Imperialism

• What is the focus of the study material regarding the Bengali region and South Asia?

  The political history of the Bengali region and South Asia
• How did imperialist powers rise in the Bengali region and South Asia?

  They rose from ancient urban civilizations and community-based political entities
• What methods did imperialist powers use to expand their territories?

  Through wars and bloodshed
• Which dynasties are examples of hereditarian imperialistic powers in South Asia?

  The Mauryas, the Guptas, and the Pala dynasty
• What was a common characteristic of imperialist forces around the world during the same period as Bengal and South Asia?

  They engaged in murder, plunder, and invasion
• How has the ascent of imperialist powers influenced the world?

  It has deeply influenced the political history of the world and the political identities of people
• Among those imperial rulers in world history, Alexander the Great of Macedonia, Julius Caesar of the Roman Empire, Charlemagne of the Frankish Empire, Mongol warrior Genghis Khan, Sultan Mahmud of the Ghazni, French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, Germany’s Hitler, and Italy’s Benito Mussolini are notable.
• What war did Spartan warriors initiate against Athens in the early years of the fifth century BCE?

  The Peloponnesian War
• Why did Sparta initiate the Peloponnesian War against Athens?

  To establish dominance and seize Athens' glory and wealth
• What was the impact of the Peloponnesian War on the city-states of Greece?

  It led to a division between Sparta and Athens and weakened powerful city-states
• In what year did Alexander fall ill and succumb to death?

  323 BCE
• Where was Alexander stationed when he fell ill?

  In Babylon with his army and commanders
• What conflict arose after Alexander's death?

  A conflict over the ownership of the empire among his commanders
• What happened to Alexander's empire after his death?

  It disintegrated into factions among his generals
• What are the implications of how imperial rulers are portrayed in history books?

  • Often glorified both before and after their names
  • Acts of invasion presented with grandiosity
  • Encourages critical thinking about pride in invasion activities
• What should we reconsider about the narrative of conquering rulers?

  Whether their portrayal evokes pride or shame
• How does the attempt to propagate false and mythical glory affect history?

  It distorts history and deceives everyone from the truth