Class 8 Social Book PDF ( Subharambha Publication ) Anyflip

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:

1. What is the size of Africa?
2. What divides Africa almost into two equal halves, and what are the other two

that bypass it?
3. What separate Africa from Asia and Europe?
4. Name the highest mountain peak, longest river and highest water falls.
5. Why is Africa called the’ Plateau of Plateaus’?
6. Name the two deserts of Africa.
7. Why is Africa called the ‘Dark Continent’?
8. Which part of Africa is called the ‘Zoo of the world’?
9. Who are the natives of Africa?
10. Which is one of the oldest civilizations developed in Africa?
11. Where does the Nile river originate from?
12. What art the native of Africa Called?

Short/long answer questions:

1. Which part of Africa is the Great Rift valley located? Why is it called the boon
for Africa?

2. In spite of rich in natural resources, why is Africa not economically developed?
Give reasons.

3. What is Savanna grassland? What are its significances?
4. What are the major river systems of Africa?
5. Why is Africa believed to be the first continent inhabited by human beings?
6. Egypt is called the gift of the Nile, why? Give reasons.
7. Draw an outline map of Africa and insert the following information:
Sahara Desert, Lake Victoria, River Nile, Victoria Falls, Mt Kilimanjaro, Mt

atlas, Suez Canal, Strait of Gibraltar, Savanna Grassland, Great Rift Valley,
River Congo, Kalahari Desert.

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Lesson 9 CONTINENT OF NORTH
AMERICA

Size and Shape

North America is the third
largest continent in area. It
occupies about 16 % or one
sixth of total earth land. It
is broader in the north and
tapered and a bit curved in
the south. Its greatest North-
South distance from northern
Greenland to Panama is about
8,900 km and the broadest
East-West width is about 6,400
km and the narrowest part in
southern end is only about 50
km.

Location

Latitudinal extension of

North America is 8° North to

82° North and longitudinal

extension 20° West to 165°

West. It is in the Western and

Northern Hemisphere. The

100° W longitude divides this Map of North America
continent into two almost

equal halves. It is bordered by

the Atlantic Ocean from the East, by the Pacific Ocean from the West, by the Arctic

Ocean from the North, and by Caribbean Sea from the South. It is separated from

South America by the Panama Canal and by the Bering Strait from Asia.

Physical Features

Landforms and Mountains: North America has varied landforms ranging from
mountains and coastal plains. It can be broadly divided into three types: Eastern
Highland, Central Lowland and Western Mountain Region. Eastern region of the
continent is a highland of low lying Appalachian mountain. Similarly, there are the
Rocky Mountains in the West extending from Alaska in the North to the Isthmus of
Panama in the South, about 4800 km. It is the fold mountain like the Himalayas. Mt

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McKinley (6,198 m) is the highest peak. Between the Rocky and the Eastern Highlands
lies huge fertile lowland called Central Lowland. It also has vast grassland known as
prairies.

The coastal areas are quite indented with bays, Alaska Mountain
gulfs and seas. The Hudson Bay in the North and
the Gulf of Mexico in the South are large
openings to the sea. It has the longest coastline
among all the continents, about 300,000 km.
There are many islands surrounding the broken
coastlines. Among them, Greenland in the North
Atlantic Ocean is the largest. The Californian
Peninsula, Florida Peninsula and Yucatan
Peninsula are the important peninsulas.

Rivers and Lakes: Mississippi, Missouri, Rio Grande
Colorado, Arkansas, Rio Grande and St Lawrence
are the major rivers. The St Lawrence drains the
Great Lakes and provides access to the interior
by waterway. The Mississippi with its tributaries
drains the Central Lowland and flows south into
the Gulf of Mexico. Colorado in the west has
made deep steep-sided valley known as the
Grand Canyon, the biggest and second deepest
in the world. There are five lakes known as the
Great Lakes: Superior, Huron, Erie, Ontario and
Michigan on the USA-Canada border. Lake
Superior is the biggest fresh water lake in the
world. Between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario lies
the most magnificent and largest water falls, the
Niagara Falls.

Climate and Vegetation: The Northern Region Niagara Falls
is extremely cold. It is moderate in the Central
Region and hot in the Southern Region. In average,
it is moderate or temperate. There is coniferous

forest in the north, extensive grassland known as

Prairies in the central and deciduous forest in the

South-East.

Socio-Economic Condition: North America is a melting pot, where people from all
over the world are found. The native people are the Red Indians. Majority of the people
have European origin followed by Africans and Asians. Eskimos live in the Northern
part. There are over 500 million people all together. Majority of the people are
Christians and the main language is English. A significant number of people speak

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French and Spanish. Animal Husbandry

North America is rich in natural resources. The
people have made good use of these resources
and achieved great economic development.
The USA and Canada are economically well
developed countries. Majority of the people
in this continent are engaged in trade,
commerce, industries and services. However,
there are people involved in agriculture, animal
husbandry, lumbering, mining and fishery too.
The overall quality of life is quite high.

Points to Remember :

C North America is the third largest continent, about 16% or 1/6 of the total earth’s land surface.
C North America is in the Western and Northern Hemisphere, and is divided almost into two

equal halves by the 100° W longitude.
C North America is separated from South America by the Panama Canal and from Asia by the

Bering Strait.
C North America has Eastern Highland, Central Lowland and Western Mountain Region.
C Lake Superior is the biggest fresh water lake, and between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario lies

Niagara Falls.
C The Rocky Mountains in the West extends from Alaska in the North to Panama in the South,

about 4800 km. Mt McKinley (6,198 m) is the highest peak.

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:

1. In which hemisphere is North America?
2. How big is North America in geography and population?
3. What separate North America from Asia and South America?
4. Name the highest mountain peak, and longest river in North America.
5. Name the main rivers and lakes in North America.
6. Who are the native people of North America?
7. What is the grassland of North America called?
8. Which part of North America is most fertile?
9. Who are the majority of the people in North America?
10. What is the geographical location of North America?
11. Why are the people of North America economically very advanced?
12. Why is North America called a melting pot?
13. Draw an outline map of North America and insert the following information:
Isthmus of Panama, Rocky Mountain, Bering Strait, Mt McKinley, Tropic of Cancer,

100° W Meridian, Great Lakes, Appalachian Mountain, Rivers Mississippi and
Colorado, Niagara Falls, Death Valley, Washington DC, Los Angles, New York.

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Lesson10 CONTINENT OF SOUTH
AMERICA

Size and Shape

South America is the fourth
largest continent in area. It
occupies about 12% or 1/8 of
total earth land. It is broader
in the north and tapered in the
south forming a peninsula. Its
greatest North-South distance
is about 7,645 km and the
broadest East-West width is
about 5,150 km.

Location

Latitudinal extension of South

America is 12° North to

55° North and longitudinal

extension 35 ° West to 82° West.

It is in the Western Hemisphere.

The 60° W longitude or

meridian divides this continent

into two almost equal halves.

The Equator passes through

the River Amazon Basin and

the Tropic of Capricorn roughly

through the middle of the

continent. More than two-third

of the continent is in the tropical Map of South America

zone, and bigger portion lies in

the Southern Hemisphere. It is

surrounded by water from all around except for the narrow Isthmus of Panama in the

North-West. It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean in the East, by the Pacific Ocean in

the West, by the Antarctic Ocean in the South, and by Caribbean Sea in the North. It

is separated from North America by the Panama Canal. At the Southern end, there is

Tierra del Fuego (land of fire) island. The Southernmost tip is called the Cape Horn.

The Strait between Tierra del Fuego and its southern tip is called Magellan Strait. There

are some islands like Galapagos in the North-West and the Falklands in the South.

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Physical Features River Amazon
Mt. Aconcagua
Landforms and Mountains: South America has
varied landforms: high and rugged mountains, vast
plains and long coastline. It can also be broadly
divided into three types: Eastern Highland, Central
Lowland and Western Mountain Region. Eastern
Highland Region consists of Guiana and Brazilian
Highlands separated by the River Amazon. These
highlands are made up of very old rocks of massifs.
The longest mountain range in the world, the Andes
lies in the Western part. It is the fold mountain like the
Himalayas. It extends 7,200 km North- South. Mt
Aconcagua (7,022 m), the highest peak in the Western
Hemisphere is located here in Argentina. The driest
place in the world, the Atacama Desert also lies here.
The huge fertile land, central lowland lies between the
Eastern Highlands and the Western Mountains.

The coastline is quite regular. It is about 32,000 km.
There are a few sunken valleys on the Eastern Coast.
Rio de Jenerio, Montevideo and Buenos Aires, the Gulf
of Darien, San Jorge, Rio de la Plata are some of the
ports.

Rivers and Lakes: The Central Lowland is drained by Rio de Jenerio
three important river systems of South America:
Orinoco in the North, Amazon in the middle and
Parana-Paraguay in the South. Amazon is the largest
river in the world in terms of volume of water. There is
the highest lake in the world, Lake Titicaca (2,812m).
The highest waterfalls, Angel Falls (979m) is in Venezuela.

Climate and Vegetation: South America has varied Lake Titicaca
climate ranging from tropical in the North to Sub-
Antarctic in the South. But, it experiences predominantly
tropical climate as two-third of the continent lies in
tropical zone. There is dense evergreen tropical forest
in the Amazon Basin known as Selves. It is the largest
forest in the world. There are grasslands called Llanos
in Venezuela, Campos and Pampas in Argentina in the
Southern part.

Socio-Economic Condition: Majority of the people are Spanish and Portuguese.
Their main religion is Christianity. Brazil and Argentina are the two big countries. They
together occupy about 2/3 of the continent. There are about 330 million people.

South America is rich in natural resources, but they haven’t yet been fully utilized.

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Agriculture, animal husbandry, lumbering, mining, fishery and industry are the main
occupations. Brazil is developing fast. It is the leading producer of coffee and so is
Argentina in producing meat in the world. Peru is the most important fishing centre
and so is Venezuela in petroleum. Chile is the leading producer of copper and Peru
in silver. South America possesses many unique features: longest mountain range,
the Andes; the largest rain forest, Selves in the Amazon Basin; the largest river, the
Amazon; the highest lake, Titicaca; the highest waterfalls in Venezuela, the Angel Falls;
the driest place, Atacama Desert and the longest country, Chile in the world. So, it is
called the “Continent of Superlatives’.

Points to Remember :

C South America is the fourth largest continent, about 12% or 1/8 of the total earth’s
land surface.

C South America is in the Western Hemisphere, and is divided almost into two equal
halves by the 60° W longitude.

C South America is separated from North America by the Panama Canal.
C South America has Eastern Highland, Central Lowland and Western Mountain

Region.
C South America is called the land of the ‘Superlatives’.
C Brazil and Argentina occupy about 2/3 of the continent, and majority of people are

Spanish and Portuguese.

