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The NCERT Class 11 History Chapter 7: Paths to Modernisation explores how Japan, China, and Korea transformed from traditional societies into modern nations. It explains Japan’s Meiji Restoration, China’s struggle under the Qing dynasty, Sun Yat-sen’s revolutionary ideas, and South Korea’s economic rise. The chapter helps students understand different paths to modernity in Asia and their impact on the modern world. These NCERT solutions provide clear and concise answers to help CBSE students prepare effectively for exams.
Explore Notes of Class 11: Themes in World History
NCERT Solutions Class 11 Themes in World History Chapter 7: Paths to Modernisation
This section provides detailed and student-friendly answers for the Class 11 History Chapter 7 exercise questions. Each answer is explained clearly to strengthen understanding and exam preparation.
Exercise
(Answer in Brief)
1. What were the major developments before the Meiji restoration that made it possible for Japan to modernise rapidly?
Before the Meiji Restoration (1868), Japan had a stable Tokugawa shogunate that maintained peace and order. Agricultural productivity increased, leading to economic growth and a rise in commerce. A well-educated samurai class and a literate population provided the foundation for learning Western science and technology. The opening of Japan’s ports after 1853 also exposed it to foreign ideas and innovations, making rapid modernisation possible.
2. Discuss how daily life was transformed as Japan developed.
As Japan developed, people moved from rural to urban areas for factory jobs. Western-style clothing, houses, and education became common. Women began working in industries like textiles. Public transport, newspapers, and entertainment expanded rapidly. Modern education and health systems improved living standards, while the influence of Western culture reshaped art, literature, and lifestyles across Japanese society.
3. How did the Qing dynasty try and meet the challenge posed by the Western powers?
The Qing dynasty launched the Self-Strengthening Movement (1860s–1890s) to modernise its military and industries. They established shipyards, arsenals, and schools teaching Western science. However, reforms were limited because the conservative ruling elite resisted major political change. While industrial progress occurred, China’s inability to reform its administration and military fully left it vulnerable to Western and Japanese domination.
4. What were Sun Yat-sen’s Three Principles?
Sun Yat-sen’s Three Principles of the People were:
- Nationalism (Minzu): To end foreign domination and unify China.
- Democracy (Minquan): To establish a republican form of government with people’s participation.
- Livelihood (Minsheng): To improve social and economic welfare through equitable land distribution and modernisation.
These principles guided China’s revolutionary movements and laid the foundation for the Republic of China.
5. How did Korea deal with the foreign currency crisis in 1997?
During the 1997 Asian financial crisis, Korea faced severe economic challenges. The government accepted a bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and implemented economic reforms. These included restructuring major companies (chaebols), improving financial transparency, and encouraging foreign investment. Citizens also supported recovery through campaigns like donating gold. Within a few years, South Korea stabilised and returned to economic growth.
(Answer in a Short Essay)
6. Did Japan’s policy of rapid industrialisation lead to wars with its neighbours and destruction of the environment?
Yes, Japan’s rapid industrialisation during the late 19th and early 20th centuries had both positive and negative outcomes.
To secure raw materials and new markets, Japan expanded militarily into Korea, China, and Southeast Asia. This expansionist policy led to wars such as the Sino-Japanese War (1894–95) and the Russo-Japanese War (1904–05), eventually contributing to its involvement in World War II. Industrialisation also caused environmental issues, deforestation, pollution, and urban overcrowding grew rapidly. Although Japan became a global power, its aggressive imperialism and disregard for nature caused lasting consequences at home and abroad.
7. Do you think that Mao Zedong and the Communist Party of China were successful in liberating China and laying the basis for its current success?
Mao Zedong and the Communist Party successfully ended decades of civil war and foreign domination by establishing the People’s Republic of China in 1949. They redistributed land, promoted literacy, and improved public health, strengthening rural society. However, movements like the Great Leap Forward and Cultural Revolution caused suffering and setbacks. Still, Mao’s emphasis on unity, self-reliance, and industrialisation created a foundation for China’s later economic reforms under Deng Xiaoping. Thus, Mao’s leadership laid the groundwork for China’s transformation into a global power.
8. Did economic growth in South Korea contribute to its democratisation?
Yes, South Korea’s rapid economic growth from the 1960s to the 1980s helped fuel democratisation. Industrialisation created an educated middle class that demanded political participation and freedom. Economic success also reduced dependence on authoritarian regimes, leading to the June Democratic Uprising of 1987, which established democratic elections. Hence, South Korea’s prosperity empowered its citizens to seek greater equality, rights, and political representation.
Also Read: NCERT Class 11 Political Science Chapter 4: Social Justice Notes (Free PDF)
Download NCERT Solutions Class 11 History Chapter 7: Paths to Modernisation
You can download the NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Themes in World History Chapter 7 for easy revision and offline study.
Explore Solutions of Class 11: Themes in World History
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