The United Nations

ICSE Solutions for Class 7 History and Civics – Medieval Europe – Rise and Spread of Christianity

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Important Words

• Medieval comes from a Latin word which means ‘time in the middle’. The Medieval Period is the period between the Ancient and the Modem periods.
• The Messiah is a liberator of an oppressed people or country/ the promised deliverer of the Jews.
• The Christ is the Messiah/the title given to Jesus.
• The Old Testament constitutes the first major part of the Bible. It is traditionially divided into the categories of law, history, poetry (or wisdom books) and prophecy.
• Baptism is the Christian rite of sprinkling water on a person’s forehead or immersing him/her in water, symbolizing purification and admission to the Christian church.
• Resurrected means to be returned to life after death.
• The Gospels are the first four books of the New Testament (the second part of the Bible) that tell the story of Christ’s life and teachings.
• The Goths, the Vandals and the Franks were European tribes which invaded the Roman and Greek empires in the Early Medieval Period.
• Crusades were the holy wars waged by the Christians against the Turks, who had captured the lands of the Christian emperor of Constantinople and Jerusalem (the holy land of the Christians).

Time To Learn
I. Fill in the blanks:

1. Christianity was founded by Jesus Christ. He began preaching at the age of thirty.
2. Jesus criticised all harmful activities and evils.
3. Galerius Constantine recognised Christianity.
4. Constantine established a new capital at Byzantine in AD 330.
5. The last Roman emperor, Romulus Augustus was deposed in AD 476.

II. Match Column A with Column B:

Answer:


III. State whether the following statements are True or False:

1. Paul spread the teachings of Christ in Greece and Rome.
    True.
2. Emperor Charlemagne recognised Christianity in AD 313.
   False.Emperor Constantine embraced Christianity in AD 313.
3. The head of the Roman Church, the Pope, was considered the representative of Christ on Earth.
   True.
4. Constantinople fell in AD 1453.
   True.
5. Crusades were fought between Hindus and Christians.
   False Crusades were fought between Islam and Christians.

IV. Answer the following questions briefly:

Question 1.
Where was Christ born? Why was he crucified?
Answer:
Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem, a small village of Jerusalem. His father Joseph and mother Mary were Jews. Jesus was bom in about 4 BC. Jesus emphasised on one God and gave immense importance to love, brotherhood and compassion. He fearlessly criticised all harmful activities and evils. This made the rich and powerful among the Romans his enemy. They complained to Pontius Pilate, the Roman Governor of Palestine, accusing Jesus of calling himself the king of Jews and thus encouraging people to rebel against Roman rulers. Jesus was arrested and crucified. The cross became a sacred symbol of the Christians.

Question 2.
Describe the teachings of Christ.
Answer:
Jesus preached his message in simple words, in the form of stories that the common man could understand.
Some of his main teachings were:

1. All men are brothers as we are the children of the same God.
2. God is one, so worship of various gods is of no use.
3. God is so kind that he forgives even the sinner if he repents.
4. God will love us if we are kind to our fellowmen.
5. Hate the sin and not the sinner.
6. Refrain from worldly evils like greed, avarice and vanity.
7. Jesus called himself the ‘Son of God’ who had been sent by God to guide man to attain salvation.
8. Kingdom of God could be built by man, purified by the love of God.

Question 3.
Discuss the contribution of emperor Constantine in spread of Christanity.
Answer:
Constantine the Roman Emperor, defeated all his rivals who came in way of spreading Christianity and declared himself as the undisputed emperor. He made Christianity a legal religion and in this way persecution of Christians came to an end. Later on Christianity become the official religion of the Roman empire.

Question 4.
Describe the emergence and fall of Constantinople.
Answer:
The Roman emperor Constantine established a new capital at Byzantine in AD 330. This city became famous as Constantinople, named after Constantine. The Byzantine empire with Constantinople as its capital prospered for a thousand years until AD 1453. It had close relations with countries of the east, including India. The Byzantines built beautiful churches with lavish decorations. Constantinople became the largest city in Europe, the most splendid and prosperous.
The Fall of Constantinople
The capital of Constantinople had been under attack many times before, and all have failed, all but one. The Ottoman Turks, who were Muslims and under the lead of Sultan Mehmed 11, had an army of 100,000 to 150,000, while the army for Constantinople had 10,000. The siege lasted for about fifty days. The army of Constantinople tried to use every tactic that worked before, but they were greatly outnumbered, which hurt their chances. As well as trying to take over the city, the Turks were fighting and trying to take over the seas and ports. On Tuesday, May 29, 1453, the army of Constantinople surrendered and left, letting the Ottomans take over the city.

