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Complete Ancient Indian History

The document provides a detailed overview of the history of ancient India, covering major time periods and rulers. It discusses the Vedic age, pre-Mauryan rulers including the 16 Mahajanapadas, the rise of the Magadhan empire, and the dynasties that followed such as the Nandas. A significant portion covers the Mauryan dynasty, key figures like Chandragupta and Ashoka, and their expansion of the empire.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
179 views23 pages

Complete Ancient Indian History

The document provides a detailed overview of the history of ancient India, covering major time periods and rulers. It discusses the Vedic age, pre-Mauryan rulers including the 16 Mahajanapadas, the rise of the Magadhan empire, and the dynasties that followed such as the Nandas. A significant portion covers the Mauryan dynasty, key figures like Chandragupta and Ashoka, and their expansion of the empire.

Uploaded by

09whitedevil90
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA

Father of History: - Herodotus (Greek) Father of Geography: - Eratosthenes (Greek)


Father of Polity: - Aristotle (Greek) Father of Economics: - Adam Smith (Scotland)
"A.D." stands for “anno domini”. "B.C." stands for "before Christ”.
“History of Ancient India”: A Complete Study Material
1. Vedic and Later Vedic Age 4. Contemporary and Post-Mauryan Rulers
2. Pre Mauryans Age 5. Gupta Empire
3. Age of Mauryas 6. The Harshavardhana Era

PRE MAURYANS AGE


Sources of Mauryan History:
• For the first time, the political unity was achieved in India. Moreover, the history writing has also become clear
from this period due to accuracy in chronology and sources.
• There are two types of sources of Mauryan History. One is Literary and the other is Archaeological.
• The literary sources include Kautilya’s Arthasastra, Visakha Datta’s Mudra Rakshasa , Megasthenese’s Indica,
Buddhist literature and Puranas.
• The archaeological sources include Ashokan Edicts and inscriptions and material remains such as silver and copper
punch-marked coins.
• Rock Edict 13: Kalinga war

The Mahajanapadas
• In the sixth century BCE, there was a rise in the development of a few kingdoms that became prominent and earned
the name Mahajanapada or great country.
• They extended from north western Pakistan to eastern Bihar and from mountainous regions of Himalayas to the
river Godavari in the south.
• Aryans were the most influential tribes and were called as ‘janas’. This gave rise to the term janapada where jana
means ‘people’ and pada means ‘foot.
• There were 16 Mahajanpadas during 600 B.C. to 300 B.C. in Indian sub-continents.

1. Anga (Bhagalpur & Munger in Bihar) - CHAMPA 10. Magadha (Patna & Gaya dist of Bihar) –
2. Asmaka (Paithan in Maharastra) - PATALI RAJAGRIHA,PATALIPUTRA,VAISHALI
3. Avanti (Malwa) – UJJAIN & MAHISMATI 11. Malla (South U.P) – KUSINAGAR & PAVA
4. Chedi (Bundelkhanda) - SHUKTIMATI 12. Matsya (Jaipur,Bharatpur,Alwar) - VIRATNAGAR
5. Gandhara (between Kabul & Rawalpindi) - Taxila 13. Panchala (Rohilkhand) - KAMPILYA
6. Kamboja (Hazara, Pakistan) - RAJAPUR 14. Surasena (Mathura Region) - MATHURA
7. Kashi (Varanasi, U.P) - VARANASI 15. Vajji – (Vaishali dist, Bihar) - VAISHALI
8. Kosala (Eastern U.P) - AYODHAYA 16. Vatsya (Prayagraj, Mirzapur of U.P) - KAUSHAMBHI
9. Kuru (Delhi-Meerut Region) - HASTINAPUR

MAGADHAN EMPIRE
• The Magadha Empire ruled in India from 684 BC- 320 BC.
• It is also mentioned in the Mahabharata and the Ramayana.
• It was the most powerful amongst the sixteen mahajanapadas.
• The empire was established by king Brihadratha.
• Rajgaha (or Rajgir) was the capital of Magadha but was later shifted to Pataliputra in the fourth century BCE.
• MAHAVIR JAIN was born in this Dynasty in 599 BC.
• Iron was used to manufacture tools and weapons.
• The elephants found in its forests were used in the army.
• The riverine route of Ganga and its tributaries made communication cheap and convenient.

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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
• The implementation of policies by the efficient bureaucracy of ruthless and ambitious kings like Bimbisara, Ajatasattu
and Mahapadma Nanda made Magadha prosperous.
• The first king of Magadha was Bimbisara and he belonged to the Haryanka dynasty.
• Avanti was Magadha’s main rival but later entered into an alliance.
• Marriages helped in building political alliances and king Bimbisara married a lot of princesses from nearby kingdoms.

THE HARYANKA DYNASTY


• It was the second dynasty to rule over Magadha after the Brihadratha dynasty.
• It was succeeded by the Shishunga dynasty.
• The dynasty was founded by Grandfather of Bimbisara, but we consider Bimbisara
• The dynasty ruled over Magadha from 6th century BCE to 413 BCE.
• The kings of Haryanka dynasty are:
• Bimbisara
• Ajatasattu
• Udayabhadra

BIMBISARA
• Bimbisara ruled over Magadha for 52 years, starting from around 544 BC to 492 BC.
• Bimbisara was a contemporary of Gautama Buddha and Vardhaman Mahavir.
• His religion is not very clear. While Buddhist texts mention him as a disciple of Buddha, Jain scriptures describe him as
the follower of Mahavir and refer to him as King Shrenika of Rajgir.
• Rajgir was his capital which was surrounded by five hills

AJATASHATRU
• Ajatashatru ruled Magadha from 492- 460 BC.
• He was son of Bimbisara. He was the only Indian king who kill his father before ascending the throne.
• He was having a war engine or a magical chariot.
• Budha died during his time so he organised the First Buddhist Council at Rajgiri in 483 B.C
Buddhist Councils:-
SL NO. PLACE RULER CHAIRMAN
ST
1 RAJGIRI AJATASHATRU MAHAKASHYAPA
2ND VAISHALI KALASOKA SABAKARMI
3RD PATALIPUTRA ASOKA MOGOLIPOTTA TISSA
4TH KASHMIR KANISHKA VASHUMITRA
UDAYIN
• Udayin or Udayabhadra was the successor of Ajatashatru.
• His reign lasted from 460 B.C. - 444 B.C.
• He shifted his capital from RAJGIRI to PATALIPUTRA
• Udayin was succeeded by the Shishunagas.

SHISHUNAGA DYNASTY
• It was a short period of Dynasty which lasted only for 2 generation.
• This dynasty was founded by Prime Minister SHISHUNAGA.
• He temporarily shifted his capital to VAISHALI.
• The greatest achievement of this dynasty was it ended the hundred year old rivalry between two states & AVANTI
became a part of Magadh.
• He was succeeded by KALASOKA who arranged the Second Buddhist Council at VAISHALI in 383 B.C.
• They were later succeeded by the Nanda dynasty.

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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
THE NANDA DYNASTY
• The dynasty lasted from 345 BCE- 321 BCE.
• This dynasty was founded by MAHAPADMA NANDA
• This the first non- khetriya dynasty of Magadha.
• Mahapadma Nanda, the first king of the Nanda dynasty, added Kalinga to the Magadhan Empire.
• It was the first dynasty to use elephants in battles
• The dynasty was having a large outstanding army which includes soldiers, elephants, chariots, cavalries.
• DHANA NANDA was the last ruler during whose time Alexander invade India in 326 B.C
• CHANAKYA was working as court poet in the court of Dhana Nanda.
• The last Nanda king, Dhana Nanda, was overthrown by Chandragupta Maurya.

Alexander's Invasion
• He was from Macedonian, Greece. His father PHILIPS was the ruler of Macedonian
• Aristotle (father of Polity) was the political guru of Alexander.
• He fought the famous war ‘Battle of Hydaspas’ on the bank of river Vitasta (Jhelum) against PORUS.
• He died in 323 B.C in BABYLON due to slow fever at the age of 33.
• He left SELUCUS NIKATOR as his army general of his conquered areas.
Impact of Alexander’s Invasion:-
• Opening up of ne trade routes between north-west India & western asia.
• Indians learnt from Greeks in the field of coinage, astronomy, architecture & sculpture (Gandhara school)

CHANAKYA
• VISHNUGUPTA was the childhood name of Chanakya
• He was also known as KOUTILYA.
• The ARTHASASTRA was written by chanakya. It deals with policy of state crafts
• The Arthasastra contains 180 Chapters out of which 3 chapters describes about marriage.
• In Arthasastra, Rajakosha is maintained which should not be empty at any cost & which is similar to CONTIGENCY
FUND of current India.
• In Arthasastra, it is maintained that the king should have power in his hand to control over the mines situated in his
kingdom.

