Previous Year Paper

MPPSC Assistant Professor 2022 History Paper II (Previous Year Paper)

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150 questions180 minutes
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Question 1

The tiger crest is the emblem of

  1. AOption (a)

    Chola coins

  2. BOption (b)

    Chera coins

  3. COption (c)

    Pandyà coins

  4. DOption (d)

    Chalukya coins

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Chola coins

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Chola coins

Key Points

  • Chola coins
  • The Chola dynasty was a powerful and influential dynasty in Southern India, known for its significant contributions to art, architecture, and coinage.
  • The tiger crest symbol was prominently used as the emblem on the Chola coins, signifying strength, power, and royal authority.
  • The tiger emblem not only symbolized the might of the Chola kings but also served as a mark of their dominion over their territories.
  • Chola coins were often made of gold, silver, and copper, and featured intricate designs that included the tiger crest along with inscriptions in Tamil.

Additional Information

  • Chera coins
  • The Chera dynasty ruled over parts of modern-day Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
  • Chera coins often depicted symbols such as the bow and arrow, which were distinct from the Chola’s tiger crest.
  • Pandya coins
  • The Pandya dynasty was another significant dynasty in Southern India, known for its fish emblem.
  • The fish symbol was prominently featured on Pandya coins, reflecting their maritime prowess and reliance on the sea.
  • Chalukya coins
  • The Chalukya dynasty ruled over a large part of Southern and Central India.
  • Chalukya coins often bore symbols like the boar, which was associated with their emblematic deity, Varaha (an incarnation of Vishnu).

Question 2

Which of the following law-givers holds that women could sell and mortgage her immovable property along with her stridhan?

  1. AOption (a)

    Katyayana

  2. BOption (b)

    Narada

  3. COption (c)

    Shukra

  4. DOption (d)

    Brihaspati

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Katyayana

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Katyayana

Key Points

  • Katyayana
  • Katyayana was a renowned ancient Indian jurist and law-giver.
  • He is known for his detailed commentary on Hindu law, including laws related to property and inheritance.
  • According to Katyayana, women could sell and mortgage their immovable property along with their stridhan.
  • Stridhan refers to the property that a woman receives at the time of her marriage from her family, which includes gifts, jewelry, and other valuables.

Additional Information

  • Narada
  • Narada was another ancient Indian law-giver known for his contributions to Dharmaśāstra.
  • He wrote the "Narada Smriti," which also deals with laws related to property and inheritance.
  • Shukra
  • Shukra was a sage and the author of "Shukra Niti," a treatise on ethics and statecraft.
  • His work primarily focused on politics, governance, and moral conduct.
  • Brihaspati
  • Brihaspati was a preceptor of the gods and a prominent law-giver in ancient Indian tradition.
  • He is known for the "Brihaspati Smriti," which includes laws and guidelines on various aspects of life, including property and legal issues.

Question 3

Which is not a work (Drama) of Harsha?

  1. AOption (a)

    Navantika

  2. BOption (b)

    Priyadarshika

  3. COption (c)

    Ratnavali

  4. DOption (d)

    Nagananda

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Navantika

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Navantika

Key Points

  • Navantika
  • Navantika is not one of the works of Harsha, the ancient Indian playwright and poet.
  • Harsha, also known as Harshavardhana, was a renowned king and scholar from the 7th century CE.
  • He is well-known for his contributions to Sanskrit literature, but Navantika is not among his recognized works.

Additional Information

  • Priyadarshika
  • Priyadarshika is one of the three known plays written by Harsha.
  • The play is a romantic drama and highlights the literary prowess and creativity of Harsha.
  • Ratnavali
  • Ratnavali is another famous play attributed to Harsha.
  • This drama is also centered around romance and is celebrated for its intricate plot and elegant poetry.
  • Nagananda
  • Nagananda is the third well-known play written by Harsha.
  • This play is unique as it combines romantic and religious themes, showcasing Harsha's versatility as a playwright.

Question 4

According to which Chinese traveller's account, the monastery at Nalanda was supported from the revenue of 100 villages?

  1. AOption (a)

    I-tsing

  2. BOption (b)

    Huentsang

  3. COption (c)

    Fahien

  4. DOption (d)

    Faxian

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Huentsang

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Huentsang

Key Points

  • Huentsang
  • Huentsang, also known as Xuanzang, was a Chinese Buddhist monk, scholar, and traveler who visited India in the 7th century.
  • He documented his journey in the book "Great Tang Records on the Western Regions."
  • According to his accounts, the monastery at Nalanda was supported by the revenue from 100 villages granted by the king.
  • Huentsang’s detailed descriptions provide valuable insights into the educational and cultural practices of ancient Indian institutions, especially Nalanda University.

Additional Information

  • I-tsing
  • I-tsing, another Chinese Buddhist monk, visited India in the 7th century after Huentsang.
  • He stayed at Nalanda for over 10 years and wrote about his experiences in "A Record of the Buddhist Religion as Practiced in India and the Malay Archipelago."
  • His accounts emphasize the rigorous academic and spiritual training at Nalanda.
  • Fahien
  • Fahien was an earlier Chinese Buddhist monk who traveled to India in the 5th century.
  • His journey is recorded in "A Record of Buddhistic Kingdoms."
  • He visited various Buddhist sites but did not provide detailed accounts about the funding of Nalanda.
  • Faxian
  • Faxian is another name for Fahien, indicating the same traveler and his contributions.
  • He is renowned for his pilgrimage to India to collect Buddhist texts.
  • His works were instrumental in introducing Indian Buddhism to China.

Question 5

Which one of the following Pallava Kings founded Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram?

  1. AOption (a)

    Mahendravarman I

  2. BOption (b)

    Parameshwarvarman I

  3. COption (c)

    Narasimhavarman

  4. DOption (d)

    Simhavishnu

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Narasimhavarman

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Narasimhavarman

Key Points

  • Narasimhavarman
  • Narasimhavarman I, also known as Mamalla, was a Pallava king who ruled South India from 630 to 668 AD.
  • He is widely credited with founding the city of Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram), which is renowned for its rock-cut temples and monuments.
  • Mahabalipuram is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its architectural grandeur and historical significance.
  • Narasimhavarman's reign was marked by military successes and significant contributions to art and architecture.

Additional Information

  • Mahendravarman I
  • Mahendravarman I was the father of Narasimhavarman I and ruled the Pallava dynasty before him.
  • He was known for his contributions to literature and art but did not found Mahabalipuram.
  • Parameshwaravarman I
  • Parameshwaravarman I was another Pallava king who ruled after Narasimhavarman I.
  • His reign was significant but not associated with the founding of Mahabalipuram.
  • Simhavishnu
  • Simhavishnu was an earlier Pallava king who ruled before Mahendravarman I.
  • He is credited with expanding the Pallava kingdom but not with the establishment of Mahabalipuram.

Question 6

The book 'The Indian Mussalmans' was written by

  1. AOption (a)

    W. W. Hunter

  2. BOption (b)

    Syed Ahmad Khan

  3. COption (c)

    Theodore Beck

  4. DOption (d)

    James Morrison

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

W. W. Hunter

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - W. W. Hunter

Key Points

  • W. W. Hunter
  • William Wilson Hunter, a British civil servant and historian, wrote "The Indian Mussalmans" in 1871.
  • The book discusses the social and political conditions of Muslims in India during British rule.
  • It provides an analysis of the Muslim community's loyalty to the British government.
  • Hunter's work aimed to address the British administration's concerns about the possibility of Muslim rebellion post the 1857 uprising.

Additional Information

  • Syed Ahmad Khan
  • He was a prominent Muslim reformer and educator in India.
  • He founded the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College, which later became Aligarh Muslim University.
  • Syed Ahmad Khan worked to promote modern education and social reforms among Indian Muslims.
  • Theodore Beck
  • He was the principal of Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College from 1883 to 1899.
  • Beck played a significant role in shaping the educational policies of the college.
  • James Morrison
  • There is no significant historical record of James Morrison related to the subject of Indian Muslims or British India.

Question 7

Asiatic Society of Bengal was founded by

  1. AOption (a)

    Lord Curzon

  2. BOption (b)

    Lord William Bentinck

  3. COption (c)

    William Jones

  4. DOption (d)

    None of the above

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

William Jones

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - William Jones

Key Points

  • William Jones
  • He was a British philologist, oriental scholar, and a judge.
  • William Jones founded the Asiatic Society of Bengal in 1784 in Calcutta (now Kolkata).
  • The society was established to promote Oriental studies and research on the history and culture of Asia.
  • The Asiatic Society played a significant role in the study and preservation of ancient Indian texts and manuscripts.

Additional Information

  • Lord Curzon
  • He was a British statesman and a colonial official who served as the Viceroy of India from 1899 to 1905.
  • Curzon is known for his efforts to preserve and restore Indian historical sites, such as the Taj Mahal.
  • He was not involved in the founding of the Asiatic Society of Bengal.
  • Lord William Bentinck
  • He was a British colonial administrator who served as the Governor-General of India from 1828 to 1835.
  • Bentinck is known for his social reforms in India, including the abolition of Sati.
  • He did not play any role in the establishment of the Asiatic Society of Bengal.

Question 8

Which among the following Indian painters moved by Swadeshi movement in Bengal, painted his famous 'Bharat Mata' painting, thus symbolising Indian identity in a visual image?

  1. AOption (a)

    Gaganendranath Tagore

  2. BOption (b)

    Abnindranath Tagore

  3. COption (c)

    Debendranath Tagore

  4. DOption (d)

    Rabindranath Tagore

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Abnindranath Tagore

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Abnindranath Tagore

Key Points

  • Abnindranath Tagore
  • He was a prominent Indian painter and the principal artist and creator of the "Bengal School of Art".
  • His most famous painting, "Bharat Mata" (Mother India), was created in 1905 during the Swadeshi movement in Bengal.
  • The painting depicts Bharat Mata as a saffron-clad woman, holding a book, sheaves of paddy, a piece of white cloth, and a garland in her four hands, symbolizing knowledge, food, clothing, and the blessings of the motherland respectively.
  • This visual representation became a symbol of Indian identity and the Indian struggle for independence.
  • The painting was significant in inspiring nationalistic sentiments among the Indian populace.

Additional Information

  • Gaganendranath Tagore
  • He was an Indian painter and cartoonist of the Bengal School of Art.
  • He is known for his unique style that combined traditional Indian and Western modernist styles.
  • He was more focused on caricatures and satirical works rather than nationalistic themes.
  • Debendranath Tagore
  • He was a philosopher and religious reformer, best known for being one of the founders of the Brahmo Samaj.
  • He was not primarily known for his contributions to painting or visual arts.
  • Rabindranath Tagore
  • He was a polymath who reshaped Bengali literature, music, and Indian art with Contextual Modernism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
  • Although he was a painter in his later years, he is more famous for his literary works and his contributions to Indian culture through poetry, music, and philosophy.

Question 9

Which of the following battles was not fought during the 'Third Anglo Maratha War'?

  1. AOption (a)

    Khirki

  2. BOption (b)

    Sitabaldi

  3. COption (c)

    Talegaon

  4. DOption (d)

    Mahidpur

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Talegaon

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Talegaon

Key Points

  • Talegaon
  • The Battle of Talegaon was not part of the Third Anglo-Maratha War.
  • This battle was actually fought during the First Anglo-Maratha War (1775–1782).
  • The First Anglo-Maratha War ended with the Treaty of Salbai in 1782.

Additional Information

  • Third Anglo-Maratha War
  • The Third Anglo-Maratha War (1817-1818) was the final and decisive conflict between the British East India Company and the Maratha Empire in India.
  • The war resulted in the defeat of the Maratha Empire, leading to its annexation and the establishment of British dominance over most of India.
  • Battle of Khirki
  • Fought on November 5, 1817, between the British East India Company and the Maratha forces.
  • This battle was part of the Third Anglo-Maratha War.
  • Battle of Sitabaldi
  • Fought on November 26-27, 1817, this battle took place in present-day Nagpur, Maharashtra.
  • It was also part of the Third Anglo-Maratha War.
  • Battle of Mahidpur
  • Fought on December 21, 1817, between the British and the forces of Malhar Rao Holkar III of the Maratha Empire.
  • This battle was a significant part of the Third Anglo-Maratha War.

Question 10

The First Carnatic War was ended with which treaty?

  1. AOption (a)

    Aix-La-Chappalle

  2. BOption (b)

    Fort St. David

  3. COption (c)

    Paris

  4. DOption (d)

    Trichonopoly

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Aix-La-Chappalle

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Aix-La-Chappalle

Key Points

  • Treaty of Aix-La-Chappalle
  • The First Carnatic War (1746-1748) was part of the larger conflict known as the War of Austrian Succession in Europe.
  • The war in India was primarily between the British East India Company and the French East India Company, with both sides seeking to expand their influence.
  • The Treaty of Aix-La-Chappalle, signed in 1748, ended the war in Europe, and subsequently, the hostilities in India also ceased.
  • The treaty resulted in the return of Madras (captured by the French) to the British, while the French regained territories they had lost in Europe.

Additional Information

  • Treaty of Fort St. David
  • This treaty does not exist historically; Fort St. David was a British fortification in India, but no treaty by this name is recorded.
  • Treaty of Paris
  • The Treaty of Paris in 1763 ended the Seven Years' War, which involved many European powers, including Britain and France.
  • It had significant implications for colonial possessions globally but is not related to the First Carnatic War.
  • Treaty of Trichonopoly
  • Trichonopoly (now Tiruchirapalli) was a significant location in various Carnatic Wars, but no treaty by this name is historically documented for the First Carnatic War.

Question 11

Who was sentenced to six months imprisonment during the Flag Satyagrah at Jabalpur?

  1. AOption (a)

    Govind Das

  2. BOption (b)

    Sunderlal

  3. COption (c)

    Nathuram

  4. DOption (d)

    Jamnalal

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Sunderlal

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Sunderlal

Key Points

  • Sunderlal
  • Sunderlal was a prominent Indian freedom fighter who participated in the Flag Satyagraha movement.
  • The Flag Satyagraha was a non-violent protest against British colonial rule, demanding the right to hoist the Indian national flag.
  • Sunderlal was sentenced to six months imprisonment for his involvement in the Flag Satyagraha at Jabalpur.
  • This movement was part of a broader struggle for Indian independence, emphasizing the importance of national symbols.

Additional Information

  • Govind Das
  • Govind Das was a member of the Indian National Congress and participated in various freedom movements.
  • He was known for his contributions to the Swadeshi movement and other activities aimed at promoting self-reliance.
  • Nathuram
  • Nathuram was not prominently associated with the Flag Satyagraha.
  • His contributions to the freedom struggle were less documented compared to other prominent figures.
  • Jamnalal
  • Jamnalal Bajaj was a noted industrialist and philanthropist who supported the Indian independence movement.
  • He was closely associated with Mahatma Gandhi and participated in various freedom activities.
  • Though he was involved in many protests, his name is not specifically linked to the Flag Satyagraha at Jabalpur.

Question 12

Who led the Turiya jungle Satyagraha?

  1. AOption (a)

    Muka Lohar

  2. BOption (b)

    Ganjan Singh Korku

  3. COption (c)

    Kanchilal Jain

  4. DOption (d)

    Rampratap Gond

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Muka Lohar

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Muka Lohar

Key Points

  • Muka Lohar
  • Muka Lohar was a prominent leader in the Turiya jungle Satyagraha.
  • The Turiya jungle Satyagraha was part of the broader Indian independence movement aimed at protesting against British colonial rule.
  • Muka Lohar's leadership was instrumental in organizing and mobilizing the local tribal communities against British exploitation of forest resources.
  • His efforts helped in raising awareness and uniting the people in their struggle for freedom and rights.

Additional Information

  • Ganjan Singh Korku
  • Ganjan Singh Korku was a leader from the Korku tribe but was not directly associated with the Turiya jungle Satyagraha.
  • His contributions were more localized and not as widely recognized in the broader context of the Indian independence movement.
  • Kanchilal Jain
  • Kanchilal Jain was a notable figure in the Indian independence movement but did not lead the Turiya jungle Satyagraha.
  • He was more involved in other forms of civil disobedience and non-cooperation against British rule.
  • Rampratap Gond
  • Rampratap Gond was a leader from the Gond tribe but was not the leader of the Turiya jungle Satyagraha.
  • His efforts were significant in other local movements for tribal rights and autonomy.

Question 13

When did the British tie Shankar Shah and Raghunath Shah to the mouth of the Cannon and Blown them?

  1. AOption (a)

    18 July 1857

  2. BOption (b)

    18 August 1857

  3. COption (c)

    18 September 1857

  4. DOption (d)

    18 October 1857

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

18 September 1857

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - 18 September 1857

Key Points

  • Shankar Shah and Raghunath Shah
  • Shankar Shah was the last ruler of the Garha-Mandla kingdom, and Raghunath Shah was his son.
  • During the Indian Rebellion of 1857, they were accused of conspiring against the British and encouraging an uprising in Jabalpur.
  • The British suspected them of inciting rebellion through patriotic poems that criticized British rule and inspired resistance.
  • They were arrested by British forces without proper evidence of direct involvement in the rebellion.
  • On 18 September 1857, both were executed by being tied to the mouth of a cannon and blown apart—an act meant to instill fear among the local population and discourage further resistance.
  • This brutal execution, without a fair trial, became a symbol of British oppression and further intensified anti-British sentiments in the region.
  • Their sacrifice is remembered as an example of the extreme measures the British took to suppress the 1857 uprising and the cruelty faced by Indian leaders.

Additional Information

  • 18 July 1857
  • This date corresponds with the early stages of the 1857 uprising when it was gaining momentum in various parts of India.
  • Key uprisings were occurring in places like Kanpur and Lucknow during this period, but no significant events related to Shankar Shah and Raghunath Shah took place on this date.
  • 18 August 1857
  • By mid-August 1857, the British were consolidating their efforts to suppress the rebellion in northern and central India.
  • Although this period saw several confrontations between British forces and Indian rebels, Shankar Shah and Raghunath Shah were not executed on this date.
  • 18 October 1857
  • In October 1857, the British were actively recapturing territories such as Delhi and Lucknow from rebel control.
  • While many key events unfolded during this month, including the reoccupation of Delhi, the execution of Shankar Shah and Raghunath Shah had already taken place by this time.

Question 14

Which revolutionary was arrested and sent to Andaman jail during the rebellion of 1857?

  1. AOption (a)

    Sitaram Kanwar

  2. BOption (b)

    Bheema Nayak

  3. COption (c)

    Badal Bhoi

  4. DOption (d)

    Khajya Nayak

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Bheema Nayak

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Bheema Nayak

Key Points

  • Bheema Nayak
  • Bheema Nayak was a significant tribal leader and freedom fighter from India.
  • He played a crucial role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857, leading the tribal revolt against the British colonial rule in the regions of Central India.
  • His efforts were part of the larger struggle to resist British exploitation and oppression of the indigenous communities.
  • He was eventually arrested by the British authorities and was sent to the Andaman Cellular Jail, where many freedom fighters were imprisoned.

Additional Information

  • Sitaram Kanwar
  • Sitaram Kanwar was another tribal leader who resisted British colonial policies, but his activities were not directly related to the 1857 rebellion or the Andaman Cellular Jail.
  • Badal Bhoi
  • Badal Bhoi was also involved in tribal resistance movements, but there are no specific records of his participation in the 1857 rebellion or his imprisonment in the Andaman Jail.
  • Khajya Nayak
  • Khajya Nayak was another tribal leader, but his contributions and actions were separate from the events of the 1857 rebellion and the subsequent imprisonment in the Andaman Jail.

Question 15

Whose statue is situated at famous holy pilgrimage Bawangaza?

  1. AOption (a)

    Rishabhdev

  2. BOption (b)

    Mahaveer Swami

  3. COption (c)

    Vaman Awtar

  4. DOption (d)

    Prototype of Shiva

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Rishabhdev

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Rishabhdev

Key Points

  • Rishabhdev
  • Rishabhdev, also known as Lord Rishabhanatha, is the first Tirthankara in Jainism.
  • He is believed to have lived millions of years ago and is venerated as the founder of Jainism.
  • The Bawangaza pilgrimage site is renowned for its large statue of Rishabhdev, which is an important place of worship for Jains.
  • This statue symbolizes peace, meditation, and liberation, which are core principles of Jainism.

Additional Information

  • Mahaveer Swami
  • Mahaveer Swami, also known as Lord Mahavira, is the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism.
  • He is one of the most revered figures in Jainism and his teachings form the core of Jain philosophy.
  • Vaman Awtar
  • Vaman Awtar refers to the fifth incarnation (avatar) of the Hindu god Vishnu.
  • In this incarnation, Vishnu appeared as a dwarf Brahmin to restore cosmic order.
  • Prototype of Shiva
  • Shiva is one of the principal deities of Hinduism, known as "The Destroyer" within the Trimurti.
  • Shiva is often depicted in various forms, including the prototype or aniconic form known as the Lingam.

Question 16

"History is an ending dialogue between the present and past" who wrote it?

  1. AOption (a)

    Callingwood

  2. BOption (b)

    D. Ricardo

  3. COption (c)

    Spengler

  4. DOption (d)

    E. H. Car

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

E. H. Car

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - E. H. Carr

Key Points

  • E. H. Carr
  • Edward Hallett Carr was a British historian, diplomat, journalist, and international relations theorist.
  • He is best known for his 14-volume history of the Soviet Union and his book "What Is History?" published in 1961.
  • The quote "History is an unending dialogue between the present and past" is attributed to his work, emphasizing the continuous interpretation and reinterpretation of historical events.
  • Carr argued that historical facts are not objective truths but are interpreted through the lens of the historian's own context and perspective.

Additional Information

  • Callingwood
  • There is no prominent historian by this name, and it might be a misspelling or fictional entry.
  • D. Ricardo
  • David Ricardo was a British political economist known for his work on the theory of rent, wages, and profits.
  • He is not recognized for contributions to historiography or historical theory.
  • Spengler
  • Oswald Spengler was a German historian and philosopher known for his book "The Decline of the West," which outlines a cyclical theory of the rise and fall of civilizations.
  • Although influential, his views are distinct and separate from those of E. H. Carr.

Question 17

Who were the first authors of economic history?

  1. AOption (a)

    Toynbee and Karl Marx

  2. BOption (b)

    Croce and Carr

  3. COption (c)

    Danby and Dilthey

  4. DOption (d)

    R. H. Țanwy and Aleen Power

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

R. H. Țanwy and Aleen Power

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - R. H. Tanwy and Aleen Power

Key Points

  • R. H. Tanwy and Aleen Power
  • R. H. Tanwy and Aleen Power are recognized as the first authors who made significant contributions to the field of economic history.
  • Their works laid the foundation for understanding economic phenomena in a historical context, examining how economies have evolved over time.
  • They provided insights into the economic behaviors, policies, and developments of past societies, establishing a framework for future research in economic history.

Additional Information

  • Toynbee and Karl Marx
  • Toynbee was a British economic historian, famous for his lectures on the Industrial Revolution.
  • Karl Marx was a philosopher and economist known for his theories on capitalism and communism, but not specifically an author of economic history.
  • Croce and Carr
  • Both were historians and philosophers who contributed to the broader field of history and historiography.
  • Croce is known for his works on aesthetics and philosophy of history.
  • Carr is known for his work "What is History?" which discusses the nature of historical knowledge.
  • Danby and Dilthey
  • Danby is less well-known in the context of economic history.
  • Dilthey was a German historian, psychologist, and hermeneutic philosopher, not specifically focused on economic history.

Question 18

"History was science and had nothing to do with literature" who remarked it?

  1. AOption (a)

    J. B. Burry

  2. BOption (b)

    Butterfield

  3. COption (c)

    Seeley

  4. DOption (d)

    Fiske

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Seeley

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Seeley

Key Points

  • Seeley
  • Sir John Robert Seeley was a British historian and political essayist.
  • He is known for his remark that "History was science and had nothing to do with literature," emphasizing the importance of a scientific approach to historical study.
  • Seeley's perspective was that history should be treated as an empirical and analytical discipline, rather than as a narrative or literary art.
  • His work "The Expansion of England" (1883) is one of his most notable contributions, where he analyzed the British Empire's growth from a historical and scientific perspective.

Additional Information

  • J. B. Bury
  • John Bagnell Bury was an Irish historian, classical scholar, and philologist.
  • He is known for his works on the history of the Roman Empire and the Byzantine Empire.
  • Bury believed in the scientific approach to history but did not specifically remark that history had nothing to do with literature in the same way Seeley did.
  • Butterfield
  • Herbert Butterfield was a British historian and philosopher of history.
  • He is best known for his book "The Whig Interpretation of History" (1931), where he criticized the tendency to interpret history as a progress towards the present.
  • Fiske
  • John Fiske was an American philosopher and historian.
  • He is known for his works on American history and his advocacy of the theory of evolution.

Question 19

Why does history not consider a science?

  1. AOption (a)

    Prominence of religion

  2. BOption (b)

    Prominence of morality

  3. COption (c)

    Both (A) and (B)

  4. DOption (d)

    Neither of the two

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Both (A) and (B)

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Both (A) and (B)

Key Points

  • History and Science
  • History is often not considered a science because it relies heavily on the interpretation of events, which can be subjective.
  • Scientific disciplines require empirical evidence and reproducibility, which history lacks due to its reliance on human records and perspectives.
  • Prominence of Religion
  • Historical narratives often involve religious events and interpretations, which can be subjective and not based on empirical evidence.
  • Religion influences historical records and perspectives, contributing to the complexity and subjectivity of historical analysis.
  • Prominence of Morality
  • Morality and ethical judgments are often integral to historical narratives, influencing how events are recorded and interpreted.
  • These moral perspectives can vary greatly among different cultures and time periods, adding to the subjectivity of history.