Question 5.
Discuss the reasons for the decline of the Roman empire.
Answer:
The barbarian invasions penetrated deep into the Roman territory and plundered and ravaged it. Even the magnificent city of Rome was not spared. These tribes gradually settled down and assumed control of the western part of the Roman empire which lead to its decline.

V. Picture Study : Study the picture and answer the following questions.

1. Identify and name the painting.
   Ans. The last supper.
2. Name the Painter.
   Ans. Leonardo da Vinci.
3. Describe the theme of the painting.
   Ans. A painting of Jesus with his disciples.

Additional Questions
(Rise of Christianity)

A. Fill in the blanks:

1. In the middle of the 1st century bce the Romans conquered Palestine, the homeland of the Jews.
2. Jesus was believed to the son of God. He was born to Mary.
3. For three years, Jesus travelled throughout Galilee, preaching, teaching and healing the sick.
4. Jesus taught that there was one God who was compassionate, loving and forgiving.
5. Towards the end of the 4th century ce. Christianity became the official religion of the Roman empire.

B. Match the following:


Answer:

C. Choose the correct answer:

1. Jesus grew up in Bethale/iem/Jerusalem/Nazareth, where he studied Jewish scriptures.
   Ans. Jesus grew up in Nazareth, where he studied Jewish scriptures.
2. Jesus taught that God loved and forgave/hated/ignored
   Ans. Jesus taught that God loved and forgave sinners.
3. Jesus was sentenced to death by Maxentius/Pontius Pilate/Constantine.
   Ans. Jesus was sentenced to death by Pontius Pilate.
4. The teachings of Jesus were spread most actively in Palestine by John/Mark/Peter.
   Ans. The teachings of Jesus were spread most actively in Palestine by Peter.
5. For almost 300 years after the death of Jesus, Christians were treated will/given special rights/oppressed and persecuted in the Roman empire.
   Ans. For almost 300 years after the death of Jesus, Christians were oppressed and persecuted in the Roman empire.

D. State whether the following are true or false:

1. Jesus had the power to heal the sick.
   True.
2. Jesus taught that we should harm only those who harm us.
   False.
   Correct: We should help the needy and do good even to those who harm us.
3. Jesus’s interpretation of Jewish law was the same as that of other Jewish religious leaders.
   False.
   Correct: Jesus’s interpretation of Jewish law clashed with the ideas of the Jewish religious leaders.
4. In the 4th century CE, Christianity became the official religion of the Roman empire.
   False.
   Correct: In the 2nd century CE, Christianity became the official religion of the Roman empire.
5. The Pope became the spiritual head of Christians all over the world.
   True

E. Answer the following questions in one or two words/ sentences:

1. Explain the Latin origin of the term ‘medieval’.
Ans. Medieval comes from a Latin word which means ‘time in the
middle’. The Medieval Period is the period between the Ancient and the Modem periods.

2. Who conquered Palestine in the middle of the 1st century BCE?
Ans. In the middle of the 1 st century bce, the Romans conquered Palestine, the homeland of the Jews.

3. Where was Jesus born?
Ans. Jesus was bom around 6-4 bce, in a small village of Bethlehem in Judea. He was believed to be the son of God, was bom to Maty.

4. Who was King David?
Ans. King David was Israel’s most famous king who had liberated Israel from foreign rule 1,000 years ago.

5. How many disciples did Jesus have?
Ans. Jesus gathered around him a band of 12 disciples.

6. Mention two fundamental principles of Christianity.
Ans.
The two fundamental principles of Christianity are:

1. Unconditional love for God.
2. True love for one’s neighbour.

7. Why were the Jewish religious leaders angry with Jesus?
Ans. Due to Jesus intelligence, wisdom, compassion and simplicity large crowds were attracted towards him. This greatly enraged the Jewish religious leaders who felt threatened by his growing popularity.

8. Where are the life and teachings of Jesus Christ recorded?
Ans. The life and teachings of Jesus Christ were recorded in the Gospels by four of his disciples—John, Mathew, Mark and Luke.

9. Who is described as the ‘foundation rock’ of Christianity?
Ans. Peter is described as the ‘foundation rock’ of Christianity.

