History Exam Questions for SS3 First Term with Answers

You’re welcome to our school exams series where we provide you with termly examination questions in different subjects. In today’s post, we will focus on History exam questions. We will cover History exam questions for SS3 First term with answers. This means that we’ll be providing you with answers to the questions at the end. Also, you will get a few success tips on how to pass History examinations with flying colors. Remember to use the comments sections if you have questions, and don’t forget to join our Free Online Tutorial Classes on YouTube. (Subscribe to the Channel)

Introduction to History as a School Subject

Before we venture into Past History Exam Questions for SS3 First term, here’s a brief introduction to the subject:

History is the study of past human activities and the events that have shaped societies over time. As a school subject, it helps students understand how people lived, governed themselves, and related with one another in different periods. By learning History, students discover the origins of their communities, nations, and the world at large.

The subject also teaches important lessons from the past—how achievements were made, mistakes were committed, and how societies developed. It helps learners to appreciate their cultural heritage, respect other cultures, and develop a sense of identity and patriotism.

In schools, History is not just about memorizing dates and events; it develops critical thinking, research, and analytical skills. It enables students to understand change, continuity, and cause-and-effect relationships in human affairs. In essence, History prepares young people to make informed decisions that can shape a better future.

History Exam Questions for SS3 First Term

History Exam Questions for SS3 First Term are divided into two sections:

• Section A
• Section B

The first section, namely, Section A is the objective test, and students are expected to attempt all questions in the section. Section B is the theory part, and students are expected to follow specific instruction and answer the required number of questions.

Note that what you have below are SS3 History First Term Exam Past Questions made available to assist students in their revision for 1st term examinations and also teachers in structuring standard examinations.

SECTION A: Objective Test

Instruction: Answer all questions in this section by choosing from the options lettered A—D. Each question carries equal marks.

1. Which of the following best describes the Scramble for Africa (late 19th century)?
A. A peaceful trade agreement among African states
B. A sudden surge of European missionary visits only
C. The rapid colonization of Africa by European powers
D. A cultural exchange program between Europe and Africa

2. The Berlin Conference of 1884–1885 is important because it:
A. Ended the Atlantic slave trade
B. Laid down rules for European colonization of Africa
C. Created the League of Nations
D. Abolished colonial administrations

3. Which European country colonized the area that later became modern-day Senegal and Mali (French Sudan)?
A. Britain          B. France
C. Portugal       D. Germany

4. Samori Touré is best known for:
A. Leading the Ashanti against the British
B. Founding the Sokoto Caliphate
C. Resisting French colonization in West Africa
D. Signing a treaty with the British to cede land

5. The Sokoto Caliphate was established by:
A. Mansa Musa
B. Usman ɗan Fodio
C. Ovonramwen
D. Shaka Zulu

6. Which of the following was a direct economic effect of British colonial rule in West Africa?
A. Complete industrialization of the region
B. Introduction of cash-crop farming for export
C. Ending all forms of taxation
D. Rapid development of local manufacturing

7. Indirect rule as practiced by the British in Nigeria meant:
A. Direct appointment of Europeans to all local offices
B. Leaving all governance to traditional rulers with no oversight
C. Using traditional rulers to administer colonial policies under British supervision
D. Granting full political independence to colonies

8. Which of these leaders was a key figure in the independence movement of Ghana?
A. Nnamdi Azikiwe
B. Kwame Nkrumah
C. Jomo Kenyatta
D. Léopold Sédar Senghor

9. The primary aim of Pan-Africanism in the 20th century was to:
A. Promote European investment in Africa
B. Encourage African unity and liberation from colonial rule
C. Restrict African migration
D. Divide African territories among rival chiefs

10. Which event significantly stimulated nationalist movements in Africa after World War II?
A. The discovery of oil in West Africa
B. Allied victory and the weakened position of European powers
C. The outbreak of the Cold War in Europe only
D. The opening of the Suez Canal

