| Date | May 2019 | Marks available | 15 | Reference code | 19M.3op3.HL.TZ0.7 |
| Level | Higher level only | Paper | Paper 3 (History of Asia and Oceania) | Time zone | TZ0 |
| Command term | To what extent | Question number | 7 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Section 4: The rise and fall of the Mughal Empire (1526–1712)
To what extent was military power important to the consolidation of Mughal rule?
Markscheme
The question requires that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the suggestion that military power was important to the consolidation of Mughal rule. Reasons may predate the timeframe but must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Candidates may refer to the success of leaders such as Barbur, Humayun and Akbar and their military successes in the consolidation Mughal rule. Their military power may also be balanced against policies designed to gain support such as religious toleration, increases in economic prosperity, diplomatic alliances, support for various ethnic groups as well as a dedication to artistic and cultural matters. While other relevant factors such as the condition of the states being conquered, may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain on the issue raised in the question.
Examiners report
The question required candidates to consider the merits or otherwise of the suggestion that military power was important to the consolidation of Mughal rule. Responses seen were rather narrative in nature and lacked critical commentary of the ways the Mughals consolidated their rule.
