Theme T22 · World History
American & French Revolutions and their legacy
2PYQs
2GS1
2013–20252 distinct years
1asked 2024–26
What UPSC asks
Questions ask about the American Revolution as an economic revolt against mercantilism and the French Revolution's continuing relevance.
Prepare these
- Mercantilism and the colonies: Navigation Acts, Stamp Act, Townshend duties
- Ideas: no taxation without representation, natural rights, Declaration of Independence
- French Revolution: causes, Declaration of the Rights of Man, end of feudalism
- Legacy: liberty, equality, fraternity in democracy, nationalism, human rights — including in India's Preamble
Answer writing
- For 'relevance today', match each revolutionary idea with a present institution or debate
Directive words in these PYQs: Explain (1), Substantiate (1).
On the map
Syllabus lines covered
- GS1-L5 — History of the world will include events from 18th century such as industrial revolution, world wars, redrawal of national boundaries, colonization, decolonization, political philosophies like communism, capitalism, socialism etc.- their forms and effect on the society.
All 2 PYQs, newest first
- GS1202515 marks · 250 wordsGS1-WH-01-M2025-Q13
The French Revolution has enduring relevance to the contemporary world. Explain.
- GS12013GS1-WH-01-M2013-S02
“American Revolution was an economic revolt against mercantilism.” Substantiate.