MAURYAN DYNASTY
CHANDRAGUPTA MAURYA (321BC-298BC)
• He was the founder of this dynasty
• He was also called as “SANDROCOTTUS” by Greek Scholars
• He dethroned the last Nanda ruler “DHANA NANDA” & founded the Mauryan Dynasty.
• Chandra Gupta defeated “SELUCUS NIKATOR” the general of Alexander in 305BC
• After that he married to be daughter of “SELUCUS NIKATOR”
• “SELUCUS NIKATOR” also sent Greek ambassador, “MEGASTHENESE” to the court of Chandra Gupta.
• “MEGASTHENESE” wrote the book “INDICA”
• Towards the end of his life, he embraced Jainism & went to Chandragiri hill at Sravanbelagola with BHADRABAHU
(JAIN MONK), where he died of slow STRVATION
• During his time, Jainism was divided into 2 parts
a) DIGAMBARAS (SKY-CLAD)
b) SVETAMBARAS (WHITE-CLAD)

BINDUSARA (298BC-273BC)
• He was son of Chandra Gupta Maurya
• He got the tittle “AMITRO CHATES” or “AMITRA GHATA” by the Greek which means having “No enimies”
• He conquer land between Arabian Sea & Bay of Bengal

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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
• The Greek ambassador “Deimachus” visited in his court
• He was having 500 wifes
• He patronized “AJIVIKA SECT”

ASHOKA (273BC -232BC)


• He was regarded as greatest of all Mauryan rulers
• Before accepting the thrown he was adopting as Vice-ray of Ujjain & Taxila
• A Buddhist text “Dipavasma” says that he ascending the trown after killing his 99 brothers (269BC) except the
youngest one “TISSA” which tooks 4 years after the death of Bindusara (273BC)
• He fought Kalinga war (261BC) in the 9th year of his rule which is maintained in “XIII ROCK EDICTS”
• After kalinga war, Ashoka accepted Buddhism under influence of “UPAGUPTA” (Buddhist monk)
• He sent his son “MAHINDRA” & daughter “SANGHAMITRA” to CEYLON (srilanka) for establishment of
Buddhism in Sri lanka.
• Ashoka was often referred as “DEVANAM PRIYA” or “PRIYADARSHI” by people.
• He inaugurated the “Dhammayatras” from the 11th year of his reign by visiting Bodh gaya, also appointed “Dhamma
Mahamatras” (officers) to spread the massage of Dhamma.
• Ashoka was organised 3rd Buddhist council at “Patalipautra” in 250BC under the chairmanship of
“MOGOLIPOTTA TISSA”.

Some of important reasons of Kalinga war


• kalinga was an Independent State which was expand north Mahanadi to South Godavari & East Bay of Bengal to west
Amarkantak (M.P) & its capital was Toshali at that time.
• Its trade route with Ceylon was very strong & its Noval army was most stronger than others
• Ashoka want to marry “KARUBAKI” (Karubaki son TIVARA)

Causes of Mauryan Downfall


• Weak successor of Ashoka could not maintain a large army to control such vast kingdom
• After the death Ashoka, the empire was divided into western & eastern part
• BRIHADRATHA the last Mauryan ruler was assassinated in 183BC by his Brahmin Commander in Chief
PUSHYAMITRA SHUNGA who established SHUNGA DYNASTY.

Significance of Mauryan rule


• Govt of India has borrowed the National Emblem 4 lion capital of Ashokan Pillar at “SARNATH”
• “Vishnu Purana” given an account of his dynasty
• The administration of Pataliputra was in hand of “Six Boards”
• Many gurukuls & Buddhist monasteries (Taxila & Banaras) developed with royal patronage.
Literary developments (Pali Language)
ARTHASHASHTRA — KAUTILYA
INDICA --- MEGASTHENESE
KALPASUTRA --- BHADRABAHU
KATHA VASTU --- BUDDHIST TEXT
BHAGWATI SUTRA, ACHARANG SUTRA & DASAVLIK ---- JAINA TEXT

NOTE:-
• The “Pillar Edict VII” mentioning Ashoka’s work for fulfilling Dhamma, is the last Edict issued by Ashoka.

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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
MCQs ON PRE MAURYANS AGE & MAURYANS DYNASTY
Q: 1 Which area of India was known as Avantika in Q:14 Which one of the following ancient
ancient times? Mahajanapadas was located on the bank of yamuna?
1. Avadh 2. Ruhelkhand a) Anga b) Avanti
3. Bundelkhand 4. Malwa c) Matsya d) Vatsa
Q:2 Which ruler murdered his father' Bimbisara to Q:15 Which Magadha ruler was known as ‘Seniya’?
ascend the throne? a) Bimbisara b) Ajatashatru
(A) Ashoka (B) Ajatasatru c) Mahapadma Nanda d) Chandragupta Maurya
(C) Kanishk (D)Simukha Q:16 Takshashila University was located between
Q:3 When Alexander invaded India, Magadha was which two rivers?
being ruled by the a) Indus & Jhelum b) Jhelum & Ravi
A) Haryankas B) Sisunagas c) Beas & Indus d) Satluj & indus
C) Nandas D) Mauryas Q:17 Which among the following is the oldest dynasty?
Q:4 Alexander and the army of Porus camped on the a) Maurya b) Gupta c) Kushan d) Kanva
opposite bank of which river? Q:18 Who amongst the following also had the name
A) Ravi B) Jhelum C) Sutlej D) Chenab ‘Devanama Priyadassi”?
Q:5 Name the kingdom which first used elephants in a) Mauryan king Asoka
wars b) Mauryan king Chandragupta Maurya
A) Kosala B) Magadha c) Gautam Buddha
C) Champa D) Avanti d) Bhagwan Mahavira
Q:6 The last Nanda ruler of Magadha who was Q:19 Upto where did Chandragupta Mauryas empire
overthrown by Chandragupta Maurya with the help of extend in north west?
Chanakya was a) Ravi river b) Indus river
A) Mahapadmananda B) Dhanananda c) Satluj river d) Hindukush range
C) Navananda D) Not known Q:20 Which of the following could be the most accurate
Q:7 Which of the following ruler was responsible for description of Mauryan monarchy under Asoka?
the rise of Magadha? a)Enlightened despotism b) Centralised autocracy
A) Bindusara B) Ajatshatru c) oriental despotism d) Guided democracy
C) Bimbisara D) Vasudeva Q:21 In mauryan Dynasty Kalinga War took place the
Q:8 Name of Republic which was a confederacy to year?
tribes in the 6th century B.C a) 260BC b) 261BC c) 126BC d) 232BC
A) Gandhara B) Vajji C) Koushal D) Avanti Q:22 Which event brought about profound change in
Q:9 Nalanda Mahavira site is in Asoka’s administrative policy?
A) Rajasthan B) Assam C) Bihar D) Gujrat a) The third Buddhist Council b) The Kalinga War
Q:10 The 'Ajivikas' were c) His embracing of Buddism d) His sending
A) Sect contemporary to the Buddha missionary to Ceylon
B) Breakaway branch of the Buddhists Q:23 The Monk who influenced Asoka to embrace
C) Sect founded by Charvaka Buddhism was
D) Sect founded by Shankaracharya a) Vishnu Gupta b) Upagupta
Q:11 Shishunaga Dynasty is credited to have destroyed c) Brahma Gupta d) Brihadratha
which Mahajanapad? Q:24 The Greek ambassador sent to Chandragupta
A) Vaishali B) Avanti C) Kosala D) Madra Maurya’s court was
Q:12 Who among the following was a great ruler of a) Kautilya b) Seleucus Nicator
kalinga in ancient time? c) Megasthenes d) Justin
a) Ajatasatru b) Bindusara Q:25 Arthasastra was written by
c) Kharavela d) Mayuasarman a) Dhanananda b) Kautilya
Q:13 Sculptures of the Gandhara school reflect in c) Bimbisara d) Pushyamitra
influence of the Q:26 Alexander & Porus fought a battle at
a) Greeks b) Chinese a) Hydaspas b) Jhelum c) Panipat d) Train
c) Romans d) Persians

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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
Q:27 After Alexander’s death the eastern part of his Q:32 Which one of the following is the principle source
empire came under of information of Asoka’s campaign against kalinga?
a) Seleucus Nicator b) Menander a) Pillar Edict VII b) Mahavamsa
c) Rudradaman d) Kanishka c) Divyavadana d) Rock Edict XIII
Q:28 Bindusara sent Asoka to quell the rebellion in Q:33 Asoka spread Buddhism all over India & Ceylon
a) Swarnagiri b) Taxila by
c) Ujjain d) Tosali a) Teaching the Triratnas b) Sending the dharma
Q:29 Who among the following foreigners was the first Mahamantras
to visit Inda? c) Wagins wars d) Becoming a Buddhist
a) Hiuen Tsang b) Magasthenese Monk
c) I-Tsing d) Fahien Q:34 During the reign of Bindusara there was unrest at
Q:30 Who amidst the following was a wife of Asoka a) Ujjayani b) Pushkalavati
who influenced him? c) Taxila d) Rajagriha
a) Chandalika b) Charulata Q:35 The capital of the Mauryan kingdom was located
c) Gautami d) Karuwaki at
Q:31 Which of the following dynasty succeeded the a) Pataliputra b) Vaishali
Maurays? c) Lumbini d) Gaya
a) Satavahanas b) Sungas Q:36 Chandra Gupta Maurya spend his last days here
c) Yavanas d) Pandya a) Kashi b) Pataliputra
c) Ujjain d) Shravanabelagola

ANSWER
1. D 5. B 9. C 13. A 17. A 21. B 25. B 29. B 33. B
2. B 6. B 10. A 14.D 18. A 22. B 26. A 30. D 34. C
3. C 7. C 11. B 15. A 19. D 23. B 27. A 31. B 35. A
4. B 8. B 12. C 16. A 20. A 24. C 28. B 32. D 36. D

POST-MAURYAN PERIOD
Mauryans were succeeded by many ruling dynasties from
a) Foreign states
b) Native states
c) South Indian Dynasty
FOREIGN STATES
a) The Indo-Greeks b) The Shakas or Scythians
c) The Parthians d) The Kushanas
A) THE INDO-GREEKS:-
a) A series of Invasions began in about 200 B.C. The first to invade India were the Indo-Greeks, who occupied a large
portion of north-western India & move upto Ayodhya & Pataliputra
b) The most famous Indo-Greek ruler was MENANDER (165BC-145BC) or MILINDA, & his capital at SAKALA
(Sialkot in Punjab).
c) He was the first Foreigner to accept Buddhism under the Influence of “NAGASENA”
d) MENANDER & NAGASENA’S conversation were recorded in the book “MILINDAPANHO” or “The questions of
Milinda”.
e) They were the first rulers to issue Gold coins in India.
f) A new art was introduced during his time which is known as “HELLINSTIC ART” or “GANDHARA ART”
g) “GANDHARA ART” is the mixture of Indian Art & Greek Art.
h) The last Indo-Greek ruler was STRATO-II
i) Their rule ended with Invasion of Shakas.
B) SHAKAS or SCYTHIANS DYNASTY:-
a) The Greeks were followed by Shakas

