Vedanta Social Studies Book 8 Final (2078)

called Victoria Falls is located on the Zambezi river.
Africa is an immense plateau, which means that the entire continent is
high plain with fairly flat land. Hot, dry deserts cover two-fifths of Africa.
Savannahs also cover more than two-fifths of the continent. Rainforests
make up the last fifth and are found in the Congo basin, parts of Western
Africa and Madagascar.
Africa is rich is oil and minerals. Nigeria, Algeria and Angola are the top
three producers of oil. Africa is also rich in valuable minerals, such as gold,
diamonds, copper and uranium. South Africa and Ghana mine the most gold
in Africa. Botswana and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are the top
diamond producers.

Sahara Desert Mt. Kilimanjaro Victoria Falls

Most people in Africa live below the poverty line. They suffer from disease
and hunger. About two-thirds of all Africans live in rural areas where they
make a living growing crops and raising livestock. About 70% of the cacao
beans of the world are produced in African countries, mainly in Ivory Coast
(Côte d'Ivoire), Ghana, Nigeria and Cameroon. Such beans are used for
making chocolates and cocoa. Many farmers produce citrus fruits such as
oranges and lemons in this continent. People follow Christianity, Islam and
many traditional religions in Africa. They speak more than 2000 languages.
That’s nearly one-third of the number of languages spoken in the whole
world.

Glossary

isthmus : a narrow piece of land with water on each side that joins
the tropics two larger areas of land
oasis
mine : the area between the two tropics, which is the hottest
part of the world

: an area in the desert where there is water and where
plants grow

: to dig holes in the ground to find and obtain minerals such
as coal and diamonds

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ACTIVITIES

(1) Insert the following facts on the map of Africa.

Strait of Gibraltar, Sahara Desert, Highlands of Ethiopia, Nile
River, Congo River, Mount Kilimanjaro, Lake Victoria, Mount
Kenya, Atlas Mountains, Nigeria

(2) Write a travel diary as if you were really travelling to Africa.

(3) Discuss among your friends and make of list of any three
examples of the following facts of Africa.

Major Countries Major Major Major Minerals Countries
deserts that have mountain rivers lakes found that

large peaks produce
national cacao
beans
parks

EXERCISE

(1) Write very short answers to the following questions.
(a) Why is there a warm or hot climate in Africa?
(b) Name the different landforms that are found in Africa.
(c) Why is the Savannah region also called the ‘Zoo of the World’?
(d) Name any four African countries that have national parks.
(e) Why is Mt Kilimanjaro also called the ‘roof of Africa’?

(2) Write short answers to the following questions.
(a) Introduce the savannah grassland of Africa in a short paragraph.
(b) Although Africa is rich in natural resources, why is it still backward in
development? Write some major reasons.
(c) Describe the major economic activities of African people.
(d) You have learned about different parts of Africa. If you had to live in
Africa, where would you live? Why? Mention some reasons.
(e) What are the similarities between Nepal and Africa? Mention any
six of them.

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Physical Map of Africa

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Political Map of Africa

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Outline Map of Africa

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Lesson

51.1.13 Climate Change

Climate is the average weather conditions in one place over a long period
of time. This includes the amount of rainfall, hours of sunshine, and
temperature. The climate of the Earth has varied naturally in the past, but
it is changing more rapidly than ever at present. Such unnatural change in
the climate of a region or the world is called climate change. It is one of the
biggest concerns that our planet has been facing.
Unlike climate change in the past, the current rise in global temperature
is mostly the result of human activity. Human activities, particularly the
use or burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, have increased the level
of carbon dioxide and other gases in the atmosphere. As a result, earth is
getting warmer gradually. Scientists have been measuring the temperature
and have noticed that the global average is slowly increasing.

Mountains without snow because of climate change

Due to climate change, many climate hazards and extreme weather events,
such as heat waves, heavy rainfall and droughts, could become more frequent
and more intense in many parts of the world including Nepal. The impact of
climate change has been observed in various sectors, such as water, forestry,
biodiversity, and agriculture.

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The atmosphere helps keep Earth warm. Gases such as water vapour,
carbon dioxide, and methane trap heat from the sun and keep the surface
warm enough to support life. When humans continue to release greenhouse
gases into the atmosphere, the average temperature of the earth goes on
increasing gradually. Such a gradual increase in world temperatures caused
by gases that are collecting in the air around the earth and stopping heat
escaping into space is called global warming. Human activities are the main
cause of the increase in global warming. The industrial revolution which
began in the 18th century resulted in the use of a lot of fossil fuels. Use of
fossil fuels released a lot of gases into the atmosphere. As a result, this
has led to the Earth getting warmer. Such global warming causes extreme
weather changes to natural habitats, a rise in sea levels, and a range of
other harmful effects.

Land changed into barren dry land because of climate change

When the monsoon rain that should take place in Ashad takes place earlier
in Jestha or doesn’t occur not until Shrawan, it can be said as climate
change. Similarly, when we feel warm or hot up to Mangsir, feel cold up to
Baisakh, when Terai Region receives cold waves and heavy rainfall occurs
in the Himalayan region, these unnatural changes denote climate change.
Similarly, some countries, such as those in North Africa, may become hotter
and drier, while other areas, such as Northern Europe, may become colder
and wetter. There will probably be more intense storms, droughts, and
flooding. Change in weather conditions doesn’t represent climate change.
Although climate change is a serious global concern, our country has been
late in discussing the issues of climate change. The maximum temperature

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in Nepal has increased by an average of 0.056 degrees Celsius per year,
and this rate is even higher in the Himalayan region. Although Nepal
is responsible for only 0.027 per cent of the world’s total greenhouse gas
emission, the country has been experiencing some major impacts of climate
change due to its sensitive land structure.
The temperature of the earth has been rising at an alarming rate. Compared
to 1901 AD, the temperature of the earth has risen by 0.74 degrees Celsius.
If the temperature rises at the same rate, temperature of Nepal is projected
to rise by 1.4 degrees in 2030 AD and by 3 to 6.3 degrees in 2090 AD. In
the next few years, the snow of our mountains will melt and only rocks will
remain. Coastal settlements will be submerged. Therefore, we must reduce
the production of gas that will increase the temperature on the earth from
today.

Causes and Effects of Climate Change

Major Causes of Climate Change Effecrs of Climate Change

(1) Increase in average temperature (1) Change in climate and weather
of the earth; cndition of the world;

(2) Increase in emissions of green (2) Life of many plants, animals
gases; and human beings is threatened;
(3) Deforestation and volanic (3) Severe impact in biodiversity,
eruption; ecosystem, human health,
(4) Increase in the use of chemical agriculture and other sectors;
fertilisers in agriculture; (4) Energy crisis, disasters, and
(5) Unplanned and unsystematic negative impacts of sources of
industrialisation and urbanisation. water.

Ways to Act on Climate Change

(1) Turn off lights, TVs, computers, when you do not need them.
(2) Replace old light bulbs with fluorescent lights (CFLs).

(3) Walk or ride your bicycle instead of taking a vehicle everywhere.

(4) Avoid plastic products. Ask your parents to switch from single-
use plastics to reusable products.

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(5) Take part in various awareness and cleanliness campaigns.
(6) Plant more trees in your locality.
(7) Dispose wastes from your houses and schools properly.
(8) Reduce, reuse and recycle waste materials instead of replacing

them.
(9) Use energy efficient household appliances.
(10) Use your voice to influence others to change their habits and

make a difference.

Glossary

hazards : a source of danger
intense : very great in degree, very strong
concern : a feeling of worry usually shared by many people
emission : the act of producing or sending out something such as

alarming energy or gas from a source
coastal : causing worry or fear
submerge : of or near a coast
: go under the surface of water or liquid

ACTIVITIES

(1) Write the major causes of climate change on a large sheet of
chart paper and display it in your classroom.