11. The term “Protectorate” in colonial administration refers to:
A. A fully independent country
B. A territory with full self-government under no foreign influence
C. A territory where the colonial power controls foreign policy but allows internal autonomy
D. A region governed only by missionaries

12. Which factor most strengthened European conquest of Africa in the 19th century?
A. Superior European military technology like Maxim guns
B. Larger African populations
C. African alliances with China
D. Europe’s lack of interest in African resources

13. The Atlantic slave trade primarily affected West Africa by:
A. Increasing population uniformly across the region
B. Reducing populations and disrupting societies
C. Introducing modern education systems immediately
D. Causing the end of all internal conflicts

14. The Mandinka leader who resisted French conquest in West Africa was:
A. Mansa Musa
B. Samori Touré
C. Osei Tutu
D. Nana Akufo-Addo

15. Which of the following best describes the policy of assimilation used by the French in their colonies?
A. Forcing Africans to adopt French culture and laws
B. Granting immediate independence to colonies
C. Leaving local customs entirely untouched
D. Encouraging only economic ties without cultural change

16. The Ashanti Empire was located primarily in present-day:
A. Ghana          B. Nigeria
C. Senegal        D. Mali

17. Which British colonial administrator is associated with the policy of indirect rule in Nigeria?
A. Lord Lugard
B. Cecil Rhodes
C. David Livingstone
D. Olaudah Equiano

18. Which African country was colonized by Belgium?
A. Nigeria     B. Congo (Kinshasa)
C. Ghana      D. Liberia

19. The term “neo-colonialism” refers to:
A. The complete withdrawal of foreign influence
B. Economic and political control by former colonial powers after independence
C. The creation of new colonies in the 21st century
D. The return to pre-colonial governance structures

20. The Hausa-Fulani Sokoto Caliphate’s administration incorporated which features?
A. A secular democratic parliament
B. Islamic law and emirates under a caliph
C. Matriarchal councils only
D. European-style constitutions

21. Which of the following was a major cash crop introduced or expanded under colonial rule in West Africa?
A. Yams for local markets only
B. Cocoa for export
C. Maize solely for subsistence
D. Sorghum for artisanal crafts

22. The Aro Confederacy (pre-colonial) was chiefly influential in which modern country?
A. Ghana
B. Nigeria
C. Mali
D. Sierra Leone

23. The primary purpose of missionary activity in colonial Africa was often to:
A. Provide military training to locals
B. Spread Christianity and Western education
C. Promote traditional African religions
D. Stop European colonization

24. Which treaty formally transferred the rights over Lagos to the British in 1861?
A. Treaty of Berlin
B. Treaty of Cession
C. Treaty of Versailles
D. Treaty of Waitangi

25. The economic system of taxation introduced by colonial governments forced many Africans to:
A. Stop all farming
B. Sell labour and produce cash crops to pay taxes
C. Become full-time military personnel
D. Migrate to Europe en masse

26. Which of the following leaders was associated with Nigerian nationalism in the 20th century?
A. Kwame Nkrumah
B. Nnamdi Azikiwe
C. Haile Selassie
D. Patrice Lumumba

27. The Berlin Conference prohibited which of the following to regulate colonial activities?
A. Slavery within Europe only
B. The use of missionaries
C. Any European power from planting flags
D. Claims to African territory without effective occupation

28. Which pre-colonial state is famously known for its bronze artworks and was invaded by the British in 1897?
A. Dahomey
B. Benin Kingdom
C. Oyo Empire
D. Mali Empire

29. Which of the following was a major reason for the decline of some West African kingdoms in the 19th century?
A. Universal adoption of modern technology by all kingdoms
B. Internal conflicts and European military pressure
C. Complete isolation from world trade
D. Rapid democratic reforms

30. The role of women in pre-colonial West African societies included:
A. Complete exclusion from economic activities
B. Active participation in trade and sometimes political power
C. Universal military service only
D. Solely religious duties with no public roles