Additional Information

  • Empiricism in Science
  • Empirical evidence is data obtained through observation and experimentation, which can be consistently reproduced and verified.
  • In contrast, historical evidence is often based on documents, artifacts, and personal accounts, which may not be verifiable or consistent.
  • Objectivity and Subjectivity
  • Science strives for objectivity, where personal biases and perspectives are minimized.
  • History, however, inherently involves subjectivity due to the interpretation of past events through various lenses, including cultural, religious, and moral perspectives.

Question 20

"Truely history is an art but a special kind of art" which historian has remarked?

  1. AOption (a)

    Croce

  2. BOption (b)

    Toynbee

  3. COption (c)

    Herodotus

  4. DOption (d)

    Spengler

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Croce

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Croce

Key Points

  • Croce
  • Benedetto Croce was an Italian idealist philosopher, historian, and politician, known for his works on aesthetics, philosophy of history, and historiography.
  • He emphasized the role of human creativity in history, viewing it as a form of art, a special kind of art that reflects the historian's interpretation and narrative.
  • His statement "Truely history is an art but a special kind of art" reflects his belief that history is not just a recording of facts but involves the creative and interpretative work of the historian.
  • He argued that history is a product of the historian's imagination and interpretation, making it an art form distinct from other scientific or objective disciplines.

Additional Information

  • Toynbee
  • Arnold J. Toynbee was a British historian known for his 12-volume work "A Study of History" in which he analyzed the rise and fall of civilizations.
  • He emphasized the importance of understanding the broader patterns and processes in history, rather than focusing solely on specific events or individuals.
  • Herodotus
  • Herodotus, often referred to as the "Father of History," was an ancient Greek historian who authored "The Histories," an account of the Greco-Persian Wars.
  • He is known for his systematic collection of information and efforts to distinguish between different accounts and sources.
  • Spengler
  • Oswald Spengler was a German historian and philosopher best known for his book "The Decline of the West," where he proposed a cyclical theory of the rise and fall of civilizations.
  • Spengler's work focused on the cultural and spiritual aspects of civilizations, seeing history as a series of cultural epochs rather than a linear progression.

Question 21

In which year 'Calcutta Chronicle' was published?

  1. AOption (a)

    1782

  2. BOption (b)

    1784

  3. COption (c)

    1785

  4. DOption (d)

    1786

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

1786

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - 1786

Key Points

  • Calcutta Chronicle
  • The "Calcutta Chronicle" was an English-language newspaper published in Kolkata (formerly Calcutta).
  • It was first published in the year 1786, making it one of the earliest newspapers in India.
  • The newspaper served as a significant source of information and commentary during the British colonial period.
  • It played a role in disseminating news, opinions, and various aspects of British administration in India.

Additional Information

  • 1782
  • 1782 is notable for other historical events, but it is not the correct year for the publication of the "Calcutta Chronicle".
  • 1784
  • This year marks the establishment of the Asiatic Society of Bengal, an important scholarly institution, but not the publication of the "Calcutta Chronicle".
  • 1785
  • In 1785, other significant events occurred, including the beginning of the British newspaper "The Times" (originally "The Daily Universal Register"), but not the "Calcutta Chronicle".

Question 22

To oppose which bill, its opponent framed an association named 'European Defence Association' with its branches in all important centres of India?

  1. AOption (a)

    Fox's India Bill

  2. BOption (b)

    Indian High Court Bill

  3. COption (c)

    Royal Navy Bill

  4. DOption (d)

    Ilbert Bill

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Ilbert Bill

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Ilbert Bill

Key Points

  • Ilbert Bill
  • The Ilbert Bill was introduced in 1883 by Viceroy Ripon's law member, Sir Courtenay Ilbert.
  • The bill proposed to allow Indian judges to preside over cases involving British citizens in India.
  • It faced strong opposition from British residents in India who formed the 'European Defence Association' to campaign against the bill.
  • The opposition was rooted in racial prejudices and the perceived threat to British superiority in the colonial hierarchy.
  • As a result of the opposition, the bill was modified to include a provision for jury trials in such cases, with at least half the jurors being Europeans.

Additional Information

  • Fox's India Bill
  • Introduced in 1783 by Charles James Fox, it aimed to transfer the administration of India from the East India Company to a board of British commissioners.
  • The bill was seen as a means to curb the company's mismanagement and corruption but ultimately failed to pass in Parliament.
  • Indian High Court Bill
  • This bill was part of the legal reforms in British India, focusing on the establishment and jurisdiction of High Courts in various provinces.
  • It did not incite significant opposition or lead to the formation of any associations like the European Defence Association.
  • Royal Navy Bill
  • A bill related to the administration and operation of the Royal Navy, focusing more on maritime law and naval affairs.
  • This bill was not directly connected to the Indian context or the legal jurisdiction issues that the Ilbert Bill addressed.

Question 23

'Theory of the Drain of Wealth' was propounded by

  1. AOption (a)

    Justice Ranade

  2. BOption (b)

    Dadabhai Naoroji

  3. COption (c)

    Surendra Nath Banerjee

  4. DOption (d)

    Gopal Krishna Gokhale

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Dadabhai Naoroji

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Dadabhai Naoroji

Key Points

  • Dadabhai Naoroji
  • He was an Indian political leader, merchant, scholar, and writer who is also known as the "Grand Old Man of India".
  • Naoroji was the first Asian to be a British MP (Member of Parliament), serving as the Liberal MP for Finsbury Central from 1892 to 1895.
  • He propounded the "Drain of Wealth" theory in his book "Poverty and Un-British Rule in India" published in 1901.
  • The theory explained how wealth was being drained from India to Britain through colonial rule, leading to widespread poverty in India.

Additional Information

  • Justice Ranade
  • Mahadev Govind Ranade was a distinguished Indian scholar, social reformer, and one of the founding members of the Indian National Congress.
  • He was a prominent figure in the social reform movement in Maharashtra and advocated for the upliftment of women and the eradication of social evils.
  • Surendranath Banerjee
  • He was an Indian nationalist leader and one of the founding members of the Indian National Association.
  • Banerjee was known for his efforts in advocating Indian self-rule and his role in the Swadeshi movement.
  • Gopal Krishna Gokhale
  • He was a senior leader of the Indian National Congress and a social reformer known for his moderate views on political change.
  • Gokhale was a mentor to Mahatma Gandhi and played a crucial role in shaping the early phase of the Indian independence movement.

Question 24

Who was the earliest religious reformer known as 'Lokahitwadi'?

  1. AOption (a)

    Gopal Ganesh Agarkar

  2. BOption (b)

    Gopal Hari Deshmukh

  3. COption (c)

    Gopal Krishna Gokhale

  4. DOption (d)

    R. G. Bhandarkar

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Gopal Hari Deshmukh

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Gopal Hari Deshmukh

Key Points

  • Gopal Hari Deshmukh
  • Gopal Hari Deshmukh, known as 'Lokahitwadi', was a social reformer and writer in Maharashtra during the 19th century.
  • He was a staunch advocate for social reforms, including the eradication of caste discrimination, women's education, and widow remarriage.
  • Deshmukh wrote extensively in Marathi and used his writings to spread awareness about social issues and advocate for progressive changes.
  • His works often highlighted the importance of rational thinking and criticized orthodox practices and superstitions.

Additional Information

  • Gopal Ganesh Agarkar
  • Agarkar was a social reformer, educationist, and the first editor of the Marathi newspaper 'Kesari'.
  • He was a contemporary of Lokmanya Tilak and a co-founder of the Deccan Education Society.
  • Gopal Krishna Gokhale
  • Gokhale was a senior leader of the Indian National Congress and a mentor to Mahatma Gandhi.
  • He was an advocate for constitutional methods and gradual reforms.
  • R. G. Bhandarkar
  • Bhandarkar was an eminent scholar and one of the founding fathers of Indology in India.
  • He made significant contributions to the study of ancient Indian history and culture.

Question 25

Where the 'Headquarter' of the Theosophical society was situated?

  1. AOption (a)

    Trivandrum

  2. BOption (b)

    Hyderabad

  3. COption (c)

    Kochi

  4. DOption (d)

    Adyar

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Adyar

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Adyar

Key Points

  • Theosophical Society Headquarters - Adyar
  • The Theosophical Society was established in New York City in 1875, but later moved its headquarters to Adyar, near Chennai (formerly Madras), India in 1882.
  • The Adyar headquarters became a key center for theosophical activities and remains an important site for the society.
  • The society's focus is on the exploration of divine wisdom and the promotion of universal brotherhood.
  • Adyar is significant for its serene environment and historical buildings, which include the Adyar Library and Research Centre, known for its collection of ancient texts.

Additional Information

  • Trivandrum
  • Trivandrum, now known as Thiruvananthapuram, is the capital city of Kerala, India.
  • It is known for its rich cultural heritage and is not related to the founding or main activities of the Theosophical Society.
  • Hyderabad
  • Hyderabad is the capital of Telangana and a major center for the technology industry in India.
  • It has no historical connection to the headquarters of the Theosophical Society.
  • Kochi
  • Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a major port city in Kerala.
  • While Kochi has historical significance and cultural heritage, it is not related to the Theosophical Society's headquarters.

Question 26

The 'Lateran Accord' was held between ________ on 11 February 1929.

  1. AOption (a)

    Mussolini and Pope

  2. BOption (b)

    Hitler and Mussolini

  3. COption (c)

    Mussolini and England

  4. DOption (d)

    Hitler and England

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Mussolini and Pope

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Mussolini and Pope

Key Points

  • Lateran Accord
  • Signed on 11 February 1929, the Lateran Accord was a set of agreements between the Kingdom of Italy and the Holy See (the jurisdiction of the Pope).
  • The accords recognized Vatican City as an independent state under the sovereignty of the Holy See, resolving the "Roman Question" which had been a source of tension since the unification of Italy in 1870.
  • Benito Mussolini, the Prime Minister of Italy, signed the accords on behalf of King Victor Emmanuel III, and Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Gasparri signed on behalf of Pope Pius XI.
  • The Lateran Accord included three agreements: a treaty recognizing the independence of the Vatican City, a financial settlement, and a concordat regulating church-state relations within Italy.

Additional Information

  • Hitler and Mussolini
  • While Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini were allies during World War II, there was no significant accord between them in 1929. Their alliance, known as the Rome-Berlin Axis, was formally established in 1936.
  • Mussolini and England
  • There was no significant accord or treaty between Mussolini and England in 1929. Relations between Italy and England were generally diplomatic, but no key agreements like the Lateran Accord were signed between them during this period.
  • Hitler and England
  • Adolf Hitler and England did not sign any accords in 1929. In fact, the relationship between Nazi Germany and England was extremely contentious, culminating in World War II. The Munich Agreement of 1938 is a notable event involving Hitler and England, but it occurred much later.

Question 27

Hitler had signed the 'Non-Aggression Pact' with ______ on 23 January 1934 for _______ years.

  1. AOption (a)

    Italy - 5 years

  2. BOption (b)

    England - 7 years

  3. COption (c)

    Poland - 10 years

  4. DOption (d)

    Abisiniya - 25 years

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Poland - 10 years

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Poland - 10 years

Key Points

  • Non-Aggression Pact between Germany and Poland
  • The Non-Aggression Pact was signed between Germany and Poland on 26 January 1934.
  • The agreement sought to normalize relations between the two nations, which were previously tense.
  • It was intended to last for ten years and was a way to prevent conflict while both nations pursued their own strategic goals.

Additional Information

  • Italy
  • There was no specific non-aggression pact signed between Germany and Italy in 1934. Instead, both countries developed a close alliance later, leading to the formation of the Axis powers during World War II.
  • England
  • There was no non-aggression pact between Germany and England in 1934. Relations between the two countries were strained during the period leading up to World War II.
  • Abisiniya (Abyssinia)
  • Abyssinia, known today as Ethiopia, was not involved in a non-aggression pact with Germany in 1934. The country was engaged in conflicts with Italy during that time.

Question 28

Japan attacked on ________ at America's Pearl Harbour situated in ________ Ocean.

  1. AOption (a)

    7 December 1941 - Pacific Ocean

  2. BOption (b)

    7 December 1942 - Indian Ocean

  3. COption (c)

    7 December 1939 - Atlantic Ocean

  4. DOption (d)

    7 December 1940 - Arabian Sea

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

7 December 1941 - Pacific Ocean

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - 7 December 1941 - Pacific Ocean

Key Points

  • 7 December 1941 - Pacific Ocean
  • On this date, the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service launched a surprise military strike against the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
  • The attack led to the United States' formal entry into World War II the following day.
  • Pearl Harbor is located in the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of the island of Oahu in Hawaii.
  • This attack significantly damaged the U.S. Pacific Fleet and resulted in substantial loss of life and equipment.
  • The event is considered a pivotal moment in World War II history, shifting the balance of the war.

Additional Information

  • 7 December 1942 - Indian Ocean
  • This date is incorrect as the attack on Pearl Harbor happened in 1941, not 1942.
  • The Indian Ocean is not the location of Pearl Harbor; it is located in the Pacific Ocean.
  • 7 December 1939 - Atlantic Ocean
  • This date is incorrect as the Pearl Harbor attack occurred in 1941.
  • The Atlantic Ocean is not the location of Pearl Harbor; it is located in the Pacific Ocean.
  • 7 December 1940 - Arabian Sea
  • This date is incorrect as the Pearl Harbor attack occurred in 1941.
  • The Arabian Sea is not the location of Pearl Harbor; it is located in the Pacific Ocean.

Question 29

Who said about the 'Treaty of Versailles' that "this is not a peace. It is an armistice for twenty years"?

  1. AOption (a)

    Marshal Foch

  2. BOption (b)

    E. H. Carr

  3. COption (c)

    David Thomson

  4. DOption (d)

    D. C. Sommerwell

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Marshal Foch

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Marshal Foch

Key Points

  • Marshal Foch
  • Ferdinand Foch was a French general and military theorist who served as the Supreme Allied Commander during the closing months of World War I.
  • He played a crucial role in leading the Allied forces to victory during the war.
  • Foch was highly critical of the Treaty of Versailles, believing it to be too lenient on Germany and predicting it would lead to future conflict.
  • His famous quote, "This is not a peace. It is an armistice for twenty years," reflected his belief that the treaty failed to provide a lasting solution and would result in another war.

Additional Information

  • E. H. Carr
  • Edward Hallett Carr was a British historian, diplomat, and international relations theorist.
  • He is best known for his works on the Soviet Union and his book "What Is History?" which remains influential in the study of historiography.
  • David Thomson
  • David Thomson was a British historian specializing in modern European history.
  • He wrote extensively on topics such as the history of Western Europe and the development of international relations.
  • D. C. Sommerwell
  • There is limited information available on D. C. Sommerwell in mainstream historical records.
  • His contributions, if any, are not prominently recorded in the context of the Treaty of Versailles or World War I.

Question 30

The Atlantic Charter (14 August, 1941) which is known as the first step of the formation of United Nations Organisation was a joint release of

  1. AOption (a)

    Roosevelt and Churchill

  2. BOption (b)

    Wilson and Attlee

  3. COption (c)

    Roosevelt and Chamberlain

  4. DOption (d)

    Truman and Churchill

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Roosevelt and Churchill

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Roosevelt and Churchill

Key Points

  • Roosevelt and Churchill
  • The Atlantic Charter was a pivotal policy statement issued on 14 August 1941, that defined the Allied goals for the post-war world.
  • It was a joint declaration released by U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.
  • The Charter outlined key principles such as no territorial aggrandizement, no territorial changes made against the wishes of the people, self-determination, restoration of self-government to those deprived of it, reduction of trade restrictions, global cooperation to secure better economic and social conditions for all, freedom from fear and want, freedom of the seas, and abandonment of the use of force, as well as disarmament of aggressor nations.
  • This declaration was seen as the first step towards the establishment of the United Nations, which was formally founded in 1945.

Additional Information

  • Wilson and Attlee
  • Woodrow Wilson was the President of the United States during World War I, not World War II.
  • Clement Attlee was the British Prime Minister who succeeded Winston Churchill in 1945, after World War II ended.
  • Roosevelt and Chamberlain
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt was the U.S. President during World War II.
  • Neville Chamberlain was the British Prime Minister who preceded Winston Churchill and is most known for his policy of appeasement towards Adolf Hitler, which ended before the Atlantic Charter was signed.
  • Truman and Churchill
  • Harry S. Truman became the U.S. President after Roosevelt's death in 1945, and therefore was not involved in the Atlantic Charter.
  • Winston Churchill was the British Prime Minister during the signing of the Atlantic Charter.

Question 31

The Kings of which empire not only tried to give recognition to widow marriage by exempting widow marriage from tax but also tried to improve the miserable condition of widows?

  1. AOption (a)

    Pallava Empire

  2. BOption (b)

    Cher Empire

  3. COption (c)

    Vijaynagar Empire

  4. DOption (d)

    Chalukya Empire

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Vijaynagar Empire

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Vijaynagar Empire

Key Points

  • Vijaynagar Empire
  • The Vijaynagar Empire, which existed from the 14th to the 17th century in South India, was known for its progressive social policies.
  • The kings of this empire attempted to improve the status of widows by exempting widow marriage from taxes, encouraging the practice of widow remarriage.
  • This policy was aimed at improving the miserable condition of widows, who often faced social ostracism and economic hardships.

Additional Information

  • Pallava Empire
  • The Pallava Empire, which ruled parts of South India from the 3rd to the 9th centuries, is known for its contributions to Dravidian architecture and the establishment of Mahabalipuram.
  • There are no significant records indicating that they specifically addressed the issue of widow remarriage in their social policies.
  • Cher Empire
  • The Chera dynasty, one of the ancient Tamil kingdoms, ruled parts of South India from ancient times until the 12th century.
  • While they were known for their trade and naval prowess, there is no notable evidence that they implemented policies specifically aimed at improving the condition of widows.
  • Chalukya Empire
  • The Chalukya dynasty, which ruled large parts of southern and central India between the 6th and 12th centuries, contributed significantly to Indian art and architecture.
  • There is no substantial evidence suggesting that they specifically promoted widow remarriage or implemented social reforms for widows.

Question 32

Who institutionalized the 'Langar system' in 'Sikhism'?

  1. AOption (a)

    Guru Ramdas

  2. BOption (b)

    Guru Amardas

  3. COption (c)

    Guru Arjundev

  4. DOption (d)

    Guru Angad

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Guru Angad

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Guru Angad

Key Points

  • Guru Angad
  • Guru Angad was the second of the ten Sikh Gurus.
  • He institutionalized the Langar system, which is a community kitchen that serves free meals to all visitors, without any distinction of background, religion, or status.
  • The Langar system embodies the principles of equality, community service, and humility.
  • This initiative was aimed at promoting the idea of equality and breaking down the barriers of caste and social hierarchy.

Additional Information

  • Guru Ram Das
  • He was the fourth of the ten Sikh Gurus.
  • He is known for founding the city of Amritsar, which is a major spiritual and cultural center for Sikhs.
  • Guru Amar Das
  • He was the third of the ten Sikh Gurus.
  • He played a significant role in the establishment of the Sikh religious practices and institutions.
  • He was instrumental in propagating the principles of Sikhism and furthering the work started by the first two Gurus.
  • Guru Arjan Dev
  • He was the fifth of the ten Sikh Gurus.
  • He compiled the Adi Granth, the holy scripture of Sikhism.
  • He is also known for his contributions to the construction of the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in Amritsar.

Question 33

'Nusksha-e-Dilkusha' is an important source for the history of which emperor?

  1. AOption (a)

    Aurangzeb

  2. BOption (b)

    Shahjahan

  3. COption (c)

    Jahangir

  4. DOption (d)

    Akbar

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Aurangzeb

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Aurangzeb

Key Points

  • Aurangzeb
  • 'Nuskha-e-Dilkusha' is a significant historical document that provides valuable insights into the reign of Emperor Aurangzeb.
  • This manuscript covers various aspects of Aurangzeb's administration, military campaigns, and personal life.
  • It is considered an important source of information for historians studying the Mughal Empire under Aurangzeb's rule.
  • Aurangzeb, also known as Alamgir, ruled from 1658 to 1707 and was one of the most controversial Mughal emperors due to his policies.

Additional Information

  • Shahjahan
  • Shahjahan, the fifth Mughal Emperor, is best known for commissioning the construction of the Taj Mahal in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
  • His reign (1628-1658) is often referred to as the golden age of Mughal architecture.
  • Jahangir
  • Jahangir, the fourth Mughal Emperor, ruled from 1605 to 1627 and is known for his patronage of the arts and his autobiography, the "Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri."
  • He continued many of the policies of his father, Akbar, and had a keen interest in painting and the natural world.
  • Akbar
  • Akbar, one of the greatest Mughal Emperors, ruled from 1556 to 1605 and is renowned for his policy of religious tolerance and administrative reforms.
  • His reign is often considered the zenith of the Mughal Empire in terms of cultural and economic prosperity.

Question 34

The ruler of which empire built the Sun temple of Konark?

  1. AOption (a)

    Kadamb Dynasty

  2. BOption (b)

     Eastern Ganga Dynasty

  3. COption (c)

    Vakatak Dynasty

  4. DOption (d)

    Maukhari Dynasty

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

 Eastern Ganga Dynasty

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Eastern Ganga Dynasty

Key Points

  • Eastern Ganga Dynasty
  • The Sun Temple of Konark was built in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.
  • The temple is dedicated to the Hindu Sun God Surya and is designed as a gigantic chariot with elaborately carved stone wheels, pillars, and walls.
  • This temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its architectural grandeur and intricate sculptures.
  • The construction of the temple symbolizes the zenith of Odishan temple architecture.

Additional Information

  • Kadamb Dynasty
  • The Kadambas were one of the early dynasties of Karnataka, and their rule marked the beginning of the Kannada culture.
  • They are known for their contributions to temple architecture in Karnataka, but they did not build the Sun Temple of Konark.
  • Vakatak Dynasty
  • The Vakataka Dynasty ruled parts of Central and Southern India during the 3rd to 5th centuries.
  • They are known for their patronage of the Ajanta Caves, but not for the Sun Temple of Konark.
  • Maukhari Dynasty
  • The Maukharis were a medieval dynasty that ruled parts of northern India during the 6th century.
  • They were contemporaries and rivals of the Gupta Empire but were not involved in the construction of the Sun Temple of Konark.

Question 35

'Rumi Kalam' is related with which of the following?

  1. AOption (a)

    A style of Indian music

  2. BOption (b)

    A style of Indian dance

  3. COption (c)

    A style of Indian painting

  4. DOption (d)

    A style of Indian literature

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

A style of Indian painting

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - A style of Indian painting

Key Points

  • Rumi Kalam
  • Rumi Kalam is a distinctive style of Indian painting.
  • This style is known for its delicate brushwork and intricate detailing.
  • It often includes motifs inspired by Persian art, reflecting the cultural exchange between India and Persia.
  • The term "Rumi" refers to the Persian influence, and "Kalam" means pen or brush, indicating the painting technique.

Additional Information

  • A style of Indian music
  • Indian music encompasses various genres, such as classical (Hindustani and Carnatic), folk, and contemporary music.
  • It is characterized by complex rhythms, melodies, and improvisation.
  • A style of Indian dance
  • Indian dance forms include classical styles like Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, and others.
  • These dances often involve intricate footwork, hand gestures, and expressive facial movements.
  • A style of Indian literature
  • Indian literature includes ancient texts, such as the Vedas and Upanishads, as well as modern works in various languages.
  • It spans a wide range of genres, including poetry, drama, and prose.

Question 36

Napolean was the Emperor of France from

  1. AOption (a)

    1799 A.D. to 1813 A.D.

  2. BOption (b)

    1804 A.D. to 1814 A.D.

  3. COption (c)

    1802 A.D. to 1814 A.D.

  4. DOption (d)

    1789 A.D. to 1814 A.D.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

1804 A.D. to 1814 A.D.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - 1804 A.D. to 1814 A.D.

Key Points

  • Napoleon Bonaparte
  • Napoleon Bonaparte crowned himself Emperor of the French on December 2, 1804, marking the beginning of his reign.
  • His reign lasted until April 6, 1814, when he abdicated following several military defeats and political pressures.
  • During his reign, Napoleon implemented numerous administrative reforms that had a lasting impact on France and much of Europe.

Additional Information

  • 1799 A.D. to 1813 A.D.
  • In 1799, Napoleon became the First Consul of France after the Coup of 18 Brumaire, effectively giving him control over the French government, but he did not become Emperor until 1804.
  • 1802 A.D. to 1814 A.D.
  • In 1802, Napoleon was appointed First Consul for life, but he did not become Emperor until 1804.
  • 1789 A.D. to 1814 A.D.
  • The French Revolution began in 1789, and Napoleon rose to prominence in the following years, but he did not become Emperor until 1804.

Question 37

Who said, "In the Crimean war England had put her money on the wrong horse"?

  1. AOption (a)

    William E. Gladstone

  2. BOption (b)

    Trevelyan

  3. COption (c)

    Robert Morrier

  4. DOption (d)

    Salisbury

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Salisbury

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Salisbury

Key Points

  • Salisbury
  • Salisbury refers to Robert Gascoyne-Cecil, 3rd Marquess of Salisbury, who was a prominent British statesman and served as Prime Minister three times.
  • He is known for his critical views on British foreign policy, including the Crimean War.
  • The phrase "put her money on the wrong horse" implies that England supported the wrong side in the conflict, indicating a miscalculation.
  • Salisbury's critique was rooted in the belief that the war did not serve British interests effectively.

Additional Information

  • William E. Gladstone
  • William Ewart Gladstone was a British Liberal politician and Prime Minister known for his efforts in social reform and Irish Home Rule.
  • He did not make the statement about the Crimean War.
  • Trevelyan
  • Sir George Otto Trevelyan was a British statesman and historian.
  • He is best known for his works on the history of England and his political career.
  • There is no record of him making the statement regarding the Crimean War.
  • Robert Morier
  • Sir Robert Morier was a British diplomat known for his service in various European countries.
  • While he had extensive experience in foreign affairs, he did not make the statement about the Crimean War.