(2) Collect some news stories and news articles related to climate
change. Cut and paste them on sheets of photocopy paper and
display in the classroom.

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EXERCISE

(1) Write very short answers to the following questions.
(a) What is climate change?
(b) In which sectors can we observe the impacts of climate change?
Mention any four of them.
(c) What do you mean by global warming?
(d) What events denote climate change? Mention any two of them.
(e) Mention the relationship between climate change and sea level.

(2) Give short answers to the following questions.
(a) Prepare a list of major causes and effects of climate change.
(b) Write a letter to one of your friends discussing various ways to act
on climate change.
(c) What impacts of climate change have been observed in Nepal?
Describe in a paragraph.

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Revisiting the Unit

(1) Write the names of major rivers, religious places, mountain peaks,
trade centres, cultivation areas, and highways in Nepal with the help
of an atlas.

(2) Prepare a pamphlet or poster or placard each to raise public awareness
about earthquake safety and conduct community awareness
programmes. You can also perform street dramas to make people
aware.

(3) Place the ribbon on a stick in the open to see which way the wind is
blowing. Whichever direction the ribbon goes, we can find out that the
wind has blown in the same direction. Airports are equipped with red
and white striped cloths to inform the aircraft of the air direction of the
airport.

(4) Make a list of questions about North America, South America and
Africa. Write answers along with questions. Assemble all the questions
in one place and delete the repeated questions. Then, form groups and
conduct a quiz contest in a leisure period.

Community Work

Draw a map to reach to reach your house from a nearby famous place, chowk
or main road in your locality. Show the various facts on the road, such as:
religious places, main roads, crossroads, intersections, markets, offices,
schools, rivers, and bridges on the map using signs.

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UNIT

6 OUR PAST

Learning On the completion of this unit, we will be able to:
Outcomes • explain the role of Nepali in the unification campaign of Nepal;
• highlight the political scenario after the Sugauli Treaty;
• describe the political, social, and economic reforms of Rana rule;
• enumerate the political events in Nepal after 2007 BS;
• tell about socio-economic achievements of Nepal after 2007 BS;
• tell about Roman and Greek civilisation; and
• tell about the changes and human consciousness during Renaissance.

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Lesson People’s Participation in
Unification Campaign
61..11

Nepal was divided into small kingdoms until the end of the medieval period.
There were Baisi kingdoms in the Karnali region, Chaubisi kingdoms in the
Gandaki region, Malla kingdoms in Kathmandu valley, and Sen kingdoms in
eastern Nepal. Palpa, Kaski, Lamjung, Tanahun and Gorkha were famous
Chaubisi kingdoms. Pyuthan, Dang, Rolpa, and Jajarkot were major Baisi
kingdoms. The Malla kingdoms of the Kathmandu Valley were Kantipur,
Patan and Bhaktapur. Similarly, Bijayapur, Chaudandi and Makawanpur
were the famous Sen Kingdoms in the eastern part of Nepal.

Prithvi Narayan Shah (PN Shah), the king of Gorkha, laid down the
foundation of the unification campaign of Nepal at the end of the medieval
period. The general people supported him in the campaign. They sacrificed
to unify small kingdoms and build a sovereign and independent Nepal. It

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was not possible for the king of Gorkha and Gorkhali army to succeed in this
campaign in the absence of the contribution of people. The following facts
make it clearer.

There was an economic crisis in Gorkha during the unification
campaign. It hindered the unification operation. Bese Nagarchi, a tailor,
suggested Prithvi Narayan Shah to seek help from people during the
economic crisis in Gorkha. PN Shah requested people to help him in
this campaign. All the people from 12,000 houses in Gorkha supported
the king with cash and kind. This contribution solved financial
problems during the unification campaign, and also strengthened the
relationship between the king and the general people.
All the Gorkhali youths aged 16 to 30 years joined the Gorkhali Army.
They fought many wars during the unification campaign. They got
encouraged to sacrifice their lives for the sake of their state.
Astrologer Kulananda Dhakal helped Prithvi Narayan Shah by
suggesting the auspicious time of departure in his successful attacks
on the powerful kingdoms, Kirtipur and Nuwakot.
When the soldiers of the Jaya Prakash Malla tried to slay PN Shah
in Kirtipur, the general people stopped them. They had taken Prithvi
Narayan Shah to Nuwakot for his security at night. The general people
saved PN Shah, the visionary person of the unification campaign in
this way.
People from Dahachowk supported PN Shah during the war with
Kirtipur.
Anzolo treated Shur Pratap Shah, the brother of Prithvi Naryan Shah,
when he lost his eye in the war of Kirtipur.
After PN Shah conquered Kantipur kingdom, he sent Shreeharsa
Panta as an envoy to Patan. He supported PN Shah to conquer Patan
without any war.
People from the defeated kingdoms welcomed PN Shah and accepted
his kingship.
People welcomed the Nepali army when they marched to conquer the
west during the period of Bahadur Shah.
Kalu Pande, Damodar Pande, Ram Krishna Kunwar, Bansaraj
Pande, Amar Singh Thapa, and Abhiman Singh Basnet had played an
important role in the unification campaign.

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Glossary

slay : murder, kill
envoy
: a representative of a government sent to deal with
crisis another government

: a time of great danger, difficulty or confusion when
problems must be solved or important decisions must be
made

ACTIVITIES

(1) If you had been an advisor of PN Shah, what pieces of advice
would you have given him for solving the economic crisis during
the unification campaign? Share your ideas with your friends.

(2) Complete the following table with the contribution of people in
the unification campaign and display it in the class.

SN Name of the Contribution in unification
persons Campaign

1 Kulananda Dhakal
2 Bise Nagarchi
3 Damodar Pande
4 People of Dahachowk
5 Physician Anzolo
6 Shreeharsa Panta

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EXERCISE

(1) Give very short answers to the following questions.
(a) Where were the Baisi and Chaubisi kingdoms in Nepal before the
unification?
(b) Name the kingdoms of the Kathmandu Valley before unification.
(c) Who was Bise Nagarchi? How did he become famous in Gorkha
during the reign of PN Shah?
(d) How was PN Shah saved when he was supposed to be killed by the
soldiers of Jaya Prakash Malla?

(2) Write short answer to the following questions.
(a) How do you evaluate Prithvi Narayan Shah based on his habit of
accepting the suggestions from general people?
(b) Write a paragraph about the role of the Nepali people in the
unification of Nepal.
(c) What inspiration do you get from the contribution of people in the
unification campaign? Express your opinion in six points.

COMMUNITY WORK

The development of any society is possible only with participation of
local people. Who have played important roles for the progress of your
community? Take the help of your parents and make a list of any five
people of your community with their contributions for the development
of your community.

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Lesson

61..21 Unification Campaign in Nepal

Nepal is a unified, independent, and
sovereign country at present. It was
fragmented into many small kingdoms
such as Baisi states, Chaubisi states, Sen
kingdoms in the east, and Malla kingdoms
in the Kathmandu Valley in the past. There
was no unity among these small kingdoms.
There were feelings of conflict, jealousy,
and competition among these states. There
was a lack of feeling of patriotism and
co-operation among them. On the other
hand, the British East India company was
constantly looking for an opportunity to
enter Nepal and capture it as it was rich in
natural beauty and resources with diverse
climatic features.