31. Which movement called for an end to colonial rule and the establishment of African-led governments after WWII?
A. Colonial revivalism
B. African nationalism
C. Pan-European federation
D. Feudal restoration

32. The main route for the trans-Saharan trade connected West Africa to:
A. Southern Africa only
B. North Africa and the Mediterranean
C. The Americas directly
D. East Asia

33. Which of these statements about the Protectorate of Northern Nigeria (early 20th century) is true?
A. It was governed through direct British settlement only
B. It incorporated many emirates under indirect rule
C. It had no interaction with southern Nigeria
D. It was immediately granted independence in 1910

34. The Young African movement and similar groups primarily consisted of:
A. Traditional chiefs only
B. Educated elites and returnee intellectuals pushing for reform
C. European settlers calling for more control
D. Child labor unions

35. The Mandinka empire under Samori Touré fell largely because of:
A. A volcanic eruption
B. French military campaigns and superior weaponry
C. A voluntary merger with France
D. A trade agreement with Britain

36. The phrase “divide and rule” describes a colonial strategy to:
A. Unite local populations against colonizers
B. Increase local autonomy without interference
C. Exploit ethnic and regional differences to weaken resistance
D. Distribute power equally among all groups

37. Which African country retained its independence and was never formally colonized by a European power (except brief occupations)?
A. Ghana
B. Liberia (and Ethiopia to a large extent).
C. Nigeria
D. Senegal

38. The role of African soldiers in World War I and II influenced nationalism because:
A. They were never exposed to new ideas
B. Their experiences increased demands for political rights at home
C. They were fully satisfied with colonial rule
D. Their service ensured immediate independence after the wars

39. The Olu of Warri and other traditional rulers were incorporated into colonial administration mainly as:
A. Military generals leading colonial armies
B. Local intermediaries used by colonial governments
C. Independent national presidents
D. Heads of European trading companies

40. Which of the following best describes mercantilism as practiced by some colonial powers?
A. Encouraging free trade without restrictions
B. Controlling colonies to supply raw materials and markets for the mother country
C. Abolishing all trade taxes
D. Promoting only domestic African industries

41. Which of these groups in Nigeria mainly led early 20th-century anti-colonial agitation for rights and reforms?
A. European missionaries
B. Educated elite and professionals (teachers, clerks, lawyers).
C. Only uneducated rural peasants
D. Foreign mercenaries

42. Indentured labour under colonial economies typically involved:
A. Free migration without contracts
B. Bound labourers contracted for a period to work on plantations or railways
C. Volunteer short-term tourism work
D. Military drafts for local armies only

43. The Hausa city-states became important through trade in:
A. Slaves, salt, and other goods across the Sahara
B. Silk production only
C. Timber exclusively
D. Whaling operations

44. Which factor helped the Europeans map and penetrate the interior of Africa in the 19th century?
A. Decline in European shipping technology
B. Exploration, steamships, and improved medicine like quinine
C. Complete lack of interest in inland trade
D. African universal immunity to European diseases

45. The main objective of the African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa was to:
A. Support apartheid policies
B. Fight racial discrimination and attain political rights for black South Africans
C. Promote European settler supremacy
D. End all contact with the international community

46. The coastal slave forts built by Europeans were primarily used for:
A. Agricultural research
B. Holding enslaved people before shipment across the Atlantic.
C. Local religious ceremonies only
D. Storing only spices for local trade

47. Which of the following was a consequence of missionary education in colonial Africa?
A. Complete rejection of Western ideas by all Africans
B. Creation of an educated elite that later led nationalist movements
C. Instant industrialization of the continent
D. Elimination of all indigenous languages

48. The Olusegun Obasanjo era is associated with which country’s modern history?
A. Ghana
B. Nigeria
C. Kenya
D. Sierra Leone

49. Which of these describes the policy of assimilation versus association used by the French?
A. Assimilation sought to make subjects French; association allowed indirect rule with local customs
B. Both terms meant the same thing
C. Association forced all colonies to adopt French laws fully
D. Assimilation allowed complete local autonomy

