x̄ - > KCSE History Topical Question Bank (1996–2024

Questions grouped by topic • Answers & marking schemes included • Comprehensive KCSE-style coverage

1. Introduction to History and Government

Concept Focus: Meaning of history, importance, sources of historical information, and the study of government.

Sample KCSE 2002 – Paper 1:
State two reasons why the study of History and Government is important.

It helps learners understand their past and appreciate cultural heritage; promotes national unity and patriotism.

(2 marks – 1 mark each for any two valid reasons)

2. Early Man

Concept Focus: Origin, evolution, and development of early man.

Sample KCSE 2006 – Paper 1:
Name two archaeological sites in Kenya where early human remains have been found.

Koobi Fora and Olorgesailie.

(2 marks – 1 mark each correct site)

3. Peoples and Social Organization of East Africa

Concept Focus: Migration, settlement, and socio-economic activities of Kenyan communities.

Sample KCSE 2010 – Paper 1:
State two results of the Bantu migration into Kenya.

Introduction of iron-working; intermarriages with local communities.

(2 marks – award 1 mark per correct result)

4. Contacts between East Africa and the Outside World

Concept Focus: Early contacts, trade, Portuguese, Arabs, British, and missionary activities.

Sample KCSE 2018 – Paper 1:
State two effects of the Portuguese rule on the East African coast.

Destruction of coastal towns; introduction of new building styles such as forts.

(2 marks)

5. Colonization and Resistance

Concept Focus: European scramble, establishment of colonial rule, and African resistance.

Sample KCSE 2014 – Paper 1:
Give one reason why African communities resisted colonial rule.

They wanted to defend their land and freedom.

(1 mark)

6. Political Developments and Struggles for Independence

Concept Focus: Formation of political associations, Mau Mau, and attainment of independence.

Sample KCSE 2009 – Paper 1:
State two roles of the Mau Mau movement in Kenya’s struggle for independence.

Mobilized Africans against colonial rule; created political awareness and unity among Africans.

(2 marks)

7. Citizenship and National Integration

Concept Focus: Rights, duties, and responsibilities of citizens; importance of national unity.

Sample KCSE 2019 – Paper 1:
State two ways of promoting national unity in Kenya.

Encouraging intermarriage among communities; promoting national languages like Kiswahili.

(2 marks)

8. Democracy and Human Rights

Concept Focus: Principles of democracy, human rights, and responsibilities.

Sample KCSE 2020 – Paper 2:
State two principles of democracy.

Rule of law and equality before the law.

(2 marks)

9. Social, Economic and Political Developments since Independence

Concept Focus: Challenges, achievements, and reforms after 1963.

Sample KCSE 2022 – Paper 2:
State two economic challenges faced by Kenya since independence.

Unemployment and dependence on foreign aid.

(2 marks)

10. International Relations

Concept Focus: Kenya’s foreign policy, regional organizations, and international cooperation.

Sample KCSE 2017 – Paper 2:
State two benefits of Kenya’s membership in the United Nations.

Access to development aid and peacekeeping participation.

(2 marks)