P. N. Shah

Prithvi Narayan Shah was a farsighted and
visionary king. He was aware of the entire situation of Nepal. He played an
important role to unify small kingdoms and save the sovereignty of Nepal.
He laid down the foundation for geographical unification by extending the
small Gorkha kingdom up to Tista in the east. Not the only territory, he also
united the people through cultural unification. He respected the culture and
tradition of the people in different places equally.

King PN Shah appointed Kalu Pande, the person favoured by people as
Kaji, although Biraj Bakheti was his personal favourite person. He did so
to respect the feeling of the people. Many important events took during the
unification campaign. Some of them are given below.

Date in BS Major Events
15th Aswin 1801 Victory over Nuwakot and the Gorkhali troops killed
Shankha Mani Rana, the son of Jayanta Rana, in the
war

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9th Bhadra 1819 Victory over Makawanpur and the king of
Makawanpur, Digbandan Sen fled to Hariharpur

22nd Aswin 1819 Gorkhali troops captured Hariharpur, and Digbandan
Sen surrendered.

3rd Chaitra 1822 Victory over Kirtipur
24th Aswin 1824 Gorkhali troops defeated English troops led by Captain

Kinlock at Sindhuli Gadi.
13th Aswin 1825 Victory over Kantipur and Jay Prakash Malla fled to

Patan.
24th Aswin 1825 Patan surrendered to Gorkha and Tej Narsingh Malla,

the king of Patan and Jay Prakash Malla, the king of
Kantipur fled to Bhaktapur and took asylum there.
1st Mangsir 1826 Gorkhali troops conquered Bhaktapur having three
days of a continuous fierce battle.
4th Shrawan 1830 Chaudandi was conquered.
5th Shrawan 1831 Gorkhali troops conquered Bijayapur and extended
Nepal up to Tista River

Besides the successful unification of small states, PN Shah gave valuable
advice to his successors. These valuable pieces of advice are popularly known
as Divine Counsels (Divya Upadesh) of PN Shah. These divine counsels
have great value and respect even these days. We are implementing the
policy of inclusiveness through the promulgation of the new constitution.
This has given equal respect to all ethnic groups in the country. The need of
inclusiveness in the country had been expressed by PN Shah said through
his divine counsel, "Nepal is the common garden of four castes and thirty-six
sub-castes". PN Shah had warned about intervention of foreigners through
his divine counsel, "With the Bible comes the bayo-net, with the merchant,
comes the musket." It is necessary to mobilise the natural resources for
the development of a country. Regarding this, Prithvi Narayan Shah said,
"Where minerals are available, the residents of that places should be shifted
away, and mines should be worked."

According to Transparency International, an international organisation
that fights against corruption, “Corruption is the biggest problem in the
modern world.” It has also suggested the world to find out the best way to
solve this problem. Many years ago. PN Shah had quoted, "Those who give
bribe and take it are the enemies of the state."

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Glossary

fragmented : divided into small parts or units
farsighted
: having or showing an understanding of the effects in the
entire future of actions that you take now, and being able to
plan for them

: full or complete

ACTIVITIES

(1) Construct a time line by completing the following table and display in
the class.

S.N. Date Successful Events

1. 15th Ashwin 1801 ...................................................................

2. ............................. Conquest of Makawanpur

3. 3rd Chaitra 1822 ...................................................................

4. ............................. Severe defeat to English force

5. 13th Aswin 1825 ....................................................................

6. ............................. Patan Surrendered to Prithvi Narayan Shah

7. 1st Mangsir 1826 ................................................................

8. ............................. Victory over Bijaypur

(2) Prepare a short news article explaining the values of divine counsel of
Prithvi Narayan Shah in modern Nepal and share it in the class.

EXERCISE

(1) Give very short answers to the following questions.
(a) From where did PN Shah start the unification campaign?
(b) Who was the king of Makawanpur when it was annexed to Nepal?
(c) When did PN Shah conquer Kirtipur?

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(d) What do you mean by divine counsel?
(e) Write any two lessons that our leaders should learn from PN Shah.

(2) Write short answers to the following questions.
(a) Explain the condition of Nepal before unification with examples.
(b) “PN Shah was a democratic king among the Shah kings of Nepal.”
Justify this statement.
(c) PN had a habit of putting his best efforts in his work. What is the
importance of determination and constant effort in our daily life?
Explain in reference to the efforts of PN Shah.
(d) “Those who give and take bribe are the enemies of the state."
Explain this quote of PN Shah in your own words.

COMMUNITY WORK

What are the prevalent proverbs, quotes and sayings in your community
that encourage one for putting her or his time and effort in any work?
Consult your guardians or senior citizens and prepare a list of any ten
such useful advice. Example:

(1) You reap what you sow.

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Lesson Continuation of Unification
Campaign and Its End
61..31

Jogindar Chaudhary and Sita Nepali study in grade eight. They have a habit
of discussing the lessons before the class starts. They have Social Studies
period after the tiffin break. They are talking about the subject matter of
Social Studies at the school ground. Let’s hear their conversation.

Sita : Hello, Jogindar, have you taken your tiffin?

Jogindar : Hi, Sita! Yes, I have already taken my tiffin. What should we
talk about today??

Sita : We have to talk about the continuation of the unification
campaign and its end. What do you know about it?

Jogindar : I will tell you what I know about it. Even after the death
of PN Shah, his descendants continued his unification
campaign. His son, Pratap Singh Shah, annexed Upper
Dang Gadi, Kabilashpur, Sameswor Gadi, and Chitwan in
his short rule. He passed away in 1834 BS at the age of 26
years. He could not conquer many kingdoms.

Sita : Did the unification campaign end after his death?

Jogindar : No, after the death of Pratap Singh Shah, his two and
half years old son Rana Bahadur Shah was placed on the
throne as the minor king. Queen Rajendra Laxmi and the
youngest son of PN Shah, Bahadur Shah, ruled the country
as the regents of Rana Bahadur Shah. They continued the
unification campaign.

Sita : Very good. Can you please tell me more about the continuation
of unification campaign?

Jogindar : Sure! Rajendra Laxmi ruled over Nepal as a regent for
King Rana Bahadur Shah. Tanahun, Kaski, Paiyun, Rising,
Bhirkot and Pallo Nuwakot were annexed to Nepal during
her regency. She died on 2nd Shrawan 1842 BS. She was a bold
and determined lady. The historian Kirk Patrick described
Rajendra Laxmi as a lady with exceptional personality and
missionary attitude.

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Sita : Oh, very good. Her contribution to the unification of Nepal is
outstanding. She has inspired all Nepali females like me to
Jogindar : be bold and courageous. Did the unification campaign come
to an end after her death?
Sita : No, after the death of Rajendra Laxmi, Bahadur Shah
continued his father's dream to unify small states. He ruled
Jogindar : for about nine years as a regent of Rana Bahadur Shah. He
was a brave and farsighted person. Nepal was extended to
Sita : Kumaun, Gadhwal during his regency. He also married the
daughter of Mahadatta Sen, the king of Palpa to get the
support from it to win kingdoms of Chubisi states. Palpa
was a powerful kingdom that time.
He recruited qualified people in his army. Then, he conquered
most of the kingdoms of Chaubisi Rajya and annexed them to
Nepal. Gulmi, Arghakhanchi, and Dhurkot, were conquered
in Jeshta 1843. Parbat was annexed to Nepal in Ashoj the
same year. Similarly, the kingdoms of Baisi Rajya like
Pyuthan, Dang, Rolpa and Jajarkot were annexed to Nepal
afterwards. He proved himself as a capable son of a capable
father.
Yes, I had also studied about his contribution to the
unification campaign. After his successful attack on the
kingdoms in Baisi and Chaubisi kingdoms, he ordered the
Nepali troops to march further west through the bank of the
Kali river. The Nepali troops under the leadership of Amar
Singh Thapa, Jagjit Pande, and Ranabir Khatri reached up
to Alakanda river. These troops won Almora, the capital
of Kumaun, on 11th Chaitra 1847 BS and Shreenagar, the
capital of Gadhwal, on 12th Ashad 1847 BS. They also fought
with Kangada.
That’s right. When Nepali troops were in the east, Nepal-
Tibet war also going on. Bahadur Shah ordered Nepali
troops to return from the west having a treaty with Garwal.
Then, Nepal- Gadhwal treaty was conducted. Do you know
about the terms of the treaty?
Yes, the terms of the treaty were:

