Question

According to Bernier, what was one of the fundamental differences between Mughal India and Europe?

• A. The absence of trade in Mughal India
• B. The lack of centralized government in Europe
• C. The absence of private property in land in Mughal India
• D. The prevalence of European feudalism

Hint:

Bernier $\rightarrow$ Mughal India vs Europe $\rightarrow$ Land Ownership $\rightarrow$ No Private Property

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: Understanding Bernier and his observations regarding Mughal India
Francois Bernier was a French traveler, physician, and political observer who visited India during the reign of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in the seventeenth century. During his stay in India, he closely observed the administrative, economic, and social systems of Mughal India and compared them with European institutions. His writings became an important source of information regarding Mughal society.

Step 1: Understand Bernier's comparative approach
Bernier frequently compared Mughal India with Europe in order to identify similarities and differences. He particularly focused on:

• Political administration
• Economic structure
• Social conditions
• Land ownership system

Among these, land ownership attracted his greatest attention.

Step 2: Understand Bernier's argument regarding land
Bernier believed that one major difference between Europe and Mughal India was the absence of private ownership of land. According to him:

• The Mughal emperor was regarded as the supreme owner of land.
• Jagirdars only possessed temporary rights over assigned lands.
• Individuals did not permanently own agricultural land.
• This system reduced incentives for long-term investment.

Step 3: Bernier's conclusion
Bernier argued that because people lacked permanent property rights, agricultural development and economic growth were negatively affected. He considered private ownership in Europe to be one reason for greater prosperity. Thus: \[ \text{Mughal India}\rightarrow \text{No private ownership of land} \]

Step 4: Analyze the options
(a) Absence of trade in Mughal India --- Incorrect because Mughal India had flourishing domestic and international trade.
(b) Lack of centralized government in Europe --- Incorrect because this was not Bernier's primary argument.
(c) Absence of private property in land in Mughal India --- Correct according to Bernier's observations.
(d) Prevalence of European feudalism --- Incorrect because this was not identified as the major difference. Hence, \[ \boxed{\text{Absence of private property in land in Mughal India}} \] Therefore option (c) is correct.