Question 38

The Second Balkan War (1913 A.D.) was fought between

  1. AOption (a)

    Turkey and Serbia, Bulgaria, Greece, Romania

  2. BOption (b)

    Serbia and Turkey, Bulgaria, Greece, Romania

  3. COption (c)

    Bulgaria and Serbia, Greece, Romania, Turkey

  4. DOption (d)

    Greece and Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Bulgaria and Serbia, Greece, Romania, Turkey

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Bulgaria and Serbia, Greece, Romania, Turkey

Key Points

  • The Second Balkan War
  • The Second Balkan War (1913) was a conflict that erupted due to territorial disputes among the Balkan League members after their victory in the First Balkan War.
  • Bulgaria, unsatisfied with the division of territories, fought against its former allies Serbia and Greece.
  • Romania and the Ottoman Empire (Turkey) joined the war against Bulgaria, seeking to gain territories or reclaim lost lands.
  • The war concluded with the Treaty of Bucharest, which significantly reduced Bulgarian territories.

Additional Information

  • First Balkan War
  • It was fought between the Balkan League (Serbia, Montenegro, Greece, and Bulgaria) and the Ottoman Empire in 1912-1913.
  • The war aimed to liberate Balkan territories from Ottoman rule.
  • The League succeeded, leading to the Treaty of London, which saw the redistribution of Ottoman territories in Europe.
  • Treaty of Bucharest
  • Signed in August 1913, it ended the Second Balkan War.
  • It resulted in Bulgaria losing a significant portion of its gains from the First Balkan War to Serbia, Greece, and Romania.
  • Impact of the Balkan Wars
  • The Balkan Wars significantly altered the map of Southeast Europe.
  • They led to increased tensions among the Balkan states and set the stage for the outbreak of World War I.

Question 39

Examine the following statements about the Carbonari Society and give the answer by choosing the correct code.

a. It was established in Naples.

b. It was the secret society of the coal workers.

c. William Kaiser II was its leader.

d. Its flag had three colours Black, Red and Blue.

  1. AOption (a)

    Only c is incorrect

  2. BOption (b)

    Only c is correct

  3. COption (c)

    a, b, c and d are correct

  4. DOption (d)

    a, b and d are correct

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

a, b and d are correct

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Option 4

Key Points

  • The Carbonari Society
  • Established in Naples: The Carbonari was indeed established in Naples, Italy, in the early 19th century. It was one of the many secret societies that emerged in Europe during this period, advocating for liberal and nationalist causes.
  • Secret Society of Coal Workers: The name "Carbonari" means "charcoal burners," and it was originally associated with the coal workers. However, it included members from various professions united by their opposition to oppressive regimes.
  • Flag Colours: The society's flag had three colors - black, red, and blue, representing liberty, equality, and fraternity, which were core principles of the society.

Additional Information

  • Incorrect Option: William Kaiser II
  • William Kaiser II, also known as Wilhelm II, was the last German Emperor and King of Prussia, ruling from 1888 to 1918. He had no connection to the Carbonari Society.
  • The Carbonari Society was primarily active in Italy, and its leaders were Italian revolutionaries like Giuseppe Mazzini and others who were involved in the Italian unification movement.

Question 40

The convention of Gastein (August 1865 A.D.) took place between

  1. AOption (a)

    Prussa and Denmark

  2. BOption (b)

    Prussa and Austria

  3. COption (c)

    Austria and France

  4. DOption (d)

    Sardinia-Piedmont and France

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Prussa and Austria

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Prussia and Austria

Key Points

  • Convention of Gastein
  • The Convention of Gastein was an agreement signed between Prussia and Austria in August 1865.
  • It was an attempt to resolve the disputes between the two powers over the administration of the duchies of Schleswig and Holstein, which were won from Denmark in the Second Schleswig War.
  • According to the convention, Prussia would administer Schleswig, while Austria would administer Holstein.

Additional Information

  • Prussia and Denmark
  • The Second Schleswig War (1864) was fought between the Kingdom of Denmark and the combined forces of Prussia and Austria.
  • The war ended with the Treaty of Vienna, where Denmark ceded the duchies of Schleswig, Holstein, and Lauenburg to Prussia and Austria.
  • Austria and France
  • Austria and France had several historical conflicts and alliances, including the Austro-French War of 1859, which led to the unification of Italy.
  • Their relationship was significant in shaping the political landscape of Europe during the 19th century.
  • Sardinia-Piedmont and France
  • The alliance between Sardinia-Piedmont and France was crucial in the Italian unification process.
  • In 1859, the two nations fought against Austria in the Second Italian War of Independence, which resulted in significant territorial gains for Sardinia-Piedmont.

Question 41

What is the main characteristics of Ancient Indian historiography?

  1. AOption (a)

    Literature of religious philosophy

  2. BOption (b)

    History writing under royal patronage

  3. COption (c)

    Both (A) and (B)

  4. DOption (d)

    Class division

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Both (A) and (B)

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Both (A) and (B)

Key Points

  • Both (A) and (B)
  • Ancient Indian historiography is primarily characterized by literature that intertwined religious philosophy and historical events. This approach often blended mythological narratives with historical facts, serving both spiritual and educational purposes.
  • Historiography under royal patronage was significant in ancient India. Many historical texts and records were commissioned by kings and rulers to document their reigns, achievements, and genealogies. This practice ensured that the history was preserved and propagated, although it often reflected the rulers' perspectives and interests.
  • Combining both religious literature and royal patronage highlights the dual nature of ancient Indian historiography, where historical records were influenced by religious contexts and royal influences.

Additional Information

  • Literature of religious philosophy
  • This refers to texts that integrate religious teachings and philosophical discourses with historical events. Examples include the Vedas, Puranas, and epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, which contain historical elements intertwined with religious and moral teachings.
  • History writing under royal patronage
  • Many ancient Indian texts were created under the patronage of kings and emperors. These works often glorified the ruler's achievements and were used to legitimize their reign. Examples include the inscriptions of Ashoka and the historical accounts of the Gupta dynasty.
  • Class division
  • This option is incorrect as it does not directly relate to the main characteristics of ancient Indian historiography. While class division existed in ancient India, it was not a primary feature of historiography.

Question 42

Rajtarangini the famous work of Kalhana is about ___________ Sanskrit verses.

  1. AOption (a)

    6000

  2. BOption (b)

    7000

  3. COption (c)

    8000

  4. DOption (d)

    9000

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

8000

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - 8000

Key Points

  • Rajtarangini by Kalhana
  • The "Rajtarangini" is a historical chronicle of early India, particularly focusing on the northwestern region.
  • It was written by the Kashmiri historian Kalhana in the 12th century.
  • The work is composed of approximately 8000 Sanskrit verses, making it an extensive and significant text.
  • Kalhana's narrative provides a detailed account of the history of Kashmir and its rulers.

Additional Information

  • Other Options
  • 7000: This is an incorrect estimate of the number of verses in Rajtarangini.
  • 9000: This is also incorrect; the text comprises fewer verses.
  • Kalhana and His Work
  • Kalhana's writing is notable for its detailed historical accuracy and literary style.
  • He used a variety of sources, including earlier texts, inscriptions, and records of the kings of Kashmir.
  • The "Rajtarangini" is divided into eight books, each called a "Taranga" (wave), which systematically traces the history of Kashmir.

Question 43

The word diplomacy is related to

  1. AOption (a)

    Political Science

  2. BOption (b)

    Sociology

  3. COption (c)

    Economics

  4. DOption (d)

    Military Science

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Political Science

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Political Science

Key Points

  • Diplomacy and Political Science
  • Diplomacy is the practice of conducting negotiations between representatives of states or international organizations.
  • It is a key aspect of international relations, which is a primary subfield of political science.
  • Political science studies the theory and practice of politics, including the analysis of political systems, political behavior, and political entities such as governments and international organizations.
  • Effective diplomacy is essential for maintaining peaceful international relations, forming alliances, and managing conflicts.

Additional Information

  • Sociology
  • Sociology is the study of society, social relationships, and social institutions.
  • It focuses on the behavior of individuals and groups within a societal context.
  • While sociology may touch on aspects of political behavior, it does not specifically focus on the practice of diplomacy.
  • Economics
  • Economics is the study of how societies use scarce resources to produce goods and services and distribute them among different people.
  • It involves the analysis of markets, economic policies, and the financial systems but does not primarily focus on diplomatic practices.
  • Military Science
  • Military science is the study of the methodology and practices of military organizations.
  • It involves the analysis of strategies, tactics, and logistics employed in warfare.
  • Although military science can interact with diplomacy in the context of defense and conflict resolution, it is not its primary focus.

Question 44

From which Pitaka does the history of Buddhism begin to be written?

  1. AOption (a)

    Sutta Pitaka

  2. BOption (b)

    Vinaya Pitaka

  3. COption (c)

    Dhamma Pitaka

  4. DOption (d)

    Nyaya Pitaka

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Vinaya Pitaka

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Vinaya Pitaka

Key Points

  • Vinaya Pitaka
  • The Vinaya Pitaka is one of the three main sections of the Tripitaka, the Buddhist canon.
  • It is primarily concerned with the rules and regulations governing the monastic life of monks and nuns.
  • The Vinaya Pitaka includes detailed accounts of the early history of the Buddhist community and the establishment of the monastic order.
  • It provides historical context and background information that is essential for understanding the development of Buddhism.

Additional Information

  • Sutta Pitaka
  • The Sutta Pitaka consists of the discourses delivered by the Buddha and his close disciples.
  • It contains the teachings and doctrines of Buddhism, but it is less focused on historical aspects compared to the Vinaya Pitaka.
  • Dhamma Pitaka
  • There is no separate Pitaka known as Dhamma Pitaka in the traditional Tripitaka.
  • The term "Dhamma" refers to the teachings of the Buddha, which are primarily contained within the Sutta Pitaka and the Abhidhamma Pitaka.
  • Nyaya Pitaka
  • There is no Pitaka known as Nyaya Pitaka in the Buddhist canon.
  • The term "Nyaya" is more commonly associated with Indian philosophy, specifically the Nyaya school of Hindu philosophy, which focuses on logic and epistemology.

Question 45

________ is recognized as the best historical work in the Charit tradition of history writing.

  1. AOption (a)

    Harsha Charit

  2. BOption (b)

    Uttar Ram Charit

  3. COption (c)

    Buddha Charit

  4. DOption (d)

    Vikramankdev Charit

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Harsha Charit

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Harsha Charit

Key Points

  • Harsha Charit
  • Written by the renowned Sanskrit poet and scholar, Banabhatta.
  • It is a significant work in the Charit (biographical) tradition of ancient Indian history writing.
  • The text provides an extensive biography of King Harsha, who ruled North India in the 7th century CE.
  • Harsha Charit is praised for its detailed and vivid portrayal of the life and achievements of King Harsha.
  • The work is also notable for its literary style and the use of classical Sanskrit.

Additional Information

  • Uttar Ram Charit
  • Written by Bhavabhuti, it is a classical Sanskrit play.
  • The play is a continuation of the Ramayana, focusing on the later life of Lord Rama.
  • Buddha Charit
  • Authored by Ashvaghosha, it is an epic poem narrating the life of the Buddha.
  • The work is one of the earliest and most important biographies of the Buddha.
  • Vikramankdev Charit
  • Composed by Bilhana, it is a biographical work on the life of King Vikramaditya VI of the Western Chalukya dynasty.
  • The text is known for its poetic quality and historical content.

Question 46

Name the British Officer who suppressed the revolt of 1857 in Gwalior.

  1. AOption (a)

    General Campbell

  2. BOption (b)

    General Huse Rose

  3. COption (c)

    Thomas Munro

  4. DOption (d)

    William Taylor

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

General Huse Rose

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - General Huse Rose

Key Points

  • General Huse Rose
  • General Huse Rose was a key British military leader during the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
  • He played a crucial role in the recapture of Gwalior from the rebel forces.
  • Rose's military strategy and leadership were instrumental in quelling the revolt in Central India.
  • His efforts led to the defeat of significant rebel leaders, including Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi.

Additional Information

  • General Campbell
  • General Colin Campbell, also known as Lord Clyde, was another prominent British military leader during the 1857 revolt.
  • He is best known for his role in the relief of Lucknow, which was under siege by rebel forces.
  • Campbell's leadership helped secure British control over the key city of Lucknow.
  • Thomas Munro
  • Thomas Munro was a British soldier and colonial administrator, but he was not directly involved in the suppression of the 1857 revolt.
  • Munro is better known for his work in the administration of the Madras Presidency and his contributions to land revenue systems in India.
  • William Taylor
  • William Taylor was another British officer, but there are no significant records linking him to the suppression of the 1857 revolt in Gwalior.
  • His role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 is less documented compared to other key figures like General Huse Rose and General Campbell.

Question 47

Who among the following declared himself as the Dharti Aaba?

  1. AOption (a)

    Tantya Bhil

  2. BOption (b)

    Umaji Naik

  3. COption (c)

    Birsa Munda

  4. DOption (d)

    Tirka Manjhi

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Birsa Munda

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Birsa Munda

Key Points

  • Birsa Munda
  • Birsa Munda was an Indian tribal freedom fighter, religious leader, and folk hero who belonged to the Munda tribe.
  • He played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement by spearheading the Munda Rebellion against British rule.
  • Birsa Munda declared himself as "Dharti Aaba," which means "Father of the Earth," and aimed to establish Munda Raj and remove British government and missionaries.
  • He is remembered for his significant contribution to the fight against the exploitative practices of the British and their policies.
  • His birth anniversary (15th November) is celebrated in India as "Birsa Munda Jayanti" and is also observed as Jharkhand Statehood Day.

Additional Information

  • Tantya Bhil
  • He was a renowned tribal leader and freedom fighter from the Bhil tribe, who fought against British rule in Central India.
  • Tantya Bhil is often referred to as "Robin Hood of India" due to his acts of redistributing wealth taken from British and rich landlords to the poor.
  • Umaji Naik
  • Umaji Naik was a revolutionary who fought against the British colonial regime in Maharashtra.
  • He is celebrated for his guerrilla warfare tactics against the British forces.
  • Tirka Manjhi
  • Tirka Manjhi was a tribal leader known for his local leadership but did not declare himself as Dharti Aaba.
  • His contributions were more regional and specific to his community.

Question 48

Siddhu and Kanhu were associated with which Rebellion?

  1. AOption (a)

    Munda Rebellion

  2. BOption (b)

    Santhal Rebellion

  3. COption (c)

    Kuka Rebellion

  4. DOption (d)

    Bhil Rebellion

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Santhal Rebellion

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Santhal Rebellion

Key Points

  • Santhal Rebellion
  • The Santhal Rebellion, also known as the Santhal Hool, took place in 1855-1856 in the present-day states of Jharkhand and West Bengal in India.
  • Siddhu and Kanhu Murmu were the leaders of this rebellion. They led the Santhal tribes against the oppressive policies and exploitation by the British East India Company and the Zamindars (landlords).
  • The rebellion was a significant uprising by the indigenous people against the British colonial rule and their exploitative economic practices.
  • The Santhals, under the leadership of Siddhu and Kanhu, fought bravely but were eventually suppressed by the British forces.

Additional Information

  • Munda Rebellion
  • Also known as the Ulgulan (Great Tumult), the Munda Rebellion was led by Birsa Munda in the late 19th century (1899-1900) against British colonial rule and the exploitation by landlords.
  • It took place in the Chotanagpur plateau region, which is present-day Jharkhand.
  • Kuka Rebellion
  • The Kuka Rebellion, also known as the Namdhari Movement, was a religious and political movement in the Punjab region in the late 19th century.
  • It was led by Ram Singh Kuka and aimed at resisting British rule and promoting Sikh religious purification.
  • Bhil Rebellion
  • The Bhil Rebellion includes several uprisings by the Bhil tribe against British rule during the 19th century.
  • The Bhils, who inhabited the western part of India, particularly in regions like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat, resisted colonial exploitation and their traditional way of life.

Question 49

Indigo cultivation peasants launched "Non-cultivation of Indigo" movement in 1860 from which village?

  1. AOption (a)

    Govindpur

  2. BOption (b)

    Champaran

  3. COption (c)

    Midnapur

  4. DOption (d)

    Murshidabad

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Govindpur

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Govindpur

Key Points

  • Indigo Cultivation Peasants' Movement
  • The "Non-cultivation of Indigo" movement was initiated in 1860 by peasants who were protesting against the oppressive and exploitative practices of British planters.
  • The village of Govindpur in Bengal became the focal point of this significant agrarian protest.
  • The movement was marked by the refusal of peasants to grow indigo plants, which were in high demand for the dye industry but yielded very low profits for the growers.
  • This movement was a precursor to larger agrarian revolts and set the stage for future resistance against colonial exploitation.

Additional Information

  • Champaran
  • Champaran is another significant location related to indigo cultivation but in a different context. It was the site of Mahatma Gandhi's first major involvement in the Indian independence movement in 1917, known as the Champaran Satyagraha.
  • The Champaran Satyagraha aimed to address the grievances of indigo farmers who were forced to grow indigo under oppressive conditions.
  • Midnapur
  • Midnapur, a district in Bengal, was also a significant area for various anti-colonial movements but not specifically known for the 1860 indigo cultivation protest.
  • This region has a rich history of participation in revolutionary activities during the British colonial period.
  • Murshidabad
  • Murshidabad was an important administrative and commercial center during the British colonial period but was not the focal point of the indigo cultivation protest in 1860.
  • It was historically significant as the capital of Bengal during the Nawabi rule before British colonization.

Question 50

Which of the following local peasant leader who invited Mahatma Gandhi at Champaran?

  1. AOption (a)

    Ramkumar Shukla

  2. BOption (b)

    Ram Prasad Pandeya

  3. COption (c)

    Rajkumar Shukla

  4. DOption (d)

    Rajendra Prasad

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Rajkumar Shukla

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Rajkumar Shukla

Key Points

  • Rajkumar Shukla
  • Rajkumar Shukla was a local peasant leader from Champaran, Bihar.
  • He played a significant role in the Champaran Satyagraha by inviting Mahatma Gandhi to address the grievances of the farmers.
  • Shukla met Gandhi at the Lucknow session of the Indian National Congress in 1916 and persuaded him to visit Champaran.
  • His persistent efforts led to Gandhi's involvement in the Champaran movement, which was Gandhi's first major act of civil disobedience in India.

Additional Information

  • Ram Prasad Pandeya
  • There is no significant historical record of Ram Prasad Pandeya being involved in inviting Gandhi to Champaran.
  • Rajendra Prasad
  • Rajendra Prasad was a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement and later became the first President of India.
  • Although he was involved in the Champaran Satyagraha, he did not invite Gandhi; rather, he assisted Gandhi after his arrival.
  • Ramkumar Shukla
  • It is likely a confusion with Rajkumar Shukla, as no notable figure named Ramkumar Shukla is associated with the Champaran movement.

Question 51

The anti-partition movement leaders of Bengal was observed which of the following day as "National Mourning Day" through Bengal?

  1. AOption (a)

    16 August 1905

  2. BOption (b)

    7 August 1905

  3. COption (c)

    16 October 1905

  4. DOption (d)

    20 July 1905

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

16 October 1905

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is -16 October 1905

Key Points

  • 16 October 1905
  • The anti-partition movement leaders of Bengal observed October 16, 1905, as "National Mourning Day" in response to the British government's decision to partition Bengal.
  • The partition was officially implemented on this day, leading to widespread protests and the observance of a day of mourning throughout Bengal.
  • Many people fasted, held processions, and organized rallies to express their grief and opposition to the partition.
  • The day is significant in the history of India's struggle for independence as it marked the beginning of a major anti-colonial movement.

Additional Information

  • 16 August 1905
  • This date is not historically recognized as a significant day in the context of the anti-partition movement in Bengal.
  • 7 August 1905
  • This date is associated with the Swadeshi Movement, which was launched as a response to the partition of Bengal. However, it is not the "National Mourning Day."
  • 20 July 1905
  • This date does not have any direct relevance to the anti-partition movement or the observance of "National Mourning Day."

Question 52

In which of the following Congress Session did the "Quit India" resolution was passed?

  1. AOption (a)

    Karachi

  2. BOption (b)

    Lahore

  3. COption (c)

    Bombay

  4. DOption (d)

    Nagpur

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Bombay

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Bombay

Key Points

  • Bombay Session
  • The Quit India resolution was passed during the All India Congress Committee session held in Bombay on August 8, 1942.
  • This session was significant as it marked the launch of the Quit India Movement, a major civil disobedience movement against British rule in India.
  • In this session, Mahatma Gandhi delivered his famous "Do or Die" speech, urging Indians to engage in passive resistance and achieve independence.
  • The resolution called for an end to British rule in India and the immediate withdrawal of British forces from the country.

Additional Information

  • Karachi Session
  • Held in 1931, it is notable for the resolution on Fundamental Rights and National Economic Programme.
  • It endorsed the Gandhi-Irwin Pact and discussed future strategies for the freedom struggle.
  • Lahore Session
  • Took place in 1929, where the resolution for "Purna Swaraj" or complete independence was passed.
  • The session declared January 26, 1930, as Independence Day, which was later adopted as Republic Day of India.
  • Nagpur Session
  • Held in 1920, it is known for the adoption of the Non-Cooperation Movement under Mahatma Gandhi's leadership.
  • The session aimed at boycotting British goods and institutions to attain self-governance.

Question 53

Famous Kheda Satyagraha was launched for

  1. AOption (a)

    Against the oppressive plantation system

  2. BOption (b)

    Movement of cotton mill workers

  3. COption (c)

    Relaxation in paying taxes in case of crop failure

  4. DOption (d)

    None of these

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Relaxation in paying taxes in case of crop failure

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Relaxation in paying taxes in case of crop failure

Key Points

  • Kheda Satyagraha
  • Launched in 1918 in the Kheda district of Gujarat, India.
  • It was initiated by Mahatma Gandhi and supported by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
  • The movement was a response to the financial difficulties faced by farmers due to crop failure caused by floods and plague.
  • The British authorities insisted on full tax payment despite the adverse conditions.
  • The Satyagraha aimed at securing tax relief and suspension of revenue collection until the next harvest.
  • Eventually, the British government partially conceded to the demands, leading to tax suspension for the affected farmers.

Additional Information

  • Oppressive Plantation System
  • This refers to the oppressive conditions under the British, particularly in the indigo plantations in Bengal, leading to the Indigo Rebellion of 1859-1860.
  • Farmers were forced to grow indigo instead of food crops and sell it at non-profitable rates to the planters.
  • Movement of Cotton Mill Workers
  • This refers to various labor movements and strikes by cotton mill workers in India during the early 20th century.
  • These movements were primarily aimed at improving wages and working conditions in the mills.

Question 54

Name the organization whose members took pledge to disobey the Rowlatt Act and thus to court arrest and imprisonment.

  1. AOption (a)

    Satyagraha Sabha

  2. BOption (b)

    All India Kissan Sabha

  3. COption (c)

    All India Trade Union Congress

  4. DOption (d)

    The Hindu Mahasabha

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Satyagraha Sabha

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Satyagraha Sabha

Key Points

  • Satyagraha Sabha
  • The Satyagraha Sabha was formed in 1919 by Mahatma Gandhi in response to the Rowlatt Act.
  • The Rowlatt Act, also known as the Black Act, allowed the British government to imprison any person suspected of terrorism without trial.
  • The Satyagraha Sabha aimed to organize a non-violent resistance against the Rowlatt Act, encouraging civil disobedience and non-cooperation.
  • Members of the Sabha took a pledge to disobey the Act and willingly court arrest and imprisonment as a form of protest.

Additional Information

  • All India Kissan Sabha
  • Founded in 1936, the All India Kissan Sabha (AIKS) was a peasant movement aimed at addressing the grievances of farmers and advocating for their rights.
  • It played a significant role in organizing peasants against oppressive landlords and colonial agricultural policies.
  • All India Trade Union Congress
  • Established in 1920, the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) is the oldest trade union federation in India.
  • It was founded to promote workers' rights and improve their working conditions.
  • The Hindu Mahasabha
  • Formed in 1915, The Hindu Mahasabha is a right-wing Hindu nationalist organization.
  • It was established to protect the rights of the Hindu community and promote Hindu values and culture.

Question 55

In which Session of Indian National Congress passed complete Independence Resolution?

  1. AOption (a)

    Lahor Session

  2. BOption (b)

    Karachi Session

  3. COption (c)

    Nagpur Session

  4. DOption (d)

    Belgaon Session

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Lahor Session

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Lahor Session

Key Points

  • Lahor Session
  • The Lahore Session of the Indian National Congress was held in December 1929.
  • It was during this session that the resolution for complete independence (Purna Swaraj) was passed.
  • Jawaharlal Nehru was the President of the Congress during this session.
  • The resolution marked a significant shift from the demand for dominion status to complete independence from British rule.
  • 26th January 1930 was declared as the Independence Day, which was later adopted as the Republic Day of India after independence.

Additional Information

  • Karachi Session
  • Held in March 1931, this session ratified the Gandhi-Irwin Pact.
  • It also adopted resolutions on fundamental rights and the national economic program, which laid the foundation for future governance policies.
  • Nagpur Session
  • Held in December 1920, this session marked the adoption of the Non-Cooperation Movement.
  • It represented a significant step in mobilizing mass resistance against British rule under Mahatma Gandhi's leadership.
  • Belgaon Session
  • Held in December 1924, Mahatma Gandhi presided over this session.
  • It was notable as the only session presided over by Gandhi, emphasizing unity and self-reliance.

Question 56

Nalanda University had many notable scholars of high intellect. For the first time, one amongst them was invited by the king of Tibet to promote and spread Buddhist religion in Tibet and also honoured him with the title of "Acharya Bodisattva". Who was he?