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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
b) It was the largest dynasty in the world controlling over 5 branches including Afghanistan, Punjab, Mathura, Ujjain &
Deccan.
c) Goutam Buddha was born in this dynasty
d) An unknown king of Ujjain, who defeated Shaka dynasty & took the title “VIKRAMADITYA”.This event was
recorded in “VIKRAM SAMVAT”
e) From this time onwards “Vikramaditya” became a tittle which was accepted by “Chandragupta-II” of Gupta
dynasty.
f) “Rudradaman” was the famous king of this dynasty who repairs “Sudarshan Lake”
Note:-
a) Sudarshana lake was constructed by Pushyagupta the governor of Saurashtra under Chandra Gupta Maurya.
b) “TUSHASP” constructed dam on the lake during the reign of ASHOKA
c) First reconstruction by Governor “Survishakh” under “Rudradaman” & second by Chakrapalit” under “Skanda
Gupta”
C) THE PARTHIANS:-
a) Originally, The Parthians lived in IRAN, from where they moved to India & replaced Shakas.
b) The most famous Parthian king was “Gondophernes” in whose reign “St. Thomas” came to India for propagation of
Christianity.
D) THE KUSHANAS:-
a) The kushanas replaced the Greeks & Parthians
b) They came from central asia near China known as “Yuechis or Tochanians”
c) The first Kushanas dynasty was founded by Kujala kadphises.
d) Kushan emperor “Vima kadaphises” is said to be 1st ruler who introduced gold coins in India in 100CE.
e) Vima was the predecessor of kanishka the great fifth Kushan king.
f) He was also known as second Ashoka & he had 2 capitals i.e, PURUSHPUR & MATHURA.
g) Kanishka started an era in 78 A.D, which is known as “SAKA ERA” & is used by Govt of India.
h) kanishka accepted Buddhism under the influence of “Ashwaghosha”
i) Ashwaghosha was the famous court poet of Kanishka who wrote “Buddhacharita” a biography of Buddha.
j) kanishka control slik route which connect central Asia & Iran.
k) Kanishka organised the fourth Buddhist council at Kashmir where Buddhism is divided into 2 parts:-
1) Mahayana Buddhism (Created)
2) Hinayana Buddhism (Original)
l) The last kushana ruler was Vasudeva-I
m) Kanishka patronized the following persons:-
Ashwaghosha --- Buddhacharita
Nagarjuna --- Madhyamik Sutra
Charaka --- Charaka samhita
Sushruta --- Sushruta samhita
NATIVE STATES
A) SHUNGA DYNASTY B) KANVA DYNASTY
C) THE CHETI DYNASTY OF KALINGA D) THE SATAVAHANA DYNASTY
A) SHUNGA DYNASTY:-
a) This dynasty was founded by “Pushyamitra shunga”, he ruled from Vidisha (M.P)
b) He founded this dynasty after killing the last mauryan ruler “Brihadratha”
c) Buddhist stupa at Bharhut was built during his region
d) The greek ambassador “Heliodorus” visited the court of fifth shunga king “Bhagabhadra” & setup a pillar in honour
of lord Vasudeva near Vidisha (M.P).
e) Shunga king “Agnimitra” was hero of kalidasa’s “Malvikagnimitram”.
f) The famous book on hindu law “Manusmriti” was compiled during this period.
g) Patanjali’s “Classic Mahabyasa” was written during this time.
h) They were generally Brahmanas.

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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
i) He conducted 2 Ashvamedha yajnas.
j) Panini wrote Grammarian.
B) KANVA DYNASTY:-
a) Kanva was a minor dynasty founded by “Vasudeva”, who killed the last Shunga king “Devabhuti”.Its capital was at
“Pataliputra”.
b) “Bhumimitra” & Narayana succeeded Vasudeva. All rulers were Brahmins
c) The last ruler “Susarman” was killed by Andra king “Simuka”
C) THE CHETI DYNASTY OF KALINGA:-
a) The Hatigumpha Inscription of kharavela- the third ruler of dynasty, gives information about the Chetis.
b) Kharavela extended his kingdom upto Mathura in north & Godaveri in south.
c) It is said about him that he took revenge of kalinga war
d) He also organised Jainism council near Khandari.
D) THE SATAVAHANA DYNASTY:-
a) The satavahanas are considered to be identical with the Andhra, who are mentioned in the puranas.
b) SIMUKA was the founder of this dynasty.
c) They were successors of Mauryas in the Deccan & Central India.
d) Gautamiputra Satakarmi was the greatest ruler of this dynasty
e) He got the title raja-raja & maharaja.
f) There capital was Paithan (near Aurangabad)
g) Satavahanas were the first ruler to make land grants to Brahmins.
h) Pulaymayi-III was the last Satavahana ruler, succeeded by Ikshavakus in the 3rd century B.C

SOUTH INDIAN DYNASTY


A) CHALUKYA DYNASTY
a) Pulakeshin-I was the founder of this dynasty
b) His capital was VATAPI (Current name – BADAMI in Karnataka)
c) Pulakeshin-II was the greatest of Chalukya king who extend the Chalukya rule to most parts of Deccan.
d) During his reign also known as Golden age of Karnataka
e) Pulakeshin-II was defeated the famous ruler “Harshavardhan” on the bank of river Narmada.
f) He had also defeated the Pallava king “Mahendravarman-I” but was defeated & killed by Mahendravarman’s son
Narasimhavarman-I in a series of battle he had with the Pallavas.
g) “Kirtivarman-II” was the last chalukya ruler, who was defeated by Rastrakuta king “Dantidurga”
h) “Pattadakkal” is UNESCO world heritage site was built during reign
B) THE PALLAVAS DYNASTY
a) They ruled between 3rd century until their final decline in 9th century.
b) Their capital was “Kanchipuram” in tamilnadu.
c) There is no clarity on the name of founder of Pallava dynasty but the rise of pallavas in last quarter of 6th century is
attributed to “SIMHA VISHNU”
d) MAHENDRAVARMAN-I is considered to be the greatest ruler of Pallavas
e) SHORE TEMPLE (UNESCO heritage site) at Mahabalipuram & Kanchi Kailasanathar temple at Kanchipuram
are famous temples that were constructed during the reign of Pallavas.
f) 7 Pagodas were built near Mahavalipuram.
g) The last ruler of Pallavas was “Aparajitavarman” who was killed in the battle of Cholas.
C) CHOLA DYNASTY (9TH Century to 13th Century)
a) The Chola empire was founded by vijayalaya. He took over the “Tanjore kingdom” in 8th Century
b) Tanjore was the first capital of Chola Empire
c) Aditya-I succeeded Vijayalaya & he defeated Aparajita the last Pallavas ruler.
d) Raja Raja –I & his son Rajendra-I were the famous ruler of this dynasty
e) Rajendra-I conquer srilanka & got the tittle “Gangaikonda”
f) This dynasty having a strong Navy Power

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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
g) There temples were mainly of GOPURAM STYLE (having many gates)
h) SOUTH INDIAN irrigation system was well developed during this time.
i) This dynasty was famous for Gramasabha.
j) Brihadishuara temple, Thanjavur was built by “Raja Raja-I” is a part of UNESCO world heritage site known as
“Great living chola temple”
D) RASHTRAKUTA DYNASTY:-
a) Dantivarman or Dantidurga was the founder of this dynasty.
b) Krishna-I succeeded Dantidurga & he defeated Vishnuvardhana of Vengi & the Ganga king of Mysore.
c) He was a great patron of art & architecture.
d) The Kailash temple at Ellora was built by Krishna-I.
e) Famous trimurti image created during this dynasty
f) Another greatest king of Rastrakuta was Amogha varsha & he was converted in to Jainism by “Jinasena” (joina
monk)
g) Last ruler of Rastrakuta dynasty was “Indra-IV”.
h) The art & architecture of Rastrakuta can be found at Ellora & elephant.
i) Some literature:
Jinasena ---- Adipurana
AmoghaVarsha ---- Kaviraja Marga
Trivikrama ---- Kavirahasya
Viracharya ---- Ganita saram
Ponna ---- Santi purana

POST- MAURYAN DYNASTY


1. The great Silk-route to the Indians was opened by a) Harsha b) Chandragupta Maurya
a) kanishka b) Ashoka c) Ashoka d) Kanishka
c) Harsha d) Fa-hien 9. Satvahanas minted their coins predominantly in
2. The rulers of which dynasty started the practice of a) Lead b) Silver
granting tax-free villages to Brahmans & Buddhist c) Gold d) Copper
monks? 10. Who is second Ashoka?
a) Satavahanas b) Mauryas a) Samudra Gupta b) Chandragupta Maurya
c) Guptas d) Cholas c) Kanishka d) Harshavardhana
3. Yavanika or curtain was introduced in India theatre 11. The capital of Kanishka was?
by which of the following? a)Puruspura b) Benaras
a) Shakas b) Parthians c) Allahabad d) Sarnath
c) Greeks d) Kushans 12. The greatest Kushan king who got converted to
4. Who started the Saka Era which is still used by govt Buddhism was
of India? a) Kujala b) Vima
a) kanishka b) Vikramaditya c) Kanishka d) Kadphises
c) Ashoka d) Samudra Gupta 13. ‘Puruspura’ is the other name for
5. Who were the first kings to issue gold coin in India? a) Patna b) Pataliputra
a) Mauryas b) Indo-Greeks c) Peshwar d) Punjab
c) Guptas d) Kushans 14. Which dynasty immediately succeeded the Maurya
6. With whom is Junagarh Rock inscription associated? dynasty & ruled Magadha Kingdom?
a) Rudradaman b) Bimbisara a) Satavahana b) Sunga
c) Chandragupta –II d) Gautamiputra Satakarmi c) Nanda d) Kanva
7. The greatest development in the Kushana period was 15. Kalinga’s king Kharavela gave his protection to
in the field of a) Hinduism b) Shaivism
a) Religion b) Art c) Buddhism d) Jainism
c) Literature d) Architecture 16. Who was the founder of Satvahana Empire?
8. ‘Charak’ was the famous court physician of a) Kanha b) Simuka

