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6 The Mahajanapadas

Q1. Consider the following statements: Q4. Which of the following statements is/
1. Gandhara emerged as a powerful are correct regarding the effects of
Kingdom in North-West India in the the Alexander invasion in the Indian
6th century B.C. by welding warring subcontinent?
communities into one organised 1. Direct contact was established
kingdom. between India and Greece.
2. The political unity of the North-West 2. Greek settlements in the North-
Frontier dissuaded the Achaemenid West, living prior to the invasion,
rulers in 6th century B.C. multiplied in number.
Which of the statements given above 3. Invasion paved the way for the
is/are not correct? expansion of the Mauryan empire.
(a) 1 only Select the correct answer using the
(b) 2 only code given below:
(c) Both 1 and 2 (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Q2. Consider the following statements Q5. Which of the following statements
regarding the Indo-Iranian cultural is/are correct regarding the Rural
contacts in the 6th century B.C.: economy during the Buddha era?
1. Indo-Iranian contacts brought the 1. One tenth of the produce as tax was
Kharosthi script into India. collected by the Landlords.
2. Ashokan inscriptions, Bell shaped 2. The Village land was divided into
capitals and Preamble to Ashoka cultivable plots.
edicts have Iranian influence. 3. Wheat became the staple cereal
Which of the statements given above during this period.
is/are correct? Select the correct answer using the
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only code given below:
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 2 and 3 only
Q3. With reference to the Alexander
invasion of the Indian subcontinent, Q6. With reference to the State
consider the following statements: administration during the Buddha era,
1. Alexander marched to India through consider the following statements:
the Khyber Pass in 326 B.C. 1. Koshala and Magadha emerged as
2. Both Ambhi, the Prince of Taxila, and the most powerful states of the
Poras gave stiff resistance to the time.
invasions of Alexander. 2. Like Vedic times, the recruitments
3. Alexander advanced as far as the of the Ministers or Mantrin were kin-
Jhelum river. based.
Which of the statements given above Which of the statements given above
is/are correct? is/are not correct?
(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 3 only (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) 2 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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Q7. During the Buddha era, the term 3. Increased production of the
‘Bhojaka’ was used in reference to: Foodgrains
(a) Land measurement system 4. Strengthened allegiance of the
(b) Specialised artisans People to the Jana
(c) Village headman Select the correct answer using the
(d) Marketplace code given below:
(a) 1, 3 and 4 only
Q8. With reference to the town (b) 2 and 4 only
established during the Budhha era, the (c) 1, 2 and 3 only
term ‘Vessas’ refers to: (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
(a) Public wells
(b) Merchant streets Q12. With reference to the rise of the
(c) Community centres Mahajanapadas, consider the following
(d) Religious places statements:
1. Most of the States grew in upper
Q9. Consider the following statements and mid-Gangetic plains.
regarding the Buddha era: 2. Panini makes frequent references
1. Coins made of metal appeared first about the sixteen Mahajanapadas.
during the Buddha era. Which of the statements given above
2. Coins were used to pay wages and is/are correct?
buy goods, and the use of money (a) 1 only
had become universal. (b) 2 only
Which of the statements given above (c) Both 1 and 2
is/are correct? (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Q13. In the context of ancient history
of India, which of the following
Q10. With reference to the society in 5th Mahajanpadas was/were the Republics
and 6th century BC India, consider the in their establishment?
following statements: 1. Kapilavastu
1. The circulation of coins and the 2. Kaushambi
development of trade and commerce 3. Vaishali
added to the importance of Shudras Select the correct answer using the
in society. code given below:
2. Brahmanas and Kshatriyas did (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 1 and 2 only
not extend their support to both (c) 2 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Mahavira and Gautam Buddha.
Which of the statements given above Q14. In the context of the sixteen
is/are not correct? Mahajanapadas, which of the following
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only statements is/are not correct?
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 1. The Kingdom of Anga and Kashi had
a mud fortification.
Q11. Which of the following factors 2. Magadha grew to be the leading
contributed to the rise of the Large state of the time, having its
States from the 6th century BC? capital at Pataliputra and later at
1. Increased use of the Iron Rajgir.
2. Development of new agricultural 3. Koshala included the territory of the
tools and implements Shakyas of Kapilvastu.