  1. AOption (a)

    Sudhakar Singh

  2. BOption (b)

    Acharya Dharmdev

  3. COption (c)

    Acharya Shantirakshit

  4. DOption (d)

    Acharya Buddha Kirti

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Acharya Shantirakshit

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Acharya Shantirakshit

Key Points

  • Acharya Shantirakshit
  • He was an eminent Indian Buddhist scholar and abbot at Nalanda University in the 8th century.
  • Invited by the king of Tibet, Trisong Detsen, to help establish Buddhism in Tibet.
  • Played a significant role in founding the Samye Monastery, the first Buddhist monastery in Tibet.
  • Credited with ordaining the first monks in Tibet and contributing to the translation of important Buddhist texts into Tibetan.
  • Honored with the title "Acharya Bodhisattva" by the Tibetan king for his contributions.

Additional Information

  • Nalanda University
  • One of the world's first residential universities, founded in the 5th century CE in Bihar, India.
  • Known for its high academic standards and attracted scholars from various parts of the world.
  • Specialized in Buddhist studies but also taught subjects like logic, grammar, medicine, and mathematics.
  • Buddhism in Tibet
  • Introduced in the 7th century and became the predominant religion by the 8th century.
  • Influenced by Indian Buddhism through scholars like Acharya Shantirakshit and later by Tibetan figures such as Padmasambhava.
  • Central to Tibetan culture, philosophy, and monastic traditions.
  • King Trisong Detsen
  • Ruler of Tibet during the 8th century and a key figure in the establishment of Buddhism in the region.
  • Invited Indian scholars to Tibet to translate Buddhist scriptures and establish monastic institutions.
  • His reign is marked by significant religious and cultural developments in Tibet.

Question 57

Where is the larger statue of Jain followers, Gomateshwar or Bahubali situated?

  1. AOption (a)

    Mount Abu

  2. BOption (b)

    Ujjain

  3. COption (c)

    Mysore

  4. DOption (d)

    Junagarh

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Mysore

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Mysore

Key Points

  • Gomateshwar or Bahubali Statue
  • The larger statue of Jain followers, known as Gomateshwar or Bahubali, is situated in Shravanabelagola, near Mysore in Karnataka, India.
  • This monolithic statue was carved out around 983 AD and stands approximately 58 feet tall.
  • The statue represents Bahubali, a revered figure in Jainism, who is said to have attained enlightenment by meditating in a standing posture for a year.
  • It is one of the largest free-standing statues in the world and a major pilgrimage site for Jains.

Additional Information

  • Mount Abu
  • Mount Abu is a popular hill station in the Aravalli Range in Rajasthan, India.
  • It is known for the Dilwara Temples, a group of Jain temples famous for their exquisite marble carvings.
  • Ujjain
  • Ujjain is an ancient city in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh.
  • It is a prominent Hindu pilgrimage site and is known for the Mahakaleshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • Junagarh
  • Junagarh is a city in the western Indian state of Gujarat.
  • It is known for the Junagarh Fort and the Girnar Hills, which are significant in both Hindu and Jain traditions.

Question 58

Which of the following was a port during Harappa Civilization?

  1. AOption (a)

    Harappa

  2. BOption (b)

    Surkotda

  3. COption (c)

    Mohan Jodaro

  4. DOption (d)

    Lothal

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Lothal

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Lothal

Key Points

  • Lothal
  • Lothal was one of the southernmost cities of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, located in the present-day state of Gujarat, India.
  • It is particularly significant because it had a well-planned dockyard, which suggests that it was an important center for maritime trade.
  • The dockyard was connected to the Gulf of Khambhat, allowing the city to engage in trade with distant lands like Mesopotamia.
  • Archaeologists have discovered various artifacts such as beads, gems, and pottery, which indicate the city's role as a commercial hub.

Additional Information

  • Harappa
  • Harappa was one of the major urban centers of the Indus Valley Civilization, located in present-day Punjab, Pakistan.
  • It was known for its advanced urban planning, architecture, and social organization.
  • Surkotda
  • Surkotda is an archaeological site located in the Kutch district of Gujarat, India.
  • It is known for the remains of a small fortified settlement, which provides insights into the Indus Valley Civilization's lifestyle and defensive strategies.
  • Mohenjo-Daro
  • Mohenjo-Daro, located in present-day Sindh, Pakistan, was another major city of the Indus Valley Civilization.
  • The city is famous for its sophisticated urban infrastructure, including a complex drainage system, granaries, and public baths.

Question 59

Post Harappa civilization from where the remains of Jhukar culture found?

  1. AOption (a)

    North India

  2. BOption (b)

    Gujarat

  3. COption (c)

    Chanhudaro

  4. DOption (d)

    Ropad

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Chanhudaro

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Chanhudaro

Key Points

  • Chanhudaro
  • Chanhudaro is an archaeological site belonging to the post-Harappa phase of the Indus Valley Civilization.
  • The site is located in the Sindh province of present-day Pakistan.
  • Chanhudaro is known for its artifacts and structures that provide evidence of the Jhukar culture.
  • The Jhukar culture is distinguished by its unique pottery and small objects made of terracotta and bronze.
  • Excavations at Chanhudaro have revealed urban planning, craft production, and trade activities.

Additional Information

  • North India
  • North India primarily includes states like Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, which are not known for Jhukar culture remains.
  • Gujarat
  • Gujarat is home to other significant Indus Valley Civilization sites like Lothal and Dholavira, but not known for Jhukar culture.
  • Ropad
  • Ropad (or Rupnagar) is an archaeological site in Punjab, India, and is known for Harappan remains but not specifically for Jhukar culture.

Question 60

Jain's believe that Jain religion is the consequence of the sermons of twenty four Tirthankar's. Who was the twenty third Tirthankar?

  1. AOption (a)

    Mahavir

  2. BOption (b)

    Parsvanath

  3. COption (c)

    Sudharman

  4. DOption (d)

    Bhadrabahu

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Parsvanath

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Parsvanath

Key Points

  • Parsvanath
  • Parsvanath, also known as Parshva, was the twenty-third Tirthankar in Jainism.
  • He is believed to have lived about 250 years before Mahavir, around 877-777 BCE.
  • Parsvanath emphasized the importance of non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, and non-possession.
  • He is often depicted with a snake hood over his head, symbolizing protection and enlightenment.

Additional Information

  • Mahavir
  • Mahavir, also known as Vardhamana, was the twenty-fourth and the last Tirthankar in Jainism.
  • He is credited with establishing the core principles of Jainism as they are practiced today.
  • Mahavir was born in 599 BCE and attained enlightenment through deep meditation.
  • Sudharman
  • Sudharman was one of the chief disciples of Mahavir.
  • He played a significant role in spreading the teachings of Mahavir and preserving Jain scriptures.
  • Bhadrabahu
  • Bhadrabahu was a revered Jain monk and scholar.
  • He is known for his contributions to Jain literature, particularly the "Kalpa Sutra."
  • Bhadrabahu was the last Shrutkevali (one who has knowledge of all Jain scriptures).

Question 61

When did Congress first celebrate Independence Day?

  1. AOption (a)

    26 January 1946

  2. BOption (b)

    26 January 1947

  3. COption (c)

    26 January 1930

  4. DOption (d)

    26 January 1950

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

26 January 1930

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - 26 January 1930

Key Points

  • 26 January 1930
  • This date marks the first celebration of Independence Day by the Indian National Congress.
  • On this day in 1930, the Congress declared "Purna Swaraj" or complete independence from British rule.
  • Celebrations were held across the country to mark the occasion, and it was a significant step towards the eventual independence of India in 1947.
  • The declaration was made at the Lahore session of the Indian National Congress, under the presidency of Jawaharlal Nehru.

Additional Information

  • 26 January 1946
  • This date is incorrect as it is not associated with any significant event related to the celebration of Independence Day by the Congress.
  • 26 January 1947
  • This date is also incorrect. By 1947, India had gained independence on August 15, 1947, hence January 26, 1947, is not relevant in this context.
  • 26 January 1950
  • This date is significant in Indian history as it marks the day when the Constitution of India came into effect, making India a republic. However, it is not related to the first celebration of Independence Day by the Congress.

Question 62

Which of the following was associated with "Koma Gata Maru" episode?

  1. AOption (a)

    Kartar Singh

  2. BOption (b)

    Sardar Rana Singh

  3. COption (c)

    Lala Hardayal

  4. DOption (d)

    Baba Gurudit Singh

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Baba Gurudit Singh

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Baba Gurdit Singh

Key Points

  • Baba Gurdit Singh
  • Baba Gurdit Singh was a prominent figure in the "Komagata Maru" incident, which occurred in 1914.
  • The Komagata Maru was a Japanese steamship that carried 376 passengers, mostly Sikhs, from British India to Canada.
  • The Canadian government refused to allow the passengers to disembark, enforcing discriminatory immigration laws against Asians.
  • Baba Gurdit Singh chartered the ship to challenge these exclusionary laws and was a key leader in this episode.
  • The incident highlighted the racial discrimination faced by Indian immigrants and became a significant event in the history of Indian diaspora and the struggle for Indian independence.

Additional Information

  • Kartar Singh
  • Kartar Singh Sarabha was a key figure in the Indian independence movement and a prominent member of the Ghadar Party.
  • He was involved in revolutionary activities against the British rule in India but was not directly associated with the Komagata Maru incident.
  • Sardar Rana Singh
  • Sardar Rana Singh's contributions to Indian history are not well-documented in mainstream records related to the Komagata Maru incident.
  • Lala Hardayal
  • Lala Hardayal was a prominent Indian nationalist and one of the founders of the Ghadar Party.
  • He played a significant role in promoting the cause of Indian independence but was not directly involved in the Komagata Maru episode.

Question 63

Name the Indian revolutionary who shot Michael O'Dwyer the Lt.Governor of Punjab at the time of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre after twenty years.

  1. AOption (a)

    General Vaidya

  2. BOption (b)

    Bagat Singh

  3. COption (c)

    Chandrashekhar Azad

  4. DOption (d)

    Udham Singh

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Udham Singh

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Udham Singh

Key Points

  • Udham Singh
  • Udham Singh was an Indian revolutionary best known for assassinating Michael O'Dwyer, the former Lieutenant Governor of Punjab, in 1940.
  • This act was in retaliation for O'Dwyer's role in the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919, where British troops killed hundreds of unarmed Indian civilians.
  • Udham Singh was deeply affected by the massacre and vowed to avenge the deaths, which he eventually did by traveling to London and shooting O'Dwyer.
  • He was subsequently arrested, tried, and hanged for the assassination.
  • Udham Singh is considered a martyr and hero in the Indian independence movement.

Additional Information

  • General Vaidya
  • General Arun Shridhar Vaidya was an Indian Army Chief of Staff who played a key role in Operation Blue Star in 1984.
  • He was assassinated in 1986 by Sikh militants in retaliation for the operation.
  • Bhagat Singh
  • Bhagat Singh was an Indian socialist revolutionary whose acts of dramatic violence against the British in India, including the bombing of the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi, made him a folk hero of the Indian independence movement.
  • He was executed in 1931 for his involvement in the killing of British police officer John Saunders.
  • Chandrashekhar Azad
  • Chandrashekhar Azad was a prominent revolutionary in the Indian independence movement who reorganized the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) after the death of its founder, Ram Prasad Bismil.
  • He was involved in several significant revolutionary activities and died in 1931 in a shootout with the police.

Question 64

"Waiting for a Visa" an autobiography was written by

  1. AOption (a)

    Maulana Abul Kalam Azad

  2. BOption (b)

    Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel

  3. COption (c)

    Vitthal Ramji Shinde

  4. DOption (d)

    Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar

Key Points

  • Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar
  • "Waiting for a Visa" is an autobiographical account written by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
  • The book highlights his experiences with untouchability and caste discrimination in India.
  • It is a significant work that provides insights into the social issues faced by Dalits during the time.
  • Ambedkar used his personal experiences to advocate for social reforms and the upliftment of marginalized communities.

Additional Information

  • Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
  • He was a senior leader of the Indian National Congress and a prominent freedom fighter.
  • Azad served as India's first Minister of Education post-independence.
  • He played a vital role in promoting education and cultural unity in India.
  • Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel
  • Known as the "Iron Man of India," he was instrumental in the integration of princely states into the Indian Union post-independence.
  • He served as India's first Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home Affairs.
  • Vitthal Ramji Shinde
  • He was a social reformer and a key figure in the movement for the upliftment of the untouchables in India.
  • Shinde founded the Depressed Classes Mission to work for the welfare and education of the marginalized sections of society.

Question 65

Who was the Chairman of Border Commission for partition of India and Pakistan?

  1. AOption (a)

    Cyril Red Cliffe

  2. BOption (b)

    A. P. Moon

  3. COption (c)

    A. V. Alexandar

  4. DOption (d)

    Mc Mohan

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Cyril Red Cliffe

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Cyril Red Cliffe

Key Points

  • Cyril Red Cliffe
  • Cyril Radcliffe, a British lawyer, was appointed as the Chairman of the Boundary Commissions for the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947.
  • He had never visited India before his appointment, which was intended to ensure his impartiality in the boundary-drawing process.
  • The Radcliffe Line, named after him, demarcated the borders of the two new nations, India and Pakistan.
  • The commission's work was completed in a very short span of time, under immense pressure and amidst escalating communal tensions.

Additional Information

  • A. P. Moon
  • There is no significant record of an individual named A. P. Moon being involved in the partition process of India and Pakistan.
  • A. V. Alexandar
  • A. V. Alexander, 1st Earl Alexander of Hillsborough, was a British Labour politician who served as First Lord of the Admiralty during World War II.
  • He was not directly involved in the partition of India and Pakistan.
  • Mc Mohan
  • Henry McMahon, a British Indian Army officer, is known for the McMahon Line, a border line between India and Tibet proposed in the Simla Accord of 1914.
  • He was not involved in the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947.

Question 66

Who was called as the chief tax collector in the Arthsastra?

  1. AOption (a)

    Samahartri

  2. BOption (b)

    Pradvivaka

  3. COption (c)

    Mahamantrin

  4. DOption (d)

    Mahamatra

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Samahartri

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Samahartri

Key Points

  • Samahartri
  • In the ancient Indian text "Arthashastra," written by Kautilya (also known as Chanakya), the term "Samahartri" refers to the chief tax collector or the chief revenue officer.
  • The Samahartri was responsible for the collection of taxes and revenues from various parts of the kingdom.
  • This official played a crucial role in managing the financial administration of the state, ensuring that the kingdom's treasury was well-maintained.
  • The position was vital for the economic stability and prosperity of the state, as effective tax collection funded various state functions and activities.

Additional Information

  • Pradvivaka
  • In the Arthashastra, the Pradvivaka was an officer responsible for judicial administration and legal matters.
  • This official acted as a judge, resolving disputes and ensuring justice within the kingdom.
  • Mahamantrin
  • The Mahamantrin, or Prime Minister, was one of the highest-ranking officials in the kingdom, responsible for advising the king on various matters of state.
  • This role included overseeing the administration and ensuring the effective implementation of policies.
  • Mahamatra
  • The Mahamatras were a group of high-ranking officials who held various administrative and supervisory roles within the kingdom.
  • Their duties varied, ranging from overseeing different departments to acting as regional governors or supervisors of public welfare activities.

Question 67

Which was called 'Vishti'?

  1. AOption (a)

    Rajjuka

  2. BOption (b)

    Antapala

  3. COption (c)

    Forced Labour

  4. DOption (d)

    Bhag

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Forced Labour

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Forced Labour

Key Points

  • Vishti
  • Vishti refers to a form of forced labor that was prevalent during ancient and medieval times in India.
  • It was a system where peasants were compelled to work for the state or their feudal lords without any remuneration.
  • This labor was often used for public works, such as building roads, fortifications, and other state projects.
  • Vishti was a burdensome obligation imposed on the lower classes, adding to their economic hardships.

Additional Information

  • Rajjuka
  • Rajjuka were officers in charge of measuring land and maintaining land records during ancient India.
  • They played a significant role in the administration of the land revenue system.
  • Antapala
  • Antapala were frontier guards or officials responsible for protecting the borders of the kingdom.
  • They ensured the security and safety of the frontier regions.
  • Bhag
  • Bhag refers to the share or portion of agricultural produce or revenue that was collected as a tax by the state.
  • It was a common term used in the agrarian economy for the state's share in the produce of the land.

Question 68

The tradition of stupas is associated with

  1. AOption (a)

    Anant

  2. BOption (b)

    Pudgal

  3. COption (c)

    Parmita

  4. DOption (d)

    A place to maintain the ashes of Buddha

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

A place to maintain the ashes of Buddha

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - A place to maintain the ashes of Buddha

Key Points

  • A place to maintain the ashes of Buddha
  • The tradition of stupas is closely associated with the storage of relics, particularly the ashes of Buddha.
  • Stupas are mound-like or hemispherical structures that contain relics and are used as places of meditation.
  • They are significant in both Buddhist and Jain traditions, serving as key places of pilgrimage and worship.
  • The construction of stupas began after the Buddha's death, with his ashes being divided among various stupas built by his followers.

Additional Information

  • Anant
  • In various Indian philosophies and religions, Anant refers to the infinite or endless aspect of the universe or the divine.
  • It is not directly related to the tradition of stupas.
  • Pudgal
  • Pudgal is a concept in Jain philosophy referring to matter or the material form.
  • It denotes the physical aspect of existence and is not connected to the tradition of stupas.
  • Parmita
  • Parmita or Paramita refers to the perfections or virtues practiced by Bodhisattvas in Mahayana Buddhism.
  • These include virtues like generosity, morality, patience, energy, meditation, and wisdom.
  • While significant in Buddhism, Paramitas are not specifically related to the tradition of stupas.

Question 69

Which is called Jetthaka in the Pali literature?

  1. AOption (a)

    Varataka

  2. BOption (b)

    Vaidurya

  3. COption (c)

    A chief of the Guild

  4. DOption (d)

    Karpasha

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

A chief of the Guild

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - A chief of the Guild

Key Points

  • A chief of the Guild
  • In Pali literature, "Jetthaka" refers to a chief or leader of a guild.
  • Guilds were important socio-economic institutions in ancient India, and their leaders held significant influence and power within their communities.
  • These guild chiefs were often involved in trade, commerce, and sometimes even local governance.

Additional Information

  • Varataka
  • Varataka refers to a specific type of minor official or servant in ancient Indian contexts.
  • They often had roles related to the management of goods or services.
  • Vaidurya
  • Vaidurya is the Sanskrit name for a precious gemstone, known as cat's eye or beryl in English.
  • This gemstone was highly valued in ancient Indian culture for its supposed mystical properties.
  • Karpasha
  • Karpasha refers to cotton or textiles made from cotton.
  • Cotton was a significant commodity in ancient India, crucial for trade and everyday use.

Question 70

The name of Asoka has been inscribed in which of the following rock edicts?

  1. AOption (a)

    Shahbajgarghi rock edict

  2. BOption (b)

    Mansehra rock edict

  3. COption (c)

    First minor rock edict

  4. DOption (d)

    Sopara rock edict

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

First minor rock edict

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - First minor rock edict

Key Points

  • First minor rock edict
  • The name of Emperor Asoka is explicitly mentioned in the First Minor Rock Edict.
  • These edicts are significant as they reflect Asoka's efforts in spreading the principles of Buddhism and his ethical code.
  • The edicts were inscribed on rocks and pillars across the Indian subcontinent to communicate Asoka's message to the populace.

Additional Information

  • Shahbajgarghi rock edict
  • This edict is located in modern-day Pakistan and contains inscriptions related to Asoka's policies but does not mention his name directly.
  • Mansehra rock edict
  • Located in present-day Pakistan, these rock edicts are similar to the Shahbajgarghi edicts and focus on Asoka's governance and Buddhist principles.
  • Sopara rock edict
  • Located in Maharashtra, India, this edict is one of many that spread Asoka's messages but does not explicitly mention his name.

Question 71

In which district of Madhya Pradesh, the mesolithic site 'Putli Karar' is located?

  1. AOption (a)

    Raisen

  2. BOption (b)

    Satna

  3. COption (c)

    Balaghat

  4. DOption (d)

    Shivpuri

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Raisen

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Raisen

Key Points

  • Putli Karar
  • Putli Karar is a significant Mesolithic site located in the Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh.
  • This site has yielded numerous archaeological artifacts such as microliths, which are small stone tools typical of the Mesolithic period.
  • The discoveries at Putli Karar provide valuable insights into the lifestyle and technological advancements of early human societies in the region.

Additional Information

  • Satna
  • Satna is known for its rich cultural heritage and is a major industrial city in Madhya Pradesh.
  • It is not known for Mesolithic sites but has other historical sites and temples.
  • Balaghat
  • Balaghat is known for its natural beauty and mineral resources, particularly manganese and copper.
  • It does not have significant Mesolithic archaeological sites.
  • Shivpuri
  • Shivpuri is known for its historical significance and wildlife sanctuaries.
  • It is not associated with Mesolithic period findings.

Question 72

Which culture is also known as Flake Culture?

  1. AOption (a)

    Lower Paleolithic Culture

  2. BOption (b)

    Middle Paleolithic Culture

  3. COption (c)

    Upper Paleolithic Culture

  4. DOption (d)

    Neolithic Culture

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Middle Paleolithic Culture

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Middle Paleolithic Culture

Key Points

  • Middle Paleolithic Culture
  • The Middle Paleolithic Culture is also known as the Flake Culture.
  • This period is characterized by the production of flake tools, which are made by striking a small, thin piece off a larger stone core.
  • Flake tools include scrapers, points, and other tools used for cutting and hunting.
  • This culture is associated with Neanderthals in Europe and early modern humans in Africa.
  • Techniques such as the Levallois technique were used to produce these tools.

Additional Information

  • Lower Paleolithic Culture
  • This period is marked by the use of crude stone tools, primarily hand axes and cleavers.
  • It is associated with Homo erectus and early human ancestors.
  • The tools were typically made using the core technique, where the core itself was shaped into a tool.
  • Upper Paleolithic Culture
  • This period saw the development of more advanced tools, including blades and microliths.
  • There was also a significant increase in the use of bone, antler, and ivory for tool production.
  • Art and symbolic behavior became more prominent during this period.
  • Neolithic Culture
  • The Neolithic period is characterized by the development of agriculture and the use of polished stone tools.
  • Permanent settlements and the domestication of animals are key features of this period.
  • This period marks a significant shift from a nomadic lifestyle to a more settled way of life.

Question 73

Which inscription depicts the personal name of Ashoka as Ashoka?

  1. AOption (a)

    Pangudaria

  2. BOption (b)

    Sanchi

  3. COption (c)

    Gurjara

  4. DOption (d)

    Rupnath

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Gurjara

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Gurjara

Key Points

  • Gurjara
  • The Gurjara inscription is notable for being one of the few inscriptions that explicitly mentions the personal name of Ashoka as "Ashoka".
  • This inscription is a significant historical artifact that provides insight into the reign and personal identity of Emperor Ashoka.
  • Emperor Ashoka, one of India's greatest rulers, is known for his propagation of Buddhism and his efforts towards spreading peace and non-violence after the Kalinga War.
  • The Gurjara inscription helps historians and scholars verify the personal details of Ashoka, adding to the authenticity of historical records.

Additional Information

  • Pangudaria
  • Pangudaria is another site with inscriptions related to Ashoka, but it does not mention his personal name explicitly as "Ashoka".
  • Sanchi
  • Sanchi is famous for its stupas and inscriptions, but it is more known for its association with Buddhist monuments and teachings rather than explicitly mentioning the personal name of Ashoka.
  • Rupnath
  • Rupnath contains inscriptions that reflect Ashoka's edicts and his dedication to Buddhism, but it does not specifically mention his personal name "Ashoka".

Question 74

Amarkardawa, the commander in-chief of Chandragupta II donated ______ deenars to Bauddha Sangha.

  1. AOption (a)

    25

  2. BOption (b)

    30

  3. COption (c)

    35

  4. DOption (d)

    40

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

25

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - 25

Key Points

  • Amarkardawa, the commander-in-chief of Chandragupta II
  • Amarkardawa was a prominent military leader during the reign of Chandragupta II, one of the most notable rulers of the Gupta Empire.
  • His contribution of 25 deenars to the Bauddha Sangha signifies the support of the Gupta rulers and their officials towards Buddhist institutions.
  • This donation reflects the religious tolerance and patronage extended to various religious groups during the Gupta period.

Additional Information

  • Chandragupta II
  • Chandragupta II, also known as Vikramaditya, was one of the most powerful emperors of the Gupta Empire.
  • His reign marked a high point in the cultural development of ancient India, often referred to as the Golden Age of India.
  • Under his rule, the Gupta Empire expanded and flourished, and there was significant patronage of art, literature, and religious institutions.
  • Bauddha Sangha
  • The Bauddha Sangha was a monastic community of Buddhist monks and nuns, which played a crucial role in the spread of Buddhism.
  • Donations from kings and wealthy patrons were vital for the sustenance and activities of the Sangha.
  • Deenars
  • Deenar was a gold coin used during the Gupta period, symbolizing the wealth and prosperity of the empire.
  • Donating deenars to religious institutions was a common practice among rulers and their officials to show their support and patronage.

Question 75

Who was the founder of Naga dynasty of Vidhisha?

  1. AOption (a)

    Devnaga

  2. BOption (b)

    Skandnaga

  3. COption (c)

    Bhavnaga

  4. DOption (d)

    Vrishnaga

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Vrishnaga

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Vrishnaga

Key Points

  • Vrishnaga
  • Vrishnaga is recognized as the founder of the Naga dynasty in Vidhisha.
  • The Naga dynasty was known for its significant role in the history and politics of central India during ancient times.
  • Vidhisha, an ancient city, was a crucial cultural and political center in the region.
  • The Naga rulers contributed to the growth and prosperity of Vidhisha, making it an important historical site.

