NCERT Solutions for Class 8 Social Science History Chapter 1 How, When and Where

Class 8 Social Science History Chapter 1 How, When and Where:- The NCERT Solutions for Class 8 History Chapter 1, "How, When, and Where," offer comprehensive answers to the exercises found in the History textbook, Our Pasts - III. These solutions are designed to aid students in their school exams, as they are directly derived from the NCERT textbooks. The solutions are straightforward and precise, helping to enhance students' exam preparation by addressing commonly asked questions. Check out the History Class 8 Chapter 1 solution below.

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NCERT Solutions for Class 8 Social Science History Chapter 1 How, When and Where

Check out the class 8 history chapter 1 questions and answers below:-

1. State whether true or false:

(a) James Mill divided Indian history into three periods – Hindu, Muslim, and Christian.

(b) Official documents help us understand what the people of the country think.

(c) The British thought surveys were important for effective administration.

Answer.

(a) False

(b) False

(c) True

Read More: NCERT Solutions for Class 8 Social Science History Chapter 2 From Trade to Territory

2. What is the problem with the periodisation of Indian history that James Mill offers?

Answer: James Mill's periodization of Indian history presents a problematic perspective, emphasizing British superiority over Hindus and Muslims. Mill categorizes Indian history into three distinct periods: Hindu, Muslim, and British. He argues that the introduction of European customs, arts, institutions, and laws was essential for India's progress.

Several issues with Mill's views include:

a. He perceived all Asian societies as less advanced compared to Europe.

b. His historical narrative portrays India as being under the rule of despotic Hindu and Muslim leaders before the British arrived.

c. His account displays a bias towards religious intolerance and caste discrimination.

Read More: NCERT Solutions for Class 8 Social Science History Chapter 3

3. Why did the British preserve official documents?

Answer. The British kept detailed official records because they thought it would help them study and discuss things later. They recorded what they considered important to provide proof of their decisions in the future.

4. How will the information historians get from old newspapers be different from that found in police reports?

Answer. Historians obtain different kinds of information from old newspapers compared to police reports due to the distinct purposes and perspectives of these sources.

Police Reports: Police reports are formal documents created by law enforcement agencies to record details of incidents, investigations, and procedures. They focus on factual and procedural information, such as dates, times, and actions taken by the police. These reports are often limited to what is directly relevant to law enforcement and may exclude broader context or subjective details. Because they are designed primarily for internal use and legal purposes, they can sometimes overlook or omit information not pertinent to the immediate investigation or legal process.

Newspapers: Newspapers, on the other hand, provide a more comprehensive and nuanced view of events. As a form of mass media, newspapers aim to inform the public and often include detailed accounts, background information, and various perspectives on a story. They can offer context, commentary, and a range of views that might not be present in police reports. Newspapers might cover the social, political, and economic implications of events, providing a richer narrative.

Comparison: When historians analyze old newspapers and police reports, they must consider these differences. Newspapers might offer detailed and contextual insights but could also include biases or sensationalism. Police reports are typically more objective but may lack the broader context and personal perspectives found in newspapers.

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Class 8 History Chapter 1 How, When and Where Summary

Class 8 History Chapter 1 How, When and Where introduces students to the concept of history and the methods historians use to study the past. The chapter focuses on the evolution of historical understanding and the importance of sources in reconstructing historical events. 

1. Understanding History

• History is the study of past events, people, and societies. It helps us understand how the present has evolved from the past.

• Historians use various sources to gather information about historical events.

2. The Concept of Periodization

• Historians divide history into different periods to make it easier to study and understand. This process is called periodization.

• The chapter discusses different ways of dividing history, such as by significant events or rulers.

3. Sources of History

• Historical sources include written records, inscriptions, artefacts, and oral traditions.

• Each source provides different types of information and has its advantages and limitations.

4. Early Historical Records

• The chapter explores early forms of historical records, including manuscripts and inscriptions.

• It highlights how these records were used to document important events and decisions.

5. Challenges in Historical Research

Historians face challenges in interpreting sources due to biases, incomplete records, and differing perspectives.

Critical analysis and cross-referencing of sources are essential to construct an accurate historical narrative.

6. Case Study - The British Perspective

The chapter examines how the British recorded history during their rule in India, focusing on their perspective and the impact of their records on our understanding of Indian history.

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History class 8 chapter 1 How, When and Where FAQs

Q1. Why is periodization important in history?

Answer: Periodization is important because it helps historians divide history into manageable segments, making it easier to study and understand different time periods and significant events.

Q2. What types of sources do historians use to gather information?

Answer: Historians use a variety of sources, including written records (like manuscripts and books), inscriptions, artefacts (such as tools and pottery), and oral traditions (like stories and testimonies).

Q3. How do early historical records differ from modern ones?

Answer: Early historical records, such as inscriptions and manuscripts, were often created for administrative or ceremonial purposes and may lack detailed context. Modern records, on the other hand, tend to be more comprehensive and include a wider range of perspectives.

Q4. What challenges do historians face when interpreting historical sources?

Answer: Historians face challenges such as biases in sources, incomplete or fragmented records, differing perspectives, and the need to critically analyze and cross-reference information to construct an accurate historical narrative.

Q5. How did British historians record Indian history during their rule?

Answer: British historians often recorded Indian history from their own perspective, which sometimes emphasized British achievements and overlooked or misrepresented Indian viewpoints. Their records were used to justify colonial rule and document administrative decisions.