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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
c) Hala d) Gautamiputra 29. Which one of the following Chola king conquered
17. The first India ruler, who established the supremacy Ceylon (Singhal) first?
of Indian Navy in the arbian sea was? a) Aditya-I b) Rajaraja-I
a) Rajaraja-I b) Rajendra-I c) Rajendra Chola d) Vijayala
c) Rajadhiraja-I d) Kulottunga-I 30. Who was the chola king who brought Ganga from
18. In tamil literature the glorious books north to south?
‘Shilppadikaram & Manimekalai’ are related to a) Raja raja chola b) Mahendra
a) Jainism b) Buddhism c) Rajendra chola d) Parantaka
c) Hinduism d) Christianity 31. During the reign of which pallava ruler began the
19. How was Burma (now Myanmar) known to ancient long drawn struggle betwwen the pallavas & the
India? Chalukyas?
a) Malayamandalam b) Yavadwipa a) Mahendravarman-I b) Simhavishnu
c) Suvarnabhumi d) Suvarnadwipa c) Narasimhavarman-I d) MahendraVarman-II
20. Which dynasty succeeded the Chalukya in the 32. The Uttaramerur Inscription provides information
Western India? of the administration of the
a) Cholas b) Kakatiyas a) Chalukyas b) satavahanas
c) Pallavas d) Rastrakutas c) Pallavas d) Cholas
21. Name the Capital of Pallavas? 33. Which one of the following inscriptions related to
a) Kanchi b) Vatapi the Chalukya king, Pulakesin-II?
c) Trichurapalli d) Mahabalipuram a) Maski b) Hathigumpha
22. St. Thomas is said to have come to india to c) Alihole d) Nasik
propagate Christianity during the reign of the 34. Which script was used in Ashoka’s Inscriptions?
a) Cheras b) Parthians a) Brahmi b) Devanagari
c) Pandyas d) Cholas c) Gurmukhi d) Sanskrit
23. Harshvardhana was defeated by 35. Where is the Brihadeshwar temple, built during the
a) Prabhakaravardhana b) Pullakesin-II chola period, located?
c) Pullakesin-I d) Narshimvarman a) Mysore b) Mahabalipuram
24. Sangam age is associated with the history of c) Tanjore d) Kanyakumari
a) Benaras b) Allahabad 36. Who established Mahabalipuram?
c) TamilNadu d) Khajuraho a) Pallava b) Pandya
25. Chalukya king Pulakeshin-II was defeated by c) Chola d) Chalukya
a) Mahendra Varman-I b) Narasimha Varman-I 37.Gandhara school of art came in to existence in
c) Parameswara Varman-I d) Jatila Parantaka a) Hianyana sect b) Mahayana sect
26. Rastrakuta kingdom was founded by c) Vaishnava Sect d) Shaiva Sect
a) Danti Durga b) Amoghavarsha 38. Which rulers built Ellora temples?
c) Govinda-III d) Indra-III a) Chalukya b) Sunga
27. The most distinguished ruler of Chalukyan dynasty c) Rastrakuta d) Pallava
was 39. The famous rock-cut temple of kailash at
a) Jayasimha-II b) Vikramaditya-VI a) Ajanta b) Badami
c) Somesvara-II d) Pulakesin-II c) Mahabalipuram d) Ellora
28. Which was the following was the capital of Chola 40. The seven pagoda of Mahabalipuram are witness to
kings? the art patronized by the
a) Kanchi b) Tanjore a) pallavas b) Pandayas
c) Madurai d) Trichurapally c) Cholas d) Chera

ANSWER
1. A 5B 9A 13 C 17 A 21 A 25 B 29 B 33 C 37 B
2A 6A 10 C 14 B 18 B 22 B 26 A 30 C 34 A 38 C
3C 7B 11 A 15 D 19 C 23 B 27 D 31 A 35 C 39 D
4A 8D 12 C 16 B 20 C 24 C 28 B 32 D 36 A 40 A

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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
BUDDHISM
a) Buddhism was founded by Gautama Buddha. He was also known as Sakyamuni or Tathagata & his original name was
Siddhartha.
b) He was born in 563B.C at Lumbini (sakya tribe of Kapilvastu) on Vaishkha purnima day in Kshatriya clan.
c) His father ‘Suddhodhana’ was a ruler of saka Dynasty.
d) His mother ‘Mahamaya’ died 7days of his birth, so he was brought up by Step-mother “Gautami”
e) At the age of 16 he married to one of his cousin “yashodhara”, he enjoyed the married life for 13 years & had a son
named Rahul.
f) “Great Renunciation” or “Mahabhinishkramana” at the age of 29 years after witnessing four scenes in a sequence (old
man, Sick man, Dead body & an ascetic)
g) After six year of his ascatisim he attended enlightment under a Peepal tree in Bodh gaya which is known as
“NIRVANA”
h) He deliver his first Sermon in Sarnath which is known as “Dharmachakra Pravartana”
i) At the age of 80years he died in 483B.C at kusinagar in U.P which is known as “MAHAPARINIRVANA”
Major events:-
Events Symbols
Birth ------ Lotus & Bull
Mahabhinishkraman (Renunciation) ------ Horse
Nirvana (Enlightment) ------ Bodhi Tree
Dhramachakra Pravartana (First sermon) ------ Wheel
Mahaparinirvana (Death) ------- Stupa
j) Buddha has been described as “Ocean of Wisdom” in “Amarkosha” written by “Amarsimha”
k) The phrase “The Light of Asia” is applied to Buddha (written by Edwin Arnold)
l) The Buddhism was devided into MAHAYANA Buddhism & HINAYANA Buddism in 4th Buddhist council during the
time of kanishka.
m) The idol worship in Buddhism was started in Gupta dynasty.
n) Buddha Purnima is the most important day for Buddhism which falls on Baisakha purnima.
o) For the first time Buddhism spread outside india at Srilanka (Hinayana Buddhism in Srilanka)
Buddhist Literature:-
a) The Buddhist literature were written in “Pali language’
b) As there are 3 literature, therefore known as “Tripitakas”. These are given below:-
Vinaya Pitaka ----- Rules of Monasticdiscipline for monks
Sutta Pitaka ----- Collection of Buddha’s Serman
Abhidhama Pitaka ----- Philosophies of Buddha’s teaching
Three jewels of Buddhism (Triratnas)
a) Buddha (the Enlightened)
b) Dhamma (Doctrine)
c) Sangha (Order)
Eight-Fold Path (Ashtangika marga)
a) Right Understanding e) Right means of Livelihood
b) Right thought f) Right Effort
c) Right Speech h) Right Mindfulness awareness
d) Right Action i) Right concentrations meditation
Buddhist Councils:-
SL NO. PLACE RULER CHAIRMAN
ST
1 RAJGIRI AJATASHATRU MAHAKASHYAPA
2ND VAISHALI KALASOKA SABAKARMI
RD
3 PATALIPUTRA ASOKA MOGOLIPOTTA TISSA
4TH KASHMIR KANISHKA VASHUMITRA

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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
Causes of decline of Buddhism:-
a) Incorporation of rituals & ceremonies, it originally denounced
b) Reform in Brahmanism & rise of Bhagavatism
c) Buddhists took up the use of Sanskrit (earlier Pali) started practicing idol worship & receiving huge donations
JAINISM
a) It was founded by Rishabhnath. He is described as an incarnation of Narayana in Vishnu purana & the Bhagavata
Purana
b) There were total 24 Tirthankaras (Gurus), the first one was Rishabhnath & the last one was Vardhaman Mahavir.
c) The 23rd Tirthankara was Parsavanath. He was the princle of banaras,who abandoned the throne & led the life of
hermit.

SL NO. TIRTHANKARAS SYMBOLS


ST
1 RISHABHNATH BULL
23RD PARSAVANATH SERPENT (SNAKE)
24TH VARDHAMAN MAHAVIRA LION
LIFE OF MAHAVIRA:-
a) He was born in Kundalgram (Present- Muzaffarpur) from Harayanka dynasty in 599B.C (540b.c)
b) Father ---- Siddhartha
Mother --- Trishla
Wife --- Yasoda
Daughter --- Priyadarsena (Anojja/Anogna)
Son-in-law ---- Jamali (First disciple of Mahavir Jain)
c) Renunciation: - At the age of 30, he renounced his kingdom & family, gave up his worldly possessions & spent 12
years as an ascetic.
d) Kevalya (Perfect Knowledge):- At the age of 42, he attained enlightment under a sal tree at Jimbhika grama in Eastern
India on the bank of river Rijupalika.
e) First Sermon:- He gave his first serman at Pava to his eleven disciples known as Ganddharas & he also founded a jain
sangha at PAVA.
f) Death:- At the age of 72 he died at PAVA / PAVAPURI in Bihar in 527 B.C(468bc)
g) He was also called as JAINA OR JITENDRIYA (who conquered his senses), KEVALIN (perfect
learned),Arihant(blessed one),Nirgranthas(free from all bonds) & Mahavira (the brave).
h) During the time of Chandragupta Maurya the Jainism was divided into 2 sects.
DIGAMBARA (SKY-CLAD)
SVETAMBARA (WHITE-CLAD)
i) Girnar is the temple city of Jainism at Gujrat
j) “ANGAS” are sect book of Jainism (12 Angas & 12 Upangas)
k) Jainism was added to minority groups in Indian constitution in 2014.
THREE RATNAS/THREE FOLD PATH (WAY TO NIRVANA)
a) Right Knowledge
b) Right Faith
c) Right Conduct
Five Doctrines of Jainism
a) Brahmacharya (Observe continence) b) Ahimsa (non-injury to a living being)
c) Staya (Don’t speak a lie) d) Asteya (Don’t steal)
e) Aparigraha (Don’t acquire property)
Jaina Council:-
Council Year Venue Chairman
1st 300BC Pataliputra Sthulbhadra
2nd 512AD Vallabhi Devardhi Kshmasramana

