Date | November 2021 | Marks available | 15 | Reference code | 21N.3op3.HL.TZ0.8 |
Level | Higher level only | Paper | Paper 3 (History of Asia and Oceania) | Time zone | TZ0 |
Command term | To what extent | Question number | 8 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Section 4: The rise and fall of the Mughal Empire (1526–1712)
To what extent were Akbar’s social policies the most significant achievement of his rule?
Markscheme
The question requires that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the suggestion that Akbar’s social policies were the most significant achievement of his rule. Candidates may refer to Akbar’s non-discriminatory policy towards religious groups, including the removal of the jizya and other taxes. Scholars from many faiths were invited to the court. Many high-ranking officials in his court were non-Muslims. All subjects including women were treated equally. Art and literature were patronized and Sanskrit scientific works were translated into Persian. However, his creation of a new religion, Din-i-Ilahi, came under criticism. Other relevant factors may be addressed, for example Akbar’s political and economic policies, which helped unify the empire, but with a focus on the issue in the question. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.