Gadhwal should remain under Nepal,
It should pay annual tribute of 9000 rupees to Nepal;

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Jogindar : and
A Nepalese ambassador should remain at Garwal.
Sita : What’s about the end of unification campaign?
Nepal-Tibet War in 1847 B.S. overshadowed the unification
Jogindar : campaign for many years. Later, Rana Bahadur Shah took
sole responsibility of administration in his hand in 1852 B.S.
at the age of just 20 years. During his direct rule, Nepalese
troops under the leadership of Amar Singh Thapa attacked
Palpa and annexed it to Nepal in 1862 B.S. Then, unification
campaign was ended extending Nepal up to Tista in the east
and Satlaj in the west.
Thank you Jogindar for your support to make me clear about
the unification campaign of Nepal.
It’s my pleasure. It is the time to go to class.
(Bell rings and both of them go to their class.)

Glossary

descendants : children

regent : one who exercises the ruling power in a country during
the king or queen’s inability.
demise :
missionary : death
annex :
conquered : enthusiastic or committed to a mission or job

recruited : to take over a territory

overshadowed : overcome and take control of (a place or people) by
military force

to hire people in military service

caused to become less important

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ACTIVITIES

(1) Prepare a drama by highlighting some important events in the
unification of Nepal and perform it in the class.

(2) Draw a map of greater Nepal and display it in the class.

EXERCISE

(1) Write very short answers to the following questions.
(a) What is the role of Amar Singh Thapa in the unification campaign?
Write in two points.
(b) How long did Bahadur Shah rule as a regent of Rana Bahadur Shah?
(c) When did Nepali troops conquer Almora and Shreenagar?

(2) Give short answers to the following questions.
(a) Explain the role of Rajendra Laxmi in the unification campaign of
Nepal.
(b) Write a letter to a Nepali girl encouraging her to be a girl of
exceptional quality like Rajendra Laxmi.
(c) Explain the role of Bahadur Shah in the unification campaign of
Nepal.
(d) Why did Nepal conduct a treaty with Gadhwal? Enlist the terms of
the Nepal-Gadhwal treaty.
(e) "Bahadur Shah proved himself as the capable son of a capable
father." Explain the statement with examples.

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Lesson Political Events After
Sugauli Treaty
61..41

The war between Nepal and the British East India Company is known
as the Anglo-Nepal war. It started from 1st November1814 AD. However,
British troops attacked Nalapani fort a few days before. Nepali troops led by
Amar Singh Thapa, Bhakti Thapa, and Balabhadra Kunwar fought bravely
against the British troops led by Octorloney, Gillespie, Wood and Morley
in this war. There was a treaty between Nepal and the British East India
Company in a place called Sugauli to end the war formally on 2nd December
1816 AD. This is called Sugauli Treaty. This treaty was ratified on 4th March
1816 AD.

Balabhadra Kunwar Bhakti Thapa Amar Sing Thapa

This treaty was not in favour of Nepal. Nepal lost much part of its territories.
The places such as Sikkim, Kumaun, Garhwal, Simla, Almora, Ranikhet,
Nainital, and Darjeeling and the western Terai from the west of Gandaki to
Saryu river were returned to the British East India Company. Interference
of the British East India Company in the internal affairs of Nepal was
on the rise. The unification campaign of Nepal was completely stopped.
Conspiracy in the palace and groupism among courtiers often took place.
Thus, the period after Sugauli Treaty to 1903 BS was full of extreme political
instability in Nepal because of several reasons. Some of the major reasons
are given below.

Conflict due to groupism among the courtiers.
Age-old generational conflict between the Pandes and Thapas.
Weak and unstable nature of the king.
Misuse of the state power from queens with jealousy and weak
relationship among them.

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interference of the British in Nepali politics.
Frequent change of Mukhtiyars (Prime Ministers).

Major Political Events in Nepal After the Sugauli Treaty:

(1) Mukhtiyari (Premiership) of Ranajung Pande:

After the downfall of Bhimsen Thapa, Ranajung Pande got a chance to
handle Mukhtiyari of Nepal. He got this chance with the support of Queen
Samrajya Laxmi, the first wife of King Rajendra Bir Bikram Shah. He lacked
talent, ability, and statespersonship. However, he turned to be proud of his
power. He neglected the demands of Brahmans to return Birta (land given
to the people by the king that is free from any taxes), which were confiscated
during the rule of Rana Bahadur Shah. He also involved in anti-British
activities. Therefore, he had to resign from the post soon..

(2) Dismissal and Revive of the Poison Case Accused to
Bhimsen Thapa:

After the resignation of Rana Jung Pande, Ranganath Poudel was
appointed as the Mukhtiyar. At that time, Bhimsen Thapa was in prison as
he was accused of poisoning the Prince Devendra Bikram Shah. The king
imprisoned him by confiscating all his properties. During the mukhtiarship
of Ranganath Poudel, Queen Rajya Laxmi Devi Shah dismissed the poison
case accused to Bhimsen Thapa. Bhimsen Thapa was released from jail.
However, he was not given any major post or responsibility. Therefore,
Bhimsen Thapa went to Gorkha and lived a private life at Borlang in his
ancestral house.

Ranajung Pande again revived the poison case of Bhimsen Thapa during
the Mukhtiyari of Puskar Shah. He collected fake proofs and imprisoned
Bhimsen Thapa again. Thapa committed suicide in prison.

(3) Sepoy Mutiny (Rebellion):

During the second tenure of Ranajung Pande, the dissatisfied Nepali soldiers
revolted against the government on the issue of not getting a salary for
the last two years in 1897 BS. About six thousand soldiers participated in
the revolution. The excited mass of soldiers assembled at Tundikhel. They
surrounded the British residence suspecting that the British East India
Company had a role for not giving salary to them. They also damaged the

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house of Ranganath Poudel and Puskar Shah. King Rajendra Bir Bikram
Shah, announced not to cut off the number of soldiers. He also promised to
pay their salary within two months and increase their salary within two
years. This announcement pacified the revolution of soldiers. This incident
is known as the military revolt in the history of our country.

(4) Misuse of Unlimited Power Given to Junior Queen:

Senior queen Samrajya Laxmi passed away on 22nd Ashoj 1898 BS. There
was the downfall of the power of Ranajung Pande after her death. In such
a situation, junior queen Rajya Laxmi Devi started to exercise more power.
She got unlimited power of appointment, dismissal, exile, foreign treaty,
life punishment, etc., from a royal proclamation in 1900 BS. In the same
year, she called Mathbar Singh Thapa and made him the prime minister
and commander-in-chief of the army. Her intention behind the appointment
was to enthrone her son Ranendra instead of the rightful heir, Surendra Bir
Bikram Shah. However, Mathbar Singh Thapa advised the king to hand
over the administration to the crown prince Surendra Bir Bikram Shah
instead of helping the queen to fulfil her evil desire. Then, Queen lost her
confidence in Mathbar Singh Thapa and assassinated him through Junga
Bahadur on 4th Jestha 1902 BS. .

