Is World History in UPSC Syllabus?

World History is one of the most interesting and exciting subjects that has always fascinated scholars and students alike. The study of world history helps us understand the complex interplay between different cultures, societies, and civilizations.

But when it comes to UPSC exams, many aspirants often wonder whether world history is a part of the syllabus or not. In this article, we will explore this question in detail.

Is World History in UPSC Syllabus?

The answer to this question is yes. World History is an important part of the UPSC syllabus. In fact, it is an integral component of the General Studies Paper 1 (GS1) for both Prelims and Mains Exam.

UPSC Prelims Syllabus

In UPSC Prelims Exam, world history is a sub-topic under the broader category of History of India and Indian National Movement. The following are some of the important topics that come under this sub-topic:

  • The Industrial Revolution
  • The American Revolution
  • The French Revolution
  • The World Wars
  • The Cold War

UPSC Mains Syllabus

In UPSC Mains Exam, world history has a separate paper – Paper II – which covers the following topics:

  • Ancient Period – Early societies; Ancient Civilizations (Egyptian, Mesopotamian, Indus Valley); Ancient Greece; Ancient Rome.
  • Medieval Period – Byzantine Empire; Islamic Civilization; Mongol Empire; Rise of West.
  • Modern Period – Renaissance and Reformation; Industrial Revolution; World Wars; Cold War.

Why is World History Important for UPSC Exam?

The study of world history is important for UPSC exams for the following reasons:

  • It helps aspirants understand the global context in which India’s history unfolded.
  • It provides a broader perspective on human civilization, culture, and society.
  • It helps aspirants understand the key events and movements that shaped the world order as we know it today.

How to Prepare for World History in UPSC Exam?

Preparing for world history in UPSC exam can be a daunting task. Here are some tips that can help you ace this subject:

  • Read NCERT textbooks – NCERT textbooks are an excellent source of information on world history. They provide a comprehensive overview of the subject and cover all the important topics.
  • Refer to standard reference books – Standard reference books like ‘A Brief History of Modern India’ by Rajiv Ahir and ‘History of Modern World’ by Jain and Mathur can be helpful in gaining a deeper understanding of the subject.
  • Watch documentaries – Watching documentaries on different periods and events in world history can be an enjoyable and effective way to learn about the subject.
  • Practice answer writing – Practicing answer writing is crucial for scoring well in UPSC exams. Make sure to practice writing answers to previous year question papers related to world history.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, World History is an important part of the UPSC syllabus. Aspirants should give adequate time and attention to this subject while preparing for their exams. By following a structured study plan, referring to standard reference books, and practicing answer writing, one can excel in this subject and score well in UPSC exams.