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:
1. In which hemisphere is South America situated?
2. How big is South America in geography and population?
3. What separates South America from North America?
4. Name the longest mountain chain, and largest river, the highest lake, the highest
water falls in the world.
5. Name the main rivers and lakes in South America.
6. What is Selves?
7. What is the grassland of South America called?
8. Which part of South America is most fertile?
9. Who are the majority of the people in South America?
10. What is the geographical location of South America?
11. Why is the climate hot and wet throughout the year?
12. What are these countries famous for: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru and Venezuela?
13. Why is South America called the ‘Land of the Superlatives’?
14. Draw an outline map of South America and insert the following information:
Isthmus of Panama, the Andes Mountain, River Amazon, Selves, Mt Aconcagua, Lake
Titicaca, Angel Falls, Pampas, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Venezuela, Peru, Caribbean Sea,
Rio de Jenerio, 60° W Meridian and Tropic of Capricorn, Tierradel Fuego island, Cape
horn, Magellan Strat, Buenos Aires, Gulf of Darien, Rio de la Plata

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UNIT

6

OUR PAST

In this unit, you will learn the following subjects:
• Unification of Modern Nepal
• Treaty of Sughauli & Its Impacts
• Rana Regime and Social & Economic Reforms
• Important Political Events, Social & Economic Reforms after 2007 BS
• Greek-Roman Civilization & Its Influences
• Renascence

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1Lesson UNIFICATION OF MODERN NEPAL

Early rulers

Nepal's recorded history began with the Kiratis, who arrived in the Kathmandu valley
in the 7th or 8th century BC from the East. The Kirats ruled for about 1225 years
(800 BC-300 BC), they had a total of 29 kings during that time. Their first and best
remembered king was Yalamba Haang, better known as Yalambar, who is mentioned
in the epic Mahabharata.

The first record of the word 'Nepal' is found in ancient Indian annals such as the
puranas from the 4th century A.D where an area known as 'Newal' or sometimes
as 'Newar' is mentioned, referring to what is now known as the Kathmandu Valley.
However, the area of the sovereign state of Nepal has changed from time to time
during its history, expanding and shrinking in area since ancient times.

Nepal had been ruled throughout its history by the kings of different dynasties until
monarchy was abolished in 2063BS. Nepal as a political region has been united by
different kings of different kingdoms at various times in Nepalese history.

King Prithvi Narayan Shah

King Prithvi Narayan Shah was born as the eldest son of King
Narabhupal Shah and his second wife Queen Kaushalyawati
in the Shah dynasty of Gorkha on 11 January 1723 (27 Poush
1779 B.S.). He grew up under the love, care and supervision
of the eldest Queen Chandrapravawati. She taught him
the Ramayan, Mahabharat, diplomacy and politics. He was
clever and courageous from his early childhood. He got
horse-riding, archery, sword-fighting training when he was
a young boy.

He became the king of Gorkha in 1799 at the age of 20. He
was interested in politics and diplomacy and had interests
in and conquering other countries since his days as prince.

Prithivi Narayan Shah is known as the founder of modern Prithivi Narayan Shah
Nepal. He marked the beginning of modern period in
the history of Nepal. Before him, there were many small
principalities in what we have today, modern Nepal.

He laid the foundation of the unification of modern Nepal by conquering the Malla
rulers of the Kathmandu Valley: Kantipur, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur. He defeated major
principalities and unified them under his rule .He moved the capital of his Gorkha
Kingdom to Kathmandu. He was able to conquer most of the states in modern day

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east Nepal and some of the principalities or kingdoms of Baisi Rajya, and some of the
24 kingdoms (the Chaubasi Rajya), which were two sets of allies west of the King's
homeland of Gorkha, in what is now called western Nepal.

In the later years, his able son, Bahadur Shah, daughter-in-law, Rajendra Laxmi and
Gribanyuddha Bikram Shah completed his unification campaign. The unification
campaign was completed in three phases.

Phase 1: Prithivi Narayan Shah conquered, Nuwakot, Makawanpur, the Kathmandu
Valley and most of the states of Eastern Nepal.

Phase2: Rajendra Laxmi Shah and Bahadur Shah conquered and annexed most of the
smaller Chaubisi and Baisi states of Gandaki and Karnali regions.

Phase3: During the reign of Girbanyuddha Bikram Shah, Bhimsen Thapa annexed the
state of Palpa into Nepal.

Unification Campaign Started
Prithivi Narayan’s father Narabhupal Shah was also a brave and wise king. He wanted
to expand the territory of Gorkha. He invaded Nuwakot but was badly defeated. Prithivi
Narayan Shah was an ambitious person. He wanted to expand Gorkha and foil the evil
designs of the British by uniting small kingdoms into a viable nation. Hence, as soon
as he became the king, he attacked Nuwakot in order to continue the task started by
his father. But he too was defeated as he had not made proper preparations. At that
time Nuwakot was under Kantipur. The Gorkhali troops weren’t much familiar with the
geography of Nuwakot. They also lacked sufficient arms and ammunition.

Conquest of Nuwakot
Prithivi Narayan Shah was not discouraged from his defeat of Nuwakot. He rather
realized that there was a need to improve the overall capability of his military. He
started preparation for the second invasion of Nuwakot. He travelled to Banaras and
collected arms and ammunition with the help of his father-in-law, Abhiman Singh.
He also got some Muslim experts to make guns and to give military training to his
soldiers. It was also important for him to make sure that Gorkha itself wasn’t attacked
by other neighbouring Chaubise states: Lamjung, Tanahu, Kaski and Parbat etc. while
it was invading Nuwakot. In fact, Lamjung was an age-old enemy of Gorkha. So, he
sent Kalu Pandey to Lamjung and other emissaries to other states to establish friendly
relations. He brought King Ranjit Malla of Bhaktapur also in his favour. Almost a
year later, on 2 October 1744, after completing all necessary military and diplomatic
preparations, Gorkha under the leadership of Prithivi Narayan Shah himself invaded
Nuwakot from three directions: Kalu Pandey through Gerkhu, Kirti Mahoddam Shah
from Dharampani and Prithivi Narayan Shah from the front, Ashokbari in 1801 BS.
Nuwakot finally fell into Prithivi Narayan’s hands.

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Gorkha got a lot of advantages from this victory:

• The land around Nuwakot was
fertile, which would help to uplift
the economy of Gorkha.

• Nuwakot being situated at higher
ground was suitable for defense.

• It was the western gateway to the
Kathmandu valley.

• It was on the trade route between
Kathmandu and Tibet.

• The conquest of Nuwakot opened Nuwakot Durbar
the way to the Kathmandu Valley.
Gorkha began to control areas
around the Kathmandu Valley.

First Attack on Kantipur

After the conquest of Nuwakot, Prithivi Narayan Shah occupied the eastern parts of
Kantipur: Sankhu, Changu, Naldum, Mahadev Pokhari to Dolakha one by one. The
Malla rulers of the Kathmandu Valley were then well aware of the design of Gorkha.
To check Gorkha from its adventure, they formed a unified front against Gorkha under
the leadership of Jaya Praksh Malla.

Prithivi Narayan Shah was over excited and encouraged on his victory over Nuwakot.
He was too eager to conquer Kirtipur, another important place in Kantipur. Hence,
on 19th Jestha 1814 BS, Gorkhali troops launched an attack on Kirtipur. But, they were
badly defeated by the unified forces (about 3000) of Malla kingdoms of the Kathmandu
Valley. They suffered heavy loss of life (about 400). Kalu Pandey, a trusted commander
was killed. Prithivi Narayan Shah luckily saved himself and fled to Nuwakot the same
night leaving his troops at Dahachowk.

Conquest on Makawanpur

Makawanpur, an important state with fertile

land and a trade route to the south of

Kathmandu Valley was in fact Prithivi

Narayan Shah’s sashurali. After the death of

his father-in-law, King Hemakarna Sen, his

brother-in-law, Digbandhan Sen became

the King of Makawanpur. Prithivi Narayan

Shah hadn’t good relation with him from

the outset. So, when Prithivi Narayan Shah Makawanpur Gadi
imposed economic blockade against

Kathmandu Valley, Makawanpur was

supplying essential goods to the valley. Makawanpur wanted to side with the kingdoms

in the valley. It was in all respects the most strategically important state. On one hand,

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it was to be taught a lesson and on the other, the economic blockade was to be
tightened. Hence, it became important for Gorkha to conquest Makawanpur at the
earliest.

Gorkhali forces attacked Makawanpur on 9th

Bhadra 1819 BS and conquered it without

much fighting. Digbandhan Sen fled to the

south and asked refuge from the Nawab of

Bengal, Mir Kasim. Digbandhan Sen wanted

to take back his kingdom. So he asked Mir

Kasim for military assistance. Some 2500

to 3000 troops were sent to recapture

Makawanpur under the command of Gurgin

Khan. The Gorkhali forces surrounded them Makawanpur Gadi
on 27th Poush 1819 BS. The Muslim forces

couldn’t stand against the Gorkhali forces

and fled helter and skelter. A lot of arms and ammunition were collected out of this

battle. Bara, Parsa, Sarlahi and Mahottari of the Terai and places around Kathmandu

Valley like Dhulikhel, Panauti, Nala, Banepa etc were also captured.

Second Unsuccessful Offensive on Kirtipur

After the blunder made in the first Kirtipur offensive, Prithivi Narayan Shah realized
that it wasn’t that easy to conquer the Kathmandu Valley. So he decided to use both
direct and indirect (diplomatic and military) means to weaken the kingdoms in the
valley. He then put economic blockade against the valley. The valley lacked essential
commodities like salt, clothes etc. The blockade caused economic chaos and crisis in
the valley.

Taking advantage of this situation, Prithivi Narayan War in Kritipur
Shah once again launched an offensive on Kirtipur in
1822 BS. The Gorkhali troops failed to capture Kirtipur
this time also. They had to suffer heavy loss of life and
property. Prithivi Narayan Shah’s younger brother,
Supratap Shah lost one of his eyes in this offensive.

Victory Over Kirtipur

Prithivi Narayan Shah was a man of courage and
determination. Instead of being demoralized by the successive defeat on Kirtipur, he
was made even more resolute to conquer it at the earliest. So, to ensure his victory
he needed to weaken Kirtipur through strategic maneuvers. He surrounded it from
Panga, Chhobhar and surrounding areas, and imposed six-month long blockade. Even
the supply of water was stopped. All these made the life of Kirtipurians very miserable
and chaotic. There was fear and anxiety everywhere. They couldn’t even harvest their
crops. Such a situation eventually forced Kirtipur to surrender to Gorkha in 1823 BS.

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Conquest of the Kathmandu Valley

The victory over Kirtipur directly led the way to

conquering Kantipur and other kingdoms in the

valley. On the day of Indrajatra, 13th Asoj 1825

BS, Gorkha launched an offensive attack against

Kantipur from three sides. This attack came as

a big surprise to Kantipur. It wasn’t mentally

or otherwise prepared to face this assault. So, Jayapraksh Malla
Kirtipur fell to Gorkha without much fighting. In

this course of event, Patan also surrendered to

Prithivi Narayan Shah on 24th Asoj 1825 BS. Both the Kings of Kantipur and Patan, Jaya

Praksh Malla and Tejnarasingh Malla fled to Bhaktapur to seek refuge. Prithivi Narayan

Shah asked the King of Bhaktapur, Ranjit Malla to hand them over to him. But, as he

refused to do so, Gorkhali forces invaded Bhaktapur on 28th Kartik 1826 and captured

it on 1st Marga the same year. Thus, Prithivi Narayan Shah’s dream of conquering of

the kingdoms in the Kathmandu Valley was materialized.

Attempt to Conquer Chaubisis

Being highly encouraged by the victory over the valley, Prithivi Narayan Shah sent
his forces to capture the Chaubise states. But visualizing the developing situation,
the five Chaubisi states: Lamjung, Tanahu, Kaski, Palpa and Parbat had formed an
alliance. They stood united against the Gorkhali invasion. The Gorkhali troops were
badly beaten back. Then Prithivi Narayan Shah held his offensive temporarily beyond
River Marshyangdi in the west and focused towards the east.