(5) Assassination of Gagan Singh and Rise of Junga
Bahadur:

After the assassination of Mathbar Singh Thapa, the king called Fattejung
Shah from Banaras, India. He appointed Thapa as the new Mukhtiyar.
During his Mukhtiyari, Gagan Singh Khawas remained in power in the
palace. Gagan Singh was a favourite courtier of queen, Rajya Laxmi Devi.
He was becoming closer to queen and more influential in the palace affairs.
The king and Junga Bahadur Rana were not happy with his activities.
Junga Bahadur took Gagan Singh as a big rival. This may be the reason why
Gagan Singh was also murdered in his prayer room on 31st Bhadra 1903 BS.
After the assassination of Gagan Singh, Junga Bahadur came into power.
Three massacres namely Kot Parva (on 2nd Ashoj 1903), Bhandarkhal Parva
(on 17th Kartik 1903), and Alau Parva (on 13th Shrawan 1904) took place in
the history of Nepal. Junga Bahadur Rana took the opportunity to murder
his opponents one after another in these massacres and established Rana
Rule in Nepal.

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Glossary

interference : the act of interfering (involving in the concern of other)
fake
mutiny : not true or real

heir : Act of refusing the order of somebody especially by the
assassinate soldiers

rival : a person having right to inherit property or title
massacre
: to murder an important or famous person especially for
political reason

: enemy, opponent

: the violent killing of many people in a place

ACTIVITIES

(1) Write an article describing the major incidents after Sugauli
Treaty and before Rana rule in Nepal and share it with the class.

(2) Consult various reliable sources to find information about the
following incidents in the history of our country and share it in
the classroom.

(a) Kot Parva

(b) Bhandarkhal Parva

(c) Alau Parva

EXERCISE

(1) Write very short answers to the following questions.
(a) When was Sugauli Treaty signed?
(b) Name any four important places that Nepal lost after sugauli treaty.
(c) What is Birta?
(d) What do you mean by sepoy mutiny?
(e) Who assassinated Mathbar Singh Thapa ?

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(2) Give short answers to the following questions.

(a) Make a list of reasons for political instability in Nepal after Sugauli
Treaty and explain any two of them.

(b) Interpret the poison case accused to Bhimsen Thapa in your own
words.

(c) What matters were included in the announcement of the king that
pleased the soldiers ? Explain it and write its consequences.

(d) Junior queen Rajya Laxmi Devi got power through royal proclamation
in 1900 BS. How did this power bring political instability to Nepal?
Explain.

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Lesson Major Political Events During
Rana Rule
61..51

Junga Bahadur Rana established the Rana regime at the cost of many lives
of many innocent people. It started in 1903 BS and lasted until 2007 BS.
Many events took place during the 104 years of tyrannical and autocratic
family rule of the Ranas. Some of them helped them for sustaining, and some
paved the way for their downfall. Some of the major events are discussed
below.

(1) Junga Bahadur’s Journey to Europe (1906-1907 BS):

After the completion of internal management in the country as the prime
minister, Junga Bahadur Rana set out for England in 1906 BS. The primary
objectives of his visit to England were to study geographical, political,
military, and socio-economic conditions of England and establish a cordial
relationship with England. After he returned from a one-year-long visit to
England, he established Durbar High School in 1854 AD. It was established
to provide education to the children of Rana families. He also enforced
Muluki Ain (Civil Code, 1910 BS) for smooth administration. It is the first
written law of our country.

Junga Bahadur Rana set out his journey to England from Kathmandu on 15th January
1850 A.D. and returned on 6th February 1851 A.D. He left his bother Bam Bahadur to act
as Prime Minister during his visit to England. He was accompanied by many influential
men of the country.

(2) Nepal-Tibet War (1912-1913 BS):

During the early period of Junga Bahadur Rana's premiership, there was a
short war between Nepal and Tibet. This is known as the Nepal-Tibet war.
The main reasons for the war were mistreatment of Nepali living in Lhasa
by Tibetan authorities, border conflicts, and dismissal of Nepali lawyers
from Tibet.

(3) Thapathali Treaty (1912) :

There was a treaty between Tibet and Nepal at Thapathali, Kathmandu on
3rd Chaitra 1912 BS to pacify a short hostility between them. This is known

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as Thapathali Treaty. This treaty was signed in favour of Nepal. The terms
of the treaty were:

Tibet had to pay an annual tribute of Rs 10,000/- to Nepal;
It had to concede freedom of trade to Nepali merchants in Tibet; and
It had to allow Nepal to have its ambassador for the interest of Nepali
merchants at Lhasa.

(4) The Incident of the Year '38 :

There was a conspiracy to assassinate Prime Minister Ranodeep Singh and
his brother Dhir Shumsher in the year 1938 BS. Crown prince Trilokya,
Jagat Jung, Homnath Khatiwada, Uttardhwaj Khwas were involved in
hatching the plot. Uttardhwaj Khawas disclosed the plot and betrayed all
the conspirers. Some of the conspirers got arrested, and some were sentenced

to death. This incident is known as the incident of the year' 38 -#* ;fnsf] kj{_.

(5) The Incident of the Year 42:

In the year 1942 BS, the sons of Dhir Shumsher assassinated their own
uncle, Ranodeep Singh and also captured the state power. This incident is

known as the incident of the year 42 -$@ ;fnsf] kj{) in the history of Nepal.

After the incident, Bir Shumsher became the Prime Minister. He included
his brother in the role of successors for Premiership of Rana family made
by Junga Bahadur by correcting it. Thus, the incident of the year 42 led to
the rise of Shumsher's family and made the fall of Junga Bahadur's family.

(6) Prachanda Gorkha:

The Rana rule was not in favour of the general people. The Rana rulers
dominated people and seized their rights. Therefore, a political organisation
named Prachanda Gorkha was established on 28th Shrawan 1988 BS to
launch a movement against the Rana rule. Umesh Bikram Shah, Khadga
Man Singh Basnet, Maina Bahadur, Ranga Nath Sharma, and some other
people were its founder members. They planned to kill high-class Ranas by
firing in their assembly. But, Laxman Prasad disclosed the plan. He did so
as he was afraid of the death of his father-in-law, Juddha Shumsher. After
this event, Umesh Bikram Shah was exiled by confiscating all his properties
and other members of Prachanda Gorkha were arrested. This incident is
called the Prachanda Gorkha incident in the history of Nepal. This incident
played an important role to overthrow Rana rule from Nepal.

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(7) Library Incident:

During the premiership of Bhim Shumsher, about 45 young men of
Kathmandu brought the idea of opening a public library after getting
permission from Bhim Shumser. However, the plan was disclosed by
Ramchandra Adhikari prior to submission of the written application to the
Prime Minister. As a result, all the people, including Jagbir Singh, Hari
Krishna Shrestha, Laxmi Prasad Devkota, and Dharma Raj Thapalia, were
arrested and fined 100 rupees each. This incident is popular as the Library
incident in the history of Nepal.

(8) Praja Parisad:

Praja Parisad is the first political organisation of Nepal. It was established
on 20th Jestha 1993 BS. The main objective of this organisation was to
establish democracy by ending the autocratic Rana rule. Tanka Prasad
Acharya, Dasarath Chand, Ram Hari Sharma, Dharma Bhakta Mathema,
and Jiban Raj Sharma were its founder members. They also got financial and
moral support from King Tribhunwan. In the course of the movement, they
scattered pamphlets against the Ranas and published anti-Rana articles
in Indian papers. Juddha Shumsher announced a reward of 5000 rupees
to anyone who would disclose the secret of Praja Parisad. The secret was
disclosed, and many members of Parisad were arrested. Dharma Bhakta,
Sukra Raj Shastri, and Dasarath Chand (Gangalal) were sentenced to death
penalty. Ram Hari Sharma, Tanka Prasad Acharya and Chuda Prasad were
given life imprisonment.