Additional Information

  • Devnaga
  • There are no historical records indicating Devnaga as the founder of the Naga dynasty.
  • Devnaga might have been a notable figure but not in the context of founding the Naga dynasty in Vidhisha.
  • Skandnaga
  • Skandnaga was a prominent ruler of the Naga dynasty but was not its founder.
  • He is known for his contributions to the dynasty's power and influence in the region.
  • Bhavnaga
  • Bhavnaga is another significant ruler in the Naga dynasty history, but not the founder.
  • He played a vital role in the expansion and consolidation of the dynasty's territories.

Question 76

In the seventh pillar edict of Asoka which sect has been mentioned?

  1. AOption (a)

    Ajivika

  2. BOption (b)

    Nirgrantha

  3. COption (c)

    Bhagwat

  4. DOption (d)

    Kapalik

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Ajivika

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Ajivika

Key Points

  • Ajivika
  • The Ajivika sect was an ancient Indian religious movement that emerged around the same time as Buddhism and Jainism.
  • It was founded by Makkhali Gosala, a contemporary of Mahavira and the Buddha.
  • Ajivikas believed in the concept of Niyati (destiny) and that everything was predetermined by fate.
  • This sect is mentioned in the seventh pillar edict of Asoka, which reflects its significance during that period.

Additional Information

  • Nirgrantha
  • Nirgrantha refers to the followers of Jainism, specifically the adherents of Mahavira.
  • Jainism emphasizes non-violence, truth, and asceticism as key principles.
  • Bhagwat
  • The term Bhagwat typically refers to a follower of Bhagavatism, a sect devoted to the worship of Lord Vishnu.
  • This sect later evolved into Vaishnavism, a major tradition within Hinduism.
  • Kapalik
  • Kapalik sects were associated with extreme forms of asceticism and Tantric practices.
  • They are often linked to the worship of the fierce aspects of Shiva.

Question 77

In which language 'Gatha Saptasati' by the king Hala was written?

  1. AOption (a)

    Sanskrit

  2. BOption (b)

    Pali

  3. COption (c)

    Prakrit

  4. DOption (d)

    Hindi

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Prakrit

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Prakrit

Key Points

  • Gatha Saptasati
  • 'Gatha Saptasati' is an anthology of poems, predominantly themed around love and romance.
  • The work consists of 700 verses (hence the name 'Saptasati') and is composed by the Satavahana king Hala.
  • It is one of the oldest known collections of poetry in the Prakrit language.
  • Prakrit languages are a group of Middle Indo-Aryan languages, which were used in ancient and medieval India.

Additional Information

  • Sanskrit
  • Sanskrit is an ancient Indo-European language of India, in which many Hindu religious texts are written.
  • It is one of the oldest, classical languages of India, and was used extensively in literature, science, and philosophy.
  • Pali
  • Pali is a Middle Indo-Aryan language, used as the liturgical language of Theravada Buddhism.
  • Many of the earliest Buddhist scriptures are written in Pali.
  • Hindi
  • Hindi is an Indo-Aryan language spoken widely in India.
  • It is the fourth most spoken language in the world and is one of the official languages of India.

Question 78

Who composed the Manimegalai?

  1. AOption (a)

    Poet Sattan of Madurai

  2. BOption (b)

    Poet Kamban

  3. COption (c)

    Poet Ilangovadigal

  4. DOption (d)

    Poet Avvaiyar

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Poet Sattan of Madurai

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Poet Sattan of Madurai

Key Points

  • Poet Sattan of Madurai
  • Poet Sattan of Madurai is the author of the Tamil epic "Manimegalai".
  • Manimegalai is one of the five great Tamil epics, known as the Aimperumkappiyam.
  • The work is a sequel to the epic "Silappatikaram" and focuses on the daughter of Kovalan and Madhavi, Manimegalai.
  • The epic highlights the principles of Buddhism and the life of Manimegalai as she seeks enlightenment and becomes a Buddhist nun.

Additional Information

  • Poet Kamban
  • Kamban is renowned for his Tamil rendition of the Ramayana, known as "Kamba Ramayanam".
  • He is celebrated as one of the greatest Tamil poets.
  • Poet Ilangovadigal
  • Ilangovadigal is the author of "Silappatikaram", another of the five great Tamil epics.
  • "Silappatikaram" tells the story of Kannagi and her husband Kovalan.
  • Poet Avvaiyar
  • Avvaiyar is the name of more than one Tamil poet, who is known for her wisdom and contributions to Tamil literature.
  • She composed many didactic and moral poems.

Question 79

Which of the following was known by ancient Indians as Suvarnadweep?

  1. AOption (a)

    Kampuchia

  2. BOption (b)

    Burma

  3. COption (c)

    Java

  4. DOption (d)

    Sri Lanka

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Java

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Java

Key Points

  • Java
  • In ancient times, the island of Java was known as Suvarnadweep (the Island of Gold) by Indians.
  • The name indicates the importance of the island in terms of wealth and trade.
  • Java played a significant role in the trade routes between India and Southeast Asia.
  • Indian cultural influence was strong in Java, with the spread of Hinduism and Buddhism.

Additional Information

  • Kampuchia (Cambodia)
  • Kampuchia is the historical name for modern-day Cambodia, known for the Khmer Empire and the Angkor Wat temple.
  • The ancient name for Cambodia was Kambuja.
  • Burma (Myanmar)
  • Burma is the former name of Myanmar, known for its rich cultural heritage and Buddhist sites like Shwedagon Pagoda.
  • Historically, Burma was known as Brahmadesh.
  • Sri Lanka
  • Sri Lanka is an island nation south of India, known for its ancient cities, tea plantations, and Buddhist sites.
  • In ancient Indian texts, Sri Lanka was referred to as Lanka or Ceylon.

Question 80

Which book first mentioned 'Soonya' in ancient India?

  1. AOption (a)

    Chhanda Shastra

  2. BOption (b)

    Suryásiddhantika

  3. COption (c)

    Khandkhadhyaka

  4. DOption (d)

    Lilawati

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Chhanda Shastra

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Chhanda Shastra

Key Points

  • Chhanda Shastra
  • Chhanda Shastra is an ancient Indian treatise on prosody, traditionally attributed to Pingala.
  • The work is significant for its early mention of 'Soonya' or zero, which played a crucial role in the development of mathematics.
  • The concept of zero as a placeholder and an independent number was revolutionary and formed the basis of the decimal system.
  • The text laid the groundwork for future mathematical and astronomical calculations that were further developed by Indian scholars.

Additional Information

  • Suryasiddhantika
  • An ancient Indian astronomical text that forms the basis of classical Indian astronomy.
  • It provides calculations for the positions of celestial bodies and explains various astronomical phenomena.
  • Khandkhadhyaka
  • A work on Indian astronomy by Brahmagupta, a renowned mathematician and astronomer.
  • It deals with astronomical calculations and the motion of planets.
  • Lilawati
  • A treatise on mathematics written by Bhaskara II.
  • It is known for its poetic and illustrative approach to explaining mathematical concepts.

Question 81

Who propounded the theory of historical materialism?

  1. AOption (a)

    J. Lock

  2. BOption (b)

    Karl Marx

  3. COption (c)

    Johnson

  4. DOption (d)

    J. S. Mill

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Karl Marx

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Karl Marx

Key Points

  • Karl Marx
  • Karl Marx was a German philosopher, economist, historian, sociologist, political theorist, journalist, and socialist revolutionary.
  • He is best known for his works "The Communist Manifesto" (1848) and "Das Kapital" (1867–1894).
  • Historical materialism is a theory developed by Karl Marx, which focuses on the development of human societies and their economic systems over time.
  • According to historical materialism, the material conditions of a society's mode of production fundamentally determine its organization and development.
  • Marx's theory emphasizes the role of class struggle in societal changes and the conflicts between the ruling class and the working class.

Additional Information

  • J. Lock (John Locke)
  • John Locke was an English philosopher and physician, widely regarded as one of the most influential Enlightenment thinkers.
  • He is known as the "Father of Liberalism" and contributed to the development of social contract theory.
  • Johnson
  • There is no specific prominent historical figure named Johnson who is known for theories related to historical materialism.
  • J. S. Mill (John Stuart Mill)
  • John Stuart Mill was a British philosopher, political economist, and civil servant.
  • He is known for his contributions to liberalism, utilitarianism, and the principles of political economy.

Question 82

The main basis of historical concept is

  1. AOption (a)

    Social needs

  2. BOption (b)

    Religious needs

  3. COption (c)

    Economic needs

  4. DOption (d)

    None of these

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Social needs

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Social needs

Key Points

  • Social needs
  • The study of history is fundamentally driven by the necessity to understand human societies and their development over time.
  • History helps in understanding the cultural, social, and political contexts of different societies, which is crucial for the progression and development of human civilization.
  • It provides insights into how societies organize themselves, how they change, and the factors that drive social transformations.
  • Understanding past social structures and relationships helps in addressing contemporary social issues and planning for the future.

Additional Information

  • Religious needs
  • While religion has played a significant role in history, it is not the primary basis for the historical concept.
  • Religious events and movements are often studied within the broader social and cultural contexts of history.
  • Economic needs
  • Economic factors are crucial in understanding historical developments, but they are part of the broader social needs.
  • Economic history focuses on how economic activities and policies shape societies and their structures.
  • None of these
  • This option is incorrect as social needs indeed form the main basis of historical study.
  • History encompasses various aspects, including social, economic, political, and cultural needs, but social needs are foundational.

Question 83

Who among the following was nationalist historians?

  1. AOption (a)

    D. D. Kosambi

  2. BOption (b)

    Ram Saran Sharma

  3. COption (c)

    Romila Thapar

  4. DOption (d)

    K. P. Jayaswal

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

K. P. Jayaswal

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - K. P. Jayaswal

Key Points

  • K. P. Jayaswal
  • K. P. Jayaswal was a prominent Indian historian and scholar known for his nationalist perspective.
  • He emphasized the glorious past of India and the achievements of ancient Indian civilization.
  • Jayaswal's works often aimed at countering the colonial narratives that undermined Indian culture and history.
  • His notable works include "Hindu Polity" and "History of India".

Additional Information

  • D. D. Kosambi
  • D. D. Kosambi was an Indian mathematician, statistician, and historian.
  • He is best known for his work on the economic and social history of India.
  • His approach to history was Marxist, focusing on the material conditions and class struggles of ancient India.
  • Ram Saran Sharma
  • R. S. Sharma was an eminent Indian historian known for his studies on ancient and early medieval India.
  • He was a proponent of the materialistic interpretation of history, often adopting a Marxist approach.
  • Sharma's notable works include "India's Ancient Past" and "Aspects of Political Ideas and Institutions in Ancient India".
  • Romila Thapar
  • Romila Thapar is a renowned Indian historian specializing in ancient India.
  • Her works are known for their critical analysis and reliance on empirical evidence.
  • Thapar's notable publications include "A History of India" and "Ashoka and the Decline of the Mauryas".

Question 84

Who was a Marxist historian?

  1. AOption (a)

    Gouri Shankar Hirachand Ojha

  2. BOption (b)

    H. C. Rai Choudhary

  3. COption (c)

    R. C. Majumdar

  4. DOption (d)

    D. D. Kosambi

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

D. D. Kosambi

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - D. D. Kosambi

Key Points

  • D. D. Kosambi
  • D. D. Kosambi was an Indian Marxist historian, mathematician, and polymath.
  • He is known for his pioneering work in the field of Indian history and historiography from a Marxist perspective.
  • Kosambi applied Marxist methodologies to study the social and economic aspects of ancient Indian history.
  • His notable works include "An Introduction to the Study of Indian History" and "The Culture and Civilization of Ancient India in Historical Outline".

Additional Information

  • Gouri Shankar Hirachand Ojha
  • Gouri Shankar Hirachand Ojha was an Indian historian known for his work in the history of Rajasthan.
  • He focused on the regional history and was not associated with Marxist historiography.
  • H. C. Rai Choudhary
  • H. C. Rai Choudhary was an Indian historian known for his research on ancient Indian history and culture.
  • He did not adopt a Marxist approach in his historical analyses.
  • R. C. Majumdar
  • R. C. Majumdar was a prominent Indian historian noted for his comprehensive work on Indian history.
  • He is often criticized for his conservative approach and for not employing Marxist methodologies in his historical interpretations.

Question 85

Early Muslim historians based their writing on

  1. AOption (a)

    Economic aspect

  2. BOption (b)

    Social aspect

  3. COption (c)

    Religious and political aspect

  4. DOption (d)

    None of the above

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Religious and political aspect

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Religious and political aspect

Key Points

  • Religious and political aspect
  • Early Muslim historians primarily focused on the religious and political developments of the Muslim world.
  • These historians documented the life of Prophet Muhammad, the spread of Islam, and the establishment of the Caliphate.
  • Their writings also included the political dynamics, governance, and administrative policies of various Muslim dynasties.
  • Key figures such as Ibn Ishaq and Al-Tabari are examples of historians who emphasized these aspects in their works.

Additional Information

  • Economic aspect
  • While economic factors were sometimes mentioned, they were not the primary focus of early Muslim historians.
  • Social aspect
  • The social aspects of Muslim societies were often intertwined with religious teachings and political events, but were not the main focus in historical writings.
  • None of the above
  • This option is incorrect as it does not align with the primary focus of early Muslim historians.

Question 86

Who was the successor of Devpal, of the Pal dynasty ruler of Bengal?

  1. AOption (a)

    Vigrahpal (Shurpal).

  2. BOption (b)

    Narayanpal

  3. COption (c)

    Veerpal

  4. DOption (d)

    Nagpal

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Vigrahpal (Shurpal).

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Vigrahpal (Shurpal)

Key Points

  • Vigrahpal (Shurpal)
  • Vigrahpal, also known as Shurpal, succeeded Devpal as the ruler of the Pal dynasty in Bengal.
  • The Pal dynasty was a significant ruling dynasty in Bengal, known for their contributions to the region's culture and administration.
  • Vigrahpal continued the legacy of the Pal dynasty, maintaining stability and prosperity in the region.

Additional Information

  • Narayanpal
  • Narayanpal was also a notable ruler of the Pal dynasty, but he did not directly succeed Devpal.
  • He is known for his contributions to the cultural and architectural developments in Bengal.
  • Veerpal
  • Veerpal was another significant figure in the Pal dynasty, recognized for his valor and administrative skills.
  • Though important, he did not directly follow Devpal as the ruler.
  • Nagpal
  • Nagpal was a member of the Pal dynasty, but historical records do not indicate him as the immediate successor of Devpal.
  • His contributions are more obscure compared to other rulers of the Pal dynasty.

Question 87

Who was theearliestYadav ruler known for his own grant and his Sangamner copper plate, issued in favour of the temple of Vijayabharaneshvara erected at Sangamner in Ahmadnagar district in 1000 A.D.?

  1. AOption (a)

    Vesungi

  2. BOption (b)

    Dhadiyappa

  3. COption (c)

    Sriraja

  4. DOption (d)

    Bhillama II

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Bhillama II

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Bhillama II

Key Points

  • Bhillama II
  • Bhillama II was an early Yadav ruler known for his contributions to the development of the Yadava dynasty.
  • He is well-known for his grant and the issuance of the Sangamner copper plate in favor of the temple of Vijayabharaneshvara at Sangamner in Ahmadnagar district in 1000 A.D.
  • This grant is a significant historical record that highlights the cultural and religious activities during his reign.
  • The Sangamner copper plate is an important source of information about the early Yadava dynasty and their support for religious institutions.

Additional Information

  • Vesungi
  • Vesungi is not a well-documented ruler in the context of the Yadava dynasty.
  • There is limited information available about Vesungi's contributions or significant historical records associated with him.
  • Dhadiyappa
  • Dhadiyappa's historical records are sparse, and he is not prominently known in connection with the Yadava dynasty.
  • There are no significant grants or copper plates attributed to Dhadiyappa that highlight his rule or contributions.
  • Sriraja
  • Sriraja is another lesser-known figure in the context of early Yadava rulers.
  • There is no substantial historical evidence linking Sriraja to major grants or religious contributions during the Yadava reign.

Question 88

An inscription outside cave 16 at Ajanta records the gift of the cave to the Buddhist Sangha by Varahadeva, a minister of the Vatsagulma Branch. Which dynasty Vatsagulma was a branch of?

  1. AOption (a)

    Vakatak

  2. BOption (b)

    Satavahan

  3. COption (c)

    Chalukya

  4. DOption (d)

    Yadav

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Vakatak

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Vakataka

Key Points

  • Vakataka Dynasty
  • The Vakataka dynasty was an ancient Indian dynasty that ruled parts of Central and South India between the 3rd and 5th centuries CE.
  • The Vakataka dynasty is known for its support of Buddhism and its contributions to the Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Varahadeva, a minister of the Vakataka dynasty, specifically from the Vatsagulma branch, gifted Cave 16 to the Buddhist Sangha as recorded in the inscription.
  • The Vatsagulma branch of the Vakataka dynasty played a significant role in the cultural and religious landscape of their time.

Additional Information

  • Satavahana Dynasty
  • The Satavahana dynasty ruled parts of Central and Southern India from the 1st century BCE to the 3rd century CE.
  • They were known for their contributions to trade, administration, and the spread of Buddhism.
  • Chalukya Dynasty
  • The Chalukya dynasty ruled large parts of southern and central India between the 6th and 12th centuries CE.
  • They are known for their architectural achievements, including the rock-cut temples at Badami and the structural temples at Aihole and Pattadakal.
  • Yadava Dynasty
  • The Yadava dynasty ruled parts of the Deccan region in India from the 12th to the 14th centuries CE.
  • They are known for their patronage of literature and the construction of forts and temples in the region.

Question 89

A famous Mathematician of 9th century Karnataka lived in the court of the Rashtrakuta King Amoghavarsha Nripatunga of Manyakheta. Who was that mathematician?

  1. AOption (a)

    Mahavira

  2. BOption (b)

    Veerabhadra

  3. COption (c)

    Maheshwar

  4. DOption (d)

    Moreshwar

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Mahavira

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Mahavira

Key Points

  • Mahavira
  • Mahavira was a renowned mathematician from the 9th century in Karnataka.
  • He lived during the reign of the Rashtrakuta King Amoghavarsha Nripatunga at Manyakheta (modern Malkhed).
  • He is famous for his mathematical works, particularly his treatise "Ganitasarasangraha" which means "Compendium of Mathematics".
  • His work made significant contributions to algebra, arithmetic, and geometry, and it was widely used in southern India.
  • Mahavira's treatise includes rules for zero and negative numbers and ways to solve various types of equations.

Additional Information

  • Veerabhadra
  • There is no historical evidence to suggest that Veerabhadra was a renowned mathematician in the 9th century.
  • Maheshwar
  • Maheshwar is not known for any significant contributions to mathematics in the 9th century.
  • Moreshwar
  • Moreshwar does not have any recorded mathematical works or contributions from the 9th century.

Question 90

During the Chola dynasty, in which Shaiva Bhakti work the popular Tripurantaka story is found

  1. AOption (a)

    Tevaram

  2. BOption (b)

    Shivram

  3. COption (c)

    Tevakkal

  4. DOption (d)

    Trimurtisamhita

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Tevaram

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Tevaram

Key Points

  • Tevaram
  • Tevaram is a collection of Tamil Shaiva devotional poetry composed by the Nayanars (Shaiva saints) during the early medieval period.
  • The collection is primarily attributed to three poets: Sambandar, Appar, and Sundarar.
  • These hymns are dedicated to Shiva and are highly revered in the Shaiva tradition.
  • The Tripurantaka story, which narrates Shiva's destruction of the three cities of the demons (Tripura), is found in these devotional hymns.

Additional Information

  • Shivram
  • No significant historical or literary reference to a work named "Shivram" in the context of Shaiva Bhakti literature.
  • Tevakkal
  • There is no known Shaiva Bhakti work by the name "Tevakkal" in historical records.
  • Trimurtisamhita
  • This name suggests a text dealing with the Hindu Trimurti (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva), but it is not a specific Shaiva Bhakti work containing the Tripurantaka story.

Question 91

There are five parts in the code of Napolean. _______ is not its part.

  1. AOption (a)

    Civil Code

  2. BOption (b)

    Code of Civil Procedure

  3. COption (c)

    Code of Commerce

  4. DOption (d)

    Code of Education

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Code of Education

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Code of Education

Key Points

  • Code of Education
  • The Code of Education is not a part of the Napoleonic Code.
  • The Napoleonic Code, also known as the French Civil Code, primarily deals with private law, including property, family, and obligations.
  • The Code of Education pertains to the regulation and organization of the educational system, which was not included in the Napoleonic reforms.

Additional Information

  • Civil Code
  • The Civil Code is one of the most important parts of the Napoleonic Code.
  • It deals with civil law aspects such as property, family relations, and contracts.
  • Code of Civil Procedure
  • The Code of Civil Procedure governs the procedures for civil litigation.
  • It outlines the rules for conducting civil lawsuits, including filing cases, presenting evidence, and delivering judgments.
  • Code of Commerce
  • The Code of Commerce regulates commercial transactions and business activities.
  • It includes laws related to trade, commercial contracts, and the operation of businesses.

Question 92

The treaty of Augsberg was held in _________ A.D.

  1. AOption (a)

    1530

  2. BOption (b)

    1540

  3. COption (c)

    1555

  4. DOption (d)

    1585

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

1555

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - 1555 A.D.

Key Points

  • The Treaty of Augsburg
  • The Treaty of Augsburg, also known as the Peace of Augsburg, was signed in 1555.
  • This treaty was significant in the history of the Holy Roman Empire as it officially ended the religious conflict between Roman Catholics and Lutherans.
  • The treaty allowed the rulers of the Holy Roman Empire's various states to choose either Lutheranism or Roman Catholicism as the official confession of their state, a principle known as "cuius regio, eius religio."
  • This treaty marked a significant moment in the Reformation and the religious division of Europe.

Additional Information

  • 1530 A.D.
  • The year 1530 is notable for the Diet of Augsburg, where the Lutheran princes presented the Augsburg Confession, a fundamental document of Lutheran faith, to Emperor Charles V.
  • 1540 A.D.
  • The year 1540 is significant for the founding of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) by Ignatius of Loyola, which played a crucial role in the Counter-Reformation.
  • 1585 A.D.
  • The year 1585 marks the beginning of the Anglo-Spanish War (1585–1604) between England and Spain, a major conflict of the Elizabethan era.

Question 93

Who invented the 'Water Frame'?

  1. AOption (a)

    Richard Arkwright

  2. BOption (b)

    James Hargreaves

  3. COption (c)

    John Kay

  4. DOption (d)

    Edmund Cartwright

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Richard Arkwright

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Richard Arkwright

Key Points

  • Richard Arkwright
  • Richard Arkwright was an English inventor and a leading entrepreneur during the early Industrial Revolution.
  • He is credited with inventing the water frame in 1769, a significant advancement in the textile industry.
  • The water frame was a spinning frame powered by a water wheel, which allowed for the production of stronger and finer threads.
  • This invention greatly increased the efficiency of the textile manufacturing process and played a crucial role in the development of the factory system.

Additional Information

  • James Hargreaves
  • James Hargreaves was an English weaver, carpenter, and inventor.
  • He is best known for inventing the spinning jenny in 1764, which was another significant advancement in the textile industry.
  • The spinning jenny allowed a single worker to spin multiple spools of thread simultaneously, greatly increasing productivity.
  • John Kay
  • John Kay was an English inventor best known for inventing the flying shuttle in 1733.
  • The flying shuttle greatly sped up the weaving process and allowed for the production of wider fabrics, contributing to the mechanization of the textile industry.
  • Edmund Cartwright
  • Edmund Cartwright was an English inventor and clergyman.
  • He is best known for inventing the power loom in 1784, which mechanized the process of weaving cloth and significantly increased production capacity.

Question 94

Who is the author of the book 'England's Treasure by the Foreign Trade'?

  1. AOption (a)

    Adam Smith

  2. BOption (b)

    Josiah Child

  3. COption (c)

    Thomas Mun

  4. DOption (d)

    Antonio Serra

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Thomas Mun

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Thomas Mun

Key Points

  • Thomas Mun
  • Thomas Mun was an English economist and a key figure in the development of early economic thought.
  • He is best known for his work "England's Treasure by the Foreign Trade," published posthumously in 1664.
  • This book is considered a significant contribution to the mercantilist economic theory, which emphasizes the role of foreign trade in increasing a nation's wealth.
  • Mun argued that a positive balance of trade was essential for the prosperity of a nation.

Additional Information

  • Adam Smith
  • Adam Smith is widely regarded as the father of modern economics.
  • He is best known for his seminal work, "The Wealth of Nations," published in 1776.
  • Smith's ideas laid the foundation for classical economics, focusing on free markets and the invisible hand theory.
  • Josiah Child
  • Josiah Child was an English merchant and economist.
  • He was a prominent figure in the East India Company and wrote several works on trade and economics.
  • His notable works include "A New Discourse of Trade," where he discussed various economic policies and practices.
  • Antonio Serra
  • Antonio Serra was an Italian economist known for his work on economic theory.
  • He is best known for his book "Breve trattato delle cause che possono far abbondare li regni d'oro e argento dove non sono miniere" (1613), which translates to "A Short Treatise on the Causes that Can Make Gold and Silver Plentiful in Kingdoms Where There Are No Mines."
  • Serra's work is considered one of the earliest contributions to mercantilist thought.