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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
Causes behind the decline of Jainism
a) Extreme observance of ahimsa
b) No patronage from later kings
c) The jainas did not make any efforts to spread their religion

BUDDHISM AND JAINAISM


1. Gautam Buddha as a prince was known as (a) Asoka (b) Kanishka (c) Menander (d) Harsha
(a) Gautam (b) Siddhartha 11. The great exponent of Mahayana Buddhism was
(c) Rahula (d) Suddhodhana (a) Ashvaghosa (b) Vasubandhu
2. The Jatakas are a collection of stories (c) Nagarjuna (d) Nagasena
(a) Meant for children 12. Kapilavasthu is associated with
(b) Based on pet Hindu myths (a) Emperor Ashoka (b) Sri KrishnadevaRoya
(c) About Jains saints (c) Lord Mahavira (d) Lord Buddha
(d) Pertaining to several different earlier births of the 13. Outside India, Buddhism was first accepted in
Buddha (a) China (b) Japan (c) Sri Lanka (d) Tibet
3. The founder of Jainism was 14. Gautama Buddha was brought up by
(a) Rishbha (b) Neminath (a) Mahaprajapati (b) Mayadevi
(c) Parsvanatha (d) VardhamanMahavira (c) Kundavi (d) Sangamitra
4. VardhamanaMahavira the 24th Tirthankar of 15. Mahavira was
Jainism was born at ____ and died at ____. (a) the 20th Tirthankara (b) the 21st Tirthankara
(a) Vaishali and Rajagriha (c) the 23rd Tirthankara (d) the 24th Tirthankara
(b) Kusinara and Pava 16. The Phrsae the 'Light of Asia' is applied to
(c) Kundagrama and Pava (a) Alexander (b) Chandragupta Maurya
(d) Kashi and Champa (c) Mahavira (d) The Buddha
5. The 'Three Jewels' (Triratnas) of Jainism are 17. The Eight-fold path was enunciated by
(a) right faith or intentions, right knowledge and right (a) The Buddha (b) Mahavira
conduct (c) Nehru (d) Mahatma Gandhi
(b) right action, right livelihood and right effort 18. The Svetambara Jains were
(c) right thoughts, non-violence and non-attachment (a) clad in white (b) clad in black
(d) right speech, right thinking and right behaviour (c) clad in red (d) saffron clad
6. Of the five vows (PanchAnuvratas) of Jainism, four 19. The Buddha
existed before Mahavira. The one which he added was (a) rejected the theory of Karma
(a) not to kill (non-injury) (b) was non-committal on the theory of Karma
(b) not to steal (c) believed in the theory of Karma
(c) non-attachment to worldly things (d) suggested an alternative to the theory of Karma
(d) celibacy 20. The Buddhist Doctrines were written in
7. In Jainism the aim of life is to attain Nirvana or (a) Sanskrit (b) Pali (c) Tibetan
Moksha for which one has to (d) Not written in any language but orally transmitted
(a) follow three jewels and five vows 21. The first Buddhist Council was held at
(b) practice, non-violence and non-injury to all living (a) Lumbini (b) Kapilavastu
beings (c) Rajagriha (d) Avanti
(c) renounce the world and attain right knowledge 22. The language which contributed to the spread of
(d) believe in the Jains and absolute non-violence Buddhism was
8. Jainism was divided into two sects - Swetambaras (a) Sanskrit (b) Pali (c) Tamil (d) Greek
(White-clad) and Digambaras (Sky-clad or naked) - 23. Which of the following was the cause of the decline
During the reign of the of Buddhism?
(a) Nandas (b) Mauryas (c) Kusanas (d) Shungas (a) Buddhism was founded by a prince
9. The name Buddha means (b) Corruption crept into Buddhist monasteries
(a) enlightened (b) learned (c) Buddha and Mahavira were contemporaries
(c) divine (d) sacred (d) Buddha preached non-violence
10. Buddhism was divided into Mahayana and 24. Which of the following is not included in triratna of
Hinayana during the reign of Jainism?
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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
(a) Right Knowledge (b) Right Conduct 39. To whom is the introduction of Buddhism into
(c) Right Faith (d) Creator China traditionally attributed?
(a) Nagarjuna (b) Samprati
25. The mother of Vardhamana Mahavira was a (c) Vasubandhu (d) KashyapaMatanga
(a) Lichavi Princess (b) Maurya Princess 40. Name the ruler whose reign was a witness to both
(c) Saka Princess (d) Not a member of the royal family VardhamanMahavira and the Buddha preaching their
26. Buddha delivered his first sermon at ______. respective doctrines?
(a) Sanchi (b) Sarnath (a) Udayin (b) Bimbisara
(c) Kapilvastu (d) Vaisali (c) Ajatashatru (d) Harshvardhana
27. The Buddha attained nirvana at ______. 41. Who among the following presided over the
(a) Bodh Gaya (b) Sarnath Buddhist council held during the reign of Kanishka at
(c) Sanchi (d) Kusinagara Kashmir?
28. The proceedings of the Third Buddhist Council led (a) Parsva (b) Vasumitra
to the issue of Edict? (c) Nagarjuna (d) Sudraka
(a) Sanchi (b) Sarnath 42. The oldest Jain scriptures are regarded to be the
(c) Bhabra (d) Kalinga (a) Fourteen Purvas (b) Twelve Upangas
29. Buddha has been described as 'an ocean of wisdom (c) Twelve Angas (d) Fourteen Uparvas
and compassion' In 43 Who among the following rulers had embraced
(a) The Light of Asia (b) Amarakosa Jainism?
(c) Buddhacharita (d) Jatak Tales (a) Chandragupta Maurya (b) Bindusara
30. The fourth Buddhist Council was held at (c) Ajatashatru (d) Pulakesin
(a) Pataliputra (b) Vaisali 44. The original teachings of Mahavira are contained in
(c) Kundalavana (d) Bodh Gaya the
31. The monolithic image of Jain Saint 'Gomatiswara' (a) Jatakas (b) Tripitakas
is at ______. (c) Purvas (d) Angas
(a) Mount Abu (b) Saravanabelgola 45. Which of the following rulers did not enter the
(c) Kusinagara (d) Kalinga Buddhist Cold?
32. Which of the following is known as the Jain Temple (a) Harsha (b) Samudragupta
City? (c) Kanishka (d) Ashoka
(a) Girnar (b) Allahabad 46. The Svetambaras and Digambaras refer to two sects
(c) Rajagriha (d) Varanasi of
33. ___was the mother of Vardhamana Mahavira. (a) Saivism (b) Buddhism
(a) Yasodhara (b) Kundhavi (c) Vaishnavism (d) Jainism
(c) Trisala (d) Mayadevi 47. Buddhism was first propagated outside India In
34. The last in the succession of Jaina Tirthankaras was (a) China (b) Cambodia
(a) Parsvanatha (b) Rishabha (c) Thailand (d) Ceylon
(c) Mahavira (d) Manisubruta 48. The language adopted for preaching In Mahayana
35. The term "Tirthankaras" is associated with Buddhism was
(a) Hinduism (b) Jainism (a) Pali (b) Brahmi
(c) Buddhism (d) Zoroastrianism (c) Sanskrit (d) Prakrit
36. The caves of Ajanta and EIlora belonged to 49. Who is said to have both been born and shed his
(a) Jains (b) Hindus body on the Vaishakha SmartPrep.in Purnima day?
(c) Buddhists (d) Sikhs (a) ChaitanyaMahaprabhu (b) Mahavira
37. What is the first discourse that the Buddha had (c) Shankaracharya (d) The Buddha
delivered at the Deer Park in Sarnath called? 50. In ancient India, Nalanda University represented a
(a) Mahaparinirvana (b) Mahamastabhisheka great centre for the study of
(c) Mahabhiniskraman (d) Dharmachakrapravartan (a) Mahayana Buddhism (b) Hinduism
38. Name the ruler whose patronage had been enjoyed (c) Hinayana Buddhism (d) Jainism
by Jainism. 51. The original Buddhist religious texts had been
(a) Kanishka (b) Kharavela written in
(c) Pushyamitra Sunga (d) Samudragupta (a) Brahmi (b) Sanskrit
(c) Pali (d) Magadhi

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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
52. The Digambaras and Shvetambaras differ primarily (a) Choice of god (b) Philosophical doctrines
with regard to their (c) Dress (d) Rituals

ANSWER
1. B 7. A 13. C 19. C 25. A 31. B 37. D 43. A 49. D
2. D 8. B 14. A 20. B 26. B 32. A 38. B 44. C 50. A
3. A 9. A 15. D 21. C 27. D 33. C 39. D 45. B 51. C
4. C 10. B 16. D 22. B 28. B 34. C 40. B 46. D 52. C
5. A 11. C 17. A 23. B 29. B 35. B 41. B 47. D
6. D 12. D 18. A 24. D 30. C 36. C 42. C 48. C