(9) Nepali Nagarik Adhikar Samiti:

With the objectives of publishing an article, giving lectures and reciting
Purans to make the people aware, a committee was formed at the house of
Rajlal Kalwar near Asan Bajar in 1994 BS. This is known as Nepali Nagarik
Adhikar Samiti. Shukra Raj Shastri was its chairperson, and youths such
as Kedar Man Byathit, Ganga Lal, and Muralidhar were its members.

(10) Jayatu Sanskritum Movement:

Some students from Sanskrit Pradhan Pathasala went to Banaras in 2004
BS to attend the examination at Banaras, Hindu University. Under the
influence of the doctrines and activities of the Nepali National Congress,
they become politically conscious. After they came to Nepal, they revolted

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against the government from 1st Asar 2004. They demanded to include
other subjects like History, Geography, Political Science, and Economics in
their course of study. Many students were arrested, and fourteen of them
were exiled. This incident is known as Jyantu Sanskritum movement as
they shouted with this slogan.

Glossary

premiership : the period or position of being the Prime Minister
traitor : a person who gives away secrets about their friends, their

confiscate country, etc
prior : to take or seize someone’s property with authority.

: earlier in order or time.

ACTIVITIES

(1) Complete the following table and display in the class.
Political Events During the Rana Rule

SN Political Years that People Achievements
events happened involved

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
(2) Prepare a short speech on political activities during Rana rule
and deliver it in the class.

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EXERCISE

(1) Give very short answers to the following questions.
(a) Name the parties that signed the Thapathali Treaty.
(b) Which is the first political party of Nepal?
(c) Who was the chairperson of Nepali Nagarik Samiti?
(d) When did the incident Jayantu Sanskritum take place?

(2) Give short answer to the following questions.
(a) Describe the incident of the year ‘38 and ‘42 in your own words.
(b) Write a paragraph including its introduction, history of establishment,
founder members, and activities.
(c) Make a list of the incidents that supported sustaining and
overthrowing Rana rule in Nepal and describe their role in brief.

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Lesson Socio-economic Activities of
Rana Rule
61..61

Junga Bahadur Rana started Rana rule by establishing the powerful Rana
dynasty of hereditary prime ministers in 1903 BS. Nine Rana Prime
Ministers ruled in Nepal for 104 years turn wise from Junga Bahadur to
Mohan Shumsher. The Rana Prime Ministers were autocratic. They ruled
according to their personal whims, without considering the wish of the
people in the country. Most of their reforms and development activities were
done for the welfare of the Rana and Royal families. However, they laid
down a good foundation for future development. Some of the socio-economic
changes that took place during the Rana rule are given in the following
table.

Socio- Economic Activities of Rana Rulers

Rana Rulers Social Activities Economic Activities

(1) Junga Bahadur Enforced the First Written Made Nepal–
Rana (1903– Civil Code in 1910 BS which Tibet trade treaty
1934 BS) had provisions such as the in 1856 AD.
share of parental property
to the girls not married Commenced tea
up to the age of 35 years, plantation in
and prohibited Sati to the Nepal.
pregnant widows. This
code also discouraged child Began to
marriage, slavery system, collect land
and gambling. revenue through
the officials
Established of Durbar High appointed by the
School on 27th Ashoj 1910 government.
BS.

Established the Gidde press,
renovated Swoyambhu
Temple and constructed
many bridges.

Emphasised on Ayurvedic
treatment and vaccination
to infants and children.

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(2) Ranodip Singh Established Sanskrit school Granted Birta
(1934 -1942 BS) and hostel. and Guthi land to
people.
(3) Bir Shumsher Provided scholarship for Increased national
(1942 -1958 BS) Sanskrit students. income by
cultivating barren
4. Dev Shumsher Started the publication land.
(1958 -1958 of Nepali calendar
BS,114 days) (Panchanga). Improved Nepal-
India trade.
Imported foreign experts Settled barter
for running telephone, rate of salt with
electricity, and ropeway in Tibet.
Nepal.
Encouraged the
Established Bir Hospital, Bir establishment
Library and Bir Dhara in his of cottage
name. industries.
Made efforts
Gave permission to the for improving
children of general citizens farming by
to study in Durbar High adopting the
School. Japanese
technology in
Commenced technical and agriculture.
women education in Nepal.
Unit Seven:
Sent Gehendra Shumsher Our Economic Activities
and Nepali students to
Japan for studying science
and technology.

Reformed post offices.

Published the Gorkhapatra
for the first time in Nepal.

Established basic Schools
throughout the country.

Introduced the system of
keeping complain boxes
to hear public complain
against the government.

Introduced the office hours
from 10 am to 5 pm with 17
days annual leaves for civil
servants in the country.

Introduced the tradition of
bursting the cannon at 12
pm to indicate the time.

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(5) Chandra Abolished the Satee custom Determined land
Shumsher in 1977 BS and slavery revenue on the
(1958-1986 BS) custom in 1981 BS. basis of quality of
the land.
(6) Bhim Shumsher Established Tri-Chandra
(1986-1989 BS) Collage, Military Hospital, Introduced
TB Hospital in Tokha, license system
(7) Juddha Shumsher Leprosy Hospital in Khokana in cigarette
(1989-2002 BS) and hydro electricity project production.
in Pharping.
Converted Birta
Conducted the first and Kipat land
population census in 1968 into Raikar (tax
B.S. paying land).

Introduced office hours Constructed the
from 10 am to 4 pm with Chandra Nahar.
every Saturday as holiday.
Implemented
Converted the system of Ukhanda Janch
death punishment into life Commission to
imprisonment. reform feudalism

Supplied additional drinking Waived pasturage
water in Kathmandu and tax and customs
Morang. charge on the
import of cotton
Reconstructed the houses and salt.
damaged during the
earthquake of 1990 BS. Established
large-scale
Published notice for industries such
improvement on education. as Biratnagar
Jute Mill, Juddha
Established the SLC board Match Factory,
in Nepal. Cotton Mill in
Birgunj, Nepal
Prohibited extravagance in Plywood and
name of social and religious company and
work. Nepal Chemical
industries.

Established Nepal
Bank Limited in
1994 BS.

Issueed paper
money in 2002
BS.

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8.Padma Shumsher Established Padma Kanya Established sugar
(2002-2005 BS) High School mill in Birgunj,
textile mills in
9.Mohan Shumher Promulgation of the first Janakpur and
(2005-2007 BS) written constitution, Nepalgunj, jute
The Nepal Government mill in Biratnagar
Act,2004 B.S. and Nepal
cigarette factory.
Arrangement of Literacy
Classes. Increased the
salary of civil
Introduced Pre-primary servants and the
school system teachers.

Established 87 primary Improved banking
schools in the country. system.

Introduced the system of Commenced
advertisement for vacancies economic
in government and non- planning system.
government posts.

Glossary

welfare : well-being

cannon : a large gun

promulgation : the act of officially or publicly announcing a new law or
system

extravagance : the practice of spending a lot of money

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ACTIVITIES

(1) Prepare a separate list of social and economic reforms of the
Rana prime ministers in the table given below, and display it in
the class.

Rana prime ministers Social reforms Economic reforms
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
(2) Collect the information about development activities that took
place during Rana rule in Nepal from different sources and share
it in the class.

EXERCISE

(1) Which Rana prime minister brought the following social and economic
reforms in our country? Fill in the blanks with suitable names.

