Q6 of 28 Page 57

Answer in about 100 - 120 words.

As a historian, write a paragraph based on Nehru's views, on the path breaking events of the 21st century that have significantly contributed to the growth and progress of humanity.

The 21st century has seen some pathbreaking achievements when it comes to the growth and progress of humanity. The world is at the helm of a revolution – one in scientific advancement and technological prowess, and it seems fitting to say that the world has been reduced to a global village.


Man has learned from his past, and history has taught him that actions justify thoughts. This is how the world has progressed – maintaining shoulder-to-shoulder while balancing thought and action, while at the same time not ignoring the basic human virtues and embracing human failures – these things have remained constant over ages. Humanity has progressed incredibly and science and technology have taken the world by storm. The world – a concoction of races and ages, cultures an traditions has remained so and yet so unified that it makes us feel really proud to be part of this incredible human race.


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4

Answer in about 100 - 120 words.

History is not a magic show, but there is plenty of magic in it for those who have eyes to see.


Explain.

 5

Answer in about 100 - 120 words.

History, it is said, has many lessons to teach us; and there is another saying that history never


repeats itself. Explain the message conveyed by the two sayings?

 1

'Thought, in order to justify itself, must lead to action'. In groups of four think of a significant event in history that substantiates these words of Nehru.

 2

Read this famous letter: Abraham Lincoln's Letter to His Son's Teacher

Respected Teacher,


My son will have to learn I know that all men are not just, all men are not true. But teach him


also that for every scoundrel there is a hero; that for every selfish politician, there is a


dedicated leader. Teach him that for every enemy there is a friend.


It will take time, I know; but teach him, if you can, that a dollar earned is far more valuable than


five found.


Teach him to learn to lose and also to enjoy winning.


Steer him away from envy, if you can.


Teach him the secret of quiet laughter. Let him learn early that the bullies are the easiest to


lick.


Teach him, if you can, the wonder of books... but also give him quiet time to ponder over the


eternal mystery of birds in the sky, bees in the sun, and flowers on a green hill -side.


In school teach him it is far more honourable to fail than to cheat.


Teach him to have faith in his own ideas, even if everyone tells him they are wrong.


Teach him to be gentle with gentle people and tough with the tough.


Try to give my son the strength not to follow the crowd when everyone is getting on the


bandwagon.


Teach him to listen to all men but teach him also to filter all he hears on a screen of truth and


take only the good that comes through.


Teach him, if you can, how to laugh when he is sad. Teach him there is no shame in tears. Teach


him to scoff at cynics and to beware of too much sweetness.


Teach him to sell his brawn and brain to the highest bidders; but never to put a price tag on his


heart and soul.


Teach him to close his ears to a howling mob… and to stand and fight if he thinks he's right.


Treat him gently; but do not cuddle him because only the test of fire makes fine steel.


Let him have the courage to be impatient, let him have the patience to be brave. Teach him


always to have sublime faith in himself because then he will always have sublime faith in


mankind.


This is a big order; but see what you can do. He is such a fine little fellow, my son.


Abraham Lincoln.


Think and discuss:


1. What message does Lincoln's letter give the reader? Discuss with your partner.


2. Compare the purpose of Lincoln's letter with “The Last Letter" by Pt. Nehru