s attempts to curb the opium trade, due to its devastating social and economic impacts, led to heightened tensions. The Chinese government’s crackdown on the opium trade, including the confiscation and destruction of opium stocks, provoked military responses from Britain, which sought to protect its economic interests.
3. The First Opium War (1839-1842)
The First Opium War began in 1839 and lasted until 1842. It was characterized by the British Empire’s military superiority over the Qing Dynasty, resulting in a decisive British victory. The war highlighted the technological and military disparities between China and the Western powers.
The Treaty of Nanking, signed in 1842, concluded the war and had significant implications:
- Unequal Treaty: The treaty was an unequal agreement, imposing harsh terms on China. It ceded Hong Kong to Britain, opened several Chinese ports to British trade, and granted extraterritorial rights to British citizens.
- Reparations: China was required to pay substantial reparations for the opium destroyed and to cover the costs of the British military campaign.
The Treaty of Nanking marked the beginning of a series of unequal treaties that eroded Chinese sovereignty and increased Western influence in China.
4. The Second Opium War (1856-1860)
The Second Opium War, also known as the Arrow War, was ignited by ongoing disputes over the implementation of the Treaty of Nanking and further Western demands. This conflict saw Britain and France allied against China, and it expanded the scope of the previous war.
Key outcomes of the Second Opium War included:
- Treaty of Tientsin (1856): This treaty, signed in 1856, further opened up Chinese ports to foreign trade, permitted foreign legations in Beijing, and granted additional rights to Western powers.
- Convention of Peking (1860): The final settlement of the war included the legalization of the opium trade, the cession of Kowloon to Britain, and further concessions that expanded Western influence and privileges in China.
The second conflict further undermined the Qing Dynasty’s authority and deepened the concessions extracted from China.
5. Impact on Sino-Western Relations
The Opium Wars had a profound and lasting impact on Sino-Western relations. The treaties imposed by the Western powers altered the dynamics between China and the West in several ways:
- Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity: The treaties eroded China’s sovereignty by forcing it to cede territory and accept extraterritorial rights for foreigners. This undermined China’s control over its own territory and legal system.
- Economic Impact: The opening of ports and the legalization of the opium trade facilitated increased Western economic exploitation. China’s economy became increasingly integrated into the global capitalist system, often to its detriment.
- Political Repercussions: The unequal treaties weakened the Qing Dynasty and contributed to internal instability, including widespread corruption and rebellions such as the Taiping Rebellion. The perceived humiliation fostered nationalist sentiments and resentment towards Western powers.
- Diplomatic Relations: The Opium Wars established a precedent for future Western interventions in China. The treaties and subsequent foreign policies led to a pattern of negotiation under duress and further treaties that continued to erode China’s autonomy.
6. Legacy and Long-term Consequences
The legacy of the Opium Wars is evident in several long-term consequences for China and its relations with Western powers:
- Nationalism and Reform: The humiliation and losses from the Opium Wars fueled nationalist movements within China. Reformist and revolutionary groups emerged, advocating for modernization and resistance to foreign influence.
- International Relations: The Opium Wars set a precedent for how Western powers engaged with China, influencing future international relations and negotiations. The unequal treaties became a symbol of Western dominance and exploitation.
- Historical Reflection: The Opium Wars are often remembered in China as part of the “Century of Humiliation,” a period marked by foreign intervention and internal strife. This historical perspective continues to influence Chinese attitudes towards Western powers and international diplomacy.
In conclusion, the Opium Wars were pivotal in shaping the course of Sino-Western relations in the 19th century. They marked the beginning of significant Western influence in China and had enduring impacts on China’s sovereignty, economic development, and internal politics. The conflicts and subsequent treaties not only altered China’s international relations but also contributed to the broader context of global power dynamics and colonialism.
Assignment – II
Answer the following questions in about 250 words each.
Question:-03
Discuss the emergence of the Chinese bourgeoisie as a social force.
Answer:
The emergence of the Chinese bourgeoisie as a social force can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a period marked by significant socio-economic transformation in China. This class began to take shape during the Qing Dynasty’s decline and accelerated with the increasing influence of Western capitalism and internal reforms.
The late Qing Dynasty saw the rise of a new economic class that was increasingly engaged in trade, industry, and finance. The weakening of traditional Confucian structures, combined with the impact of foreign imperialism and economic modernization, created opportunities for new business ventures and investments. Urban centers like Shanghai and Guangzhou became hubs for this burgeoning bourgeoisie, comprising merchants, industrialists, and professionals who accumulated wealth through commercial activities and investments.