(a) Establishment of Durbar High School ………………………

(b) Establishment of Bir Hospital ………………………

(c) Publishing of Gorkhapatra ………………………

(d) Abolishment of Sati Pratha ………………………

(e) Promulgation of the first written constitution ………………………

(f) Introduction of pre-primary education system ………………………

(g) Establishment of Nepal Bank Limited ………………………

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(2) Give very short answers to the following questions.
(a) When were Satee and Slavery customs abolished from Nepal?
(b) Who is the fourth Rana Prime Minister of Nepal?
(c) How long did Chandra Shumsher rule in Nepal?
(d) Name the Rana Prime Ministers who had the longest tenure.
(e) Who was the king of Nepal during the premiership of Mohan
Shumsher?

(3) Write short answers to the following questions.
(a) “The Rana prime ministers were autocratic and ruled according to
their personal whims, without considering the wish of the people in
the country.” Explain the statement in your own words.
(b) How did Junga Bahadur establish Rana rule in Nepal? Write any
four reforms that he made.
(c) What is Muluki Ain? Write about changes brought by its enforcement
in Nepal.
(d) Write about the development of education during the Rana rule.

COMMUNITY WORK

Ask some questions to the people in your locality who know the history
of the Rana period and socio economic achievements of the Rana
period. Then, prepare a short report on ' Socio-economic achievements
of Rana period’ based on the following titles.
(1) Title
(2) Objectives of study
(3) Methodology
(4) Finding
(5) Conclusion

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Lesson Major Political Events and
Achievements After 2007
61..71

Grade eight students of Janata Secondary School were divided into two
groups.One group discussed the political events in Nepal after 2007 BS.
Another group discussed on socio-economic achievements. They prepared
the following chronology of political events and socio-economic achievements
after 2007 BS in sheets of chart paper and displayed them in the class.

Chronology of Political Events After 2007 BS

Date in BS Political Events
7th Falgun 2007 104 years long Rana rule came to an end, and
democracy was introduced.
17th Chaitra 2008 Interim Governance Act, 2007 was passed and
promulgated.
8th Magh 2008 Dr KI Singh revolted against the government.
30th Falgun 2011 King Tribhuwan passed away.
13th Magh 2012 Tanka Prasad Acharya was appointed as the Prime
Minister.
7th Falgun 2015 The first general election was held.
1st Poush 2017 King Mahindra banned all political parties by
arresting their leaders, and his direct rule started.
22nd Poush 2017 Party less Panchayat System was started.
1st Poush 2019 Constitution of Kingdom of Nepal, 2019 was enforced
by legalising the party less Panchayat System. It is
4th Magh 2023 the panchayat constitution.
The amendment of Constitution of Kingdom of Nepal,
17th Magh 2028 2019 was announced incorporating ' Back to village'
24th Chaitra 2035 national campaign.
King Mahendra passed away.
10th Jestha 2036 Revolution of students started, which was supported
by all people in the country.
King Birendra announced referendum to be held.

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20th Baishakh 2037 Referendum was conducted asking the people to
choose either improved party less Panchayat system
or multiparty democratic system. In this election,
Panchayat system won.

26th Chaitra 2046 Multiparty democracy was re-established.

23rd Kartik 2047 The Constitution of the Kingdom of Nepal, 2047 was
promulgated.

29th Baishakh 2048 Second general election was held.

1st Falgun 2052 Nepal Communist Party (CPN) (Maoist) started an
underground movement against the monarchy and
feudalism.

20th Baishakh 2056 Election for the house of representatives was held.

19th Jestha 2057 Royal massacre took place in the Narayanhity Palace.

11th Baishakh 2063 Loktantra was established.

5th Mangsir 2063 Comprehensive Peace Accord was signed between
seven political parties in the government and NCP
(Maoists).

28th Chaitra 2064 First election of the Constituent Assembly was held.

15th Jestha 2065 Nepal was declared a republic country.

6th Shrawan 2065 Dr Ram Baran Yadav was elected as the first
President of republic Nepal.

14th Jestha 2069 The first Constituent Assembly was dissolved without
making the constitution.

4th Mangsir 2070 The second election for Constituent Assembly was
held.

31st Baishakh, 14th Local election for the restructured local bodies was
Asar and 2nd Ashoj, held in the three phases.
2074

10th and 21st Election for the members of the House of
Mangsir 2074 Representatives and provincial assembly was held in
two phases.

24th Magh 2074 Election of National Assembly was held.

29th Falgun, 2074 Bidhya Devi Bhandari was elected as the President
of Nepal for the second time.

14th Ashoj 2076 Speaker of the house of representatives, Krishna
Bahadur Mahara, resigned from his post.

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12th Magh 2076 Agni Sapkota was elected as the speaker of the house
of representatives.

Chronology of Socio-economic achievements After
2007 BS

Date in BS Achievements
2008 BS Beginning of the budget
12 Asar 2009 BS Inauguration of the building of Paropakar Anathalaya
2010 BS Formation of Nepal Education Plan Commission
2013 BS Implementation of the first five years’ plan
14 Baishakh 2013 Establishment of Nepal Rastra Bank
2016 BS Establishment of Tribhuwan University
7 Poush 2016 Abolition of Birta
1 Baishakh 2020 Enforcement of New Muluki Ain
2021 BS Land Reform Act implemented
2028 BS Implementation of National Education System Plan
2057 BS Abolition of Kamaiya Partha
4 Jestha 2063 Declaration of Nepal as a secular state
1 Magh 2063 Enforcement of Interim Constitution of Nepal 2063
3 Ashoj 2072 Enforcement of the constitution of Nepal. It is the first
constitution prepared by the constituent assembly.

Glossary

chronology : the order in which a series of events happened.
polygamy
: the custom of having more than one wife at the same
time.

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Population Education - Book 8

ACTIVITIES

(1) Divide all the students of your class into two groups. One group
should prepare a list of the political events, and another group
should list out socio-economic achievements after 2007 BS
through discussion.

(2) Write a short article on the political events after 2007 and their
impacts on the socio-economic life of people.

EXERCISE

(1) Give very short answers to the following questions.
(a) When was the first general election held in Nepal? Write the full
date in BS.
(b) Which parties signed the Comprehensive Peace Accord?
(c) What do you mean by a constituent assembly?
(d) Who is the first President of Nepal?
(e) How many periodical plans with five years’ duration have been
implemented till the date in Nepal?

(2) Write short answers to the following questions.
(a) Enlist the national-level elections held in Nepal with dates and
construct a timeline.
(b) Explain the changes that New Muluki Ain 2020 have brought to
Nepali society.
(c) Describe the socio-economic achievements in Nepal after 2007 BS.
(d) Make a list of the major political events in Nepal after 2007 BS.