Conquest of the East

There were Chaudandi and Bijaypur two main Sen states in the east. The Khambuwan
and Limbuwan were autonomous administrative regions under these states. The
Gorkhali forces conquered Chaudandi in 1830 BS and Bijaypur in 1831 BS. Both the
rulers of Chaudandi and Bijaypur fled to Sikkim. Thus whole of Kirat Pradesh including
Chaudandi and Bijaypur came under Gorkhali rule. During Prithivi Narayan Shah’s
reign, the eastern boundary of Nepal expanded
up to Tista River

Untimely Death of Prithivi Narayan Shah

Prithivi Narayan Shah was not only a King and

an able administrator but also a tireless warrior

himself. He physically led his troops in many of the

battles Gorkha fought. He had a dream of unified,

greater and powerful Nepal. He wanted to resume Devighat, Nuwakot
his efforts to expanding his kingdom towards the

west as soon as possible. But, he suddenly fell ill

and died an untimely death on 1st Magh 1831 BS at Devighat, Nuwakot at the age of

just 52 years.

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He always wanted to keep his subjects happy, united and strong. He made the people
aware of corruption and other unfair activities. His tireless effort helped to unite the
small states into a large country, Nepal.

Regency of Rajendra Laxmi and Bahadur Shah

After the death of Prithivi Narayan Shah, his successors continued the unification
campaign. Prithivi Narayan Shah was succeeded by his son Pratapsingh Shah. He died
at a young age of 26 years on 26th Mangsir 1834 BS. During his short
rule, Upardang Gadi, Kavilaspur Gadi, Someshor Gadi and Chitwan
were united in Nepal. Rajendra Laxmi was the Queen of Pratapsingh
Shah. They had a son called Ranabahadur Shah, who was only two
and half years when Pratapsingh died. So Rajendra Laxmi began to
rule the country as the regent of Ranabahadur Shah.

Bahadur Shah, King Pratapsingh’s younger brother who was exiled

to Betia, India when the king died, returned back, and both of them

began to rule jointly as co-regents. But soon they began to quarrel

and Bahadur Shah went again to Betia.

Amarsingh Thapa, Balabhadra Kunwar, Damodar Pandey, Bansaraj Rajendra
Pandey etc were the then commanders of Gorkhali forces. Under Laxmi

their able leadership, some of the Chaubise Rajyas like Tanahu, Kaski,

Parbat, Lamjung, Bhirkot, Rishing, Satahun, Gorahun, Dhor, Paiyun etc fell into the

hands of the Gorkha. In this way, Rajendra Laxmi made important contribution in

carrying further the unification campaign. She died on 2nd Shrawan 1842 BS from

tuberculosis.

After the death of Rajendra Laxmi, Bahadur Shah returned to Nepal again and ruled
as a regent of King Ranabahadur Shah. Among the Chaubise states, Palpa was still
not conquered. Knowing that Palpa was a strong state, Bahadur Shah got married to
the daughter of King Mahadatta Sen of Palpa. Then he invaded Gulmi, Arghakhanchi,
Dhurkot, Kusma and Baglung. Encouraged by this success, he sent his forces to
Biase Rajyas and Pyuthan, Dang, Rolpa, Jajarkot, Dailekh, Achham and Jumla etc and
conquered one after another under the leadership of Amarsingh Thapa.

After the successful annexation of Chaubise and Baise states, the Gorkhali troops
moved towards Almorah, Kumaon, Gadhwal and reached up to Alcanda. At the same
time, a war broke out with Tibet. So, the Gorkhali forces signed a treaty with Gadhwal
and returned to Kathmandu. According to this treaty, Gadhwal agreed paying nine
thousand rupees to Nepal annually. In the year 1849 BS, Nepal-Tibet War ended on
the arbitration of China. Nepal suffered heavy losses during this war. Consequently,
she was forced to sign a humiliating treaty known as Betrawati Treaty. According to this
treaty, the Northern border of Nepal remained up to Tatopani. Thus, under Bahadur
Shah, Nepal expanded greatly. He fulfilled the dream of his father. This great son of
Nepal died a tragic death in 1854 BS in jail.

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Implication of Unification
Had Prithvi Narayan Shah not established the Kingdom of Nepal, it is likely that the
smaller and weaker nation states would have come under the control of the British
Empire, whose influence was increasing in India at the time. If the British Indian Army
had not been stopped and defeated at Makawanpur gadhi-Sindhuligadhi, Nepal
would not have born as a country, and the Nepalese would not have been known as
an independent, sovereign, political entity. The majority of credit for preventing these
outcomes goes to Prithvi Narayan Shah. Despite this historical legacy, there are some
who criticize his aggressive campaigns of conquest and empire-building.

Points to Remember :

C Prithivi Narayan Shah, the eldest son of Narabhupal Shah of Gorkha, was born on 27
Poush 1779 BS. Prithivi Narayan Shah is known as the founder of modern Nepal.

C The unification campaign was completed in three phases: Phase I: Prithivi Narayan
Shah; Phase II: Rajendralaxmi and Bahadur Shah and Phase III: Girbanyuddha Bikram
Shah.

C Nuwakot which was conquered in third attempt opened the way to unification of
modern Nepal.

C In the first attempt over Kirtipur, the Gorkhali forces were badly defeated and
suffered a heavy loss.

C Capturing of Makawanpur on 9th Bhadra 1819 BS, largely contributed to the victory
over the Kathmandu Valley.

C Kirtipur, which was captured in the third attempt in 1823 BS, led the capture of
Kantipur, Patan and Bhaktapur.

C Prithivi Narayan Shah had to halt his attack along the Marshyangdi River in the West.
C Chaudandi, Bijaypur and Limbuwan came under one by one and the eastern

boundary of Nepal expanded up to Tista River during Prithivi Narayan Shah’s rule.
C Ranabahadur Shah was only 29 months when Pratapsing died, so Rajendra Laxmi

became his regent .
C During her nine years rule, she conquered Chaubise states like Kaski, Lamjung,

Tanahun, Satahun, Garahun etc.
C Bahadur Shah, the youngest son of Prithivi Narayan Shah, ruled as a regent after the

death of Rajendra Laxmi.
C During Bahadur Shah’s regency, Nepal conquered remaining Chaubise and all of

Baise states, and expanded up to Almorah, Kumaon and Gadhwal in the west.

Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8 165

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:
1. When was Prithivi Narayan Shah born?
2. In how many attempts, and when was Kirtipur conquered?
3. Who was Rajendralaxmi?
4. What is regency? Name any other regents in the history of Nepal.
5. Name any 4 states which were under the Baisi Rajya.
6. Who was Bahadur Shah?
7. Who was Sura Pratap Shah?
8. Who was Mir Kasim?
9. When and how was Bahadur Shah died?
10. When and how was Rajendralaxmi died?
11. When and where was Prithivi Narayan Shah died?
12. Who ruled Nuwakot before it was captured by Gorkha?

Short answer questions:
1. Why was it important to capture Nuwakot?
2. When did Prithivi Narayan Shah first attack Nuwakot? What were the reasons
for his defeat?
3. How was Prithivi Narayan Shah’s childhood? Who did contribute mainly in
shaping his character?
4. What advantages did Gorkha get capturing Nuwakot?
5. Why did Prithivi Narayan Shah think necessary to conquer Makawanpur
before conquering the Kathmandu Valley?
6. What is economic blockade? How was it imposed on the kingdoms of
Kathmandu Valley?
7. Present the important events of the conquest of the Kathmandu Valley in a
time line.
8. Show in a time line important events of Prithivi Narayan’s unification
campaign from 1801 to 1831 BS.
9. What were the importances of conquering the Kathmandu valley?
10. What do you think it would have happened if Prithivi Narayan Shah hadn’t
unified the small states? Write.

Community Based Work:
Meet someone in your community who has achieved significant success in his
career or business etc. Discuss how it became possible including means, methods,
strategies and time taken etc and prepare a report on it.

166 Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8

Lesson 2 TREATY OF SUGHAULI & ITS
IMPACTS

Causes of Anglo- Nepal War (1814-16)

There took place a war between Nepal
and the British East India Company
(British India) in 1814 AD. It was
fought for two years. This war is called
Anglo Nepal War. There were many
reasons of this war. The main reasons
were: Political, Military, Economical,
Geographical, and the Immediate.

Political: The British East India

Company had greater design. It wanted

to control not only India but whole of Anglo War Between East India Company
South Asia and beyond. Nepal was not

unaware of this. Hence, there existed

mistrust and non-cooperative attitude towards each other. The Capuchin Missionaries

were expelled out of Kathmandu. Nepal was against the British imperialism. The then

Prime Minister of Nepal, Bhimsen Thapa, was completely against the British. He had

even tried to form an alliance with some Indian states like Maratha, Punjab, Gwalior etc,

and he had also appealed to all Asian countries to unite against the British imperialism.

At the same time, the defeated kings of Chaubisi and Baisi states had taken shelter in

India. They instigated the British India against Nepal. They wanted to teach a lesson

to Nepal through the British power and if possible regain their lost kingdoms. Such a

situation laid foundation for Anglo Nepal War.

Military: Both Nepal and British India Company were attempting to expand their
territories. There were clashes of interests. In course of time, their borders collided.
There arose border disputes as there were no proper border markings. The British
India, being an imperialist power obviously didn’t like to see Nepal expanding like this.
They had already launched two failed military missions to stop the Gorkhali expansion
under the command of Capt Kinloch and Capt. Knox. The British East India wanted
somehow to check Nepal’s adventurism and assert its influence over it. Knowing
this, the then Prime Minister of Nepal, Bhimsen Thapa had pursued a confrontational
policy. Nepal had rejected to sign any trade or friendship treaty with the British. Rather,
Bhimsen Thapa carried out military reforms and raised a strong military. This made the
British think Nepal as a great threat to their empire, and ultimately led to the Anglo
Nepal War.

Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8 167

Economical: Nepal was economically sound and socially quite stable at that time.
Having control over the Kathmandu Valley and some key and fertile land in the
Terai, Nepal had largely benefited from the trade with both Tibet and India. This had
prompted Nepal to enhance its military power. The East India wanted to sale their
products in Nepal. They also wanted to have direct trade with Tibet through Nepal.
But, all those were not possible because of the anti-British policy of Nepal. This led the
British India to look for an excuse of invading Nepal.

Geographical: Nepal was in a strategically important location. The British very well
knew that control over Nepal meant significant economic and political influences
across the Himalayas. The British India was attracted by the natural resources of Nepal
such as forest, timber, mine and water etc. The climate and geography of Nepal was
equally attractive and tempting for the British to occupy Nepal.

Immediate Cause: There was such a volatile situation that a war could have broken
any time between them. The British East India Company had already made extensive
preparations and needed an excuse only. Then the border disputes in Butwal and
Syuraj surfaced. Formerly, Butwal and Syuraj were integral part of Abadh, but the King
of Palpa had tributary right to collect land taxes there. At this time, Abadh had fallen to
the British and Palpa to Nepal. As such, Nepal and British both claimed possession over
Butwal and Syuraj. Negotiations failed, and the East India Company sent ultimatum
to Nepal to vacate immediately the areas of Butwal and Syuraj. But, Bhimsen Thapa
decided not to respond to the British ultimatum. The British, on their part, captured
Butwal and Syuraj to which Nepal retaliated and reasserted her claim over these areas.

Declaration of War

Finally, Governor General Lord Hastings declared war against Nepal on 1st Nov 1814 BS.
The war was fought for two years. The Nepalese warriors fought bravely against the
powerful and better equipped British forces. Bhimsen Thapa had hoped to get help from
the Indian states of Punjab, Gwalior and Maratha, but it was all in vain. The Gorkhali
forces suffered heavy losses in life and property. However, they weren’t prepared to
surrender. At last, Nepal was compelled to sign a treaty. It is called the Sugauli Treaty as
it was signed at Sugauli, now in Bihar of India.
With the signing of this treaty, the Anglo Nepal
War finally ended.