10. Who prepared the grounds for transforming Christianity into a world religion? –
Ans. Paul, a convert to Christianity became one of the most powerful and enthusiastic exponents of Christianity. He travelled extensively throughout the Roman empire, preparing the grounds that would transform Christianity into the world religion in the future.

11. What is the importance of St Peter’s Church in Rome?
Ans. St Peter’s Church in Rome is the religious headquarters of the Christian world.

12. Who became the spiritual head of the Christians?
Ans. The Bishop of St Peter’s Church, the Pope, became the spiritual head of Christians all over the world, and was acknowledged as the representative of Christ on earth.

F. Answer the following questions briefly:

Question 1.
Give an account of the early life on Jesus in Nazareth. What happened after his baptism?
Answer:
Jesus grew up in Nazareth, in northern Palestine, where he studied the Jewish scriptures. He realized that traditions and practices which violated the Law of Moses were being followed by certain Jewish religious groups, such as the Pharisees.
After baptism a divine revelation convinced Jesus that the time had come for him to fulfil his mission of freemen from the bondage of evil and guiding them on the path that would lead to the victory of good over evil.

Question 2.
The teachings of Jesus were simple, yet revolutionary. Explain.
Answer:
The teachings of Jesus were simple, yet revolutionary.
He established a code of conduct for men and women based on:

1. Unconditional love for God
2. True love for one’s neighbour

Jesus taught that there was one God who was compassionate, loving and forgiving. As children of God, we should mould ourselves in the image of God. We should love our neighbours, including the poor, the sinners and even our enemies; we should help the needy and do good even to those who harm us; we should forgive our enemies and win them over with our love. Since God loved sinners and forgave them, we should do the same. Jesus completely rejected the ‘eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth’ principle.

Question 3.
Discuss the reasons and events leading to the crucifixion of Jesus.
Answer:
Jesus attracted large crowds wherever, he went through his intelligence, wisdom, compassion and simplicity. This greatly enraged the Jewish religions leaders who felt threatened by his growing popularity. They convinced the Roman Governor, Pontius Pilate, that Jesus was also a threat to the political authority of the Romans. Due to which Jesus was put on trial and was later on crucified.

Question 4.
The enemies of Jesus had crucified him but Jesus would live on. Explain.
Answer:
This statement is hue that enemies of Jesus had crucified him but Jesus would live in the hearts and minds of his followers throughout the world. His teachings will be followed by the people they will walk on the path shown by him.After baptism a divine revelation convinced Jesus that the time had come for him to fulfil his mission of freemen from the bondage of evil and guiding them on the path that would lead to the victory of good over evil.

Question 5.
Give a brief account of the spread of Christianity by its followers.
Answer:
The spread of Christianity in Palestine was actively done by Peter the follower of Jesus. Another follower Paul travelled extensively throughout the Roman Empire and spread Christianity which later on in future turned into a world religion ‘

Question 6.
What role did Emperor Constantine play in the establishment of Christianity in Europe?
Answer:
Constantine the Roman Emperor, defeated all his rivals who came in way of spreading Christianity and declared himself as the undisputed emperor. He made Christianity a legal religion and in this way persecution of Christians came to an end. Later on Christianity become the official religion of the Roman empire.

G Picture study:
The picture depicts the crucifixion of the founder of a religion.

Question 1.
Name (a) the founder and (b) the religion.
Answer:
(a) the founder — Jesus Christ
(b) the religion — Christianity

Question 2.
Mention the circumstances and the reasons that led to the crucifixion.
Answer:
Jesus attracted large crowds wherever, he went through his intelligence, wisdom, compassion and simplicity. This greatly enraged the Jewish religions leaders who felt threatened by his growing popularity. They convinced the Roman Governor, Pontius Pilate, that Jesus was also a threat to the political authority of the Romans. Due to which Jesus was put on trial and was later on crucified.          –

Question 3.
Mention four important principles of the religion.
Answer:
Four important principles of the religion are:

1. We should love our neighbour, the poor, the sinners and even our enemies.
2. We should forgive our enemies and win them over with our love.
3. Unconditional love for God.
4. Not to follow the principle of ‘eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth’.

Question 4.
Name the two best-known followers of the founder. What part did they play in spreading his teachings.
Answer:
Peter and Paul are two best known disciples of Jesus. They; did a great work in spreading the teachings of Jesus in Palastine and throughout the Roman Empire. Due to them Christianity is accepted as a world religion.