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Lesson

61..81 Greek and Roman Civilisations

Greek Civilisation

Greece is a country in
southeast Europe on the
Mediterranean Sea. The old
name of Greece is Yunan
and Athens was its capital.
The people of Greece were
called Greeks or Yunans. The
ancient Greeks had one of the
most advanced civilisations
about 5,000 years ago. It
is commonly known as the
Greek Civilisation.
The Greeks were not a united
people, but lived in more than
1,000 rival poleis, or city-
states such as Athens and
Sparta. They were often at
war with each other. However, they had a common sense of identity and
always joined together to defend their homeland against invaders. Likewise,
they were always united to compete in festivals, such as the Olympic Games.
The ancient Olympic Games were held every four years in Olympia in honour
of Zeus, King of the gods. It started in 776 BC. Athletes competed on foot
and in chariot races, as well as boxing, wrestling, and discus competitions.
Winners were rewarded, not with valuable prizes or medals, but with
garlands of wild olive leaves. The games began as a single day of events but
were later extended to five days.
In ancient Greece, the citizens of the city-states used to gather at a certain
place every year to elect the city council. The terms such as politics,
democracy and citizens are believed to have originated in Greece. The
Greeks invented the democratic system in which people voted for their

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leader. However, democracy didn’t include everyone: only adult men who
were free (not slaves) were allowed to vote. Greek women would not win the
right to vote until 1952 AD.
The ancient Greeks built beautiful temples where they worshipped their
gods. They considered Zeus to be the god of gods. Greek soil was not suitable
for agriculture. Therefore, they travelled far and wide to make a living. In
ancient Greece there was a good development in the field of philosophy,
science, history, crafts, painting, architecture, writing, and theatre. A large
number of temples, buildings and theatres were built. The Parthenon temple
in Athens is considered a perfect example of architecture.
Homer was a famous Greek poet. He composed greatest epics such as
the Iliad and the Odyssey. These literary works can be compared to the
Ramayana and the Mahabharata of Eastern culture. It is thought that he
was born on the island of Chios and was blind. His writing is so powerful
that it has influenced writers through the ages. He was so important to the
Greeks that they simply called him ‘‘the poet’’.
Famous scholars and philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle were
also from Greece. Socrates was from Athens. He is known for encouraging
people to think carefully about ideas before accepting them. He also
developed a method of examining ideas according to a system of questions
and answers to find out the truth. The Greek authorities didn’t like his ideas
and methods. They thought that he was bad influence on young people. They
forced to kill himself by drinking a powerful poison called hemlock.

Portrait of Aristotle Portrait of Socrates Plato

Plato was a disciple of Socrates. He had a very great influence of European
philosophy. He explained his ideas in the form of written conversations. His
most famous work is The Republic which is about the perfect state and form
of government. Aristotle was one of his students. Aristotle was the teacher of
Alexander the Great. His works deal with subjects such as science, politics,
morality, and literature. Alexander the Great was a King of Macedonia. He
took control of Greece, Egypt, and most of the countries to the east of the

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Mediterranean Sea as far as India while he was still a young man. He is
regarded as one of the greatest military leaders in history.
The civilisation of ancient Greece and Rome are collectively known as the
‘classical world’. The word ‘classical’ here means culture of the highest
quality. In fact, Greek civilisation is considered to be the foundation of
modern development. The Greeks were pioneers in arts and science. They
influenced the Romans, who spread their style of art, architecture and
literature across their own empire.

Roman Civilisation

Rome is the capital of Italy. Ancient Rome began as a group of small villages
along the River Tiber in Italy. It soon grew into a great and powerful city
that ruled a mighty empire. The city of Rome stood at the heart of the Roman
civilisation. For more than 500 years it was the most powerful city in the
western world. Rome was founded in April 21, 753 BCE, and at first was
ruled by Kings.
According to legend, Rome was founded by Romulus and Remus, half-human
sons of the god Mars. During an argument, Romulus murdered his brother
and he became the first king, giving the city his name. He is also considered
the founder of Rome. He had given the status of citizen to all including
rich, poor and slaves in his state. Democracy thus began in Rome at the
same time. A beautiful city was developed here. Art, science, philosophy and
literature developed well here. At that time huge stadiums and buildings
were built. One can still observe the ruins of those structures.

Colosseum Pantheon Baalbek

The Romans were skilled and innovative engineers. They constructed well-
built roads that some are still in use today. The Romans constructed bridges
over rivers. They also designed effective mills, pumps, dams, and even
underfloor heating. Many of their amazing buildings, supported by advanced
engineering skills, still stand today. The famous structures of Rome are the

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Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Amphitheatre, and Temple of Baalbek.
The Romans spoke a language called Latin. Roman children learnt to write
Latin by scratching out letters on wooden boards that were covered in
wax. They had the best army in the world. Their soldiers conquered many
countries and guarded the empire. The soldiers often had to march long
distances.
Julius Caesar was a Roman politician and military leader. He took control
of the government of Rome and changed it from a republic to an empire,
making himself the first Roman emperor. He is also known as the first
Roman leader to attack Britain.
In the 4th century, the Roman Empire split between east and west. The
Western Empire, ruled from Rome, became weaker, because its armies
could not defend against the invaders from Germany. By the end of the 4th
century, it had lost much of its territory, and in 476, the last emperor of
Rome lost his throne.

Glossary

rival : competitor, opponent
invader
chariot : one who enters a place in to take control by military force

philosopher : a carriage with two wheels that was pulled by horses and
was raced and used in battle in ancient times
hemlock
: a person who studies ideas about knowledge, truth, the
mighty nature and meaning of life, etc.

: a deadly drug or drink made from a type of poisonous
plant that has small white flowers

: huge and powerful

ACTIVITIES

(1) Collect the news and news articles about the Greek and Roman
civilisations from the newspapers, and paste on the notice board
of your class room.

(2) Find places around Greece and Rome on the map of Europe.

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EXERCISE

(1) Give very short answers to the following questions.
(a) What is the old name and capital city of Greece?
(b) When and where did ancient Olympic Games begin?
(c) Who were Homer and Socrates?
(d) Write the relationship between Plato and Aristotle.
(e) Who was Alexander the Great?
(f) Who is the founder of Rome?
(g) Name any two famous ancient structures of Rome.
(h) Introduce Julius Caesar in a sentence.

(2) Write short answers to the following questions.
(a) Write a brief history of ancient Olympic Games.
(b) What are the similarities and differences between the ancient
civilisations of Nepal and Greece? Present it in a table.
(c) Discuss the major contributions of Roman civilisation to modern
society.
(d) Explain the socio-economic activities of Greek people during Greek
Civilisation.
(e) What is democracy? The history of democracy is as old as ancient
Greek and Roman civilisations. What should we do to preserve
democracy in our country? Write any five ways.
(f) What are similarities and differences between ancient Greek and
Roman civilisations? Mention in three points.
(g) Write a letter to one of your friends mentioning the major features
of the ancient Roman civilisation.

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Population Education - Book 8

Lesson

61..91 The Renaissance

Background and History of Renaissance

The civilisations of Greece and Rome developed in ancient times in Europe.
The Europeans were rich and prosperous in the fields of education, culture,
art, civilisation and language. There was influence of these civilisations up
to the sixth century. Then after, Europe had to deal with various obstacles
such as war, famine, disease, political instability and epidemic. The influence
of the church and religious superstitions made democracy, science, art,
literature and human rights secondary. It hampered development of art,
science, literature and culture. This situation lasted up to the thirteenth
century.
Then a new civilisation developed in Europe again. There were many
scientific inventions. Art and literature flourished. Scientists and artists
gave new inventions and knowledge to the world. The decade-long passive
civilisation of Europe revived once again. Therefore, renaissance means the
re-emergence or revival of education, culture, art, scientific discoveries and
invention. It refers to both period and activity of the re-emergence or revival.
Renaissance means “rebirth” in French. French historian Jules Michelet
coined this term. The Renaissance is the period of time in Europe between
the 14th and 17th centuries, when art, literature, philosophy, architecture
and scientific ideas became very important and a lot of new art was produced.
This period marked increased interest in ancient Greece and Rome and
resulted in new growth of interest and activity in the areas of art, literature,
science and architecture.
During the Renaissance, Europeans rediscovered ancient thought and
culture. Philosophers and scientists studied the works of the great thinkers
and writers of ancient civilisations, such as Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and
Cicero. They inspired Renaissance philosophers to look beyond the teachings
of the Church and question all aspects of European society.
The Renaissance started in the city-state of Florence, in modern-day Italy.
In the late 14th century, Florence was a wealthy city and its businessmen
and merchants used their money to support artists, craftsmen, and thinkers.

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