| Date | November 2020 | Marks available | 15 | Reference code | 20N.3op3.HL.TZ0.20 |
| Level | Higher level only | Paper | Paper 3 (History of Asia and Oceania) | Time zone | TZ0 |
| Command term | To what extent | Question number | 20 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Section 10: Nationalism and independence in India (1919–1964)
“Separatist policies of the Muslim League led to the partition of India in 1947.” To what extent do you agree with this statement?
Markscheme
The question requires that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the statement that separatist policies of the Muslim League led to the partition of India. Causes may predate the timeframe, but they must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Candidates may refer to the Lahore Resolution of the Muslim League outlining the Two-Nation Theory, the Day of Deliverance announced by the League when the Congress ministries resigned, Direct Action Day and the role of Jinnah and other Muslim leaders such as Iqbal and Rahmat Ali. Other relevant factors may be addressed, for example the failure of the Indian National Congress to placate the Muslims, the British policies of divide and rule and the rise of Hindu communalism, but with a focus on the issue in the question. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.
Examiners report
The question required that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the statement that separatist policies of the Muslim League led to the partition of India.