Treaty of Sughauli & Its Consequences: Treaty of Sugauli

Territories Lost by the Treaty of Sugauli

The Sugauli Treaty (Sugowlee or Segqulee) was
signed on 2 December 1815 and ratified by 4
March 1816 between the East India Company
and Nepal following the Anglo-Nepalese War

168 Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8

of 1814-16. The signatory for Nepal was Raj Guru Gajraj Mishra aided by Chandra
Sekher Upadhyaya and the signatory for the Company was Lt. Col. Paris Bradshaw. The
treaty called for territorial concessions in which parts of Nepal will be given to British
India, the establishment of a British representative in Kathmandu, and allowed Britain
to recruit Gurkhas (Nepalese) for military service. Nepal also lost the right to deploy
any American or European employee in its service (earlier several French commanders
had been deployed to train the Nepali Army).

Under the treaty, about one-third of Nepalese territory was lost including all the
territories that Nepal had won in wars in the last 25 years or so such as Sikkim in the
east, Kumaon Kingdom and Garhwal Kingdom (also known as Gadhwal) in the west
and much of the Terai in the south. Some of the Terai lands were restored to Nepal in
1816. More Terai lands were restored to Nepal in 1860 to thank Nepal for helping the
British to suppress the Indian rebellion of 1857.

The British representative in Kathmandu was the first Westerner allowed to live in
the post-Malla Era Nepal. (It is to be noted that few Christian missionaries operating
were deported by the Gurkhas after conquering Nepal during mid 18th century). The
first representative was Edward Gardner, who was installed at a compound north of
Kathmandu. That site is now called Lazimpat and is home to the Indian and British
embassies. The Sugauli Treaty was superseded in December 1923 by a "treaty of
perpetual peace and friendship," which upgraded the British resident to an envoy. A
separate treaty was signed with India (independent by now) in 1950 which established
relations between the two countries.

Terms of Sugauli Treaty:

The signed copies of the treaty were exchanged on 4 March 1816 at Makawanpur by
Chandra Sekhar Upadhayay and General David Ochterlony. The terms of the treaty
were as follows:-

1. There shall be perpetual peace and friendship between the East India
Company and the king of Nepal.

2. The king of Nepal will renounce all claims to the lands which were the subject
of discussion between the two States before the war; and will acknowledge
the right of the company to the sovereignty of those lands.

3. The king of Nepal will cede to the East India company in perpetuity all the
under mentioned territories:

(i) The whole of low lands between the rivers Kali and Rapti.
(ii) The whole of low lands between Rapti and Gandaki, except Butwal.
(iii) The whole of low lands between Gandaki and Koshi in which the

authority of the East India Company has been established.
(iv) The whole of low lands between the rivers Mechi and Teesta.
(v) The whole of territories within the hills eastward of the Mechi River. The

Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8 169

aforesaid territory shall be evacuated by the Gorkha troops within forty
days from this date.
4. With a view to indemnity, the chiefs and Bhardars of Nepal, whose interest
will suffer by the alienation of the lands ceded by the foregoing Article (No.
3 above), the East India Company agrees to settle pensions to the aggregate
amount of two lakhs of rupees per annum on such chiefs as may be decided
by the king of Nepal.
5. The king of Nepal renounces for himself, his heirs, and successors, all claim to
the countries lying to the West of the River Kali, and engaged never to have
any concern with those countries or the inhabitants thereof.
6. The king of Nepal engages never to molest or disturb the king of Sikkim in
the possession of his territories. If any difference shall arise between Nepal
and Sikkim, it shall be referred to the arbitration of the East India Company.
7. The king of Nepal hereby engages never to take or retain in his service any
British subject, nor the subject of any European or American State, without
the consent of the British Government.
8. In order to secure and improve the relations of amity and peace hereby
established between Nepal and Britain (East India Company), it is agreed
that accredited Ministers from each shall reside at the court of the other.
9. This treaty shall be ratified by the King of Nepal within 15 days from this date,
and the ratification shall be delivered to Lt. Col. Bradshaw, who engages to
obtain and deliver to the king the ratification of the Governor-General within
20 days, or sooner, if practicable.
Consequences:
(a) Nepal had to sign the treaty in humiliating conditions.
(b) Nepal had to lose about one third of her land (57736 sq km): Kumoun Gadwal,
Nainital, Darjeeling etc.
(c) Nepal’s unification and expansion campaign came to an end for good.
(d) Perpetual peace and friendship was to be maintained with Britain.
(e) British influence and interference increased in the internal affairs of Nepal,
resident mission established.
(f) Recruitment of Nepali youths into British Army started.
(g) Nepal court became weak, palace intrigues and conspiracies began, and
Bhimsen Thapa had his downfall.
(h) Political instability started.

170 Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8

Points to Remember :

C The two years long war between Nepal and British India in 1814-16 AD is called
Anglo-Nepal War.

C The main reasons were: Political, Military, Economical, Geographical, and the
Immediate.

C Bhimsen Thapa, who was very much against British Imperialism, was the-then Prime
Minister of Nepal.

C The border disputes in Butwal and Syuraj was the immediate cause of the war.
C Nepal suffered heavy losses, and had to sign a treaty called Sughauli Treaty on 2nd

Dec 1815.
C This treaty was a humiliation to Nepal: territories lost, unification stopped, and British

extended influence.

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:
1. When was the Anglo Nepal War took place?
2. What was the immediate cause of Anglo Nepal War?
3. Why is the treaty of 1816 called Sugauli Treaty?
4. Who was the Prime Minister of Nepal during Anglo Nepal War?
5. Who signed the Sugauli Treaty on behalf of Nepal?

Short and/or long answer questions:
1. What were the causes of Anglo Nepal War?
2. What were the consequences of Anglo Nepal War?
3. How did the Sugauli treaty affect the history of Nepal? Write.
4. Bhimsen Thapa wasn’t a coward man to be easily intimidated? Justify.
5. What measures should be adopted to defend our national border? Suggest.
6. What were the terms and conditions of the Sugauli Treaty?

Community Based Work:
You have been on an educational tour to a historical place. Write a report on the
basis of: name of the place, objectives of the tour, methods used in carrying out
studies, findings, conclusion etc.

Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8 171

3Lesson RANA REGIME AND SOCIAL &
ECONOMIC REFORMS

After the Kot Parva in 1903 BS, Jung Bahadur Rana became the Commander-in-Chief.
It was soon followed by another parva called Bhandarkhal Parva. Jung Bahadur Rana
captured all the state power and became the Prime Minister and Commander-in-
Chief. He sent the junior Queen, Rajyalaxmi in exile and ousted Rajendra Bikram Shah
and placed Surendra on the throne. He got the title of ‘Maharaja’ from the king. He
made the king only a nominal head. The king delegated all his powers and authorities
to him. He was authorized to carry out ‘pajani’, declare a war or make peace and sign
treaties with any countries. Thus, he fully consolidated his position and became the
de-facto ruler of Nepal.

Jung Bahadur established a roll of succession to his brothers. All the high ranking
government posts were reserved for the Ranas. All the state properties and important
resources were captured by the Ranas. There was exploitation in every sector. People
were deprived of the fundamental rights. There were intrigues and conspiracies to gain
power among the Ranas also. The whole system was on the discretion of the Prime
Minister. It was a one man show. The country was quite isolated from the outside
world.

Such a despotic Rana rule lasted for 104 years. However, some social and economic
reforms were made by the Rana Prime Ministers.

Jung Bahadur Rana (1846-1877 AD)

Jung Bahadur ruled for 31 years. During his rule, the first Jungbaharur Rana
written Civil Code, Muluki Ain (1910 BS) was introduced.
It brought reform on the old penal system based on
physical torture. It also granted parental property rights to
lifelong unmarried women. Sati Pratha was discouraged.
Durbar School was established and English education
was introduced. He also established a letter press.

Ranoddip Singh (1877-1884 AD)

Ranoddip Singh succeeded Jung Bahadur. He ruled for 8 years. During his rule, Nepali
Calendar was published for the first time in 1884 AD. He established Sanskrit Pathsala
and a hostel.
172 Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8

Bir Shumsher (1884-1901 AD) Bir Shumsher
Dev Shumsher
Bir Shumsher ruled for 16 years. He established Bir Chandra Shumsher

Hospital, Bir Library and the Clock Tower. He built a Bhim Shumsher

suspension bridge at Kulekhani. He encouraged Sanskrit
education. He built the present building of Durbar High
School. He made provision of supplying drinking water
to Kathmandu and Bhaktapur. He established Vaidhya
Khana (Ayurveda Medicine Centre).

Dev Shumsher (1901 – 1901 AD)
He ruled the country for a short period only: 114 days. He
was the most democratic and liberal minded Rana Prime
Minister. He wanted to abolish Sati and Das Prathas. He
in fact wanted to establish parliamentary system of
government. He started publishing the Gorkhapatra. He
introduced fixed government office working hours: 10:00
to 5:00 pm and made arrangement for 17 days annual
leave. He established 150 schools.

Chandra Shumsher ( 1901 – 1929 AD)
Chandra Shumsher was the second longest ruling Rana
Prime Minister next to Jung Bahadur. He ruled for 28
years. He effectively abolished Sati and Das Prathas. He
established Tri-Chandra College, Bhaktapur Hospital,
Tokha TB Sanatorium, Military Hospital, Khokana Leprosy
Centre, etc. He opened Durbar High School for the
general public. He established ‘Gorkha Bhasa Prakasini
Samiti’ to develop Nepali language and literature. He
made provisions of drinking water in Patan, Dhankuta
and Pokhara. He banned gambling and use of drugs and
import of foreign wines. Singh Durbar was built during
his ruling period.

Bhim Shumsher (1929 – 1932 AD)
Bhim Shumsher ruled for three years. He made the provision
of life imprisonment instead of death sentence. He added
drinking water supply in Kathmandu and Morang. Office hour
was made from 10:00 to 4:00 PM, and Saturday was declared
as holiday. He encouraged cotton farming. He exempted tax
on the import of salt and cotton.

Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8 173

Juddha Shumsher (1932 – 1945 AD)

Juddha Shumsher ruled for 13 years. During his rule a massive Juddha Shumsher
earthquake took place in 1990 BS. He made arrangements to
provide medicine and housings for the earthquake victims.
He established large scale industries. Nepal Bank was
established. He settled the long pending disputes among the
Brahmins of different status. Extravagance on rituals and
festivals were controlled by laws. SLC, IA and BA examinations
were started in Kathmandu. Along with ‘Sharada’ and ‘Udyog’,
publications, the Gorkhapatra started publishing twice a
week.

Padma Shumsher (1945 – 1948 AD) Padma Shumsher
Padma Shumsher ruled for 3 years. He established Padmodaya
High School at Putali Sadak, Padma Kanya School at Dillibazar
and Kanya School at Chhetrapati. He made arrangements for
adult education. Gorkhapatra started publishing thrice a week.
Teachers training programmes were initiated. The Government
Act of Nepal 2004 BS, (the First Written Constitution of Nepal)
was introduced. Electricity was provided to common people
for the first time in Nepal. Municipality election of Kathmandu
was held for the first time. He allowed the people to keep
radio.

Mohan Shumsher (1948 – 1951 AD) Mohan Shumsher
Mohan Shumsher was the last Rana Prime Minister. He opened
about 87 primary schools. He increased the salary and number
of teachers. He started appointing civil servants on the basis
of qualifications through advertisement. Tree plantation
was encouraged. An engineering school was established in
Kathmandu.