Question 95

Match the events in the List (A) with the dates given in the List (B) and give the answer by choosing the correct code :

List (A)List (B)
1.Boston Tea Partya.20 June 1789
2.Brest-Litovsk Treatyb.16 December 1773
3.Beginning of 'Long March' in Chinac.3 March 1918
4.The Oath of Tennis Courtd.16 October 1934
  1. AOption (a)

    1a, 2b, 3c, 4d

  2. BOption (b)

    1b, 2a, 3d, 4c

  3. COption (c)

    ​1b, 2a, 3c, 4d

  4. DOption (d)

    ​1b, 2c, 3d, 4a

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

​1b, 2c, 3d, 4a

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - 1b, 2c, 3d, 4a

Key Points

  • Boston Tea Party
  • Occurred on 16 December 1773.
  • It was a political protest by the American colonists against the British government and the monopolistic East India Company that controlled all the tea imported into the colonies.
  • Colonists, dressed as Native Americans, dumped 342 chests of tea into Boston Harbor as a protest against the Tea Act.
  • Brest-Litovsk Treaty
  • Signed on 3 March 1918.
  • This treaty marked the exit of Russia from World War I.
  • It was a peace treaty between the new Bolshevik government of Soviet Russia and the Central Powers, including Germany, Austria-Hungary, Bulgaria, and the Ottoman Empire.
  • Beginning of 'Long March' in China
  • Started on 16 October 1934.
  • The Long March was a strategic retreat by the Red Army of the Chinese Communist Party to evade the pursuit of the Kuomintang (Nationalist) army.
  • It lasted for over a year and covered approximately 9,000 kilometers.
  • The Oath of Tennis Court
  • Occurred on 20 June 1789.
  • It was a pivotal event during the early days of the French Revolution.
  • Members of the Third Estate, who had begun to call themselves the National Assembly, took an oath not to separate until a new constitution was established.

Additional Information

  • Boston Tea Party
  • It escalated tensions between Britain and the American colonies and eventually led to the American Revolutionary War.
  • Brest-Litovsk Treaty
  • As a result of the treaty, Russia ceded significant territories to the Central Powers.
  • Long March
  • The Long March solidified Mao Zedong's leadership within the Communist Party of China.
  • The Oath of Tennis Court
  • This event is considered one of the first steps towards the French Revolution.

Question 96

Till when Gulbarga was the capital of the Bahmani kingdom?

  1. AOption (a)

    1325 A.D.

  2. BOption (b)

    1425 A.D.

  3. COption (c)

    1426 A.D.

  4. DOption (d)

    1427 A.D.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

1425 A.D.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - 1425 A.D.

Key Points

  • 1425 A.D.
  • Gulbarga served as the capital of the Bahmani Sultanate from its founding in 1347 A.D. by Ala-ud-Din Bahman Shah.
  • In 1425 A.D., Sultan Ahmad Shah I shifted the capital from Gulbarga to Bidar, making Bidar the new administrative center.
  • This move was significant for the Bahmani kingdom, as it aimed to consolidate power and manage administrative affairs more efficiently from Bidar.

Additional Information

  • 1325 A.D.
  • 1325 A.D. predates the establishment of the Bahmani Sultanate, which was founded in 1347 A.D.
  • This year is therefore not relevant to the history of Gulbarga as the Bahmani capital.
  • 1426 A.D.
  • This is one year after the actual shift of the capital from Gulbarga to Bidar.
  • It does not accurately reflect the historical timeline of the Bahmani Sultanate.
  • 1427 A.D.
  • By 1427 A.D., Bidar was already established as the capital of the Bahmani Sultanate.
  • This date is also incorrect concerning the timeline of the capital shift.

Question 97

Which treaty was done on 7th July 1738 that brought Marathas full control over Malwa and the Nizam and other rising powers challenging the Marathas power were also suppressed

  1. AOption (a)

    Treaty of Salbai

  2. BOption (b)

    Treaty of Devgaon

  3. COption (c)

    Treaty of Badgaon

  4. DOption (d)

    Treaty of Duraha Sarai

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Treaty of Duraha Sarai

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Treaty of Duraha Sarai

Key Points

  • Treaty of Duraha Sarai
  • The Treaty of Duraha Sarai was signed on 7th July 1738 between the Marathas and the Mughal Empire.
  • This treaty granted the Marathas full control over the region of Malwa.
  • It also marked a significant point where the Marathas' power was recognized, and other rising powers like the Nizam were suppressed.
  • This consolidation allowed the Marathas to focus on expanding their influence further into northern India.

Additional Information

  • Treaty of Salbai
  • Signed in 1782 between the Maratha Empire and the British East India Company.
  • It ended the First Anglo-Maratha War and maintained the status quo, returning territories to both parties.
  • Treaty of Devgaon
  • Signed in 1803 between the British East India Company and the Maratha Empire.
  • It was part of the agreements following the Second Anglo-Maratha War.
  • Treaty of Badgaon
  • Signed in 1802
  • It was between the British East India Company and Baji Rao II, the Maratha Peshwa.
  • This treaty led to significant British intervention in Maratha affairs.

Question 98

How was the Council of Ministers addressed during the Sultanate period?

  1. AOption (a)

    Musarif-e-Mamalik

  2. BOption (b)

    Diwan-e-Vizarat

  3. COption (c)

    Majlis-e-Khalwat

  4. DOption (d)

    Mushtaufi-e-Mamalik

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Majlis-e-Khalwat

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Majlis-e-Khalwat

Key Points

  • Majlis-e-Khalwat
  • The term "Majlis-e-Khalwat" refers to the Council of Ministers during the Sultanate period in medieval India.
  • It was an important advisory body to the Sultan, consisting of high-ranking officials and ministers who were responsible for various administrative functions.
  • This council played a significant role in policy-making and governance, advising the Sultan on matters related to administration, defense, and finance.
  • Members of the Majlis-e-Khalwat were selected based on their expertise and loyalty to the Sultan.

Additional Information

  • Musarif-e-Mamalik
  • Musarif-e-Mamalik was a title given to an official responsible for overseeing the revenue and financial administration of the kingdom.
  • This official ensured proper collection and management of taxes and revenues.
  • Diwan-e-Vizarat
  • Diwan-e-Vizarat was the department of the Prime Minister or the Chief Minister, known as the Wazir, during the Sultanate period.
  • The Wazir was the head of the administration and had significant authority over various state affairs, including finance and military.
  • Mushtaufi-e-Mamalik
  • Mushtaufi-e-Mamalik was an official responsible for auditing and maintaining the accounts of the state.
  • This role was crucial for ensuring transparency and accountability in the financial administration of the kingdom.

Question 99

Which statement is not correct regarding Mughal administrative system?

a. In the Mughal monarchy, the word "Vizarat" has been used for central administration.

b. While conducting judicial work, Sadra was called "Diwan-a-Sadat".

  1. AOption (a)

    Only a

  2. BOption (b)

    Only b

  3. COption (c)

    a and b both

  4. DOption (d)

    Both a and b are not correct

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Only b

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Only b

Key Points

  • Mughal Administrative System
  • In the Mughal monarchy, the term "Vizarat" was indeed used for central administration. The Vizier (or Wazir) was the highest official in the administration, overseeing various aspects of the state and acting as the principal advisor to the emperor.
  • Sadra was not called "Diwan-a-Sadat" while conducting judicial work. In fact, Sadra was responsible for religious and charitable endowments, education, and overseeing religious scholars. The term "Diwan" generally referred to a financial officer or minister, not a judicial one.

Additional Information

  • Vizarat
  • The Vizarat was an important institution in the Mughal administrative system. The Vizier (Wazir) held significant power and was responsible for the administration of the empire.
  • The Vizier's role included managing the state finances, overseeing provincial administration, and advising the emperor on policy matters.
  • Sadra
  • Sadra was a high-ranking official responsible for religious and educational institutions. They managed waqfs (charitable endowments), madrasas (educational institutions), and religious scholars.
  • Sadra played a key role in promoting Islamic education and welfare activities within the Mughal Empire.

Question 100

Chauth was a regular tax imposed by which empire?

  1. AOption (a)

    Vijay Nagar

  2. BOption (b)

    Bahmani

  3. COption (c)

    Maratha

  4. DOption (d)

    Mughal

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Maratha

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Maratha

Key Points

  • Maratha Empire
  • Chauth was a regular tax imposed by the Maratha Empire.
  • It was a tribute exacted by the Marathas from the territories they did not own but which were under their influence.
  • The word 'Chauth' means one-fourth, and it represented 25% of the revenue or produce from the territories.
  • This tax was a means for the Marathas to consolidate their power and expand their influence over other regions.

Additional Information

  • Vijayanagar Empire
  • The Vijayanagar Empire was a South Indian dynasty that ruled over a large part of the Deccan region in the 14th to 17th centuries.
  • It is renowned for its contributions to art, architecture, and administration.
  • Bahmani Sultanate
  • The Bahmani Sultanate was established in the Deccan region of South India in the 14th century.
  • It is known for its cultural and architectural developments and was one of the major medieval Indian powers.
  • Mughal Empire
  • The Mughal Empire was a prominent empire in the Indian subcontinent from the early 16th to the mid-19th centuries.
  • It is noted for its rich cultural heritage, architectural marvels, and strong centralized administration.

Question 101

In which language was the ancient 'Sangam Literature' written?

  1. AOption (a)

    Telugu

  2. BOption (b)

    Malayalam

  3. COption (c)

    Tamil

  4. DOption (d)

    Kannada

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Tamil

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Tamil

Key Points

  • Sangam Literature
  • Sangam literature refers to the ancient Tamil literature created during the Sangam era, roughly between 300 BCE and 300 CE.
  • The term 'Sangam' refers to an academy of Tamil poets that existed in ancient southern India.
  • These works are considered some of the oldest and most significant texts in Tamil literature and include poetry, prose, and other literary forms.
  • The literature is divided into three Sangam periods: the First, Second, and Third Sangam, each representing different phases of literary development.

Additional Information

  • Telugu
  • Telugu is a Dravidian language predominantly spoken in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
  • It has a rich literary tradition with works such as the Andhra Mahabharatam by Nannayya, Tikkana, and Errana.
  • Malayalam
  • Malayalam is the principal language of the Indian state of Kerala and the union territories of Lakshadweep and Puducherry (Mahé).
  • The earliest Malayalam literature includes the works of the Sangam period, but it evolved independently later.
  • Kannada
  • Kannada is a Dravidian language spoken mainly in the Indian state of Karnataka.
  • The earliest existing records of Kannada literature date back to around the 9th century, with works such as Kavirajamarga by King Nripatunga.

Question 102

In North India, Nagarshailiarchitecture was developed. The Khajuraho temple are built on Nagarshaili style. Who built these temples?

  1. AOption (a)

    Pal rulers

  2. BOption (b)

    Chandel rulers

  3. COption (c)

    Prathihar rulers

  4. DOption (d)

    Pallav rulers

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Chandel rulers

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Chandel rulers

Key Points

  • Chandel rulers
  • The Chandel dynasty, also known as Chandela, ruled in Central India from the 10th to the 13th centuries.
  • They are best known for their architectural contributions, especially the temples at Khajuraho.
  • The Khajuraho temples are a UNESCO World Heritage site and are considered some of the finest examples of Nagarshaili (North Indian) architecture.
  • The temples are renowned for their intricate sculptures and artistry, depicting various aspects of life and mythology.
  • The construction of these temples took place during the reigns of rulers such as Yashovarman and Dhanga.

Additional Information

  • Pal rulers
  • The Pal (or Pala) dynasty ruled in the Bengal and Bihar regions of India from the 8th to the 12th centuries.
  • They are known for their contributions to Buddhism and the establishment of the famous Nalanda University.
  • Prathihar rulers
  • The Pratihara dynasty, also known as the Gurjara-Pratiharas, ruled parts of northern India from the 6th to the 11th centuries.
  • They are known for their resistance against the Arab invasions and their contributions to Indian temple architecture.
  • Pallav rulers
  • The Pallava dynasty ruled in the southern part of India, particularly in the Tamil Nadu region, from the 3rd to the 9th centuries.
  • They are known for their rock-cut architecture, especially the monuments at Mahabalipuram.

Question 103

Who wrote "Brihat-Sanhita"?

  1. AOption (a)

    Arya Bhatt

  2. BOption (b)

    Varahamihira

  3. COption (c)

    Brahmagupta

  4. DOption (d)

    Nagarjuna

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Varahamihira

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Varahamihira

Key Points

  • Varahamihira
  • Varahamihira was an ancient Indian astronomer, mathematician, and astrologer who lived during the Gupta period in the 6th century.
  • He is best known for his monumental work, the "Brihat-Samhita," an encyclopedic text that covers a wide range of subjects including astronomy, astrology, geography, architecture, and weather.
  • The "Brihat-Samhita" is considered a significant contribution to Indian literature and science, offering valuable insights into various fields of knowledge.
  • Varahamihira's work has had a lasting impact on Indian science and culture, influencing later scholars and practitioners in various disciplines.

Additional Information

  • Aryabhata
  • Aryabhata was an ancient Indian mathematician and astronomer who authored the "Aryabhatiya," a significant text in the history of Indian science.
  • His work includes important contributions to mathematics and astronomy, such as the approximation of π (pi) and the concept of zero.
  • Brahmagupta
  • Brahmagupta was an Indian mathematician and astronomer who wrote the "Brahmasphutasiddhanta."
  • He is known for his work on arithmetic, algebra, and astronomy, and for introducing the concept of negative numbers.
  • Nagarjuna
  • Nagarjuna was an ancient Indian philosopher and alchemist, often considered one of the most important Buddhist philosophers after Gautama Buddha.
  • He is not known for any significant work in astronomy or astrology.

Question 104

In which sutra the size and composition of Agnivedi is discussed?

  1. AOption (a)

    Shulva sutra

  2. BOption (b)

    Dharma sutra

  3. COption (c)

    Graha sutra

  4. DOption (d)

    Kalpa sutra

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Shulva sutra

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Shulva Sutra

Key Points

  • Shulva Sutra
  • The Shulva Sutras are ancient Indian texts that provide guidelines for constructing altars and geometric figures used in Vedic rituals.
  • These texts are part of the larger corpus of Vedic literature, which includes instructions on various aspects of ritualistic practices.
  • The term "Shulva" itself means "cord" or "rope," which was used to measure and layout the dimensions of the altars, including the Agnivedi (fire altar).
  • The Shulva Sutras cover various mathematical concepts such as geometry, which were essential for the precise construction of altars.

Additional Information

  • Dharma Sutra
  • The Dharma Sutras are a category of ancient Indian texts that deal with moral laws, ethics, and social duties.
  • They provide guidelines for individual and societal conduct, covering aspects like duties, rights, and laws.
  • Graha Sutra
  • The Graha Sutras are a part of the Kalpa Sutras, focusing on domestic rituals and ceremonies.
  • They provide guidelines for householders on conducting various life-cycle rituals such as marriages, births, and funerals.
  • Kalpa Sutra
  • The Kalpa Sutras are a broader category of texts within the Vedic literature that provide guidelines for ritualistic practices.
  • They include the Shrauta Sutras (public rituals), Grihya Sutras (domestic rituals), and Dharma Sutras (moral laws and ethics).

Question 105

During the reign of which ruler a new branch of Buddhism named Mahayan came into existence?

  1. AOption (a)

    Pushpamitra

  2. BOption (b)

    Brahadratha

  3. COption (c)

    Agnimitra

  4. DOption (d)

    Kanishka

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Kanishka

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Kanishka

Key Points

  • Kanishka
  • Kanishka was a prominent ruler of the Kushan dynasty in the 2nd century CE.
  • He is renowned for his support and patronage of Buddhism.
  • During his reign, the Mahayana branch of Buddhism came into existence, which emphasized the path of the Bodhisattva and the concept of the Buddha as a transcendent being.
  • Kanishka's council, often referred to as the Fourth Buddhist Council, played a crucial role in the development and spread of Mahayana Buddhism.

Additional Information

  • Pushyamitra
  • Founder of the Shunga dynasty and known for his initial support of Brahmanism.
  • His reign is often associated with the decline of Buddhism in some regions due to his Brahmanical revival policies.
  • Brahadratha
  • The last ruler of the Maurya dynasty, he was overthrown by his general Pushyamitra Shunga.
  • His reign marked the end of the Mauryan Empire and has limited association with the development of Buddhism.
  • Agnimitra
  • Son of Pushyamitra Shunga and the second ruler of the Shunga dynasty.
  • His reign continued the policies of his father, but there is no significant contribution to Buddhism during his rule.

Question 106

Which of the following expressions has not been used by the historians to characterize the Gupta age?

  1. AOption (a)

    The age of Brahmanical Renaissance

  2. BOption (b)

    The age of empire

  3. COption (c)

    The golden age

  4. DOption (d)

    Classical age

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

The age of empire

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - The age of empire

Key Points

  • The age of empire
  • The term "The age of empire" has not been specifically used by historians to characterize the Gupta age.
  • The Gupta period is more commonly described in terms of cultural and intellectual achievements rather than imperial expansion or domination.

Additional Information

  • The age of Brahmanical Renaissance
  • This term highlights the revival and strengthening of Hinduism and Brahmanical traditions during the Gupta period.It was a time of significant religious and cultural development, including the composition of important Hindu texts.
  • The golden age
  • This term is used to denote the peak of Indian civilization during the Gupta period, marked by remarkable achievements in art, literature, science, and mathematics.
  • The period is often considered a high point of cultural and intellectual excellence in ancient India.
  • Classical age
  • This term is used to describe the Gupta period as the classical era of Indian history, characterized by the flourishing of arts, literature, and architecture.
  • The Gupta period saw the creation of iconic works such as the plays of Kalidasa and the construction of the Ajanta and Ellora caves.

Question 107

Which one of the following plays supposedly dealing with events on the death of Samudragupta and introduces Rama Gupta as the son who succeeded Samudragupta?

  1. AOption (a)

    Devichandra Gupta

  2. BOption (b)

    Malavikagnimitram

  3. COption (c)

    Mricchakatikam

  4. DOption (d)

    Mudrarakshas

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Devichandra Gupta

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Devichandra Gupta

Key Points

  • Devichandra Gupta
  • Devichandra Gupta is a historical drama that deals with the events following the death of Samudragupta.
  • The play is significant as it introduces Rama Gupta, who is depicted as the son who succeeded Samudragupta.
  • Rama Gupta is often portrayed as a weak and ineffective ruler in historical texts.
  • The narrative of the play provides insight into the political and familial dynamics of the Gupta dynasty during that period.

Additional Information

  • Malavikagnimitram
  • A classical Sanskrit play by Kalidasa, which is based on the love story of King Agnimitra and Malavika.
  • The play is not related to the Gupta dynasty but is more about the Sunga dynasty.
  • Mricchakatikam
  • A ten-act Sanskrit drama attributed to Shudraka, revolving around the love of a poor Brahmin and a courtesan.
  • The play focuses on social and romantic themes rather than historical events involving the Gupta dynasty.
  • Mudrarakshas
  • A political drama written by Vishakhadatta, which depicts the rise of Chandragupta Maurya with the help of Chanakya.
  • This play does not deal with the Gupta dynasty but rather with the Maurya dynasty and its political intrigues.

Question 108

Harshavardhan shifted his capital Thaneshwar to Kannauj. Which one of the following is not the true reason?

  1. AOption (a)

    Threat from the north-west

  2. BOption (b)

    Located in the rich agricultural region of the Western Ganges plain

  3. COption (c)

    It provided a direct link to western India

  4. DOption (d)

    Availability of natural resources

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Availability of natural resources

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Availability of natural resources

Key Points

  • Availability of natural resources
  • While Kannauj was an important and strategic city, the availability of natural resources was not a primary reason for Harshavardhan shifting his capital.
  • The move was more strategic and political, aimed at better administration and control over the empire.
  • Natural resources in the region did not play a significant role in the decision-making process for shifting the capital.

Additional Information

  • Threat from the north-west
  • Kannauj was strategically positioned to provide a better defense against invasions from the north-west, which was a significant threat during Harshavardhan's reign.
  • The city was better fortified and had a strategic advantage in terms of military defense.
  • Located in the rich agricultural region of the Western Ganges plain
  • The Western Ganges plain was known for its rich agricultural productivity, which ensured a steady supply of resources and sustenance for the capital.
  • This agricultural wealth was crucial for maintaining the economy and the well-being of the empire.
  • It provided a direct link to western India
  • Kannauj's location allowed for better connectivity and trade with western India, which was economically and politically advantageous.
  • Direct links facilitated better governance, trade, and cultural exchange across different regions of the empire.

Question 109

Match the List ' A ' and List ' B ' and choose the correct answer from the code given below:

List 'A'List 'B'
a.Kalidasa1.Malti Madhav
b.Bharavi2.Bhatti Kavya
c.Magh3.Kiratarjuniya
d.Bhavabhuti4.Abhijnana Shakuntala
  1. AOption (a)

    a - 4, b - 3, c - 2, d - 1

  2. BOption (b)

    a - 2, b - 4, c - 3, d - 1

  3. COption (c)

    a - 4, b - 1, c - 2, d - 3

  4. DOption (d)

    a - 3, b - 2, c - 4, d - 1

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

a - 4, b - 3, c - 2, d - 1

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - a - 4, b - 3, c - 2, d - 1

Key Points

  • Kalidasa
  • Kalidasa is one of the greatest Sanskrit poets and dramatists.
  • He is best known for his play Abhijnana Shakuntala, which is widely regarded as a masterpiece of classical Indian literature.
  • The play tells the love story of King Dushyanta and Shakuntala, a beautiful maiden.
  • Bharavi
  • Bharavi was a renowned Sanskrit poet.
  • He is best known for his epic poem Kiratarjuniya.
  • The poem narrates the story of the encounter between the Pandava prince Arjuna and the god Shiva, who appears in the guise of a kirata or mountain man.
  • Magha
  • Magha was a classical Sanskrit poet.
  • He is known for his epic poem Bhatti Kavya, also known as Shishupalavadha.
  • The poem narrates the story of the slaying of Shishupala by Lord Krishna.
  • Bhavabhuti
  • Bhavabhuti was an 8th-century Indian dramatist.
  • He is known for his play Malti Madhav.
  • The play is a romantic drama that tells the story of the love between Malati and Madhava.

Additional Information

  • Kalidasa's Abhijnana Shakuntala
  • The play is based on a story from the epic Mahabharata.
  • It is divided into seven acts and is known for its beautiful and expressive use of the Sanskrit language.
  • It has been translated into many languages and adapted into various art forms across the world.
  • Bharavi's Kiratarjuniya
  • The poem consists of eighteen cantos (sargas).
  • It is famous for its intricate and elaborate use of language, including many instances of verbal complexity and wordplay.
  • The story highlights themes of valor, devotion, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil.
  • Magha's Bhatti Kavya
  • The poem is known for its linguistic and metrical complexity.
  • It serves not just as a poetic work but also as a manual of grammar and figures of speech.
  • The poet Bhatti uses the story of Shishupalavadha to illustrate grammatical and rhetorical rules.
  • Bhavabhuti's Malti Madhav
  • The play is also known as Malatimadhava.
  • It is a complex romantic drama that includes a mix of romance, heroism, and elements of supernatural.
  • It is celebrated for its emotional depth and vivid character portrayal.

Question 110

Lalitaditya belongs to which dynasty?

  1. AOption (a)

    Karkota

  2. BOption (b)

    Utpal

  3. COption (c)

    Chola

  4. DOption (d)

    Lohar

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Karkota

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Karkota

Key Points

  • Lalitaditya Muktapida
  • Lalitaditya Muktapida was a renowned ruler of the Karkota dynasty, which ruled over Kashmir during the 7th and 8th centuries CE.
  • His reign is considered the golden age of Kashmir due to significant territorial expansion, cultural development, and architectural achievements.
  • Lalitaditya extended his empire across large parts of northern India, Central Asia, and Tibet, establishing Kashmir as a powerful kingdom.
  • He was known for constructing the famous Martand Sun Temple, a prime example of ancient Kashmiri architecture.
  • Kalhana’s Rajatarangini, a historical chronicle of Kashmir, provides detailed accounts of Lalitaditya’s reign, military conquests, and patronage of art and culture.

Additional Information

  • Utpal Dynasty
  • The Utpal dynasty succeeded the Karkota dynasty in Kashmir during the 9th century CE.
  • Founded by Avantivarman, who is credited with reviving Kashmir's economy and building the Avantisvamin Temple.
  • Though influential, the Utpal dynasty came after the period of Lalitaditya’s rule.
  • Chola Dynasty
  • The Chola dynasty was a prominent South Indian dynasty, known for its naval power, temple architecture, and cultural influence.
  • It reached its peak under rulers like Rajaraja Chola I and Rajendra Chola I, dominating regions of southern India and Southeast Asia.
  • The Cholas were not related to Kashmir’s political history or Lalitaditya’s rule.
  • Lohar Dynasty
  • The Lohar dynasty ruled Kashmir after the Utpal dynasty and is noted for the reign of Queen Didda, one of Kashmir’s most powerful female rulers.
  • Although significant in Kashmir’s history, this dynasty emerged long after Lalitaditya’s period.

Question 111

Which Gurjar ruler defeated Arabs in 738 AD?

  1. AOption (a)

    Nagabhatta

  2. BOption (b)

    Pulkeshin II

  3. COption (c)

    Mihir Bhoj

  4. DOption (d)

    Vatsaraj

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Nagabhatta

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Nagabhatta

Key Points

  • Nagabhatta
  • Nagabhatta I was a prominent ruler of the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty in India.
  • He is best known for his victory over the invading Arab forces in the Battle of Rajasthan in 738 AD.
  • This significant victory halted the expansion of the Arab Empire into India, ensuring the protection and stability of the region.

Additional Information

  • Pulkeshin II
  • Pulkeshin II was a famous ruler of the Chalukya dynasty in South India.
  • He is known for his military conquests and administrative capabilities.
  • Mihir Bhoj
  • Mihir Bhoj was another significant ruler of the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty.
  • He is known for his efforts to consolidate the empire and his patronage of art and culture.
  • Vatsaraj
  • Vatsaraj was also a ruler of the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty.
  • He is remembered for his contributions to the expansion and stability of the dynasty.

Question 112

In 1532 AD whom did Humayun defeated in the Battle of Dauraha?