GUPTA DYNASTY
a) The fall of Kushana empire towards the middle of A.D 3rd century led to the establishment of empire of Guptas.
b) This Dynasty was founded by Sri Gupta & who was succeeded by his son Ghatotkacha.
CHANDRA GUPTA-I: - (319A.D-335 A.D)
a) He was first important king of this dynasty. He started the Gupta Era in 319A.D.
b) He married to the lichchhavi princes Kumara Devi & issued gold coin in the joint names of kumar devi &
Chandra Gupta-I.
d) He got the title “MaharajaDhiraja”
SAMUDRA GUPTA: - (335 A.D-380 A.D)
a) Chandra gupta-I was succeeded by Samudra Gupta.
b) He is known as “Napoleon of India” due to his believe in wars.
c) Some of his coins represent Samudra gupta playing veena.
d) He also performed “Ashvamedha sacrifices”
e) Meghavarman the ruler of sri lanka, sent a missionary to Samudragupta for a permission to build a Buddhist temple
at Gaya, Bihar.
f) Famous “Allahabad Pillar inscriptions” by Harisena, mention the title “Dharma Prachar Bandhu”, i.e. he was the
upholder of Brahmanical religion.
CHANDRA GUPTA-II: - (380 A.D-451A.D)
a) According to Devi Chandraguptam of Vishakhadutta, Samudra Gupta was succeeded by Rama Gupta.
b) Rama Gupta was the only gupta ruler to issue Copper coins.
c) He succeeded Rama Gupta after killing him & married his queen Dhruvadevi.
d) He got the title “Vikramaditya”
e) His court was full of nine gems (Nabaratna)
f) His period is considered as golden as of Ancient India.
g) He was the first ruler to issue Silver Coin.
h) “Mehrauli Iron Pillar inscription” claim his authority over north-western India & a good portion of Bengal.
i) ‘FA-HIEN’ visited India at his time.
KUMAR GUPTA: - (415 A.D-455 A.D)
a) He got the title “MAHENDRA DITYA”
b) He was the founder of Nalanda University
c) In the last year of his reign, the empire was invaded by Turko-Mongol tribe, the Hunas. During the war with Hunas,
Kumar Gupta died.
SKANDA GUPTA: - (455A.D-467 A.D)
a) He was succeeded by Kumar Gupta-I
b) He faced hunas attacks twice & died during the war with Hunas.
c) Junagarh Inscription tells about public works & Sudarshana Lake was second time repaired by him.
d) After his death the great days of Gupta were over.
e) VISHNU GUPTA was the last ruler of gupta dynasty, he also killed during the wars with Hunas.

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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
Development of science & literature during Gupta Dynasty
a) Idol worship of Buddhism was started during Gupta Dynasty.
b) Kalidas the great Sanskrit dramastics belong to this period. He wrote Abhijnanashakuntala, Vikramorvashi,
Malavikagnimitra, The epic poems Raghuvamsha, Kumarasambhava, Meghaduttam
c) Vishakhadatta wrote Mudrarakṣhasa, Devi Chandraguptam
d) Vishnu Sharma wrote Pachatantra & Hitoupadesha.
e) Amarkosha was written by Amarsima in which Buddha had been described as “Ocean of Wisdom”
f) Baraha mihira wrote Brihad Samhita.
g) “Aryabhata” the great Mathematician belongs to this period who wrote “Aryabhatika” & “Surya Sidhanta”
h) In Aryabhatika he invented ZERO & calculated the value of π, describe the place of first 9 number & also
invented ALGEBRA.
i) In Surya Siddhanta he proved that the earth routed & revolved around on his own access & Sun.
j) He discover the SOLAR & LUNAR ECLIPSES
k) “Dhanvantri” – Famous for Ayurvedic knowledge also during his time
l) Ramayan & Mahabarat was completed by 400 A.D

MCQ on Gupta Dynasty


1. The proud title of 'Vikramaditya' had been assumed 10. The Gupta artists had attained the highest
by perfection in
(a) Harsha (b) Chandragupta II (a) architecture (b) sculpture
(c) Kanishka (d) Samudragupta (c) terracotas (d) painting
2. Mudra Rakahasa was written by 11. The most important reason(s) for the decline of the
(a) Kalidasa (b) Visakadatta Gupta empire was/were
(c) Bana (d) Bharavi (a) invasions of the Hunas
3. The last great ruling dynasty of Magadha was (b) weak later Gupta rulers
(a) Sunga (b) Kanva (c) independence of the later Gupta rulers
(c) Kusana (d) Gupta (d) (a) (b) and (c) above
4. The greatest conqueror among the Gupta rulers was 12. After the decline of the Guptas, which of the
(a) Samudragupta (b) Chandragupta II following cities of North India emerged as the centre of
(c) Kumargupta (d) Skandagupta political gravity of North India?
5. A Gupta king has been called an Indian Napoleon (a) Ajmer (b) Kannauj
and he was also an accomplished poet and musician (c) Dhara (d) Delhi
(player of Veenaa) 13. The coins of which of the following reveal their love
(a) Samudragupta (b) Kumargupta for music?
(c) Chandragupta II (d) Skandagupta (a) Maurya (b) Nandas
6. The famous Mehrauli Iron Pillar inscription (c) Guptas (d) Cholas
describes the conquest of 14. The worship of idols started in India in the ___
(a) Samudragupta (b) Chandragupta II period.
(c) Chandragupta Maurya (d) Chandra of Indraprastha (a) Pre-Aryan (b) Gupta
7. Aryabhatta and Varahamihira lived during the (c) Maurya (d) Kushan
(a) Maurya Period (b) Gupta Period 15. The Ajanta cave paintings mostly belong to the
(c) Nanda Period (d) Sunga Period period of the
8. The Chinese travellerFa-hien visited India and left a (a) Mughals (b) Mauryas
detailed account of the reign of (c) Chalukyas (d) Guptas
(a) Samudragupta (b) Chandragupta II 16. Which of the following is not an important work of
(c) Kumargupta I (d) Skandagupta Kalidasa?
9. The foremost astronomer and mathematician of the (a) Shakuntala (b) Kumarasambhava
Gupta period was (c) Gita Govinda (d) Meghadoot
(a) Aryabhatta (b) Varahamihira 17. An important port of the eastern coast during the
(c) Brahmagupta (d) Vanabhata Gupta period was
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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
(a) Kalyan (b) Tamralipti 19. The achievements of Samudragupta have been
(c) Broach (d) Sopara chronicled in the
18. Which of the following periods is referred to as the (a) Hathigumpha inscription (b) Sarnath inscription
period of Hindu revival or (c) Girnar inscription (d) Allahabad pillar inscription
renaissance? 20. The earliest surviving extant, i.e. still standing,
(a) Period of Harsha (b) Kushan Period temples date from the ______ period?
(c) Gupta Period (d) Mauryan Period (a) Gupta (b) Sunga
(c) Vedic (d) Maurya

ANSWER
1. B 3. D 5. A 7. B 9. A 11. D 13. C 15. D 17. B 19. D
2. B 4. A 6. B 8. B 10. B 12. B 14. B 16. C 18. C 20. A

PUSHYABHUTI/VARDHANA DYNASTY
a) Pushyabhutis were feudatories of Guptas, but had assumed independence after Hunas invasion.
b) PRABHAKAR VARDHANA was the founder of this dynasty. He had 3 children –
Rajyavardhana, Harshavardhana, Rajyashri.
c) RAJYASHRI had been married to GRAHAVARMAN (Maukhari ruler of Kaunauj), husband of Rajyashri was
murdered by DEVAGUPTA (Ruler of Malwa) & Rajyashri had been kept as prisoner.
d) On hearing this Rajya vardhana marched against him with his friend “SHASHANKA” (Ruler of Bengal).
e) But “SHASHANKA” was in secret alliance with DEVAGUPTA, so Shashanka killed Rajya Vardhana.
f) On hearing this “Harshavardhana” marched against “Devagupta” & killed Devagupta & Shashanka.

HARSHAVARDHAN: - (606 A.D-647A.D)


a) He was also known as Siladitya, ascended the throne in 606A.D & from this year, Harsha Era began.
b) He shifted his capital Thaneswar to Kannauj.
c) Hiuen Tsang visited the court of Harshavardhan.
d) In eastern India, he faced opposition from Shaivite king Shashanka of Gauda, who cut off the Bodhi tree of
Bodhgaya.
e) He was defeated by Pulakesin-II (Chalukyan king) on the bank of river Narmada.
f) Famous Buddhist assembly held in Nalanda University during his time.
g) He started “Solemn festival” at prayagraj in every 5years
h) “BANA BHATTA” was his court poet who wrote “Harsha Charita” the biography of “Harshavardhan”.

HARSHAVARDHAN QUESTION
1. Who among the following used to hold a religious (c) Bhaskarvarman (d) Pulkesin II
assembly at Prayag every five year? 5. Harsha was the last great royal patron of
(a) Ashoka (b) Harshvardhana (a) Jainism (b) Buddhism
(c) Kanishka (d) Chandragupta Vikramaditya (c) Shaivism (d) Bhagavatism
2. The Chinese traveller Hiuen Tsang, called the Prince 6. Who was the court poet of Harsha-vardhana?
of Pilgrims visited India during (a) Bhani (b) Ravi Kirti
the reign of (c) Bana (d) Vishnu Sharma
(a) Harsha (b) Chandragupta II 7. 'Prince of Pilgrims' was the name attributed to
(c) Dharampala (d) Devapala (a) Fa-Hien (b) I-tsing
3. Harshacharita the biography of Harsha, was written (c) Hiuen Tsang (d) Megasthenese
by 8. Emperor Harsha's southward march was stopped on
(a) Banabhatta (b) Sudraka the Narmada river by
(c) Sri Harsha (d) Gunadhva (a) Pulakesin-I (b) Pulakesin-Il
4. Harsha was defeated by (c) Vikramaditya-I (d) Vikramaditya-II
(a) Sasanka (b) King of Valabhi