Points to Remember :

C Jung Bahadur established the Rana rule, which lasted for 104 years from 1903 t0

2007 BS.
C Altogether nine Rana Prime Ministers ruled Nepal, Jung Bahadur had the longest

and Dev Shumsher the shortest rule.
C Jung Bahadur introduced Muluki Ain, prohibited physical torture, established Durbar

School, started Eng education.
C Ranoddip published the First Nepali calendar and established Sanskrit Pathsalas.
C Bir Shumsher established Bir Hospital, Clock Tower, Baidhya Khana, water supply in

Kathmandu & Bhaktapur.
C Dev Shumsher started Gorkhapatra, fixed office hours:10:00 – 5:00, 17 days annual

leave and established 150 schools.
C Chandra Shumsher abolished sati & das Pratha, established Tri-Chandra College,

Military &Bhaktapur hospitals.

174 Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8

Points to Remember :

C Bhim Shumsher made replaced death penalty to life imprisonment, declared
Saturday holiday, exempted tax on salt.

C Juddha Shumsher established large scale industries, Nepal bank Limited, and
discouraged dowry system.

C Padma Shumsher was to say, “I am the servant of the nation.” He established
Padmodaya High School, Kanya School, arranged teachers’ training, promulgated
the first written constitution in Nepal.

C Mohan Shumsher was the last Rana Prime Minister.

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions.

1. Who established the Rana Autocracy?
2. Who were the Rana Prime Ministers to rule for the longest and the shortest

period of time?
3. Which Rana Prime Minister said, “I am the servant of the nation”?.
4. What are Sati and Das Prathas, and who effectively abolished them?.
5. Who promulgated the first written constitution in Nepal?
6. Why is the Rana rule called the family rule?
7. Who was the most liberal Rana Prime Minister?
8. Who established Durbar School and introduced English education in Nepal?
9. Who built the Singh Durbar?
10. Who was the last Rana Prime Minister?

Short answer questions.

1. Who was the founder of the Rana regime in Nepal? Write down any four of
his reforms.

2. Who do you think was the most democratic Rana Prime Minister, and why?
3. How did the Rana Prime Ministers contribute to the development of education

in Nepal? Write.
4. Chandra Shumsher was called the social reformer. Why?
5. The tenures of the Rana Prime ministers are given below. Show them in a bar

graph: Jung Bahadur- 31 yrs, Ranoddip
Singh- 8 yrs, Bir Shumsher – 16 yrs, Dev Shumsher – 114 days, Chandra

Shumsher – 28 yrs, Bhim Shumsher – 3 yrs, Juddha Shumsher – 13 yrs, Padam
Shumsher – 3 yrs and Mohan Shumsher – 2 yrs

Community Based Work.

Assume that the President is going to visit your community to inaugurate a newly
established social service organization, collect suggestions from the local people
and prepare at least 5 questions and 5 suggestions to the President.

Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8 175

4Lesson IMPORTANT POLITICAL EVENTS &
SOCIAL-ECONOMIC REFORMS
AFTER 2007 BS

Since the introduction of democracy in 2007 BS, many social, economic, administrative
and educational reforms have been made to date. Some of the major achievements
are as below:

Political Events & Socio-economic Reforms

Partyless Panchayat System which was introduced in 2017 BS was abolished in 2047
with the restoration of multi-party democracy. Maoist insurgency took place for 10
years (2052-2063BS).Monarchy is abolished in 2063 BS.

Raja Rajauta system ended. The feudal lords called Rajas of many states within the
country like Bajhang, Mustang, Galkot, Jajarkot, Salyan, Pyuthan, Dullu, Bajura etc got
abolished. The so called Rajas used to exploit the local people in many different ways.
The people needed to pay monetary taxes as well as forced labour to those feudal
lords. Their abolishment gave a great relief to the common people of those places.
The people felt being emancipated. People got freedoms and civil rights. Nepal got
opened to outside world and established diplomatic relations with many countries.
Nepal became a member of the UNO and Universal Postal Union (UPU).

Social Reforms
There are many social reforms made during the period since 2007 BS to date. The
introduction of the Civil Code (Muluki Ain) – 2020 BS is considered the most important
one. It was implemented from the 1st of Bhadra 2020 BS. It prohibited discrimination
among the people on the ground of race, religion, castes, colour, gender, place of origin
etc. It made caste system and untouchability as illegal. It attempted to bring equality
and freedom. It is therefore the 1st of Bhadra is also observed as 'liberation day'. It
made the child marriage and polygamy illegal. It gave legal recognition to divorce
and widow marriage as well. The Radio Nepal set up. Paropakar Sanstha established
on 12 Asar 2009 BS. Nepali language was recognized as the national language. Royal
Nepal Academy (now Nepal Academy) established on 9th Asar 2014 BS. Rotary Club
established on 5th Marga 2015 BS. First Woman College established at Dillibazar in
Kathmandu. Many feudal duties and obligations such as forced labour and unpaid
labour etc ended. The Supreme Court was established. Many schools, colleges and
Tribhuwan University was established and English education was started for common
people.

Economic Reforms

The planned economic development started from the initiation of the first 5 year
economic plan on 22 Aswin 2013 BS. It is still in practice. So far, thirteen economic
plans have been implemented. Land Reform policy introduced and Birta System

176 Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8

ended. System of annual budget introduced. Nepal Rastra Bank and Agricultural

Development Bank established. Construction of

the Tribhuwan Raj Path and other roads started.

Domestic and international aviation started.

Forests were nationalized. Diversification of tax

was introduced. Telephone and telegraph

services started. RNAC presently Nepal Airlines

(NAC) established. Nepal Industrial Development

Corporation (NIDC) established. Trade relation

with India underwent change and trade relations Nepal Rastra Bank
with Japan, the UK, the USA, China, Pakistan and

Thailand developed.

Administrative Reforms

The country got divided into different administrative units for planned development. It
was divided into 14 zones and 75 districts in 2018 BS. Four development regions were
established in 2029 BS and later in 2037 BS were made 5 development regions. Multi-
party democracy came into practice. Public Service Commission, Law Commission
and Supreme Court were founded. First democratic constitution framed in 2015 BS.
Formation of Election Commission and first general election on the basis of adult
franchise was conducted on 7th Falgun 2015 BS. First elected government was formed
on 16th Asar 2016 BS.

Educational Reforms

With the introduction of democracy, a new educational wave swept over Nepal. The first
university of Nepal, Tribhuwan University was established in 2016 BS. New Education
System introduced in 2028 BS. It brought some important changes on educational
sector. It gave emphasis on vocational education. Primary education made free in 2031
BS. Likewise, text books made available free of cost since 2035 BS. Many vocational,
technical and general colleges established all over the country.

The political activities after 2007 BS are listed below:

S.N. Date Political event
1 7 Falgun, 2007 Establishment of democracy in Nepal
2 17 Chaitra, 2017 The interim constitution of Nepal was promulgated
3 8 Magh, 2008 Revolt of Dr. K.I. Singh against the cabinet of M.P.

Koirala
4 30 Falgun, 2011 Death of King Tribhuvan / Mahendra became the king

5 13 Magh, 2012 of Nepal
The council of ministers formed in the premiership of

Tanka Prasad Acharya

Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8 177

6 7 Falgun, 2015 First general election held
7 16 Ashar, 2016 The first elected government under the Premiership of

8 1 Poush, 2017 B.P. Koirala was formd
Suspension of the multiparty system, the arrest of

political leaders and declaration of the panchayat

system

9 1 Poush, 2019 Promulgation of the Panchayati Constitution

10 2024 BS ‘Back to Village’ National Campaign declared

11 17 Magh, 2028 King Mahendra passed away

12 2036 BS Students Movement against Panchayat System

13 20 Baishakh, 2037 Referendum

14 26 Chaitra, 2046 Restoration of the multiparty system

15 23 Kartik, 2047 The Constitution of the Kingdom of Nepal promulgated

16 1 Falgun, 2052 Beginning of the Maoist’s ‘people’s revolution’

17 20 Baishakh, 2056 Parliamentary election

18 19 Jeth, 2058 Narayanhiti Royal Palace massacre

19 5 Mangsir, 2063 Comprehensive Peace Accord signed between the

Maoist and the government

20 1 Magh, 2063 Promulgation of Interim Constitution of Nepal, 2063

21 28 Chaitra, 2064 First Constituent Assembly election

22 15 Jeth, 2065 Declaration of republic

23 14 Jeth, 2069 The Constituent Assembly dissolved.

24 4 Mangsir. 2070 Second Constituent Assembly election

25 3 Asoj, 2072 The Constitution of Nepal, 2072 promulgated

26 31 Baishakh, 14 Local election held in three phases

Asar, 2 Ashoj, 2074
27 10 Mangsir, 21 The first Provincial election/ Nepalese legislative

Mangsir, 2074 election held
28 24 Magh, 2074 National Assembly election

178 Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8

Socio-Economic achievements since 2007 BS

S.N. Date Events
1 2008 BS Beginning of the system of annual budget
2 2010 BS Formation of Nepal Education Planning

Commission

3 2013 BS Civil Service Act enacted

4 2013 BS First Five-Year Plan introduced

5 14 Baishakh, 2013 Establishment of Nepal Rastra Bank

6 7 Poush, 2016 Abolition of birta system

7 2020 BS Civil Code (Muluki Ain) promulgated

8 2021 BS Implementation of Land Reform Act

9 2028 BS Execution of National Education System plan

10 2 Shrawan, 2057 Eradication of kamaiya system

11 4 Jeth, 2063 Declaration of Secular State

12 1 Magh, 2063 Promulgation of the Interim Constitution of Nepal

2063

                

Points to Remember :

C Introduction of the Muluki Ain-2020 BS 0n 1st Bhadra 2020 BS was the landmark
step in social reform in Nepal.

C Muluki Ain -2020 prohibited social discriminations based on caste, race, religion,
gender, colour etc.

C Planned economic development started with the implementation of the first 5 year
plan on 22 Aswin 2013.

C Tribhuwan University established in 2016 BS.
C Nepal got divided into 14 zones and 75 districts in 2018 BS.
C Land Reform Act implemented in 2021 BS.
C Primary education made free from 2031 BS, and text books made available free of

cost from 2035 BS.

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Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions.
1. When was the 'First Five Years Plan' begun in Nepal?
2. When was the 'Paropakar Sanstha' established?
3. When was the 'Royal Nepal Academy', now 'Nepal Academy' established?
4. When was the Muluki Ain 2020 BS implemented?
5. When was Nepal divided into 14 zones and 75 districts?
6. Why is the 1st Bhadra regarded as liberation day?
7. When was Tribhuwan University established?
8. What are the full form of UPU, NAC, NIDC?
9. When was the first general election held in nepal?

Short answer questions.
1. What major social changes were brought by the Muluki Ain-2020 BS?
2. Write any two important economic and two social achievements in Nepal
between 2007 BS and 2017 BS.
3. What were important educational reforms made between 2007 and 2046 BS?
Write.
4. What were the political reforms made after the introduction of democracy in
2007 BS?
5. Write down six important political events that have taken place after 2007
BS.

Long answer questions:
1. Among the achievements in Social Sector between 2007 BS and 2017 BS,
which one do you think is the most important and why?
2. Among the achievements in Economic sector between 2007 BS and 2017 BS,
which one do you think is the most important and why?
3. Among the achievements in Administrative and Political Sector, which do you
consider the most significant and why?
4. Describe the political, social, economic, administrative and educational
achievements made from 2007 to 2046 BS.

Community Based Work.
Muluki Ain was enacted to bring equality in society. It has been implemented since
last 51 years. Has the Nepalese society changed as expected by this act? Ask people
in your community. Write a report based on their opinions. Include your suggestions
to bring full equality.