  1. AOption (a)

    Rajput

  2. BOption (b)

    Afghan

  3. COption (c)

    Bundele

  4. DOption (d)

    Mohammad Khan

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Afghan

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Afghan

Key Points

  • Battle of Dauraha
  • Fought in 1532 AD between Humayun and the Afghans.
  • Humayun emerged victorious in this battle, establishing his authority over the Afghans.
  • This victory was significant in consolidating the Mughal rule in India.

Additional Information

  • Humayun
  • Humayun was the second emperor of the Mughal Empire, succeeding his father, Babur.
  • His reign was marked by both military victories and setbacks, including his temporary loss of the empire to Sher Shah Suri.
  • Humayun is also known for his architectural contributions, including the construction of the Din Panah at Delhi.
  • Rajputs
  • The Rajputs were a prominent warrior class in India known for their resistance against various invaders, including the Mughals.
  • They fought several battles against the Mughals, but the Battle of Dauraha was not one of them.
  • Bundele
  • The Bundelas were a group of Rajputs in central India known for their resistance against the Mughals and other invaders.
  • They were significant in the history of the region, but they did not participate in the Battle of Dauraha.
  • Mohammad Khan
  • Mohammad Khan is a common name and could refer to various historical figures, but none were specifically involved in the Battle of Dauraha.
  • This option might be a distractor or a reference to a less-known individual.

Question 113

Which ruler under a treaty gave 23 forts to Mughals?

  1. AOption (a)

    Afzalkhan

  2. BOption (b)

    Jaisingh

  3. COption (c)

    Rana Pratap

  4. DOption (d)

    Shivaji

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Shivaji

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Shivaji

Key Points

  • Shivaji
  • Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire, signed the Treaty of Purandar in 1665 with the Mughal Empire.
  • Under the terms of this treaty, Shivaji agreed to cede 23 of his forts to the Mughals, which was a strategic move to safeguard his empire and buy time to strengthen his position.
  • The treaty was signed between Shivaji and Mirza Raja Jai Singh I, a trusted general of Emperor Aurangzeb.
  • This treaty was part of Shivaji's larger strategy to deal with the formidable Mughal Empire and later reclaim his lost territories.

Additional Information

  • Afzalkhan
  • Afzal Khan was a general who served the Bijapur Sultanate, not the Mughals.
  • He is known for his confrontation with Shivaji at the Battle of Pratapgad.
  • Afzal Khan was killed by Shivaji in a famous and strategic encounter.
  • Jaisingh
  • Jaisingh I, also known as Mirza Raja Jai Singh, was a general of the Mughal Empire under Emperor Aurangzeb.
  • He played a significant role in negotiating the Treaty of Purandar with Shivaji.
  • However, he was not the ruler who ceded forts to the Mughals.
  • Rana Pratap
  • Maharana Pratap was the ruler of Mewar and a staunch opponent of the Mughal Empire.
  • He is known for his resistance against Mughal expansion and the Battle of Haldighati.
  • Maharana Pratap never ceded forts to the Mughals; instead, he is celebrated for his defiance.

Question 114

Under whose leadership Alivardi Khan was defeated in Bengal and Chauth and Sardeshmukhi rights were obtained in Orissa?

  1. AOption (a)

    Yashwantrao Holkar

  2. BOption (b)

    Bajirao I

  3. COption (c)

    Peshwa Madhavrao

  4. DOption (d)

    Raghuji Bosale

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Raghuji Bosale

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Raghuji Bosale

Key Points

  • Raghuji Bosale

  • Raghuji Bosale was a prominent Maratha leader and military commander.

  • He played a crucial role in expanding the Maratha influence in Eastern India.

  • Under his leadership, the Marathas defeated Alivardi Khan, the Nawab of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa.

  • The victory allowed the Marathas to secure the rights of Chauth and Sardeshmukhi in Orissa, which were forms of tax and tribute.

  • This event marked a significant expansion of Maratha power in the eastern regions of India.

Additional Information

  • Yashwantrao Holkar
  • He was a Maratha ruler from the Holkar dynasty of Indore.
  • Yashwantrao is known for his resistance against the British East India Company during the Second Anglo-Maratha War.
  • He did not play a role in the defeat of Alivardi Khan or in the acquisition of Chauth and Sardeshmukhi in Orissa.
  • Bajirao I
  • He was one of the most notable Peshwas of the Maratha Empire.
  • Bajirao I was known for his military campaigns in North and Central India, but he was not directly involved in the defeat of Alivardi Khan.
  • Peshwa Madhavrao
  • He was another significant Peshwa of the Maratha Empire known for his administrative and military prowess.
  • His tenure was more focused on internal consolidation and resistance against British forces.

Question 115

Consider the following statements in the context of the Vijayanagar Empire.

a. Harihar established the new state of Hastinavati.

b. Devaraya II planned and built the city of Vijayanagar.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. AOption (a)

    Only a

  2. BOption (b)

    Only b

  3. COption (c)

    Both a and b

  4. DOption (d)

    Both a and b are not correct

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Both a and b are not correct

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Both a and b are not correct

Key Points

  • Harihara I
  • Harihara I, along with his brother Bukka Raya I, was one of the founders of the Vijayanagar Empire in 1336 CE.
  • Harihara I is credited with establishing the Vijayanagar state, not a state named Hastinavati.
  • The reference to Hastinavati is incorrect in the context of the Vijayanagar Empire. Hastinavati was historically associated with the Mahabharata and earlier kingdoms, not with the Vijayanagar rulers.
  • Devaraya II
  • Devaraya II was a key ruler of the Vijayanagar Empire, but he did not build or plan the city of Vijayanagar.
  • The city was already established before his reign by Harihara I and Bukka Raya I. Devaraya II, however, played a significant role in expanding the empire and strengthening its economy, military, and culture.
  • He is known for his military and administrative skills but not for founding the city itself.

Additional Information

  • Vijayanagar Empire
  • The Vijayanagar Empire was founded in 1336 CE and rose to prominence under the leadership of Harihara I and Bukka Raya I.
  • The capital city of Vijayanagar became one of the most prosperous cities in the medieval world, known for its wealth, trade, and vibrant culture.
  • Although Devaraya II did not establish the city, his reign contributed to its expansion and consolidation as a center of power in South India.
  • Devaraya II's Contribution
  • Devaraya II is remembered for his patronage of literature and his military campaigns against various enemies, including the Bahmani Sultanate.
  • He also made significant contributions to the administration, establishing the foundation for the empire’s later success and stability.

Question 116

Which Kalchuri ruler, defeating the king of Odisha, snatched the golden statue of Kaliyanag and donated it to the Somnath temple?

  1. AOption (a)

    Shankargana II

  2. BOption (b)

    Yuvrajdev

  3. COption (c)

    Lakshmanraj

  4. DOption (d)

    Gangeydev

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Lakshmanraj

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Lakshmanraj

Key Points

  • Lakshmanraj
  • Lakshmanraj was a notable Kalachuri ruler known for his military exploits and contributions to religious institutions.
  • He defeated the king of Odisha, seizing the golden statue of Kaliyanag.
  • The golden statue was then donated to the renowned Somnath temple, enhancing the temple's prestige and wealth.
  • This act not only demonstrated his military prowess but also his devotion and support for Hindu temples.

Additional Information

  • Shankargana II
  • Shankargana II was another ruler from the Kalachuri dynasty but not specifically known for the achievements attributed to Lakshmanraj.
  • Yuvrajdev
  • Yuvrajdev was a Kalachuri ruler, but his reign is not marked by the same significant military or religious contributions as Lakshmanraj's.
  • Gangeydev
  • Gangeydev was a prominent Kalachuri king, known for his expansionist policies and patronage of temples, but he is not recorded as having taken the golden statue of Kaliyanag.

Question 117

Which of the following text is not compiled by Parmar king Bhoj?

  1. AOption (a)

    Shringarprakash

  2. BOption (b)

    Kavyamimansa

  3. COption (c)

    Shringarmanjari

  4. DOption (d)

    Shabdanushasan

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Kavyamimansa

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Kavyamimansa

Key Points

  • Kavyamimansa
  • This text was written by Rajasekhara, an eminent Sanskrit poet and dramatist.
  • Kavyamimansa is a critical work on poetics, not authored by Parmar King Bhoj.
  • It provides an extensive overview of the poetics and literary theories of ancient India.

Additional Information

  • Shringarprakash
  • This work is attributed to Parmar King Bhoj.
  • Shringarprakash is a treatise on aesthetics and poetics, dealing with the various aspects of poetic composition and the theory of rasa (emotional themes).
  • Shringarmanjari
  • This is another work credited to Parmar King Bhoj.
  • Shringarmanjari is a poetic composition that delves into themes of love and beauty.
  • Shabdanushasan
  • Shabdanushasan is a grammatical treatise authored by Parmar King Bhoj.
  • This work deals with the rules and structure of Sanskrit grammar, showcasing Bhoj’s scholarly contributions to linguistic studies.

Question 118

Which Chandela-king killed Rajyapal, the Pratihar ruler?

  1. AOption (a)

    Yashoverman

  2. BOption (b)

    Parmardidevaverman/Parmal

  3. COption (c)

    Dhang

  4. DOption (d)

    Vidhyadhar

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Vidhyadhar

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Vidhyadhar

Key Points

  • Vidhyadhar
  • Vidhyadhar was a prominent king of the Chandela dynasty.
  • He is known for consolidating and expanding the Chandela territory during his reign.
  • Vidhyadhar defeated and killed Rajyapal, the Pratihar ruler, asserting his dominance in the region.
  • His rule saw significant architectural achievements, including the completion of the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple in Khajuraho.

Additional Information

  • Yashoverman
  • Yashoverman was an earlier king of the Chandela dynasty.
  • He is known for his military campaigns and strengthening the Chandela rule.
  • Parmardidevaverman/Parmal
  • Parmal, also known as Parmardidevaverman, was another significant ruler of the Chandela dynasty.
  • He faced invasions from the Delhi Sultanate during his reign.
  • Dhang
  • Dhang was a notable Chandela king who is credited with extensive temple building, including many in Khajuraho.
  • His reign is often seen as a golden period for the Chandela dynasty in terms of art and architecture.

Question 119

According to Sleeman, how many forts were there under the control of Sangram Shah?

  1. AOption (a)

    48

  2. BOption (b)

    50

  3. COption (c)

    52

  4. DOption (d)

    54

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

52

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - 52

Key Points

  • Sangram Shah
  • Sangram Shah was a prominent ruler of the Garha Kingdom in central India during the early 16th century.
  • He is known for his military prowess and expanding the kingdom's territory significantly.
  • According to Sleeman, Sangram Shah had control over 52 forts, which underlined his military strength and strategic importance in the region.

Additional Information

  • Garha Kingdom
  • The Garha Kingdom was a significant kingdom in central India, with its capital at Garha-Katanga (modern-day Jabalpur).
  • The kingdom played a crucial role in the regional politics of central India during the medieval period.
  • Control of Forts
  • Forts were crucial for defense and control over territories during medieval times.
  • Having 52 forts indicated a strong and well-defended kingdom, showcasing Sangram Shah's administrative and military capabilities.

Question 120

Who was the last ruler of Baghel dynasty, whose state was merged into the Indian Union after independence?

  1. AOption (a)

    Anoop Singh

  2. BOption (b)

    Raghuraj Singh

  3. COption (c)

    Gulab Singh

  4. DOption (d)

    Martand Singh

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Martand Singh

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Martand Singh

Key Points

  • Martand Singh
  • Martand Singh was the last ruler of the Baghel dynasty in Rewa.
  • Rewa, a princely state in central India, merged into the Indian Union after India gained independence in 1947.
  • Martand Singh continued to serve in public life after the merger and played a significant role in the development of the region.
  • He was known for his contributions to wildlife conservation and the preservation of cultural heritage in Rewa.

Additional Information

  • Anoop Singh
  • There is no significant historical record of Anoop Singh as a ruler in the context of the Baghel dynasty or the princely state of Rewa.
  • Raghuraj Singh
  • Raghuraj Singh was not associated with the Baghel dynasty; he could be a name from another historical context or region.
  • Gulab Singh
  • Gulab Singh was the founder of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, not related to the Baghel dynasty.

Question 121

Which of the following was not a republic?

  1. AOption (a)

    Magadh

  2. BOption (b)

    Kapilavastu

  3. COption (c)

    Vaishali

  4. DOption (d)

    Mithila

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Magadh

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Magadh

Key Points

  • Magadh
  • Magadh was an ancient kingdom in India, which played a crucial role in the development of Indian civilization.
  • It was one of the sixteen Mahajanapadas (great kingdoms) of ancient India.
  • Magadh was a monarchy and not a republic, with kings like Bimbisara and Ajatashatru ruling the region.
  • It is notable for its powerful rulers and their contributions to the spread of Buddhism and Jainism.

Additional Information

  • Kapilavastu
  • Kapilavastu was an ancient city where Siddhartha Gautama, who later became the Buddha, spent his early years.
  • It was part of the Shakya republic, a small republic in ancient India with a democratic form of government.
  • Vaishali
  • Vaishali was one of the world's first republics and the capital of the Licchavi republic.
  • It is considered one of the earliest examples of a functioning democratic republic in the world.
  • Mithila
  • Mithila, also known as Tirhut, was an ancient cultural region in northern India, which included parts of modern-day Nepal.
  • It was known for its scholarly contributions and was part of the Videha kingdom, which had a republican form of governance.

Question 122

Who is given the credit for the creation weapons like Mahashilakantaka and Rathmoosal?

  1. AOption (a)

    Mahapadmanand

  2. BOption (b)

    Shishunag

  3. COption (c)

    Ajatshatru

  4. DOption (d)

    Chanda Pradyota

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Ajatshatru

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Ajatshatru

Key Points

  • Ajatshatru
  • Ajatshatru was a prominent king of the Haryanka dynasty in Magadha (modern-day Bihar, India).
  • He ruled from approximately 492 BCE to 460 BCE.
  • Ajatshatru is credited with the creation of several innovative weapons, including the Mahashilakantaka (a large catapult) and the Rathmoosal (a chariot equipped with a mace).
  • These weapons played a crucial role in his military campaigns and significantly enhanced his combat capabilities.
  • Ajatshatru used these weapons in his wars against neighboring states, including the Licchavis of Vaishali.

Additional Information

  • Mahapadmanand
  • He was the founder of the Nanda dynasty in Magadha, which succeeded the Haryanka dynasty.
  • Mahapadmanand is known for expanding the Nanda Empire and accumulating vast wealth.
  • He is not specifically credited with the creation of the mentioned weapons.
  • Shishunag
  • He was the founder of the Shishunaga dynasty in Magadha, which preceded the Haryanka dynasty.
  • Shishunag is known for his administrative skills and the consolidation of the Magadha kingdom.
  • There are no records of him inventing or using the mentioned weapons.
  • Chanda Pradyota
  • He was the king of Avanti, a kingdom in ancient India.
  • Chanda Pradyota is known for his conflicts with neighboring states and his ambition to expand his kingdom.
  • He is not associated with the invention of the specific weapons mentioned.

Question 123

In which pass did Alexander attack India in 327 B.C.?

  1. AOption (a)

    Bolan

  2. BOption (b)

    Kaithal

  3. COption (c)

    Khaber

  4. DOption (d)

    Banihal

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Khaber

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Khaber

Key Points

  • Khaber Pass
  • The Khaber Pass is a mountain pass connecting Afghanistan and Pakistan, and it has been a key strategic military route for centuries.
  • In 327 B.C., Alexander the Great used this pass to enter India during his campaign to conquer the Persian Empire and expand his territory.
  • The Khaber Pass has historically been a crucial passageway for various invaders and traders traveling between Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent.

Additional Information

  • Bolan Pass
  • Located in modern-day Pakistan, this pass connects the Sibi region with Quetta in Balochistan.
  • It has been historically significant for trade and military movements, but it was not the route used by Alexander the Great to enter India.
  • Kaithal
  • Kaithal is a city in the Indian state of Haryana and not a mountain pass.
  • It does not have historical significance as a route for military invasions into India.
  • Banihal Pass
  • Located in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, this pass connects the Kashmir Valley with the outer Himalayas.
  • It was not relevant to Alexander the Great's campaign in 327 B.C.

Question 124

In which book is the Constitution of Lichhavi mentioned?

  1. AOption (a)

    Lalit Vistara

  2. BOption (b)

    Atta Katha

  3. COption (c)

    Diggha Nikay

  4. DOption (d)

    Mahavadan

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Atta Katha

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Atta Katha

Key Points

  • Atta Katha
  • The Constitution of Lichhavi is mentioned in this book.
  • It is an important historical document that highlights the governance system of the Lichhavi dynasty.
  • The Lichhavis were a prominent dynasty in ancient India, known for their democratic form of governance.
  • The Constitution of Lichhavi provides insights into the political and administrative structures of the time.

Additional Information

  • Lalit Vistara
  • Lalit Vistara is a Buddhist text that describes the life of Gautama Buddha.
  • It does not contain references to the Constitution of Lichhavi.
  • Diggha Nikay
  • Diggha Nikay is a collection of long discourses attributed to the Buddha.
  • It is part of the Sutta Pitaka in the Pali Canon of Theravada Buddhism.
  • Mahavadan
  • Mahavadan is not a well-known text in the context of Indian historical or religious literature.
  • There is no significant connection to the Constitution of Lichhavi.

Question 125

"Buddhism is a beautiful reflection of Hinduism". Who said it?

  1. AOption (a)

    Barth

  2. BOption (b)

    Max Muller

  3. COption (c)

    Hopkinse

  4. DOption (d)

    Ridge Devids

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Barth

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Barth

Key Points

  • Barth
  • Barth was a notable Indologist who extensively studied Indian religions, including Hinduism and Buddhism.
  • He is known for his comparative studies which highlighted the philosophical and spiritual connections between Hinduism and Buddhism.
  • His works often reflected the idea that Buddhism emerged as a reformation within the framework of Hinduism.
  • Barth's statement about Buddhism being a beautiful reflection of Hinduism emphasizes the interconnectedness and shared cultural heritage of the two religions.

Additional Information

  • Max Muller
  • Max Muller was a German philologist and Orientalist, who translated and studied many ancient texts, including the Vedas.
  • He is known for his contributions to the understanding of Eastern religions in the West.
  • Hopkins
  • Hopkins was an American Sanskrit scholar and a professor who wrote extensively on Indian religion and philosophy.
  • He contributed to the comparative study of religions and provided insights into the evolution of Indian religious thought.
  • Ridge David
  • Ridge David is less known in the context of Indology or the comparative study of Hinduism and Buddhism.
  • There is limited information on his contributions to this field.

Question 126

The 'Bhaktmal' of the Rambhakti school of the Bhakti movement during the medieval period is a unique work in Hindi literature is related with

  1. AOption (a)

    Saint Nabhadas

  2. BOption (b)

    Chaitanya Mahaprabhu

  3. COption (c)

    Jayadeva

  4. DOption (d)

    Swami Agradas

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Saint Nabhadas

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Saint Nabhadas

Key Points

  • Saint Nabhadas
  • Saint Nabhadas was a prominent poet-saint of the Bhakti movement, specifically associated with the Rambhakti (devotion to Lord Rama) school.
  • He is best known for his work 'Bhaktamal,' which is a hagiography of saints and devotees of the Bhakti movement.
  • 'Bhaktamal' is written in Hindi and is a significant literary work that provides insights into the lives and teachings of various saints.
  • The work is unique in that it covers a wide range of saints from different regions and backgrounds, thus promoting the idea of universal devotion and spiritual inclusivity.

Additional Information

  • Chaitanya Mahaprabhu
  • He was a prominent saint and founder of the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition, which emphasizes the worship of Lord Krishna.
  • Chaitanya Mahaprabhu is known for his deep devotion and ecstatic singing and dancing in praise of Lord Krishna.
  • Jayadeva
  • He was a 12th-century Sanskrit poet known for his epic poem 'Gita Govinda,' which describes the relationship between Krishna and Radha.
  • 'Gita Govinda' is a significant work in classical Indian literature and has been influential in various art forms such as dance and music.
  • Swami Agradas
  • He was a lesser-known saint associated with the Bhakti movement, but his contributions are not as widely recognized as those of other saints like Saint Nabhadas or Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
  • There are limited records and works attributed to Swami Agradas in the context of Hindi literature.

Question 127

Who is credited with making valuable contribution to Hindustani music of the 'Khyal Style'?

  1. AOption (a)

    Tansen

  2. BOption (b)

    Amir Khusro

  3. COption (c)

    Hussain Shah Sharki

  4. DOption (d)

    Bulley Shah

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Tansen

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Tansen

Key Points

  • Tansen
  • Tansen, also known as Ramtanu Pandey, was a prominent figure in Hindustani classical music.
  • He is widely regarded as one of the greatest composers and musicians in Indian history.
  • Tansen was a key figure in the court of Mughal Emperor Akbar and was part of his "Navaratnas" (Nine Jewels).
  • He made significant contributions to the Khyal style of Hindustani music, which is characterized by its improvisation and intricate vocal techniques.
  • Tansen's influence in the development of Hindustani classical music is unparalleled, and his legacy continues to shape the art form today.

Additional Information

  • Amir Khusro
  • Amir Khusro was a Sufi musician, poet, and scholar from the Indian subcontinent.
  • He is credited with the invention of several musical instruments, including the sitar and tabla.
  • Khusro is known for his contributions to the development of classical music, particularly the Qawwali genre.
  • Hussain Shah Sharqi
  • Hussain Shah Sharqi was a ruler of the Sharqi dynasty in Jaunpur, India.
  • He was known for his patronage of the arts, including music and poetry.
  • However, he is not specifically credited with contributions to the Khyal style of music.
  • Bulleh Shah
  • Bulleh Shah was a Punjabi Sufi poet, humanist, and philosopher.
  • His poetry and spiritual teachings are highly revered in Punjabi literature and Sufi traditions.
  • Bulleh Shah's work primarily focused on love, humanity, and mysticism, rather than the technical aspects of Hindustani music.

Question 128

Which poet completed the book 'Kanhardev Prabandh' under the patronage of Akhairaj, the ruler of Jalor in 15th century?

  1. AOption (a)

    Viramde

  2. BOption (b)

    Kanhardev

  3. COption (c)

    Padmanabh

  4. DOption (d)

    Navshekhar

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Padmanabh

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Padmanabh

Key Points

  • Padmanabh
  • Padmanabh was a 15th-century poet and scholar.
  • He composed the book 'Kanhardev Prabandh' under the patronage of Akhairaj, the ruler of Jalor.
  • 'Kanhardev Prabandh' is a historical poem that provides insights into the life and times of Kanhardev, a local hero and chieftain.
  • The work is significant for its historical and cultural value, offering a glimpse into the socio-political scenario of that era.

Additional Information

  • Viramde
  • There are no significant historical records or literary works attributed to a poet named Viramde in the context of the 15th century or Jalor.
  • Kanhardev
  • Kanhardev was a chieftain and hero, not a poet. He is the subject of the book 'Kanhardev Prabandh'.
  • Navshekhar
  • Navshekhar is not associated with the creation of 'Kanhardev Prabandh' and there are no prominent literary works attributed to this name from the 15th century in Jalor.

Question 129

In which year did Akbar established 'Tbadat Khana'?

  1. AOption (a)

    1565;A.D.

  2. BOption (b)

    1575 A.D.

  3. COption (c)

    1582 A.D.

  4. DOption (d)

    1586 A.D.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

1575 A.D.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - 1575 A.D.

Key Points

  • Akbar established the 'Ibadat Khana' in 1575 A.D.
  • The 'Ibadat Khana' was a place for religious discussions and debates.
  • It was located in Fatehpur Sikri, the capital city of Akbar's empire.
  • Akbar invited scholars, theologians, and religious leaders from various religions, including Islam, Hinduism, Christianity, and Jainism, to participate in these discussions.
  • The aim was to promote understanding and tolerance among different religions.

Additional Information

  • 1565 A.D.
  • This year does not align with the historical records of the establishment of the 'Ibadat Khana'.
  • 1582 A.D.
  • This year is significant for the establishment of the Din-i-Ilahi, a syncretic religion initiated by Akbar to merge the best elements of the religions of his empire.
  • 1586 A.D.
  • This year does not correspond to the establishment of the 'Ibadat Khana'.

Question 130

Which Rajput king built observatories in Delhi, Jaipur, Ujjain, Mathura, Varanasi in the 18th century?

  1. AOption (a)

    Man Singh

  2. BOption (b)

    Jaswant Singh

  3. COption (c)

    Jai Singh Second

  4. DOption (d)

    Ratan Singh

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Jai Singh Second

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Jai Singh Second

Key Points

  • Jai Singh Second
  • Also known as Sawai Jai Singh, he was the Rajput king of the Kingdom of Amber (later called Jaipur).
  • Jai Singh was a notable astronomer and mathematician who had a keen interest in science and astronomy.
  • He built several observatories called Jantar Mantar in various cities including Delhi, Jaipur, Ujjain, Mathura, and Varanasi during the 18th century.
  • These observatories were used to study the movements of celestial bodies and compile astronomical tables.
  • The Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is particularly famous and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Additional Information

  • Man Singh
  • He was a prominent Rajput general and the Raja of Amber during the late 16th and early 17th centuries.
  • Man Singh is known for his military campaigns under Mughal Emperor Akbar but is not associated with building observatories.
  • Jaswant Singh
  • He was the Maharaja of Marwar (Jodhpur) in the 17th century.
  • Jaswant Singh is known for his contributions to Marwar's architecture and administration, but not for building observatories.
  • Ratan Singh
  • Ratan Singh was a less prominent Rajput ruler with no significant contributions to science or astronomy.
  • He is not known for constructing observatories or having an interest in astronomy.

Question 131

Whose leadership was Dahir attacked in 711 AD?