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9. Who is the author of Kadambari, from among the (c) Kanishka (d) Chandragupta II
following? 11. After the decline of the Guptas, which of the
(a) Kalidas (b) Panini following cities of North India emerged
(c) Kautilya (d) Bana as the centre of political gravity of North India?
10. Banabhatta, a great scholar, lived during the reign (a) Ajmer (b) Kannauj
of (c) Dhara (d) Delhi
(a) Ashoka (b) Harsha

ANSWER
1. B 4. D 7. C 10. B
2. A 5. B 8. B 11. B
3. A 6. C 9. D

VEDIC AGE/PERIOD
The Vedic age is divided into 2 phases: -
a) Early Vedic b) Later Vedic

EARLY VEDIC LATER VEDIC


1) Only Rig veda 1) Rig veda, Sama veda, Yajur veda, Atharva veda
2) No Child marriage 2) Child marriage was prelevant
3) No religious, cast different 3) Religious, cast came into existence
4) No Gotra system 4) Gotra system came into existence
5) People were living in joint family 5) May be joint or may not be joint family
6) Main occupation was agriculture 6) Mixed cultivation was started
7) The position of women were head of villages 7) position of women were low
were known as Gramini or Gopati.
8) Life of person were divided in to 4 parts:- 8) Peoples were divided into 4 caste
a) Brahmacharya - Child go to study a) Brahmin
b) Gruhastya/ Married life b) Kshatriyas
c) Bana prasta- man go to forest but canbe return c) Vaisyas
d).Sanyasa- Living all desires & goes to forest d) Shudras
9) They had the knowledge of every metal except iron. 9) Iron came into existence
10) They Worship AGNI was the intermediate 10) Early Vedic god lost their importance. They worship
between people & God. (Brahma, Bhishnu & Maheswara)
11) No Poligami- marry more than one wife 11) Poligami was prelivent.

THE VEDIC LITERATURE


a) The word VEDA comes from the word VID means to know or knowledge
b) Vedic texts are divided between Sruti (based on Hearing) & Smriti (based on Memory)
c) Veda are divided into 4 parts
1) RIG VEDA:-
a) One of the oldest religious text in the world.
b) It consist of 1028 Hymns, 10 Mandalas & 17 Purana.
c) The 9 mandalas of RIG VEDA is dedicated to Soma Mandala.
d) The 3rd Mandala contains famous Gayatri mantra from this Veda.
e) Saraswati is the deity river in the Rig Veda.
2) SAMA VEDA:-
a) Sama Veda derives its roots from “Saman” which means “melodies”
b) It deals with Music & it contains Dhrupad raga.
3) YAJUR VEDA:-

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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
A) It deals with Medicine. & also deal with procedures for the performance of Sacrifices.
4) ATHARVA VEDA:-
a) It is a book of black Magical formula.
b) It contains Charms & Spells toward off evil & disease.

Questions
1. Which of the following Vedas deals with magic spells (c) 500 hymns (d) 2000 hymns
and witchcraft? 14. Which of the following Vedas is rendered
(a) Rigveda (b) Samaveda musically?
(c) Yajurveda (d) Atharvaveda (a) Rig Veda (b) Yajur Veda
2. The Vedic Aryans first settled in the region of (c) Sama Veda (d) Atharva Veda
(a) Central India (b) Gangetic Doab 15. The salient feature of the Rig Vedic religion was
(c) Saptasindhu (d) Kashmir and Punjab worship of
3. Which of the following contains the famous (a) Nature (b) Pasupatbi
Gayatrimantra? (c) Trimurti (d) Mother Goddess
(a) Rigveda (b) Samaveda 16. The 'Brahmanas' deals with
(c) Kathopanishad (d) AitareyaBrahmana (a) The Bhakti Theory (b) Yoga
4. The famous Gayatrimantra is addressed to (c) Ritualism (d) Meditation
(a) Indra (b) Varuna 17. Which of the following Gods lost his importance as
(c) Pashupati (d) Savita the first deity during the later Vedic period?
5. Two highest ,gods in the Vedic religion were (a) Varuna (b) Agni
(a) Agni and Savitri (b) Vishnu and Mitra (c) Vishnu (d) Rudra
(c) Indra and Varuna (d) Surya and Pushan 18. Which of the following was the God of Animal
6. Division of the Vedic society into four classes is during the later Vedic period?
clearly mentioned in the (a) Indra (b) Rudra
(a) Yajurveda (b) Purusa-sukta of Rigveda (c) Vishnu (d) Prajapatbi
(c) Upanishads (d) ShatapathaBrahmana 19. That the Rig Vedic Aryana were a pastoral people is
7. This Vedic God was 'a breaker of the forts' and also borne out by the fact that
a 'war god' (a) there are many references to the cow in the Rig Veda
(a) Indra (b) Yama (b) Most of the wars were fought for the sake of cows
(c) Marut (d) Varuna (c) Gifts made to priests were usually cows and not land
8. Which of the following Vedas was compiled first? (d) All of the above
(a) Rigveda (b) Samaveda 20. In the early Vedic-period, Varna system was based
(c) Yajurveda (d) Atharvaveda on
9. The Vedic economy was based on (a) Education (b) Birth
(a) trade and commerce (b) crafts and industries (c) Occupation (d) Talen
(c) agriculture and cattle rearing (d) all the above 21. The Upanishads are a series of books devoted to
10. The normal form of government during the Vedic (a) Yoga (b) Social law
period was (c) Religious rituals (d) Philosophy
(a) democracy (b) republics 22. In the Rigvedic period, after the king the next most
(c) oligarchy (d) monarchy Important functionary of the State was the
11. Two popular Assemblies of the Vedic period were (a) Senani (b) Revenue collector
(a) Sabha and Mahasabha (b) Mahasabha and Ganasabha (c) Magician-doctor (d) Purohita
(c) Sabha and Samiti (d) Ur and Kula 23. Which of the following are essentially books of
12. The word 'Veda' has been derived from the root rituals?
word 'Vid' which means (a) The Vedas (b) The Upanishads
(a) Divinity (b) Sacredness (c) The Aranyakas (d) The Brahmanas
(c) Doctrine (d) Knowledge 24. In which century did the first movement against
13. The Rig Veda consists of vedic ritualistic practices start?
(a) 1000 hymns (b) 1028 hymns (a) 19th century BC (b) 14th century BC

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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
(c) 5th century AD (d) 600 BC 33. In the Rigveda the term Dasas and Dasyus refers to
25. The Vedic deity Indra was the god of (a) robbers (b) tribals
(a) Fire (b) Rain and Thunder (c) non-Aryans (d) menials
(c) Eternity (d) Wind 34. The most important craftsman in the Vedic period
26. The Atharva Veda does not discuss the ideal of was the
(a) Karma (b) Jnana (a) blacksmith (b) goldsmith
(c) Upasana (d) Moksha (c) carpenter (d) barber
27. The Aryans did not practise the craftsmanship of 35. The ramous Vedic river which had long ago become
(a) Blacksmithry (b) Pottery extinct and now supposed to be flowing underground In
(c) Jewellery (d) Carpentry Rajasthan is
28. The term used to denote a group of families in the (a) Sindhu (b) Sabastu
vedic society was (c) Shatudri (d) Saraswati
(a) Vish (b) Jana 36. 'Ayurveda' has its origin in
(c) Grama (d) Gotra (a) Rig Veda (b) Sama Veda
29. The great Hindu law giver was (c) Yajur Veda (d) Atharva Veda
(a) Manu (b) Banabhatta 37. The philosophy propounded in the Upanishads is
(c) Kapil (d) Kautilya known as
30. The famous vedic saying "war begins in the minds (a) Advaita (b) Vedanta
of men ____ " is contained in the (c) Yoga (d) Samkhya
(a) Mundakopanishad (b) Mahabharata 38. Bhagavatiam refers to worship of
(c) Rig Veda (d) Atharva Veda (a) Vasudeva Krishna (b) Brahma
31. Which of the following rivers does not find frequent (c) Brahma-Vishnu-Shiva (d) Durga as Shakti
mention in Rigvedic Hymns? 39. Vaishnavism, a later development of Bhagavatism,
(a) Ganges (b) Sindhu advocates the worship of
(c) Brahmaputra (d) Saraswati (a) Vishnu (b) Ram and Krishna
32. Which of the following was common to both the (c) Vishnu and his incarnations (d) Vishnu and Lakshmi
Harappan society and the Rigvedic society? 40. Which of the following was the God of Animal
(a) Horse (b) Female deities during the later Vedic period?
(c) Urban centres (d) Iron implements (a) Indra (b) Rudra
(c) Vishnu (d) Prajapatbi

ANSWER
1. D 5. C 9. C 13. B 17. A 21. D 25. B 29. A 33. C 37. B
2. C 6. B 10. D 14. C 18. B 22. D 26. D 30. D 34. C 38. A
3. A 7. A 11. C 15. A 19. D 23. D 27. C 31. C 35. D 39. C
4. D 8. A 12. D 16. C 20. C 24. D 28. B 32. A 36. D 40. B