Additional Questions
(Spread of Christianity)

A. Fill in the blanks:

1. The great Roman empire began to disintegrate in the 5th century ce.
2. One important reason for the fall of the Roman empire was the repeated attacks by the Germanic tribes.
3. In 395 ce, the Roman empire was divided into two parts- eastern and western.
4. By 900 ce, Christianity had become the state religion in every European state.
5. The Crusades or holy wars were fought between the Christians and the Turkish Muslims, between the 11th and 13th centuries ce.

B. Match the following:


Answer:

C. Choose the correct answer

1. The mighty Turkish/Roman/Greek empire began to disintegrate in the 5th century
   Ans. The mighty Roman empire began to disintegrate in the 5th century ce.
2. The capital of the Byzantine empire wasRome/ Jerusalem/Constantinople.
   Ans. The capital of the Byzantine empire was Constantinople.
3. The orders built great monasteries, where monks/kings/ soldiers stayed and pursued their missions.
   Ans. The orders built great monasteries, where monks stayed and pursued their missions.
4. In the 11th century ce, the Goths/Turks/Vandals invaded the lands of the Christian emperor of Constantinople.
   Ans. In the 11th century ce, the Turks invaded the lands of the Christian emperor of Constantinople.
5. The Crusaders learned the use of gunpowder and guns from the Greeks/Franks/Turks.
   Ans. The Crusaders learned the use of gunpowder and guns from the Turks.

D. State whether the following are true or false:

1. The invaders who attacked the Roman empire were semi-civilized tribes.
   True.
2. In the confusion and disorder that followed the disintegration of the Roman empire, the only unifying factor was Christianity and the Roman Church.
   True.
3. The spread of Christianity was one of the most important developments in the Early Medieval Period.
   True.
4. By the end of the 5th century ce, Christian churches had been established in almost every town and city.
   True.
5. The greatest contribution of the monasteries was in the field of education.
   True.
   

E. Answer the following questions in one or two words/ sentences:

Question 1.
What were the ‘barbarian invasions’?
Answer:
The repeated attacks and raids by various Germanic tribes such as the Goths, the Vandals and the Franks are referred to as the ‘barbarian invasions’.

Question 2.
Name the capital of the eastern Roman empire.
Answer:
Capital of eastern Roman empire was Constantinople (modem Istanbul).

Question 3.
What effect did the barbarian invasions have on the Byzantine (eastern Roman) empire ?
Answer:
The Byzantine empire was attacked by the barbarian tribes but it proved to be more resilient than its western counterpart. It successfully withstood the onslaughts and preserved some of the great legacies of the glorious Roman empire.

Question 4.
What were the Crusades?
Answer:
Crusades were the holy wars waged by the Christians against the Turks, who had captured the lands of the Christian emperor of Constantinople and Jerusalem (the holy land of the Christians).

Question 5.
How did the Crusades pave the way for the Renaissance?
Answer:
In the course of their travels to the holy land, the crusaders came in contact with the superior civilizations and cultures of the Greeks and Muslims. They assimilated the best elements of these cultures and started the process of revival of western education and learning and paved the way for the Renaissance.

Question 6.
How did the Crusades lead to the decline of feudalism?
Answer:
The Crusaders learnt the use of gunpowder and guns from the Muslims. These two discoveries contributed to the decline of feudalism. The armoured knights had outlived their usefulness and their services were no longer required.

Question 7.
Where did the Christian monks live?
Answer:
They lived in monasteries and did not marry.

Question 8.
Name two arts that flourished in monasteries.
Answer:
Architecture, mural painting, wood carving and stained glass painting developed and flourished in the monasteries.

Question 9.
Name one internationally renowned university that evolved from a Christian monastery.
Answer:
The University that evolved from a Christian monastery of Oxford in England is know as Oxford University in the English­speaking world.

F. Answer the following questions briefly:

Question 1.
Briefly discuss the causes of the decline of the mighty Roman empire?
Answer:
The barbarian invasions penetrated deep into the Roman territory and plundered and ravaged it. Even the magnificent city of Rome was not spared. These tribes gradually settled down and assumed control of the western part of the Roman empire which lead to its decline.

Question 2.
The Crusades brought about significant changes in medieval Europe. In this context, discuss the following:
(a) Advent of the Renaissance
(b) Economic prosperity.
Answer:
(a) Advent of the Renaissance: In the course of their travels to the holy land, the Crusaders came in contact with the superior civilizations and cultures of the Greeks and the Turks. They assimilated the best elements of these cultures and started the process of the revival of Western education and learning, paving the way for the Renaissance.
(b) Economic prosperity: The Crusaders got a taste of the luxurious lifestyle of the East. To meet the demand for luxury items, European traders began to establish trade links with the East. As trade increased, the economy of Europe flourished.