50. Which pre-colonial West African state was known for its cavalry and power across the Sahel in the 16th century?
A. Oyo Empire
B. Songhai Empire
C. Benin Kingdom
D. Yoruba city-states

51. The League of Nations mandates after World War I led to:
A. Immediate independence for all African territories
B. Some former German colonies being administered by other European powers under mandate
C. The creation of the United Nations only
D. The abolition of colonialism

52. Which movement or organization did Marcus Garvey promote that influenced African nationalism?
A. Pan-European Union
B. Back-to-Africa and black pride movements
C. European colonial expansion
D. The Berlin Conference

53. The main cause of the British-French rivalry in West Africa was competition for:
A. Access to European markets only
B. Territorial control, trade routes, and resources
C. Religious conversion of Europeans
D. Establishing colonies in the Americas

54. Which of the following events marked the end of the ancient Mali Empire’s dominance?
A. The rise of the Songhai Empire and internal decline
B. Colonization by the British in 1600.
C. Complete isolation from trans-Saharan trade
D. A volcanic eruption

55. Which of these was NOT a typical feature of colonial economy in West Africa?
A. Focus on single cash crops for export
B. Development of infrastructure primarily to extract resources
C. Encouragement of diversified local manufacturing industries
D. Imposition of taxes to force labor

56. The Amalgamation of Northern and Southern Nigeria in 1914 was carried out by:
A. Lord Lugard
B. Kwame Nkrumah
C. Samori Touré
D. Cecil Rhodes

57. The rise of new urban centres in colonial West Africa was mainly due to:
A. Increased rural isolation policies
B. Growth of colonial administration, commerce, and transport hubs
C. Decrease in trade activities
D. Elimination of ports

58. Which international development after World War II provided moral support for African independence movements?
A. Strengthening of colonial empires
B. Creation of the United Nations and emphasis on self-determination
C. Reinstatement of the Berlin Conference
D. Ban on decolonization discussions

59. The Oyo Empire was primarily located in the area of present-day:
A. Northern Nigeria
B. Southwestern Nigeria
C. Senegal
D. Ghana

60. Which of these factors most undermined traditional political authority under colonial rule?
A. Recognition and reinforcement of traditional rulers’ powers only
B. Colonial restructuring, taxation, and appointment of new administrative units
C. Complete cultural revival of indigenous systems
D. Granting full real political power to all chiefs

Read Also: History Exam Questions for SS2 First Term with Answer

SECTION B: Essay / Theory

INSTRUCTION – Answer only five (5) questions in this section. Write your answers clearly and number your work exactly as below.

1. Explain the causes, major events, and consequences of the Scramble for Africa In your answer, make specific reference to the Berlin Conference and at least two African responses to colonization.

2. Discuss the rise, administration, and decline of the Sokoto Caliphate under Usman ɗan Fodio Include its political structure, economic base, and the impact of colonial conquest.

3. Examine the role of missionary education and Western-educated elites in the rise of nationalist movements in West Africa Provide examples of how education influenced political change.

4. Analyze Samori Touré’s resistance to French expansion in West Africa Describe his methods, successes, failures, and the factors that led to his eventual defeat.

5. Compare and contrast British indirect rule and French assimilation/association policies Explain the long-term political and social effects of each system on African societies.

6. Trace the development and impact of the Atlantic slave trade on West African societies between the 16th and 19th centuries Discuss demographic, economic, and social consequences.

7. Discuss the process of decolonization in one West African country of your choice (eg, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal). In your answer, identify the major nationalist leaders, strategies used to gain independence, and immediate post-independence challenges.

Remember to use the comments sections if you have questions, and don’t forget to join our Free Online Tutorial Classes on YouTube. (Subscribe to the Channel)

Answers to History Exam Questions for SS3 First Term

Answers to Section A (Objective Test)

The following table gives the correct answers to the objective section of History exam questions for SS3 First term. If you are using a mobile device, hold the table and scroll to the right or left for a complete view.