180 Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8

5Lesson GREEK - ROMAN CIVILIZATION &
ITS INFLUENCES

Ancient Greeks Culture was the birthplace of Western Civilization about 4000 years
ago. The Greek enjoy a special place in the construction of western culture and identify.
Much of what we esteem in our own culture derives from them. Democracy, epic
poetry, lyric poetry, tragedy, history writing, philosophy, aesthetic taste all of these
and many other features of cultural life enter the West from Greece. The following are
the influential factors.

• Democracy
• Sciences
• Philosophy
• Art
• Architecture
• Olympic Games

Democracy

Greece, and especially Athens, is the cradle

of democracy. An outstanding statesman and

poet called Solon, was elected the first archon

in 594 BC – the highest state official who today

could be compared to a primeminister. The

difference between a primeminister and an

archon lies in the fact that the latter was elected

annually and had executive and judicial power,

was in command of the army and performed

priestly functions. Solon prepared basis for Athens
political changes in Athens. He established

the so-called Council of 400, the jury court,

standardized the system of measures and weights. He increased rights of ekklesia –

assembly of all citizens of Athens. In 510 BC, many reforms were introduced making

democracy as a system of government for the first time in the world. The reforms were

to diminish the role of aristocracy, eliminate financial differences and mix the society.

Athenian democracy was established as a result of continuous reorganizations. The
word democracy comes from 'demos'-people and 'kratos'-power, literally power of the
people. It was mainly based on the opportunity for all citizens over 20 years to take
part in governing the country. In the Athenian democracy, the archon and his eight
assistants were elected annually. It was possible to prolong the rule for the next term
but in case of any abnormalities a quick change of government took place. There was
the possibility of taking part in public life for all free citizens. Undoubtedly, it helped

Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8 181

the citizens of Athens to broaden their minds, cultural awareness and, to develop
intellectually

Sciences

Greece has importantly influenced the science in many
ways. The Ancient Greeks contributed many things to
the scientific world, from medicine to astronomy. The
most famous ancient Greek scientists and their works
are briefly described below:

Thales of Miletus (640-610 BC to 548-545 BC) had

travelled widely in quest of knowledge, visiting Crete,

Phoenicia, and Egypt. Ηe brought Phoenician

navigational techniques into Miletus. Thales is also said

to have tried to revise the calendar. He also brought

Babylonian mathematical knowledge to Greece and

used geometry to solve problems such as calculating Thales of Miletus
the height of pyramids and the distance of ships from

the shore. He studied astronomy and gained great

fame by predicting an eclipse of the sun (28.5.585 BC, Julian Calendar or 22.5.584 BC

Gregorian Calendar Famous Eclipse). He was noted as an inventor and an engineer.

Thales was also interested in heavenly bodies. He is credited with the discovery of the

electrical properties of amber (“electron”

from which also the name electricity was

derived). He was one of the Seven Sages of

Greece.

Pythagoras (569 to 475 BC) was the Greek

philosopher and mathematician. He

studied astronomy, logistics and geometry.

He investigated the ratios of lengths

corresponding to musical harmonies.

He developed methods of geometric

proof. In geometry the great discovery of Pythagoras

Pythagoreans was the Hypotenuse Theorem

or Pythagorean Theorem. Pythagoreans

were the first to consider the earth as a globe revolving with

the other planets around and mathematicize the universe.

Democritus (460 BC - 370 BC) was a pre-Socratic Greek Democritus
materialist philosopher, co-originator of the belief that all
matter is made up of various imperishable, indivisible
elements which he called atoma or "indivisible units", from
which we get the English word atom. He was first thinker on
record to argue the existence of an entirely empty "void". He
was also a pioneer of mathematics and geometry. He was

182 Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8

among the first to observe that a cone or pyramid has one-third the volume of a
cylinder or prism respectively with the same base and height.
He also proposed that the universe contains many worlds,
some of them inhabited. He also conducted research on
minerals and plants.

Euclid (323 BC–283 BC), also known as the "Father of
Geometry", was a Greek mathematician. His Elements, a
reorganized compilation of geometrical proofs is the most
successful textbook in the history of mathematics. In it, the
principles of what is now called Euclidean Geometry are
deduced from a small set of axioms. He noted that light
travels in straight lines and described the law of reflection.

Euclid

Archimedes of Syracuse (287 BC – 212 BC) was a Greek
mathematician, physicist, engineer, inventor, and astronomer.
He is regarded as one of the leading scientists. Among his
advances in physics are the foundations of hydrostatics and
the explanation of the principle of the lever. He is credited
with designing innovative machines, including siege engines
and the screw pump. Archimedes is considered to be one
of the greatest mathematicians of all time. Archimedes had
proved that the sphere has two thirds of the volume and
surface area of the cylinder. This is regarded as the greatest
of his mathematical achievements.

Philosophy Archimedes

Ancient Greek philosophy focused on the role of reason and
inquiry. It has an important influence on modern philosophy, as well as modern
science. Some of the famous philosophers are:

Socrates: He was a classical Greek philosopher. Plato
He strongly influenced Plato, and Aristotle.
He made his most important contribution to
Western thought through his method of inquiry.
He is principally renowned for his contribution to
the field of ethics. Socrates also made important
contributions to the fields of epistemology and
logic. The influence of his ideas and approach
remains strong in providing a foundation for
much western philosophy.

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Plato is considered as one of the most influential philosophers in Western thought. He
wrote several dozen philosophical dialogues —arguments in the form of
conversations— and a few letters. His early dialogues deal mainly with methods of
acquiring knowledge, and most of the last ones with justice and practical ethics, his
most famous works expressed a synoptic view of ethics, reason, knowledge, and
human life.

Aristotle placed much more value on knowledge gained Aristotle
from the senses. He set the stage for the scientific
method. Aristotle's works still exist in treatise form. The
most important includes Physics, Metaphysics, Ethics,
Politics, De Anima (On the Soul), Poetics, and many
others. Aristotle was a great thinker and philosopher. His
views and approaches dominated early Western science
for almost 2000 years. Aristotle was also a formidable
inventor. He is credited with many significant inventions
and observations.

Art

The art of ancient Greece has largely influenced on the culture of many countries from
ancient times. The main physical categories of Greek art are sculpture, pottery, coin
design and architecture.

The Greeks used many different types of materials in their sculptures including stone,
marble and limestone. Other materials such as clay were
also used. Greek sculptures are very important as the
vast majority of them tell us a story about Gods, heroes,
events, mythical creatures and Greek culture in general.
Examples of Greek sculpture that survive and receive
worldwide recognition are: the Parthenon Marbles,
Agamemnon's Death Mask, stone statues of humans etc.

The Ancient Greeks made pottery for everyday use. Most
surviving pottery consists of drinking vessels such as
amphorae, kraters (bowls for mixing wine and water), Agamemnon's Death Mask
hydria (water jars), libation bowls, jugs and cups. Painted
funeral urns have also been found. Miniatures were also
produced in large numbers, mainly for use as offerings at temples.

Coins were mostly small disk-shaped made up of gold, silver, or bronze, stamped with
a geometric designs, symbols -to indicate its city of origin or the god they were sacred
to-, and portraits –of gods or heroes.

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Architecture

Precision and excellence of workmanship are the hallmarks of Greek art in general.
The formulas they invented as early as the sixth century B.C. have influenced the
architecture of the past two millennia.

Although, the ancient Greeks erected buildings of many types, the Greek Temple best
exemplifies the Greek architecture. The two principal Greek temples architecture are
the Doric and the Ionic. Representative temples type are Parthenon, Erechtheum and
the temple of Zeus, all these temples sited in Athens.

The Greek theater was a central place of formal gatherings in ancient Greece. Every
Greek town had a theater. These were used for both public meetings as well as dramatic
performances. These performances originated as religious ceremonies. The theatre
was usually set in a hillside outside the town, and had rows of tiered seating set in a
semi-circle around the central performance area, the orchestra. A number of Greek
theatres survive almost intact, the best known being the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus.

The architectural design of the modern stadium derives from the Greek Stadium. The
Greek Stadium was the open space where foot races and other athletic contests took
place in ancient Greece. The stadiums were usually U-shaped. The courses were
generally 600 Greek feet long (1 stadium), although the length varied according to
local variations of the measuring unit. Natural slopes where used where possible to
support the seats. The best known ancient Greek stadium is Kallimarmaron
(Panathinaikon Stadium), sited in Athens.

Olympic Games Panathenaic Stadium

According to historical records, the first ancient
Olympic Games can be traced back to 776 BC.
They were dedicated to the Olympian gods and
were staged on the ancient plains of Olympia.
They continued for nearly 12 centuries, until
Emperor Theodosius decreed in 393 A.D. that all such
“pagan cults” be banned.

The Olympic Games were closely linked to the religious
festivals of the cult of Zeus. Indeed, they had a secular
character. They aimed to show the physical qualities and
evolution of the performances of young people, as well as
encouraging good relations between the cities of Greece.

The ancient Olympic Games included the following Running
events: pentathlon, running, jumping, discus throw,

Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8 185

wrestling, boxing, pankration and equestrian events.

All free male Greek citizens were entitled to participate in the ancient Olympic Games,
regardless of their social status. Married women were not allowed to participate in, or
to watch the ancient Olympic Games. However, unmarried women could attend the
competition.

The Olympic victor received his first awards immediately after the competition.
Following the announcement of the winner's name, a Hellanodikis (Greek judge)
would place a palm branch in his hands, while the spectators cheered and threw
flowers to him. Red ribbons were tied on his head and hands as a mark of victory.
The official award ceremony would take place on the last day of the Games. In a loud
voice, the name of the Olympic winner, his father's name, and his homeland would be
announced. Then, the Hellanodikis placed the sacred olive tree wreath, or kotinos, on
the winner's head .

In 1859 Evangelos Zappas, a wealthy Greek philanthropist, sponsored the first modern
international Olympic Games that were held in an Athens city square, with athletes
from two countries: Greece and the Ottoman Empire. In June 23, 1894, Baron Pierre
de Coubertin founded the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The first Olympic
Games took place in 1896 in Athens.

(Source: Athens University Economics & Business)

Rome Civilization
Rome is the capital city of Italy. The Roman Civilization was developed in around 753
BC in the peninsula of Italy which lies in the Mediterranean Sea in the South of Europe.
Romans were the migrants of Asian minority tribes. They were called Etruscans. They
migrated and settled in the western part of Italy. It is believed that the twin brother
ofRomus, Romulus had established the city of Rome on the bank of Tiber River and
the city was named Rome after his name ‘Romulus’. He built many temples, buildings,
roads and bridges, ponds and started Roman Civilization. He is considered to be
the founder of Rome. He provided the rank of citizens to all the people – rich, poor
including slaves in his state. All people got recognition of citizens.

Rome was ruled by the monarch from 753 BC to 509 BC. After that, it turned into a
republic. The Roman society was divided into two classes- Patricians and Plebeians.
Patricians, a group of hereditary aristocrats, were small in size with all state power and
authority. Plebeians were in large size. Patricians enjoyed political, social and economic
privileges but Plebeians were deprived of such privileges. Plebeians were exploited by
the Patricians. There was social discrimination between them. Therefore, the Plebeians
struggled for their right. The struggle continued for generations after generations and

186 Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8

finally, they got victory over Patricians. The Romans drafted and enforced the Twelve
Laws of equality and inclusion, which are known as Laws of Twelve Table even today.
After the enforcement of Laws of Twelve Table, there was equality between them.
Plebeians got equal access and opportunity everywhere. They were treated as citizens
and hold the important places in the state. The concept of equality brought the feeling
of nationality, brotherhood, and oneness among them, which ultimately made the state
very powerful. The area of Rome got expanded and the Roman supremacy spread
almost whole part of present Italy.