Question 3.
Write short notes on the following:
(a) Monks and nuns
(b) Life in a monasteries
Answer:
(a) Monks: They were priests who devoted their lives to the services of God and humanity. They lived in monasteries and did not marry.
Nuns: They were the women who devoted their lives to the service of God and humanity. They lived in nunneries and did not marry.

(b) Monasteries: These were the places where the monks lived. They were located iru isolated places, far away from human habitation. Life in these monasteries was simple and orderly.

Question 4.
Describe a monastery. What did the monks and nuns do for the welfare of the people?
Answer:
A monastery was usually a large, strong and simple building, surrounded by gardens, fruit orchards, fields and ponds. Insidethe abbey was a small church, living quarters for the monks and nuns, a kitchen and storerooms. Attached to most monsteries were hospitals, schools and libraries. Monasteries played a very important role in medieval Europe. The nuns educated children and treated the sick and wounded. The greatest contribution of the monasteries was in the field of education. Some of these monasteries later developed into famous secular universities, such as the universities of Oxford and Cambridge. Besides the religious texts, secular subjects such as history, philosophy, medicine, law and astrology were also taught in these universities. The printing press and paper had not yet been invented, so the monks wrote books by hand on parchment. Most of the books were copies of the Bible and prayer books, and copies of Latin and Greek books on secular subjects. These books were a very useful source of knowledge of the ancient and medieval civilization in Europe.

Question 5.
What was the contribution of the monasteries in the field of education?
Answer:
The greatest contribution of the monasteries was in the field of education. Some of these monasteries later developed into famous secular universities, such as the universities of Oxford and Cambridge. Beside the religious texts, secular subjects such as history, philosophy, medicine, law and astrology were also taught in these universities.

G.Picture study:

This is a picture of a renowned English university built by the Christian Church .

Question 1.
Identify the university.
Answer:
Oxford University.

Question 2.
What part did the Church play in the field of education?
Answer:
The Christian Church played an important role in the field of education. These Churches become great centres of  scholarship, art, literature and religious studies. Educational institutions like the internationally renowned Cambridge and Oxford Universities were built by the Church.

Question 3.
Mention any two reasons for the rapid spread of Christianity in Europe between 400 ce and 900
Answer:
The conversion of a king or feudal lord was usually followed by mass conversion of his subjects. As Christianity spread, the power and wealth of the Church multiplied.Christian monks, fired by religious fervour, organized themselves into religious orders

Question 4.
In what way did the increase in wealth and power influence the policies of the Church?
Answer:
As the wealth and power of the Church increased, it became increasingly conservative and authoritarian, demanding from every Christian unqualified obedience, loyalty and total submission to its dictates.

Question 5.
What does the term ‘Crusades’ mean? How did the Crusades contribute to the revival of learning and pave the way for the Renaissance in Europe?
Answer:
Crusades were the holy wars of the Christians against the Turkish Muslims. In the course of their travels to the holy land, the Crusaders came in contact with the superior civilizations and cultures of the Greeks (Byzantium) and Muslims. They assimilated the best elements of these cultures and started the process of the revival of Western education and learning and paved the way for the

ICSE Solutions for Class 8 History and Civics – The United Nations

ICSE SolutionsSelina ICSE SolutionsML Aggarwal Solutions

APlusTopper.com provides step by step solutions for ICSE Solutions for Class 8 History and Civics. You can download the History and Civics ICSE Solutions for Class 8 with Free PDF download option. History and Civics for Class 8 ICSE Solutions all questions are solved and explained by expert teachers as per ICSE board guidelines.

ICSE Solutions Class 8 History & Civics GeographyBiologyChemistryPhysicsMaths

Time To Learn
I. Fill in the blanks:

1. All peace loving nations can become members of the United Nations.
2. The present number of member-countries in the UNO is 193.
3. One major goal of the UNICEF was Universal Child Immunisation against preventable diseases by 1990.
4. The International Court of Justice settles disputes between member states of the United Nations.
   
5. The UNESCO came into existence in 1946.

II. Match the content of column A with other of column B


Answer:

III. Answer the following questions:

Question 1.
Why and when was the UNO formed?
Answer:
UNO was established on 24^th October, 1945 to work for world peace and for eradication of poverty, hunger, injustice and to save the world from still another catastrophe of the magnitude of the Second World War.