The Chinese bourgeoisie played a critical role in the economic transformation of China. They were instrumental in the development of modern industries, including textiles, mining, and transportation. This class also contributed to the growth of consumer culture and the expansion of educational and cultural institutions. Their involvement in the economy marked a shift from agrarian-based wealth to capital accumulation through industrial and commercial enterprises.
Politically, the Chinese bourgeoisie became increasingly influential, advocating for reforms and modernization. They supported movements that aimed to end feudal practices and promote a more equitable and progressive society. Their interests often aligned with those of reformist and nationalist groups seeking to modernize China and resist foreign domination.
The 1911 Revolution, which led to the fall of the Qing Dynasty and the establishment of the Republic of China, was significantly influenced by bourgeois interests. This period saw the Chinese bourgeoisie emerge as a vital social force, advocating for political and economic changes that reflected their growing economic power and aspirations for modernization.
In summary, the emergence of the Chinese bourgeoisie as a social force was a crucial development in China’s transition from a feudal society to a more modern and industrialized nation, playing a key role in shaping the country’s economic and political landscape.
Question:-04
Discuss the economic and social reforms introduced in China after the Revolution of 1949.
Answer:
Following the 1949 Revolution, which led to the establishment of the People’s Republic of China under the leadership of the Communist Party, a series of profound economic and social reforms were implemented to reshape Chinese society.
Economic Reforms:
The initial economic reforms focused on transforming China from a predominantly agrarian society into a socialist economy. The land reform program redistributed land from landlords to peasants, aiming to eliminate feudal practices and establish collective farming. This was followed by the collectivization of agriculture, which involved merging individual farms into large collective farms or cooperatives. This move was intended to increase agricultural productivity and facilitate state control over production.
In the industrial sector, the government nationalized key industries, including mining, steel, and transportation. The emphasis was on heavy industry and infrastructure development to boost the country’s industrial base. The Soviet Union provided technical assistance and investment during the early years, helping to lay the foundation for China’s industrial growth.
Social Reforms:
Socially, the Communist government undertook reforms to promote equality and eliminate traditional hierarchies. The Marriage Law of 1950 was a significant milestone, abolishing arranged marriages, child marriages, and concubinage, while promoting gender equality and women’s rights. It aimed to improve the status of women by granting them equal rights in marriage and property.
Education reform was another priority, with efforts to increase literacy and expand access to education across the country. The government focused on eradicating illiteracy and promoting vocational and technical training to support industrial development.
Health care reforms included the establishment of a basic health care system that aimed to provide medical services to rural areas, improving overall public health.
Conclusion:
These economic and social reforms profoundly transformed China, setting the stage for its future development. While the early years of these policies faced challenges and led to some unintended consequences, such as the Great Leap Forward’s economic difficulties, they laid the groundwork for subsequent reforms and modernization efforts. The foundational changes introduced after 1949 were crucial in shaping China’s path towards becoming a major global power.
Question:-05
Write a note on Confucianism and Taoism.
Answer:
Confucianism and Taoism are two influential philosophical and religious traditions originating from ancient China, each offering distinct perspectives on ethics, society, and the natural world.
Confucianism:
Confucianism, founded by Confucius (Kong Fuzi) in the 5th century BCE, emphasizes the importance of ethics, social harmony, and moral integrity. Central to Confucian thought are the concepts of Ren (benevolence or humaneness), Li (ritual propriety), and Xiao (filial piety). Confucius advocated for a well-ordered society based on these virtues, stressing the importance of education, respect for hierarchy, and the cultivation of personal character.
The teachings of Confucianism focus on the role of individuals in maintaining social order and promoting ethical behavior. The philosophy places a strong emphasis on the importance of family and social relationships, suggesting that a harmonious society begins with proper conduct in familial and social roles. Confucianism significantly influenced Chinese governance, education, and social norms, advocating for a merit-based system of leadership and respect for authority.
Taoism:
Taoism, attributed to Laozi and his work, the Tao Te Ching, offers a contrasting perspective. Founded around the same period as Confucianism, Taoism emphasizes living in harmony with the Tao (the Way or the ultimate principle that underlies the universe). Unlike Confucianism’s focus on societal roles and structure, Taoism advocates for simplicity, spontaneity, and non-interference.
Taoism promotes the concept of Wu Wei (non-action or effortless action), suggesting that individuals should align themselves with the natural flow of the universe rather than impose their will. Taoism values naturalness, humility, and tranquility, and it often incorporates practices like meditation and Tai Chi to cultivate inner peace and balance.
Conclusion:
While Confucianism and Taoism offer different approaches—one emphasizing social order and ethical behavior, and the other focusing on natural harmony and simplicity—both have profoundly shaped Chinese thought and culture. Their principles continue to influence Chinese philosophy, religion, and daily life, providing complementary perspectives on how individuals and society can achieve balance and fulfillment.