The war broke out between Carthage and Rome due to the spread of Romans
supremacy disturbing the monopoly in trade of Carthage, a state of Northern Africa.
The war fought between Rome and Carthage is also known as Punic War, which started
in 264 BC and ended after 146BC. Finally, Carthaginians were defeated by Romans
at the battle. There were supposed to have been 500 thousand Carthaginians in the
beginning but after the war, only 50 thousand population survived and were enslaved
by Romans.

Difference started to grow larger between the rich and the poor and civil war broke
out. After civil war, Pompey, Julius Caesar and Crassus, the famous dictators, came
into power. The responsibility of restructuring Rome was in the hand of these three
dictators.Caesar was one of Rome’s great generals. His military campaigns gained
land in Gaul and brought more wealth to Rome. These victories brought with it the
fame and fortune. His bravery and skill of war and reformist attitude made him the
most influential man of Rome. He was a real builder of the Roman Empire. He laid the
foundation of imperial system. Caesar expanded the Senate, created jobs for the poor
and enforced laws against crimes.

After the murdered of Caesar in 44 BC by his rivals, another Roman Civil War broke
out. After the war, Octavian, the nephew, and adopted son of Julius Caesar, became the
unchallenged ruler of Rome. He took the name Augustus, which means “exalted one”.
He was Rome’s first emperor in 27 B.C. He was an able emperor. He brought so many
improvements. He made his army strong and expanded the country. He created the
Roman civil service, which collected taxes and managed grain supply. Thus, his rule is
known as the Golden Age of Rome. During his rule, he made Rome the most beautiful
and powerful state of Europe. Rome was the center of European civilization. Romans
were the first people to introduce laws. The Roman Empire existed till 500 AD. At last,
the Roman Empire was invaded by Huns (a German tribe) and Turks (from Turkey)
causing the end of the Roman Empire.

Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8 187

Points to Remember :

C Ancient Greek Culture was the birthplace of Western Civilisation about 4000 years
ago.

C Greece, and especially Athens, is the cradle of democracy in the western civilization.
C Democracy, name comes from demos-people and kratos-power, is literally power of

the people.
C The most famous ancient Greek scientists: Thales of Miletus, Pythagoras, Democritus,

Euclid, Archimedes of Syracuse.
C Ancient Greek philosophy focused on the role of reason and inquiry.
C Ancient famous Greek philosophers were: Socrates, Aristotle and Plato.
C The art of ancient Greece has exercised an enormous influence on the culture of

many countries.
C The first modern international Olympic Games were held in Athens city square with

athletes from two countries: Greece and the Ottoman Empire

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions.
1. Which is known as the cradle of democracy in the western civilization?
2. What is an ‘archon’?
3. What is an ‘ekklesia’?
4. What was the main characteristic of Athenian democracy?
5. What does democracy mean in Greek language?
6. Name the ancient Greek scientists.
7. Name ancient Greek philosophers.
8. When and where was the first International Olympic Games held?

Short answer questions:
1. List out the various fields of Greek civilization achievements, and explain one
of them.
2. What were the important features of ancient Greek democracy?
3. Who was Pythagoras, and what were his contributions?
4. Write about ancient Greek art and architecture.
5. How do you think the ancient Greek civilization contributed to modern
games?

Long answer questions.
1. Write about the achievements made by the ancient Greek civilization to the
modern world..
2. If there was no ancient Greek civilization, how would have been this modern
world?

Community Based Work
Visit our historical places and cultural heritages, and study them against the
background of the ancient Greek art and architecture. Write a report based on
your findings and observations.

188 Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8

6Lesson RENAISSANCE

Introduction : Renaissance

‘Renaissance’ is a French word. It means ‘rebirth’ or ‘revival’. This word was used to
mean the revival of the Roman and the Greek art, architecture, literature, science,
astronomy, philosophy and Romanticism during the 14th, 15th and 16th centuries. It
began with the rediscovery of Greco-Roman Civilization which had been neglected
during the Middle Ages.

The Age of Renaissance

In the history of human civilization, the transition period between the Medieval Age
and Modern Age is called the ‘Age of Renaissance’. It became an intellectual movement
that spread from Italy to all over Europe. This period covers from the middle of the 14th
century to the end of 16th century. During this period, scholars, thinkers, philosophers,
scientists, artists brought an intellectual awakening. They appealed and encouraged
the people to have a new and rational approach towards life. All these contributed to
the significant developments in the fields of art, architecture, literature, science and
geographical discoveries that made the quality of human life far better. It focused
attention upon secular society rather than the medieval preoccupation with the church
and religions affairs.

Renaissance Scholars and Literature

The renaissance scholars and
writers dealt more with humanity
than religion. That’s why, they
were called humanists. The great
poet of Italy, Alighieri Dante (1265
-1321 composed the famous epic,
the Divine Comedy. In the Divine
Comedy, Dante had satire the people
of upper class.

The other writers and scholars were Renaissance
Petrarch, Boccaccio and Niccole

Machiavelli of Italy; Geoffrey Chaucer,

Thomas More, Francis Bacon, Edmund Spenser, Christopher Marlowe, Ben Jonson, William

Shakespeare and John Milton of England; Montaigne, Francois Rabelais and John Calvin

of France; Cervantes, Lope de Vega and Calderon of Spain; Desiderius Erasmus of Holland

and Martin Luther of Germany. Before them, most of the literatures were written in Greek

and Latin. But, they wrote in their native language and changed the age old tradition.

Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8 189

In the 15th Century, Renaissance ideas began to spread from Italy to France, the German
States, Holland and England. The spread of there ideas resulted from religious, military
and commercial contacts. During that time many northern scholars also travelled to Italy
to absorb Italian art and learning.

Renaissance Music

Before renaissance, the music was basically religious or church oriented. It had religious
meaning and purpose. During the renaissance period, it gradually got transformed
from religious to humanity. In addition to vocal music, instrumental music also became
popular. New musical instrument like violin, flute etc got introduced. Orchestral music
and opera became very popular.

Development in Art and Sculpture

Florence of Italy was the centre of Renaissance art.
In the 15th Century, it was ruled by Medici who was
an outstanding patron of Renaissance Art. Due to
his influence and encouragement Florence attracted
people of talent from elsewhere in Italy, and the city
acquired many priceless works of art. There were many
great artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michael Angelo,
and Rafaelo Sanzio etc.

Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519) was a skilled painter,

sculptor, architect, musician, engineer and scientist.

In military engineering, he improved the method of

loading cannons and devised equipment for scaling

walls. Similarly, he devised the possibility of a parachute

and a flying machine. Apart from these, the painting of Monalisa
Mona Lisa, the Last Supper, the Virgin of the Rocks, the

Virgin and Child etc were some of his famous paintings.

Among these he is best known for his Self Portrait, The Last Supper and The Mona

Lisa.

Michael Angelo(1475-1564) worked in Florence and Rome. He was also talented as a
painter, sculptor, poet and architect. He painted different biblical scenes on the ceiling
of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican. His best painting is The Last Judgement which
took almost four and half years to complete. As a sculptor, he is best known for his
Pieta, David and Moses. He also designed the dome of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. He
made more than 145 paintings and 294 statues. His contribution is highly admired.

Similarly, Lorenzo Ghiberti(1378-1455) has contributed in the field of sculpture. He
sculpted a series of exquisite biblical scenes for the bronze doors of the baptistery in
Florence.

Besides them, there were several renowned artists and sculptors such as Giotto,
Donatello, Titian, Raphael, Velasquez etc who have contributed in the Renaissance arts.

190 Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8

Besides churches, Renaissance architecture found its expressions in public building
and palaces.

Scientific Inventions

The Renaissance period saw great inventions, new

ideas and concepts. The monk and astronomer from

Poland, Nicolas Copernicus proved that the earth, the

moon and the planets moved around the sun. The

Italian astronomer, Galileo (1564-1642) invented

telescope. The British scientist, Sir Isaac Newton

explained the laws of motion and gravitation. English

Physician, William Harvey found out the blood

circulation in the human body. Dutch Biologist Anton Nicolas Copernicus
Van made a single lens microscope and discovered

protozoa and bacteria in the human body. Besides

these, many new things such as radio, printing press, camera, bicycle, motor, railways

etc were invented.

Geographical Discoveries Vasco de Gama

The Renaissance period prompted the spirit of adventure and
a great deal of curiosity among the European people. The
age of geographical discoveries began. Marco Polo of Italy
discovered China; Vasco de Gama of Portugal; Christopher
Columbus of Spain America and Ferdinand Magellan of
Portugal voyaged round the world. These discoveries brought
the people living in different parts of the world closer. It
became possible for them to exchange each other’s ideas,
goods, languages, cultures and civilization.

In this way, the renaissance period was instrumental in bringing significant changes in
all aspects of human life. The human civilization got a great impetus from this period.
The wonders of scientific discoveries and inventions brought about radical changes
in the way of life and attitude. The humanist movement brought forward all-round
development. If the scholars and scientists hadn't put their effort, the modern science
would not have developed to this extent.

Points to Remember :

C Renaissance’ is a French word. It means ‘rebirth’ or ‘revival’.
C Renaissance refers the revival of the Roman and the Greek art, architecture,

literature, science, astronomy etc during the 14th, 15th and 16th centuries.
C The Renaissance scholars and writers dealt more with humanity than religion.
C The renaissance period saw great inventions, discoveries, new ideas and

concepts in all spheres of human life.

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Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions:
1. What is the ‘Renaissance’?
2. Which period of time is called the Renaissance Period?
3. Where was the Renaissance started from?
4. Mention the names of each Renaissance scholars, scientists and sculptures?
5. How was the state of music before the Renaissance?
6. Which language had dominance in Europe before the Renaissance?

Short answer questions:
1. What were the scientific inventions and discoveries made during the period
of the Renaissance? Write.
2. When the renaissance was happening in Europe, what was the condition of
Nepal?
3. What geographical discoveries were made during the renaissance period?

Long answer questions.
1. Write about the Renaissance Period and the achievements made during this
period.
2. Why do you think the Renaissance started from Italy? Give your logics.
3. How did the Renaissance contribute to the modern world? Write with
examples.

Community Based Work:
Interact with the elders in your family and community, and find out how changes
are taking place in the fields of literature, art, architecture and technology in and
around your place. Write a report based on the findings and observations.

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OUR ECONOMIC UNIT
ACTIVITIES
7

In this unit, you will learn the following subjects: 193
• Tourism in Nepal
• International Trade
• Concept of Cooperatives & Banking System
• General Concept & Uses of Money
• Market Price
• Concept of Saving, Investment & Capital Formation
• State of Employment

Social Studies and Population Education Book ~ 8

1Lesson TOURISM IN GENERAL

Tourist
A person who leaves one’s place of residence for a short period of time and travels
in a new land for varieties of purposes: adventure, entertainment, recreation, holiday,
business etc is called a tourist. The word ‘Tourist’ is derived from the word ‘Tour’, which
means ‘a journey at which one returns to the starting point’. There are basically two
types of tourists: Domestic or Internal Tourists, and International or Foreign Tourists.

Domestic or Internal Tourists: Those who travel from one place to another within
their own country for various purposes are called domestic tourists. Number of such
internal tourists is increasing day by day. The new generation likes to travel to different
places.

International or Foreign Tourists: Those who travel to another country are called
international tourists. Such tourists need visa. Many foreign tourists visit Nepal every
year.

Expectations of Tourists
Tourists may have different motives and expectations from the host country. Some of
the basic needs and expectations of the tourists are:

(a) Regular and adequate international flights so that they can come and return
conveniently.