Question 2.
What are the objectives and principles of the UNO?
Answer:
The following are the objectives of the UNO:

Objectives of United Nations

1. To save the suceeding generation from the scourge of war, which twice in our lifetime has brought untold suffering to mankind.
2. To reaffirm faith in fundamental Human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human power in the equal rights of men and women, of nations large and small.
3. To maintain international peace and security.
4. To develop friendly relations among the nations of world based on respect for the equal rights of people.
5. To co-operate in solving international problems of social,economic, cultural, and humanitarian character and to promote respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Principles of UNO

The UN has laid down certain principles to achieve the above objectives. These principles are also enumerated in the Charter.

1. The basis of the organisation shall be equality of all its member-states.
2. The member-states shall fulfil their obligations honestly according to the charter of the UNO.
3. All the member-states shall solve their mutual problems through peaceful means.
4. States will not use force in solving their mutual problems.
5. All the member-states shall be morally bound to offer unconditional services, military or otherwise, to the UNO for preventive and enforcement actions of the UNO according to the UN Charter.
6. The members of the UNO shall see that even the non­members states work for the peace and security of the world.

Question 3.
Name the chief organs of the UNO    and list down theirNo member-state shall interfere in the internal affairs of any other member-state functions.
Answer:
Organs of the UN
There are six principle organs of   the UN.

1. The General Assembly Functions

1. Admits new members to the UNO on the recommendation of the Security Council.
2. Appoints the General Secretary of the UNO on the recommendation of the Security Council.
3. Elects ten (temporary) members of the Security Council, members of the Economic and Social Council and members of the Trusteeship Council from amongst its own members.
4. Receives and discussess the reports of its main organs and takes decisions for their improvement.
5. Can draw the attention of member-states to provide human rights to their citizens.
   Passes the annual budget of the UNO and fixes the
6. Passes the annual budget of the UNO and fixes the share of every member country in providing those funds.
7. Draws the attention of the Security Council whenever it finds that peace in a particular part of the world is endangered by the actions of one or more states.2

2. The Security Council
Functions
The Security Council’s primary responsibility to maintain international peace and security.

1. It can ask the fighting states to resolve their differences by bilateral talks.
2. It may suggest mediation in the matter.
3. It can suggest embargo (stoppage of trade) on the states who do act according to the directions of the Security Council.
4. It can order military action against a state which persists in undermining the peace and security of the world.Besides this,
5. It recommends the admission of a new member to the UNO.
6. It recommends the name of person for his appointment as the Secretary-General of the UNO.
7. It elects the Judges of the International Court of Justice concurrently with the General Assembly.
8. It can ask for the cancellation of the membership of a state, if does not act according to the Charter.
9. It can recommend to call a meeting of the General Assembly in an emergency.

3. The Economic and Social Council:
The main function of this Council is to promote economic and social operation,among the member states of the UN. There are several groups working under the council. They specialise in subjects like population money matters, international trade and equality of women, crime prevention and control of narcotic drugs.

4. The Trusteeship Council: Its main objective is to safeguard the interests of those territories that are not yet fully self- governing. Eleven such territories were brought under the UN Trusteeship Council after the Second World War. The Council helped ten of them to gain independence.

5. The Secretariat: The personnel of the Secretariat are recruited from all over the world. Attempts are made to have a balanced representation from all regions and countries. The Secretary General is the chief executive officer or the head of the UN Secretariat.

6. The International Court of Justice: The International Court of Justice settles disputes between the member-state of the United Nations. Even private citizens have the right to approach the Court whenever they have grievance against another state. The Secretary General holds a key position in the administration of the affairs of the UNO. He organises conferences, drafts reports, makes correspondence, registers treaties, prepares budget estimates.

Question 4.
Name the official languages of the UNO.
Answer:
The official languages of the UNO are – English, French, Russian, Chinese, Arabic and Spanish.

Question 5.
How does the UNO manage its funds?
Answer:
The UNO is financed by the contributions made by its member states. The amount is determined by the General Assembly on the recommendations of its committee on contributions.

Question 6.
Describe the UNO Flag. Draw and colour it.
Answer:
The flag of the UNO represents two bent olive branches open at the top over a blue background. The branches of the wreath symbolise peace.

Question 7.
Name the permanent members of the UNO.
Answer:
Permanent members of the UNO are five – USA, UK, France,’ China and Russia.