So here you have the answers to the objective section of History Exam Questions for SS3 First term. Use the comments section to let me know if you have any questions you would want me to clarify or discuss further.

Answers to Section B (Theory)

1. Causes, Major Events, and Consequences of the Scramble for Africa

The Scramble for Africa was a period during the late 19th century when European powers rapidly divided and occupied African territories. The major causes included the search for raw materials, new markets for industrial goods, and the desire for political prestige. The spirit of nationalism and rivalry among European powers also drove the competition for colonies.

The Berlin Conference of 1884–1885, convened by Otto von Bismarck, formalized the partition of Africa. It set the rules for territorial claims and recognized the principle of effective occupation. The major events included the colonization of vast African territories by Britain, France, Germany, Portugal, and Belgium.

African responses varied. Some groups resisted, such as the Ashanti and the Zulu, while others, like certain coastal chiefs, signed treaties hoping to benefit from European alliances. The consequences included the loss of African sovereignty, economic exploitation, cultural disruption, and artificial borders that divided ethnic groups. However, it also led to the introduction of modern infrastructure and education, though mainly for colonial interests.

2. Rise, Administration, and Decline of the Sokoto Caliphate under Usman ɗan Fodio

The Sokoto Caliphate arose in the early 19th century as a result of the jihad led by Usman ɗan Fodio against corruption and un-Islamic practices in the Hausa kingdoms. His religious reform movement attracted large followings and led to the overthrow of several Hausa rulers.

The administration of the Caliphate was based on Islamic law (Sharia). The Caliph served as the spiritual and political leader, assisted by Emirs who governed provinces. The Caliphate had a strong economic base, relying on agriculture, trade, and taxation. It became one of the largest and most organized empires in West Africa.

However, internal rivalries and the growing influence of European powers weakened it. The British conquered the Caliphate in 1903, marking its decline. Despite the fall, the Islamic institutions established by Usman ɗan Fodio continue to influence Northern Nigeria today.

3. Role of Missionary Education and Western-Educated Elites in the Rise of Nationalist Movements

Missionary education played a key role in awakening political consciousness in West Africa. Missionaries introduced literacy, printing presses, and new ideas about liberty, equality, and self-determination. Schools established by missions produced the first generation of Western-educated Africans who later led nationalist movements.

Figures such as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Kwame Nkrumah, and Obafemi Awolowo were products of missionary or Western education. Through newspapers, political associations, and public speeches, these elites challenged colonial rule and demanded reforms. Education gave them the tools to articulate African interests, leading to the rise of organized nationalist movements and the eventual independence of several West African nations.

4. Samori Touré’s Resistance to French Expansion in West Africa

Samori Touré, the founder of the Wassoulou Empire, led one of the most formidable resistances against French colonial expansion in the late 19th century. He built a strong army based on trade in gold and arms and adopted modern military tactics, including the use of firearms.

Samori established a disciplined administration and maintained control over vast territories in present-day Guinea, Mali, and Côte d’Ivoire. His success was due to his strategic diplomacy and mobility. However, the French used superior weaponry and a scorched-earth policy to weaken him. Internal divisions and exhaustion eventually led to his capture in 1898. Samori Touré’s resistance remains a symbol of African courage and determination.

5. Comparison of British Indirect Rule and French Assimilation/Association Policies

British indirect rule, developed by Lord Lugard, governed through traditional rulers who were integrated into the colonial administration. The system preserved local customs and political structures, provided they did not conflict with colonial interests.

In contrast, the French assimilation policy aimed to make Africans “French” by imposing French language, laws, and culture. Later, the association policy allowed limited respect for local traditions but maintained strong French control.

The long-term effects differed: British territories retained more indigenous institutions after independence, while French colonies were more culturally influenced by France. However, both systems created social hierarchies and centralized control that shaped post-colonial governance in Africa.