(b) Adequate and good road and air connections.
(c) Reliable ticketing and transportation facilities.
(d) Reliable and widely connected communication system and information

centres.
(e) Clean and user-friendly toilet, washing facilities.
(f) Clean, safe, secure and comfortable accommodation.
(g) A variety of foods, drinks, and entertainment facilities.
(h) Unique and diverse natural and cultural heritages.
(i) Environment free of brokers, beggars, frauds, robbers, and thieves.
( j) Political stability without closures, strikes, protests, armed conflicts etc.

(k) Environmentally clean and healthy places possibly in their natural setting.

Tourism Industry
Tourism industry is a service sector industry. It produces and provides services and
goods needed for tourists. It includes business activities or services connected to
lodging, fooding, guiding, transporting, translating or interpreting, communicating,

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entertaining etc. Hotels, lodges, restaurant, travel and trekking agencies, guides,
interpreters, banks, airlines, means of transportation etc come under this industry.

It is considered as export-oriented industry as the goods and services produced are
basic means for foreign tourists, and such a industry earns foreign currencies.

Tourism has been one of the biggest and fastest expanding industries not only in
Nepal but all over the world. According to the estimate of the World Travel and Tourism
Organization, this sector provides about 10% employment to the world’s work force
and earns about 8% of total GDP.

There are different types of tourism: Conference Tourism, Festival Tourism, Rural
Tourism, Sports Tourism, Adventure Tourism, Holidaying Tourism, Business Tourism,
Religious and Cultural Tourism, Eco-Tourism etc.

Points to Remember :

C Tourist is a person who leaves place of residence for a short period and
travels in a new land.

C Tourism industry is a service sector industry.
C Tourism has been one of the biggest and fastest expanding industries in the

world.

Evaluation Activities

Very short answer questions.
1. Who is a tourist?
2. What is tourism industry?
3. What is eco-tourism?
4. What is rafting?
5. Why does a person travel or tour?

Short answer questions:
1. Write four of the most important expectations of a tourist.
2. What do you understand by tourism? Explain.
3. What is the difference between a domestic tourist and an international
tourist.

Community Based Work:
Meet any five people in your community and find out from them what types of places
they would like to visit and the reasons for their visit.

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2Lesson TOURISM IN NEPAL

Tourism at a Glance

Tourism is the largest industry in Nepal. There is no doubt that Nepal is one of the most
popular tourist destinations in the world. Every year, the number of foreign tourists
has been increasing. It has been a major source of foreign exchange and revenue. The
landscape across the country is unusually diverse ranging from the mighty Himalayan
Mountains in the North to the humid Terai in the South. Eight of the world's fourteen
highest mountains including Mt. Everest are in Nepal. Nepal has become a hotspot
destination for mountaineers, rock climbers etc. Tourists are also attracted towards
rafting, trekking, paragliding, jungle safari,
bungee jumping hunting, fishing boating,
mountain biking etc. The Hindu and
Buddhist heritages of Nepal, and its cold
weather are also strong attractions.

Nepal is the country where Mount Everest,
the highest mountain peak in the world, is
located. Mountaineering and other types
of adventure tourism and ecotourism are
important attractions for visitors. There
are eight World Heritage Sites and 2 World
Natural Heritage Sites in Nepal. The world
heritage site Lumbini, birthplace of
Gautama Buddha, is located in southern
Nepal, and there are other important
religious pilgrimage sites throughout the
country.

According to statistics of 2012, there is Namche Bazaar - Gateway to Mt. Everest
slow growth rate of 9.8% in tourism. The

number of tourists had increased by 21.4

percent in 2011, which was Nepal Tourism Year

(NTY). According to statistics from Nepal Tourism

Board (NTB), a total of 598,204 foreign tourists

entered the country via aerial route in 2012. The

government of Nepal declared 2011 to be Nepal

Tourism Year, and hoped to attract one million

foreign tourists to the country during that year. Paragliding
The tourist industry is seen as a way to alleviate

poverty and achieve greater social equity in the

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country. The government of Nepal has also declared Lumbini Tourism Year 2012 to

promote Lumbini - the birthplace of Lord Buddha.

In 2007, the number of international tourists
visiting Nepal was 526,705, which was an increase
of 37.2% compared to the previous year. In 2008,
the number of tourists decreased by 5% to
500,277.

In 2008, 55.9% of the foreign visitors came from Phewa Lake
Asia (18.2% from India), while Western Europeans
accounted for 27.5%, 7.6% were from North
America, 3.2% from Australia and the Pacific
Region, 2.6% from Eastern Europe, 1.5% from
Central and South America, 0.3% from Africa and
1.4% from other countries.

Foreign tourists visiting Nepal in 2008 stayed in

the country for an average of 11.78 days.

According to Nepal's Ministry of Tourism, major Rafting

tourist activities include wilderness and adventure

activities such as mountain biking, bungee jumping, rock climbing and mountain

climbing, trekking, bird watching, flights, paragliding and hot air ballooning over the

mountains of Himalaya, exploring the waterways by raft, kayak or canoe and jungle

safaris especially in the Terai region.

Prospects and Possibilities of Tourism in Sagarmatha
Nepal Mustang

Nepal is a small but rich country in terms of
natural beauty, resources and cultural heritages.
Within the difference of about 4° latitude, we can
feel so much of diversity in land-scape, climate,
vegetation, cultures and life styles. Many visitors
visit Nepal every year. The number of tourists
is increasing every year. About 8, 03,092 tourists
visited Nepal in 2012 AD. There is a tremendous
potentiality of tourism in Nepal.

The reasons for this are as follows:

(a) Unique Geographical Setting: Nepal’s
geography is unique in itself. The highest
mountain in the world, Sagarmatha and
eight of the 14 mountains over 8,000 meters
are in Nepal. There are many world-record
holder natural wonders: Lake Tilicho, a lake at

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the highest altitude, Dana, the deepest george, Arun Valley, the deepest valley
etc are there in Nepal. Caves and caverns like Helesi, Mahendra Gufa and semi-
deserts of Manang and Mustang are unique in their own way. Nepal has variety of
climates. It is very suitable for adventurous tourism. No wonder, the world famous
magazine called ‘National Geography’ declared Nepal as the best destination for
adventure tourism in the world in 2008 AD.

(b) Rich in Natural Beauty: Nepal has perennial Spiny Babbler
rivers and streams etc originated from snow-
clad mountain ranges. There are fastest
flowing rivers and lofty grasslands. There are
numerous lakes like Rara, Fhewa, and
Foksundo. Nepal is equally rich in bio-
diversity. There are over 6800 of flowering
plants. Sagarmatha National Park, the
highest national park; Chitwan National Park,
a world natural heritage site; Spiny Babbler
(Bhyakura), a rarest bird in the world and
one-horned rhinoceros are found in Nepal. It
is suitable for holidaying tourism.

(c) Religious Sites: The major religion in Nepal

is Hinduism. The Pashupatinath Temple,

the world's largest temple of Shiva, located

in Kathmandu, attracts many pilgrims

and tourists. Other Hindu pilgrimage site Pasupatinath Temple
include Swargadwari in Pyuthan district,

lake Gosainkunda in Rasuwa, the temple

at Devghat, Chitwan, Manakamana Temple in Gorkha

District, and Pathibhara in Taplejung, Mahamrityunjaya

Shivasan Nepal in Palpa District etc.

Nepal is the birth place of Lord Buddha. Lumbini is
an important pilgrimage site. Another prominent
Buddhist site is Swayambhunath, the Monkey Temple,
in Kathmandu.

Ashok Pillar of Lumbini The Muktinath is a sacred place for Hindus as well as
Buddhists. The site is located in Mustang. Goddess Sita
and her famous father King Janak of Janakpur were also
born in Nepal.

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(d) Diversity in Cultures and Customs: There live more than 125 nationalities and
they speak more than 123 dialects and languages. They have different costumes,
cultures, life styles, customs, traditions and religions. It is very suitable for festival
tourism.

(e) Rich in Ancient Art and Janaki Mandi (Janakpur)
Culture: There are several
ancient monuments. Ashok Pillar
of Lumbini, Changunarayan
Temple, Bhaktapur Durbar Square,
Basantapur Dubar Square, Krishna
Mandhir, Patan Durbar Square,
Gorkha Durbar, Nuwakot Durbar
etc are some of them. They are the
reflections of our ancient arts and
cultures.

(f) Simple Rural Life: Nepal is an agricultural country. Majority of the people
are farmers. They are innocent and still not much influenced by the modern
developments. There are about 3500 villages. Rural areas of Nepal can be good
destinations for rural tourism.

(g) Friendly and Hospitable People: Nepal is the country of world famous warriors:
the Gurkhas, probably the bravest and boldest. At the same time, Nepalese
people are very tolerant, hospitable and friendly. They consider guest as God.
There are many good hotels and lodges. It is very suitable for conference tourism
as well.

Importance of Tourism in Nepal

Tourism industry is playing very important role in the social and economic sectors in
Nepal. The importance could be described as follows:

Source of Foreign Currency: Tourism is one of the main sources of foreign currencies.
The foreign tourists pay direct and indirect taxes, spend money for food, lodging,
transportation and for other services they take. Thus, the country can earn foreign
currencies to its national income.

Employment Opportunity: This industry creates employment opportunities for the
people. A large number of tour and trekking guides, porters, cooks, travel agents, hotel
agents and staff, air and road transport staff, handicraft manufacturers, salespersons
and so on are required to run this industry.

Development of Physical Infrastructures: Tourism helps to develop physical
infrastructures. Tourist destinations and mid-way places need infrastructures
development as airports, roads, tracks, hotels, restaurants, health posts, water supply
system, electricity, communication etc. Remote areas get developed.

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Increase in Trade and Commerce: Tourism increases trade, commerce and business.
Tourists need food, water, beverage, dairy products, meat, fruits, poultry and other
agricultural products etc. They buy different local products and involve in different
activities which promote trade and business.

Promotion of Arts and Cultures: Tourists like to see our arts, artifacts, cultures,
traditions, historical monuments and heritage sites. It ultimately helps and encourages
in the protection, preservation and promotion of our arts and cultures.

Publicity of the Country: Tourism has largely been contributing in the publicity of the
country to the outside world. Many tourists visit Nepal. Nepal is known to the world
through them. Day by day, Nepal has been a popular tourist destination.

Exposure to New Ideas and Technologies: Our people get opportunities to interact
and learn new ideas, cultures, knowledge and technology. Our people get training and
skills of different kinds and levels.

Support to Cottage and Small Industries: Tourism enhances small and cottage
industries as the tourists like to buy handicrafts and locally manufactured goods as
souvenirs and gifts.

Problems Created By Tourism
Tourism industry creates some problems too. There can be socio-economic, cultural
and environmental problems if preventive measures aren’t taken in advance. They are
as follows:

Increment of Pollution: Mass tourism can increase the pollution. When they travel
or go for trekking, they use varieties of packed and tin foods. When these plastics, tin
and cans are left there, it increases pollution.

Disease and Drugs: All the tourists may not be of the same quality. Some of them
may be suffering from serious communicable diseases or may have drug addiction.
They might come in contact with our people and ruin our society.

Cultural Degradation: There is a danger of local culture being negatively influenced.
Some of their cultures not suitable to us may pollute our society.

Environmental Effect: Mass tourism may contribute to deforestation, destruction
of habitats, illegal trading of rare species of plants and animals. Natural beauty and
landscape can be affected in due course of time when new tourist spots keep opening.

Things Become Expensive: Cost of goods and items of daily use can increase sharply
in and around tourist destinations.

Peace and Tranquility Affected: Overcrowding of a place can adversely affect the
peace and tranquility of a place. In such a situation, there is possibility of smuggling,
theft, flesh trade and other illegal activities.

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