Additional Questions

EXERCISES
A. Fill in the blanks:

1. The League of Nations was formed in 1920 after the end of the First World War.
2. Each member state of the UN can send up to Five representatives to the General Assembly.
3. The Security council is often referred to as the ‘Enforcement Wing’ of the UN.
4. The five permament members of the Security Council are USA, UK, France, People’s Republic of China and the Russian Federation.
5. The objective of the ECOSOC is to free the world from want.
6. The WHO is a specialized agency of the UN.

B. Match the following:


Answer:

C. Choose the correct answer:

1. 24 October/22 March/21 June is celebrated as United Nations Day.
   Ans. 24 October is celebrated as United Nations Day.
2. The olive branches on the UN flag symbolize peace/wealth/ truth.
   Ans. The olive branches on the UN flag symbolize peace.
3. The Economic and Social Council consists of 54 members elected by the General Assembly for a 3/4/5-year term.
   Ans. The Economic and Social Council consists of 54 members elected by the General Assembly for a 5-year term.
4. The International Court of Justice is located in New York City in the USA/The Hague in the Netherlands/Paris in France.
   Ans. The International Court of Justice is located in The Hague in the Netherlands.
5. The Secretariat/General Assembty/International Court of Justice is the chief administrative organ of the UN.
   Ans. The Secretariat is the chief administrative organ of the UN.

D. State whether the following are true or false:

1. All the members of the UN are members of the General Assembly.
   True.
2. French is one of the official languages of the UN.
   True. 
3. The Trusteeship Council is the most important organ of the UN.
   False
   Correct: The Security Council is the most important organ of the UN.
4. UNESCO and UNICEF are specialized agencies of the UN
   True.
   
5. Most of the world’s problems have disappeared with the end of the Cold War.
   False.
   Correct: Most of the world’s problems have disappeared with the end of the Cold War. This, however, did not happen.

E. Answer the following questions in one or two words/ sentences:

Question 1.
Mention one important organ of the UN.
Answer:
The Security Council is the most important organ of the UN.

Question 2.
Who are the members of the General Assembly?
Answer:
All the members of the UN are members of the General Assembly.

Question 3.
What is a negative vote by one of the permanent members of the Security Council known as?
Answer:
Veto is the negative vote by any one of the permanent members of the UN Security Council which leads to the cancellation of the resolution.

Question 4.
Why was the Trusteeship Council established?
Answer:
When the UN was first formed, a large number of countries were not free. Many were affected by the war. The Trusteeship Council was established to look after the territories that were under foreign rule and to help them attain self-government.

Question 5.
Why did the UN impose economic sanctions against the South African government?
Answer:
By imposing economic sanctions against the South African government, it played a significant role in challenging the apartheid policy and liberating the South African people from apartheid.

Question 6.
What is the relevance of the UN in today’s world?
Answer:
The need of the hour is to reform and strengthen the UN and to make it strong and effective, capable of healing the wounds of our times and restoring sanity, balance and harmony to our strife-tom world.

F. Answer the following questions briefly:

Question 1.
The magnitude and scale of destruction during the Second World War created a great revulsion for war and a passionate yearning for peace.
In this context, explain:
(a) The signing of the Atlantic Charter
(b) The basic rights or the four freedoms guaranteed by the charter
(c) The San Francisco Conference and the establishment of the United Nations
Answer:
(a)
Winston Churchill, the prime minister of Great Britain, and Franklin D. Roosevelt, the president of the United States of America, met aboard a battleship off Newfoundland in the Atlantic Ocean. They signed a document called the Atlantic Charter on 14 August 1941.
(b)
It was agreed that when the war ended, humans must be guaranteed the basic rights or the four freedoms.
The basic rights included:

1. freedom from want
2. freedom of speech
3. freedom of religious belief
4. freedom from fear

(c)
In June 1945, 50 nations met in San Francisco to sign the Atlantic Charter. Poland, which was not represented at the conference, signed it later and became one of the original 51 member states. On 24 October 1945, the United Nations was established to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war and to reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights. 24 October is celebrated as United Nations Day.