6. Development and Impact of the Atlantic Slave Trade on West African Societies

The Atlantic slave trade, which lasted from the 16th to the 19th centuries, involved the forced transportation of millions of Africans to the Americas. West African kingdoms like Dahomey and Oyo participated by capturing and selling slaves to European traders in exchange for guns, textiles, and alcohol.

The trade caused severe depopulation, disrupted societies, and fostered inter-tribal wars. Economically, it shifted focus from productive agriculture to slave raiding, weakening long-term development. Socially, it destroyed families and created fear and mistrust among communities. However, it also led to the rise of powerful states that profited from the trade. The abolition of the slave trade in the 19th century paved the way for legitimate commerce and later European colonization.

7. Decolonization in Nigeria: Nationalist Leaders, Strategies, and Challenges

The process of decolonization in Nigeria began after World War II. The rise of educated elites and the spread of nationalist ideas accelerated the demand for self-rule. Leaders like Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello played crucial roles.

Nationalist strategies included the formation of political parties such as the NCNC, Action Group, and NPC, as well as the use of newspapers, protests, and constitutional conferences. Gradually, power was transferred through reforms, leading to independence on October 1, 1960.

Post-independence challenges included ethnic rivalries, political instability, and regional imbalance. Despite these issues, Nigeria’s independence marked a significant victory for African self-determination and inspired other colonies to seek freedom.

How to Pass History Exam Questions for SS3 First Term

Passing your History exam questions for SS3 First term requires a combination of preparation, understanding, and strategy. Here are actionable tips to help you excel:

1. Make a smart revision plan

• List the topics in your scheme of work. Tick off what you know and what you must revise.
• Set short, daily goals. Study one or two topics each day with quick reviews.
• Use past questions and mark schemes. They show how questions are set and what examiners want.

2. Learn facts with purpose

• Memorise key dates, names, places, and events. Link them to causes and effects.
• Create short timelines for big topics (e.g. Scramble for Africa, Sokoto Caliphate).
• Keep a one-page summary for each topic — facts, causes, consequences, and key leaders.

3. Practice objective questions (MCQs)

• Read every option fully before choosing. Don’t rush on first glance.
• Use elimination: cross out impossible answers first, then pick the best remaining option.
• If unsure, mark and come back. Often later questions trigger memory.

4. Structure your essay answers

Exam essays need clear structure. Use three parts:

1. Introduction: Define the topic briefly and state your plan.
2. Body: Give 3–5 balanced points. For each point use: fact → explanation → example.
3. Conclusion: Summarise the main points and give a short judgement.

5. Use evidence and examples

• Always support claims with names, dates, places or short quotes from documents.
• Give at least one specific example for every major point (e.g. name a leader, a battle, a treaty).

6. Time management in the exam

• Scan the paper first. Note how many objective and essay questions there are.
• Start with questions you know well to build confidence.
• For essays, spend a few minutes planning before you write. A clear plan saves time.

7. Present your answers well

• Write legibly and use paragraphs. Examiners mark ideas, not handwriting, but clarity helps.
• Number your answers correctly. Follow instructions on the question paper.
• Use simple, direct sentences. Avoid long, confusing sentences.

8. Revise actively

• Test yourself with timed past questions. Treat them as real exams.
• Form a small study group. Teach one another short topics — teaching helps memory.
• Use flashcards for dates and key facts. Review them daily.

9. Mindset and exam-day tips

• Rest well the night before. A calm mind remembers better.
• Eat something light before the exam. Drink water.
• Read each question slowly. Answer what is asked — don’t write everything you know.
• Stay calm. If you get stuck, move on and return later.

It’s a wrap!

If you need more clarification on SS3 First Term Questions on History, you can use the comments box below. We’ll be there to answer you asap. Don’t forget to join our Free Online Tutorial Classes on YouTube. (Subscribe to the Channel)

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