INDUS VALLY CIVILISATION (2500BC-1700BC)


a) Indus Vally Civilisation is belongs to bronze age.
b) In Modern days, IVC parts of sind, Baluchistan, Afghanistan, West Punjab, Gujarat, UP, Haryana, Rajasthan, J&K,
Punjab & Maharashtra.
c) “Indus Vally Civilisation” as it flourished along the Indus River.
d) “HARAPPAN CIVILISATION” named by “john Marshal” after the first discovered site, “HARAPPA”
e) “SARASWATI-SINDHU CIVILISATION” as most of the sites have been found at “Hakra-Ghaggar River”
f) “Harappa” was the first site to be discovered by “Dayaram sahani” in 1921.
g) “R.D Banerjee” discovered Mohenjodaro or “Mound of Dead” in 1922.
h) Ganverivala & Rakhigarhi sites was discovered by Rafeeq Mugal.
i) Dholavira on the bank of river luni in Gujrat excavated by R.S Bist & JP Joshi is the largest & latest excavated site in
India.
j) The most important feature of IVC was “Town planning”
k) Some other features of IVC was are:- Drainage system, bricks etc.
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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
l) The great Barth found at Mohenjo-Daro (UNESCO world heritage site)
m) The Granaries were found in Citadel at HARAPPA.
n)They were first to produce COTTON in the world, which Greeks called as “SINDON” derived from Sind.
o) They know use of all metals except IRON. Sugarcane was not known to Indus people.
p) They cultivated crops like wheat,barley, bajra, jowar etc. They domesticated buffaloes, oxens, sheep, goats, pigs, cat,
elephants etc.
q) Camel bones are reported at Kalibangan & remains of horse from Surkotada
r) Some important city during the IVC are given below:- Harappa (Pakistani Punjab), Mohenjo-Daro (Sind), Sutkagendor
(Baluchistan), Ropar (indian Punjab), Lothal (Gujrat), Kalibangan (Rajasthan), Dholavira (Gujarat).
s) CHANHUDARO town associated with Beads & bangles factory. It was the only city without a CITADEL.
t) PASHUPATI SEAL was found in MOHENJODARO.
u) Bronze image of nude woman dancer (identified as Devadasi) was found at Mohenjo-Daro.
v) Chief female deity: - Mother Goddess (Goddess of Earth)
w) Chief male deity: - Pashupati Mahadeva

QUESTIONS
1. The Great Bath of Indus Valley civilisation is found D. Siva and Sakti
at 9. Out of the following remains excavated in Indus
A. Harappa B. Mohenjo-Daro Valley, which one indicates the commercial and
C. Ropar D. Kalibangan economic development?
2. The Social System of the Harappans was A. The Pottery B. Seals
A. Fairly egalitarian B. Slave Labour based C. The boats D. The houses
C. Colour Varna based D. Caste based 10. The Harappas had commercial relations with
3. Which was the only Indus site with an artificial brick __________
dockyard? A. China B. Jawa
A. Lothal B. Kalibangan C. Mesopotamia D. Burma (Now, Myanmar)
C. Harappa D. Mohenjo Daro 11. The granary discovered at Harappa was located
4. Which statement on the Harappan Civilization is A. Within the citadel at Mohenjodaro
correct? B. In the "Lower town'
A. Horse sacrifice was known to them C. Near the river Ravi
B. Cow was sacred to them D. Beside the western gate of the city
C. Pashupati' was venerated by them 12. The Indus Valley Civilisation type was found in
D. The culture was generally static A. Sumer B. Egypt
5. The Harappans did not know the use of C. China D. All the three
A. Copper B. Bronze 13. The Indus Valley Civilization has been assigned the
C. Gold D. Iron period 2500-1800 BC on the basis of
6. There are similarities between the seals found at A. Mystical insight by modern seers
Mohenjo-Daro and __________ B. Markings on seals
A. Egypt B. China C. Radio carbon dating
C. Sumeria D. Afghanistan D. Travellers written accounts
7. What was the time period of Indus Civilization / 14. The most common animal figure found at all the
Harappan Civilization? Harappan sites is
A. 2400 BC - 1700 BC B. 2500 BC - 1700 BC A. unihorn bull B. cow
C. 2400 BC - 1750 BC D. 2500 BC - 1750 BC C. bull D. tiger
8. The organic relationship between the ancient culture 15. One of the following Indus Valley site is in Pakistan
of the Indus Valley and Hinduism of today is proved by A. Lothal B. Kalibangan
the worship of C. Alamgirpur D. Harappa
A. Pashupati, Indra and the Mother Goddess 16. The Harappan civilizations do not have
B. Stones, trees and animals homogeneity or uniformity in
C. Vishnu and Lakshmi A. Weights and measures B. Cereal crops

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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
C. Burial practices D. Both (B) and (C) A. Uttar Pradesh B. Sindh
17. The local name of Mohenjodaro is C. Rajasthan D. Gujarat
A. Mound of the living B. Mound of the tree 30. The utensils of the Indus Valley people were mainly
C. Mound of the dead D. Mound of the survivor made of
18. Which was the only city of the Indus without A. clay B. copper
fortification? C. bronze D. brass
A. Kalibangan B. Mohanjodaro 31. The people of the Indus Valley civilization
C. Harappa D. Chanhudaro worshipped __________
19. Which of the following was common to both the A. Vishnu B. Pashupati
Harappan society and the Rigvedic society? C. Indra D. Brahma
A. Horse B. Female deities 32. Mohenjo-Daro is situated in
C. Urban centres D. Iron implements A. Montgomery district B. Larkana district
20. Which among the following has not been found in C. Chandigarh area D. Gujarat
the excavation of Harappan sites? 33. Name the oldest civilization
A. Drains and well B. Fort A. Indus Valley civilization
C. Reservoirs D. Temple with Shikhar B. Mesopotamian civlization
21. Which was the biggest building in Mohanjodaro? C. Egyptian civilization
A. Great Bath B. Granary D. Chandragupta Vikramaditya
C. Huge Hall D. Two Story Building 34. The Indus Valley civilisation can be said to belong
22. Cereal(s) grown by the people of the Harappan to the
Civilisation was/were A. Paleolithic age B. Primitive age
A. Wheat B. Rice C. Neolithic age D. Bronze age
C. Millet D. All the above 35. Which was the only Indus city without a citadel?
23. Which of the following statements about the A. Kalibangan B. Harappa
Harappan people is incorrect? C. Mohenjodaro D. Chanhudaro
A. The Harappans were phallus worshippers 36. The script of the Indus Valley Civilization was
B. They worshipped gods in the form of human beings A. Dravidian B. Persian
C. They placed their gods in temples C. Sanskrit D. Undecipherable
D. They looked upon the earth as a fertility goddess 37. The archaeologist to initially discover the Mohenjo-
24. Harappan weapons were made of Daro site of the Indus Valley Civilization was
A. Stone B. Copper A. Sir John Marshall B. Daya Ram Sahni
C. Bronze D. All the above C. Sir Martimir Wheeler D. Rakhal Das Banerji
25. Which is the correct chronology of the excavation of 38. The striking feature of the Indus Valley Civilization
the site in the Indus civilization? was
I. Mohenjo-Daro II. Chanhudaro A. Urban Civilization B. Agrarian Civilization
III. Harappa IV. Lothal C. Mesolithic Civilization D. Paleolithic Civilization
A. III, I, II & IV B. I, III, II & IV 39. The essential feature of the Indus Valley Civilization
C. II, I, III & IV D. III, IV, II & I was
26. The date of the Harappan Civilisation (2300-1750 A. Worship of forces of nature B. Organised city life
BC) has been fixed on the basis of C. Pastoral farming D. Caste society
A. Pottery design B. Stratification 40. Most depicted animal of the Indus Valley
C. Aryan invasion D. Radio Carbon-14 dating Civilization was?
27. The first metal used by man was A. Elephant B. Lion
A. Aluminium B. Copper C. Bull D. Dog
C. Iron D. Silver 41. How were the streets of cities in Indus Valley
28. The Ruins of Harappa and Mohanjodaro were Civilization?
found on which of the following river bank? A. Wide and Straight B. Narrowand Unhygienic
A. Ravi B. Indus C. Slippery D. Narrow and Curved
C. Beas D. A and B both 42. Most of the large Harappan towns had for
29. Kalibangan is situated in fortifications which served the purpose of

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HISTORY OF ANCIENT INDIA
A. safety from robbers A. Natraj B. Dancing Girl
B. protection against cattle raiders C. Buddha D. Narasimha
C. protection against floods 49. Which is the script of Indus Valley Civilization?
D. All the above A. Tamil B. Kharshthi
43. Which of the following materials was mainly used in C. Unknown D. Brahmi
the manufacturing of Harappan seals? 50. Of the following scholars who was the first to
A. Terracotta B. Bronze discover the traces of the Harappan Civilisation?
C. Copper D. Iron A. Sir John Marshall B. RD Banerji
44. The town planning in the Harappan Civilisation was C. A Cunningham D. Daya Ram Sahani
inspired by a regard for 51. Who amongst the following is associated with the
A. beauty and utility study of the Harappan Civilization?
B. uniformity A. Charles Mason B. Cunningham
C. sanitation and public health C. M. Wheeler D. M.S. Vats
D. demographic factor 52. Which of the following scholars, who was the first to
45. The people of Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro culture discover the Harappan Civilization?
belonged to the A. Sir Johan Marshall B. R.D. Banerjee
A. New Stone Age B. Copper Age C. A. Cunningham D. Daya Ram Sahani
C. Iron Age D. Chalcolithic Age 53. Shatughai (Indus Valley Civilization site) is in which
46. The worship of Mother goddess was related country?
A. With the Aryan Civilization A. India B. Pakisthan
B. With the Mediterranean Civilization C. Afganisthan D. Tibet
C. With the Indus Valley Civilization 54. The Harappan Civilization was discovered in the
D. With the Vedic Civilization year
47. Which of the following animals was not known to A. 1935 B. 1942 C. 1921 D. 1922
the people of Indus Valley Civilisation? 55. The Indus Valley civilisation was discovered in the
A. Horse B. Cow year
C. Goat D. Elephant A. 1917 B. 1921 C. 1927 D. 1932
48. Whose statue was an important creation of the
people of Indus Valley Civilization?

ANSWER
1. B 7. D 13. C 19. A 25. A 31. B 37. D 43. A 49. C 55. B
2. A 8. A 14. A 20. D 26. D 32. B 38. A 44. C 50. D
3. A 9. B 15. D 21. B 27. B 33. B 39. B 45. D 51. D
4. C 10. C 16. C 22. D 28. D 34. D 40. C 46. C 52. C
5. D 11. C 17. C 23. C 29. C 35. D 41. A 47. A 53. C
6. C 12. D 18. D 24. D 30. A 36. D 42. D 48. B 54. C

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