  1. AOption (a)

    Ubaidullah

  2. BOption (b)

    Yazid

  3. COption (c)

    Habib

  4. DOption (d)

    Musa

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Ubaidullah

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Ubaidullah

Key Points

  • Ubaidullah
  • Ubaidullah was the Umayyad governor of Basra.
  • He played a significant role in the early Islamic conquests.
  • In 711 AD, under Ubaidullah's command, the forces attacked Dahir, the ruler of Sindh.
  • This attack led to the conquest of Sindh and the establishment of Umayyad rule in the region.

Additional Information

  • Yazid
  • Yazid was a prominent figure in early Islamic history, known for his role in the Umayyad Caliphate.
  • However, he was not directly involved in the attack on Dahir in 711 AD.
  • Habib
  • Habib is a common name in Islamic history, but there is no significant record of a Habib leading the attack on Dahir.
  • Musa
  • Musa bin Nusair was a prominent Muslim commander who led the conquest of the Iberian Peninsula.
  • His contributions were significant in the westward expansion of the Umayyad Caliphate, not in the conquest of Sindh.

Question 132

Where did Muhammad Ghori first attacked in 1175 AD?

  1. AOption (a)

    Punjab

  2. BOption (b)

    Multan

  3. COption (c)

    Kanauj

  4. DOption (d)

    Anhilwad

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Multan

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Multan

Key Points

  • Multan
  • Muhammad Ghori first attacked Multan in 1175 AD as part of his expansionist strategy to establish control over the Indian subcontinent.
  • This attack marked the beginning of his invasions into the Indian territories, paving the way for further conquests.
  • The strategic location of Multan made it an important target for Ghori to secure his position in the region.

Additional Information

  • Punjab
  • While Punjab was a significant region in North India, Ghori’s first attack was not directly aimed here in 1175 AD.
  • Kanauj
  • Kanauj was a major city in ancient India but it was not the initial target of Ghori's invasions during this period.
  • Anhilwad
  • Anhilwad (modern-day Patan in Gujarat) was an important city but Ghori's first attack in 1175 AD did not focus on this region.

Question 133

In 1229 AD The Khalifa of Baghdad bestowed the title to Iltutmish

  1. AOption (a)

    Sultan-a-Jahan

  2. BOption (b)

    Sultan-a-Alamgir

  3. COption (c)

    Sultan-a-Aajmash

  4. DOption (d)

    Sultan-a-Delhi

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Sultan-a-Aajmash

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Sultan-a-Aajmash

Key Points

  • Sultan-a-Aajmash
  • The title "Sultan-a-Aajmash" was bestowed upon Iltutmish by the Khalifa of Baghdad in 1229 AD.
  • This title recognized Iltutmish's authority and legitimacy as the ruler of the Delhi Sultanate.
  • Receiving such a title from the Khalifa, a highly respected figure in the Islamic world, significantly boosted Iltutmish's standing and the prestige of his rule.
  • Iltutmish was one of the most notable rulers of the Delhi Sultanate and played a crucial role in consolidating and expanding the empire.

Additional Information

  • Other Titles and Information
  • Sultan-a-Jahan
  • This title means "Sultan of the World," but there is no historical record of Iltutmish being granted this specific title by the Khalifa of Baghdad.
  • Sultan-a-Alamgir
  • "Alamgir" means "Conqueror of the World," and while it is a prestigious title, it was not the one given to Iltutmish.
  • Sultan-a-Delhi
  • This title would directly translate to "Sultan of Delhi," which accurately describes his role but was not the formal title given by the Khalifa.

Question 134

The dominant features of Allauddin Khilji's economic organisation were

  1. AOption (a)

    End of land grants

  2. BOption (b)

    An oppressive tax system

  3. COption (c)

    Cloth and animal markets

  4. DOption (d)

    All of the above

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

All of the above

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - All of the above

Key Points

  • Allauddin Khilji's Economic Organisation
  • Allauddin Khilji, the Sultan of Delhi, implemented several significant economic reforms during his reign from 1296 to 1316 AD.
  • These reforms were aimed at consolidating his power, controlling the economy, and maintaining a strong military.
  • End of Land Grants
  • Allauddin Khilji abolished the practice of land grants to nobles and religious institutions. This helped in ensuring that the revenue generated from the land went directly to the state treasury.
  • This move was intended to reduce the power of the landed aristocracy and ensure a steady flow of revenue to the central authority.
  • An Oppressive Tax System
  • Khilji implemented a rigorous tax system, which included taxes on agricultural produce, trade, and other economic activities.
  • The main taxes were 'Kharaj' (land tax), 'Jizya' (tax on non-Muslims), and 'Ghari' (house tax).
  • This oppressive tax system helped in amassing significant revenue for the state, ensuring the maintenance of a large standing army.
  • Cloth and Animal Markets
  • He established state-controlled markets (Shahana-i-Mandi) for essential commodities like cloth, grains, and animals.
  • Prices in these markets were fixed by the state, and any violation of the fixed prices was strictly punished.
  • This ensured the availability of essential goods at stable prices and prevented hoarding and black marketing.

Additional Information

  • Allauddin Khilji's Market Reforms
  • He established a strict control over the prices of essential commodities to prevent inflation and ensure the availability of goods to the common people at reasonable prices.
  • His market regulations were enforced by appointed officials called 'Shahna' who supervised the market activities and punished defaulters.
  • Military Reforms
  • Khilji's economic reforms were closely linked to his military needs. The revenue generated from his tax system was used to maintain a large, well-equipped standing army.
  • He introduced a system of branding horses (Dagh) and maintaining descriptive rolls of soldiers (Chehra) to prevent corruption in the army.

Question 135

Who left Rana Sanga during Khanwa war in 1529 AD?

  1. AOption (a)

    Ibrahim Lodi

  2. BOption (b)

    Mehmood Lodi

  3. COption (c)

    Tomar's

  4. DOption (d)

    Hasan Khan Mewali

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Tomar's

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Tomar's

Key Points

  • Tomar's
  • The Tomars were a Rajput clan who initially supported Rana Sanga during the Battle of Khanwa.
  • Rana Sanga, a prominent Rajput ruler, fought against the Mughal emperor Babur in the Battle of Khanwa in 1527 AD.
  • During this critical battle, the Tomars deserted Rana Sanga, significantly impacting the outcome of the battle.
  • Their desertion was a crucial factor that contributed to the defeat of Rana Sanga against Babur’s forces.

Additional Information

  • Ibrahim Lodi
  • He was the Sultan of Delhi who fought against Babur in the First Battle of Panipat in 1526 AD.
  • Ibrahim Lodi was defeated and killed in this battle, leading to the establishment of the Mughal Empire in India.
  • Mehmood Lodi
  • He was the brother of Ibrahim Lodi and attempted to reclaim the throne after Ibrahim's death.
  • He fought against Babur in the Battle of Ghagra in 1529 AD but was defeated.
  • Hasan Khan Mewali
  • He was a local chieftain and ally of Rana Sanga during the Battle of Khanwa.
  • There are no significant records of him deserting Rana Sanga during the battle.

Question 136

Where was the capital of Menander?

  1. AOption (a)

    Patliputra

  2. BOption (b)

    Shakal

  3. COption (c)

    Kannauj

  4. DOption (d)

    Kaushambi

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Shakal

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Shakal

Key Points

  • Shakal
  • Shakal (or Sakala) was the capital of the Indo-Greek King Menander I, also known as Milinda, who ruled in the 2nd century BCE.
  • It is located in present-day Sialkot, Pakistan.
  • Menander is known for his discussions with the Buddhist sage Nagasena, recorded in the text "Milinda Panha" (The Questions of Milinda).
  • Shakal was a significant center of culture and trade during Menander's reign.

Additional Information

  • Patliputra
  • Patliputra (modern-day Patna) was the capital of several Indian dynasties, including the Maurya and Gupta Empires.
  • It was not associated with Menander but was a major center of political and cultural activities in ancient India.
  • Kannauj
  • Kannauj was a prominent city in northern India, serving as the capital for various empires such as the Pratihara Empire.
  • It was not related to Menander's rule.
  • Kaushambi
  • Kaushambi was an ancient city located in the region of modern-day Uttar Pradesh, India.
  • It was an important city in ancient India but not linked with Menander's reign.

Question 137

In which period issued the gold coins for the first time in ancient India?

  1. AOption (a)

    Indo-Greeks rule

  2. BOption (b)

    Rule 'of the Kushanas

  3. COption (c)

    Rule of the Parthians

  4. DOption (d)

    Rule of the Satavahana dynasty

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Indo-Greeks rule

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Indo-Greeks rule

Key Points

  • Indo-Greeks rule
  • The Indo-Greek kings were the first to introduce gold coins in ancient India.
  • The practice began around the 2nd century BCE under the rule of the Indo-Greek king, Menander I (Milinda).
  • The gold coins minted by the Indo-Greeks were used for trade and depicted various deities and inscriptions in Greek and Kharosthi scripts.
  • The introduction of gold coins marked a significant milestone in the economic history of ancient India, facilitating trade and commerce.

Additional Information

  • Kushanas
  • The Kushanas also minted gold coins, but they did so after the Indo-Greeks.
  • Under the rule of Kanishka, the Kushanas issued gold coins that were significant for their artistic value and depicted various deities.
  • Parthians
  • The Parthians ruled parts of northwestern India, but they did not introduce gold coinage in India.
  • Their coinage primarily consisted of silver and copper coins.
  • Satavahana dynasty
  • The Satavahanas were known for their silver and lead coinage, not gold.
  • They played a significant role in the trade networks of the Deccan region.

Question 138

The word 'Hindustan' is inscribed in which one of the following inscriptions?

  1. AOption (a)

    Junagargh Inscription

  2. BOption (b)

    Nasik cave Inscription

  3. COption (c)

    Sasanian Inscription

  4. DOption (d)

    Kandhara Inscription

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Sasanian Inscription

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Sasanian Inscription

Key Points

  • Sasanian Inscription
  • The term 'Hindustan' is inscribed in the Sasanian inscriptions, which belong to the Sasanian Empire, an important pre-Islamic Persian empire.
  • These inscriptions provide valuable historical records about the interactions between the Persian Empire and the Indian subcontinent.
  • The word 'Hindustan' was used in these inscriptions to refer to the territories in the Indian subcontinent.

Additional Information

  • Junagarh Inscription
  • This inscription belongs to the period of the Mauryan Empire and is associated with Emperor Ashoka.
  • It is primarily known for its records of Ashoka's edicts and policies.
  • Nasik Cave Inscription
  • These inscriptions are Buddhist and belong to the period of the Satavahana kings.
  • They provide information about donations made by various individuals to the Buddhist monastic establishment.
  • Kandhara Inscription
  • This refers to inscriptions found in the region of Gandhara, which is now in modern-day Pakistan and Afghanistan.
  • Gandhara was a major center of Buddhist culture and learning.

Question 139

What was the royal language of the Satvahanas?

  1. AOption (a)

    Sanskrit

  2. BOption (b)

    Prakrit

  3. COption (c)

    Pali

  4. DOption (d)

    Tamil

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Prakrit

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Prakrit

Key Points

  • Prakrit
  • The Satvahanas, who ruled significant parts of India from around 1st century BCE to 3rd century CE, used Prakrit as their royal language.
  • Prakrit refers to a group of Middle Indic languages that were spoken in ancient India.
  • It was extensively used in inscriptions and literary works during the Satvahana period.
  • Prakrit was more accessible to the common people compared to Sanskrit, which was considered a more classical and scholarly language.

Additional Information

  • Sanskrit
  • Sanskrit was the classical language of ancient India, often associated with religious and scholarly texts.
  • It was more prevalent in the Vedic and Gupta periods, not specifically the Satvahana dynasty.
  • Pali
  • Pali is closely associated with the Theravada Buddhist canon and was widely used in Buddhist texts.
  • Although prevalent in ancient India, it was not the royal language of the Satvahanas.
  • Tamil
  • Tamil is a Dravidian language spoken predominantly in the southern part of India.
  • While it has ancient roots and literature, it was not used by the Satvahanas as their royal language.

Question 140

The in-charge of road tells tax officer in the Arthshastra was

  1. AOption (a)

    Akaradhyaksha

  2. BOption (b)

    Kupyadhyaksha

  3. COption (c)

    Sutradhyaksha

  4. DOption (d)

    Antapala

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Antapala

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Antapala

Key Points

  • Antapala
  • In the ancient Indian text "Arthashastra," authored by Kautilya (Chanakya), the term "Antapala" refers to the officer in charge of roads and boundaries.
  • The role of the Antapala was crucial in maintaining the infrastructure and ensuring smooth transportation and communication across the kingdom.
  • He was responsible for the construction, maintenance, and safety of roads, as well as the collection of road taxes.
  • Antapala also ensured the protection of travelers and merchants using these roads, contributing to the kingdom's trade and economy.

Additional Information

  • Akaradhyaksha
  • This term refers to the superintendent of mines, responsible for overseeing mining operations and the extraction of minerals and metals.
  • The Akaradhyaksha ensured efficient management of mineral resources, which were vital for the kingdom's economy.
  • Kupyadhyaksha
  • Kupyadhyaksha was the officer in charge of forests and forest produce.
  • He managed the conservation and sustainable utilization of forest resources, including timber, herbs, and wildlife.
  • Sutradhyaksha
  • This term refers to the superintendent of textiles and weaving.
  • The Sutradhyaksha oversaw the production and quality of textiles, which were important for trade and domestic use.

Question 141

Who was the first Turkish ruler of Delhi Sultanate, who introduced pure Arabic coins and coins of silver called 'tanka' and copper coins 'jital'?

  1. AOption (a)

    Qutubuddin Aibak

  2. BOption (b)

    Iltutmish

  3. COption (c)

    Balban

  4. DOption (d)

    Aramshah

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Iltutmish

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Iltutmish

Key Points

  • Iltutmish
  • Iltutmish was the third ruler of the Delhi Sultanate and is credited with consolidating the sultanate's power in northern India.
  • He introduced a standardized currency system, which included silver coins known as 'tanka' and copper coins called 'jital'.
  • These coins were of pure Arabic design, reflecting the influence of Islamic culture in his administration.
  • The introduction of these coins helped in stabilizing the economy and promoting trade within the sultanate.

Additional Information

  • Qutubuddin Aibak
  • He was the founder of the Mamluk Dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate and ruled from 1206 to 1210.
  • He is known for commissioning the construction of the Qutub Minar in Delhi.
  • Balban
  • He was the Sultan of Delhi from 1266 to 1287 and was known for his strong centralized administration and military reforms.
  • Balban emphasized the divine right of kingship and introduced a rigorous court discipline.
  • Aramshah
  • He was the son and successor of Qutubuddin Aibak, but his rule was short-lived, and he was soon defeated by Iltutmish.
  • Not much is known about his contributions during his brief rule.

Question 142

Which department was created by Alauddin Khilji to eliminate the defects arising in revenue collection?

  1. AOption (a)

    Diwan-i-Aariz

  2. BOption (b)

    Diwan-i-Wajarat

  3. COption (c)

    Diwan-i-Insha

  4. DOption (d)

    Diwan-i-Mustakharaj

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Diwan-i-Mustakharaj

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Diwan-i-Mustakharaj

Key Points

  • Diwan-i-Mustakharaj
  • Alauddin Khilji, the Sultan of Delhi, established the Diwan-i-Mustakharaj to improve the efficiency of revenue collection and address any discrepancies.
  • This department was specifically tasked with overseeing the collection of arrears and ensuring that revenue was collected systematically and justly.
  • The department played a crucial role in stabilizing the economy by eliminating corruption and fraudulent practices in revenue collection.
  • It ensured that the state's revenue system was more streamlined and efficient, benefiting both the state and its subjects.

Additional Information

  • Diwan-i-Aariz
  • This department was responsible for military organization and administration.
  • It handled the recruitment, training, and maintenance of the army.
  • Diwan-i-Wajarat
  • This department dealt with finance and taxation.
  • It was responsible for managing the state's revenue and expenditure.
  • Diwan-i-Insha
  • This department was in charge of royal correspondence and state records.
  • It managed the drafting and dispatch of official letters and documents.

Question 143

Name the famous Sufi Saint'who lived a simple life, talked to the common people in their own dialect Hindavi (Hindi), and was so adept in the practices of Yoga that the yogis called him 'Siddha".

  1. AOption (a)

    Khwaja Muinuddin Chishti

  2. BOption (b)

    Shekh Salim Chishti

  3. COption (c)

    Nijamuddin Auliya

  4. DOption (d)

    Kutubuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Nijamuddin Auliya

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Nijamuddin Auliya

Key Points

  • Nijamuddin Auliya
  • Nijamuddin Auliya was a renowned Sufi saint of the Chishti Order in the Indian subcontinent.
  • He was known for his piety, humility, and dedication to serving humanity.
  • Nijamuddin Auliya communicated with the common people in their own dialect, Hindavi (Hindi), making his teachings more accessible.
  • He was highly adept in the practices of Yoga, earning the title 'Siddha' from yogis, which means an accomplished or perfected being.
  • His dargah (shrine) in Delhi continues to be a place of reverence and pilgrimage for people of all faiths.

Additional Information

  • Khwaja Muinuddin Chishti
  • He was the founder of the Chishti Order in India and his dargah is in Ajmer, Rajasthan.
  • He emphasized love, tolerance, and openness, and his teachings attracted followers from diverse backgrounds.
  • Shekh Salim Chishti
  • He was a Sufi saint of the Chishti Order, known for his residence in Fatehpur Sikri.
  • His blessings were sought by Emperor Akbar, and his tomb remains a significant site.
  • Kutubuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki
  • He was a disciple of Moinuddin Chishti and his dargah is in Mehrauli, Delhi.
  • He played a key role in spreading the Chishti Order in Delhi and Northern India.

Question 144

Who translated Sanskrit Ramayana into Bengali popularly known as 'Bengali-Ramayana' in 14th century?

  1. AOption (a)

    Somapala

  2. BOption (b)

    Achyut Sen

  3. COption (c)

    Krittivas

  4. DOption (d)

    Shankar Dev

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Krittivas

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Krittivas

Key Points

  • Krittivas
  • Krittivas Ojha was a 15th-century Bengali poet.
  • He is renowned for translating the Sanskrit epic Ramayana into Bengali, which is popularly known as the 'Krittivasi Ramayan' or 'Bengali Ramayana'.
  • This work made the stories of the Ramayana more accessible to the Bengali-speaking population.
  • Krittivas’s translation is not just a literal translation but also contains many local adaptations and interpolations.

Additional Information

  • Somapala
  • Somapala is not a notable figure in the context of translating the Ramayana into Bengali.
  • There are no significant records of him in this literary context.
  • Achyut Sen
  • Achyut Sen is not associated with the translation of the Ramayana into Bengali.
  • His contributions, if any, are not prominently recorded in relation to this epic.
  • Shankar Dev
  • Shankar Dev was a 15th-16th century Assamese polymath and a saint-scholar credited for the cultural renaissance in Assam.
  • He wrote many plays, poems, and songs, and his work is more associated with Assamese literature and the Bhakti movement rather than Bengali translations of the Ramayana.

Question 145

In which language was the famous book "Amukta Malyad" written?

  1. AOption (a)

    Tamil

  2. BOption (b)

    Telugu

  3. COption (c)

    Kannada

  4. DOption (d)

    Malayalam

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Telugu

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Telugu

Key Points

  • Amukta Malyada
  • "Amukta Malyada" is a renowned epic poem authored by Krishnadevaraya, the ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire.
  • The poem is written in Telugu, which is a Dravidian language predominantly spoken in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
  • The title "Amukta Malyada" translates to "One who gave away the garland after wearing it," and it narrates the story of the wedding of the Hindu god Ranganayaka (Lord Vishnu) and Andal (Goddess Lakshmi).
  • Krishnadevaraya, who ruled from 1509 to 1529, was not only a powerful ruler but also a patron of art and literature, contributing significantly to the Telugu literary world.

Additional Information

  • Other Languages Mentioned
  • Tamil: A Dravidian language mainly spoken in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and in Sri Lanka.
  • Kannada: Another Dravidian language spoken predominantly in the state of Karnataka in India.
  • Malayalam: A Dravidian language spoken in the Indian state of Kerala and the union territories of Lakshadweep and Puducherry.

Question 146

Who among the following is credited to establish First French Factory at Surat in December 1667?

  1. AOption (a)

    Colbert

  2. BOption (b)

    Dupleix

  3. COption (c)

    Francis Martin

  4. DOption (d)

    Francis Caron

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Francis Caron

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Francis Caron

Key Points

  • Francis Caron
  • Francis Caron was a Dutchman who entered the service of France and is credited with establishing the first French factory at Surat in December 1667.
  • As a representative of the French East India Company, he played a pivotal role in laying the foundation for French trade in India.
  • The establishment of the factory marked the beginning of French commercial interest in the Indian subcontinent.

Additional Information

  • Colbert
  • Jean-Baptiste Colbert was a French statesman who served as the Minister of Finances of France under King Louis XIV.
  • He was instrumental in developing the French economy and promoting colonial expansion, but he did not establish the factory at Surat.
  • Dupleix
  • Joseph François Dupleix was the governor-general of the French establishment in India during the 18th century.
  • He is known for his efforts in expanding French territories in India, but his tenure was much later than the establishment of the first factory at Surat.
  • Francis Martin
  • Francis Martin was a French governor and founder of the city of Pondicherry, which became a major French settlement in India.
  • He played a key role in the development of French territories in India, but he did not establish the factory at Surat.

Question 147

In which year the Royal Titles Act was passed to Confer British Queen Victoria, the new empress of India?

  1. AOption (a)

    1858

  2. BOption (b)

    1862

  3. COption (c)

    1876

  4. DOption (d)

    1879

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

1876

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - 1876

Key Points

  • Royal Titles Act 1876
  • The Royal Titles Act was passed by the British Parliament in 1876.
  • This act was enacted to officially grant Queen Victoria the title of "Empress of India".
  • British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli was a key proponent of this act.
  • The title was meant to symbolize British authority over India and to bind India more closely to the British monarchy.

Additional Information

  • Other Years Mentioned
  • 1858: The year when the British government took direct control of India from the British East India Company following the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
  • 1862: A year without major legislative changes related to British titles in India.
  • 1879: This year also does not correspond to any significant legislation regarding the titles of the British monarchy in relation to India.

Question 148

Which among the following pair of reform organisation and their founding year is not correct?

  1. AOption (a)

    Atmiya Sabha - 1818

  2. BOption (b)

    Manav Dharma Sabha - 1844

  3. COption (c)

    Paramhans Mandali - 1849

  4. DOption (d)

    Prarthana Samaj - 1867

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Atmiya Sabha - 1818

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Atmiya Sabha - 1818

Key Points

  • Atmiya Sabha
  • Atmiya Sabha was founded by Raja Ram Mohan Roy in 1815, not 1818.
  • The organization was formed to promote religious and social reforms in Hindu society.
  • It aimed to fight against social evils like sati, caste discrimination, and to propagate monotheism.

Additional Information

  • Manav Dharma Sabha
  • Manav Dharma Sabha was founded in 1844 in Surat by Dadoba Pandurang and his brother.
  • This organization aimed at promoting social equality and reforming religious practices.
  • Paramhans Mandali
  • Paramhans Mandali was established in 1849 in Maharashtra.
  • The founders were Dadoba Pandurang and his friends, and the organization focused on religious and social reforms.
  • Prarthana Samaj
  • Prarthana Samaj was founded in 1867 in Mumbai by Dadoba Pandurang and Atmaram Pandurang.
  • It was a reform movement that aimed to make worship and religious practices more rational and ethical.

Question 149

In which year Railway Men's Union was established?

  1. AOption (a)

    1900

  2. BOption (b)

    1902

  3. COption (c)

    1904

  4. DOption (d)

    1906

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

1906

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - 1906

Key Points

  • Railway Men's Union
  • The Railway Men's Union was established in the year 1906.
  • This union was one of the earliest labor unions formed in British India, representing the interests of railway workers.
  • The formation of the union marked a significant step in organizing labor movements and advocating for workers' rights in the Indian railway industry.
  • The union aimed to address issues such as fair wages, working hours, and better working conditions for railway employees.

Additional Information

  • Historical Context
  • The early 20th century saw the rise of labor movements worldwide, including in British India.
  • The establishment of labor unions like the Railway Men's Union was crucial in advocating for workers' rights during the colonial period.
  • The railway industry was a significant sector in British India, employing thousands of workers who faced challenging working conditions.
  • Other Options
  • 1900: No significant labor union related to railways was established in this year.
  • 1902: There is no historical record of a railway labor union being formed in this year.
  • 1904: This year did not witness the establishment of any major railway labor union in British India.

Question 150

Who among the following writer is of the opinion that De-Industrialisation did not take place in the Indian colonial period?

  1. AOption (a)

    Anil Seal

  2. BOption (b)

    Daniel Thorner

  3. COption (c)

    Morris d. Morris

  4. DOption (d)

    Toru Matsui

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Morris d. Morris

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - Morris D. Morris

Key Points

  • Morris D. Morris
  • Morris D. Morris was an economic historian who challenged the prevailing view of de-industrialization in India during the colonial period.
  • He argued that the Indian economy was not de-industrialized but rather diversified and adapted to the changing circumstances.
  • Morris emphasized that traditional industries were not completely destroyed but coexisted with modern industries introduced by the British.
  • He supported his arguments with statistical data showing that the Indian economy experienced growth in various sectors, including agriculture and small-scale industries.

Additional Information

  • Anil Seal
  • Anil Seal is a historian known for his work on Indian nationalism and colonial politics, but he did not focus extensively on the economic aspects of de-industrialization.
  • Daniel Thorner
  • Daniel Thorner was an economist who studied Indian agriculture and land relations; he did not primarily focus on the industrialization or de-industrialization debate.
  • Toru Matsui
  • Toru Matsui is a scholar who may have contributed to various studies on India, but there is no prominent record of his stance on de-industrialization during the colonial period.

150 questions in the full paper