Question 2.
With reference to the United Nations discuss:
(a) The UN flag
(b) Any four objetives of the UN outlined in the Preamble of the UN Charter
(c) The obligations of all nations that follow from these objectives
Answer:
(a)
The UN flag depicts two bent olive branches which are open at the top with a world map between them.
The white olive branches and the world map are on a light blue background. The branches symbolize peace.
(b)
The objectives of the UN have been outlined in the Preamble of the UN charter. They are:

1. To maintain international peace and security.
2. To develop friendly relations among nations on the basis of equality.
3. To achieve international cooperation in solving, economic, social, cultural and humanitarian problems.
4. To promote human rights and fundamental freedom for the people of the world.
5. To act as a common platform for harmonizing the activities of various nations for the attainment of the objectives of the UN.
6. To save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, which has twice brought suffering to humans.

(c)
This implies that:

1. All nations, big or small, are equal.
2. They must all obey the Charter.
3. All disputes must be settled peacefully.
4. No force should be used.

Question 3.
With reference to the General Assembly and Security Council of the UN, answer the following questions:
(a) Mention any four functions of the General Assembly.
(b) Explain the veto power of the permanent members of the Security Council. What happens when the Security Council cannot take any action because of the veto?
(c) State three important functions of the Security Council.
Answer:
(a)
Important functions of the General Assembly:

1. To discuss international problems and make recommendations for their solution.
2. To make recommendations for the peaceful settlement of disputes.
3. To consider and approve the UN budget.
4.  To elect non-permanent members of the security council members of the economic and social council (ECOSOC) and the trusteeship council.
5.  To supervise the work of the other organs of the UN.
6. To make recommendations for ‘collective measures, including the use of anned forces’ during a crises (Uniting for Peace Resolution)

(b)
A negative vote by any one of the permanent members would lead to a cancellation of the resolution. This right to prevent action from being taken is known as the right to veto.When no action can be taken by the Security Council because of the veto, the General Assembly can deal with the crisis. It can take whatever action may seem appropriate to restore and maintain world peace.
(c)
Functions of the Security Council:

1. To investigate international disputes and recommend ways of settling such disputes peacefully.
2. To call on member states to apply economic sanctions against the aggressor.
3. To take military action against the aggressor, if necessary.

Question 4.
With reference to the organs of the UN, discuss:
(a) Any three functions of the Economic and Social Coucil (ECOSOC)
(b) The composition and functions of the Internatinal Court of Justice
(c) Any four significant achievements of the UN
Answer:
(a) Functions of the ECOSOC:

1. To promote economic growth and social progress (z’z) To create a spirit of respect for human rights
2. To solve problems related to health, illiteracy, drugs, employment, status of women etc.
3. To supervise the work of various specialized agencies such as World Health Organization (WHO), United
4. Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), International Labour Organization (ILO) Food and Agricultural organization (FAO), etc.

(b)
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) consists of 15 judges from different countries, elected by the General Assembly and the Security Council. Each judge has a 9- year term. Two judges cannot be from the same country.

Functions of International Court of Justice:

1. To settle disputes brought to it by member nations.
2. To give legal advice to the other organs of the UN, on request.

(c). Achievement of the UN

1. Although it has not been able to prevent war, in many cases, it has taken effective action to restore peace, e.g., the Korean War, the Suez Canal crisis, the Gulf War, etc.
2. Many countries like Indonesia, Algeria, Morocco, have achieved their independence with support from the UN.
3.  By imposing economic sanctions against the South African government, it played a significant role in challenging the aparthied policy and liberating the South African people from aparthied rule.
4.  It has worked consistently for the protection and preservation of human rights around the world.
5. It has worked actively to end the nuclear arms race and encouraged the use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.
6. It has achieved great success in the fields of labour, health, welfare of children and education by fighting poverty, ignorance, malnutrition, hunger and disease through its specialized agencies.

G Picture Study:

This buliding is the headquarters of an international organization which was established in October 1945 to maintain international peace and security

1. Name the organization.
   Ans. United Nation (UN)
2. Where are the headquarters of this organization located?
   Ans. New York City
3. Mention four important objectives of this organization.
   Ans. The objectives of the UN have been outlined in the Preamble of the UN charter.
   They are:
   1. To maintain international peace and security.
   2.  To develop friendly relations among nations on the basis of equality.
   3. To achieve international cooperation in solving, economic, social, cultural and humanitarian problems.
   4.  To promote human rights and fundamental freedom for the people of the world.
   5.  To act as a common platform for harmonizing the activities of various nations for the attainment of the objectives of the UN.
   6. To save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, which has twice brought suffering to humans.
4. Name three major organs of this organization.
   Ans.
   Organs of the UN:
   1. The General Assembly
   2. The Security Council
   3. The Economic and Social Council