Assignment – III
Answer the following questions in about 100 words each.
Question:-06
Explain the importance of the Self-Strengthening Movement in China.
Answer:
The Self-Strengthening Movement, initiated in China during the late Qing Dynasty (circa 1861-1895), was a crucial reform effort aimed at modernizing China in response to foreign pressures and internal weaknesses. Its importance lies in several key aspects:
- Modernization Efforts: The movement focused on adopting Western technologies and methods in military and industrial sectors to strengthen China’s capabilities and address the technological gap with Western powers.
- Economic and Military Reforms: It led to the establishment of modern arsenals, shipyards, and railways, as well as the improvement of military training and organization.
- Strategic Shift: The movement marked a shift from traditional practices towards pragmatic approaches in governance and military strategy, recognizing the need for modernization to safeguard national sovereignty.
- Legacy: Although it faced significant challenges and criticisms, the Self-Strengthening Movement laid the groundwork for future reforms and modernization efforts in China, influencing subsequent political and economic strategies.
Question:-07
Describe the Commune system.
Answer:
The Commune system, implemented in China during the late 1950s under Mao Zedong, was a key component of the Great Leap Forward. The system aimed to consolidate agricultural production and promote socialist ideals by organizing rural populations into large collective units known as communes.
Key Features:
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Collective Farming: Communes were designed to merge individual farms into vast collective farms, with communal ownership of land and resources. This aimed to increase agricultural productivity and efficiency.
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Communal Living: Inhabitants of the communes shared resources, labor, and living arrangements. This approach was intended to promote equality and eliminate class distinctions.
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Economic and Social Goals: The system sought to rapidly industrialize rural areas and achieve economic self-sufficiency through collective effort and centralized planning.
Challenges:
Despite its ambitious goals, the Commune system faced significant problems, including poor management, reduced agricultural output, and widespread famine. It was eventually abandoned in favor of more pragmatic reforms.
Question:-08
Explain the important points of the Boxer Protocol.
Answer:
The Boxer Protocol, signed on September 7, 1901, was an international agreement that concluded the Boxer Rebellion in China. Key points of the protocol include:
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Reparations: China agreed to pay substantial indemnities to the foreign powers involved, totaling 450 million taels of silver, as compensation for damages and losses during the rebellion.
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Military Occupation: The protocol permitted foreign troops to be stationed in Beijing and other key cities to ensure security and the protection of foreign nationals.
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Punishment of Officials: High-ranking Chinese officials who had supported or failed to suppress the Boxer Rebellion were to be punished.
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Demilitarization: China was required to dismantle its military defenses in specific areas and to ensure that its armed forces were not used against foreign interests.
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Reforms: The protocol called for legal and administrative reforms to prevent future anti-foreign and anti-Christian uprisings.
The Boxer Protocol marked a significant moment in China’s history, further entrenching foreign influence and control over the country.
Question:-09
Discuss the rise of Marxism in China.
Answer:
The rise of Marxism in China, a significant chapter in the country’s modern history, began in the early 20th century amidst social and political upheaval. Influenced by the global spread of socialist ideas and the failures of the Qing Dynasty, Marxism gained traction as a solution to China’s deep-seated issues of inequality and foreign domination.
Key to this rise was the founding of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in 1921, inspired by the success of the Russian Revolution and the teachings of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. The CCP, led initially by figures like Chen Duxiu and Li Dazhao, advocated for a revolutionary path to end feudalism and imperialism.
The movement gained substantial momentum during the Chinese Civil War (1927-1949), culminating in the CCP’s victory and the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. Marxism provided a framework for the new government’s policies, influencing China’s economic and social reforms profoundly.
Question:-10
Write a note on the Taiping Uprising.
Answer:
The Taiping Uprising (1850-1864) was a massive and devastating rebellion against the Qing Dynasty in China, led by Hong Xiuquan, who claimed to be the younger brother of Jesus Christ. The uprising was rooted in widespread dissatisfaction with Qing rule, including socio-economic inequality, corruption, and the impact of natural disasters.
Key Points:
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Origins: The Taiping movement, based on a mix of Christian millenarianism and anti-Manchu sentiment, sought to overthrow the Qing Dynasty and establish a new "Heavenly Kingdom of Great Peace."
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Military Campaign: The Taiping army captured significant territories, including Nanjing, which they established as their capital. The rebellion grew into one of the largest conflicts of the 19th century, involving millions of combatants and civilians.
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Suppression: The Qing government, with support from Western powers and local militias, eventually suppressed the uprising after 14 years of intense fighting, leading to enormous loss of life and widespread devastation.
The Taiping Uprising significantly weakened the Qing Dynasty and highlighted the need for reforms in China.