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Select the correct answer using the Q18. Which of the following Jain texts
code given below: mentions the sixteen Mahajanapadas
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only of 6th century BC?
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 (a) Tripitaka
(b) Digha Nikaya
Q15. Consider the following statements (c) Bhagwati Sutra
regarding the Mahajanapadas: (d) Deepa vansh
1. Gandhara and Avanti were the
western most kingdoms. Q19. Which of the following statements is/are
2. Kushinagar, where Budha passed correct regarding the Magadha empire?
away, was the republic of Koshala. 1. Ajatshatru fortified Rajgir against
3. The kingdom of Vatsas was along the strong rival Avanti.
the bank of the river Yamuna. 2. Udayin built a strategic fort near
Which of the statements given above the confluence of Ganga and Son at
are not correct? Patna.
(a) 1 and 2 only Select the correct answer using the
(b) 2 and 3 only code given below:
(c) 1 and 3 only (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Q16. With reference to the rise and growth Q20. With reference to the Magadha empire,
of the Magadha empire, consider the consider the following statements:
following statements: 1. The Shishunaga dynasty destroyed
1. Magadha came into prominence Avanti and shifted its capital to Vaishali.
under the leadership of Dhananand. 2. Nanda brought the image of Jina as
2. The policy of marriage alliances was a symbol of victory over Kalinga.
followed with Koshala and Vaishali. 3. Nandas maintained an effective
Which of the statements given above taxation system.
is/are correct? Which of the statements given above
(a) 1 only is/are correct?
(b) 2 only (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Q21. Which of the following is/are not correct
Q17. Consider the following statements regarding the cause of the success of
regarding the Magadha empire: the Magadha kingdom?
1. The most serious rival was Avanti 1. Magadha enjoyed an advantageous
with its capital at Ujjain. geographical position.
2. The earliest fortified capital of 2. Patliputra occupied a pivotal position
Magadha was Girivraja. in commanding communication.
3. Ajatashatru pursued an aggressive 3. Rajgir was a true Jaladurga.
policy of expansion which provoked Select the correct answer using the
Kashi and Koshala against him. code given below:
Which of the statements given above (a) 1 and 2 only
is/are correct? (b) 3 only
(a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3

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Q22. With reference to Magadha empire, Q26. With reference to the age of Buddha,
consider the following statements: consider the following statements:
1. Rise of towns, use of metal money 1. Place of Sabha and Samitis was
and levy of tolls contributed to the taken by Varna and Caste groups.
maintenance of the army. 2. Old assemblies were replaced by
2. Magadha used elephants on a large Parishad consisting of artisans,
scale in wars for the first time. peasants and traders.
3. The abundance of timber Which of the statements given above
contributed to the development of is/are correct?
boat manufacturing. (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
Which of the statements given above (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only Q27. With reference to the Republic States
(c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 during the age of Buddha, consider the
following statements:
Q23. In the context of the Magadha 1. The real power lay in the hand of
Empire, during whose reign Ratha­ Tribal oligarchies.
musala and Mahashilakantaka were 2. In some Republics, slaves and hired
invented? laborers were excluded from the
(a) Bimbisara (b) Ajatashatru Citizenship.
(c) Pradyot (d) Udayin Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
Q24. Which of the following statements (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
are correct regarding the Magadhan (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Society?
1. It was an orthodox society. Q28. In the context of Republicans and
2. Magadhan society underwent a Monarchical States during the age
happy ethnic admixture with the of Buddha, which of the following
coming of the Vedic people. statements is/are correct?
Select the correct answer using the 1. In Republics, each Raja was free to
code given below: maintain his own army.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only 2. The Brahmanas exercised great
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 influence in the Republics.
3. According to Digha Nikaya, the
Q25. In the context of State Structure concept of private property led to
during the age of Buddha, which of the origin of the State.
the following statements is/are not Select the correct answer using the
correct? code given below:
1. Use of horse chariots came into (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only
prominence. (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
2. The burden of tax was largely on the
Grihapatis. Q29. The term ‘Hina’, in the context of
3. The payment of taxes was made in social order during the age of Buddha,
cash only. refers to:
Select the correct answer using the (a) Punishment to the Shudras
code given below: (b) Despicable crafts and castes
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) Non-Vedic tribal village
(c) 2 only (d) 1 and 3 only (d) Legal code for the trial of low castes

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Q30. Consider the following statements Q33. Consider the following :

regarding the Mahajanapadas: 1. There are Six Mahanagaras mentioned
1. Before the birth of Buddha, whole in Buddhist sources of History
of North India was divided into 16 2. Rajagriha was the capital of Magadha
major states called Mahajanapadas. Mahajanapada
2. All the Mahajanpadas were ruled by Which of the above statements is/are
the Kings. correct?
Which of the statements given above (a) 1 only (b) 2 only
is/are correct? (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Q34. Which of these were the characteristics
of Gana-Sanghas, found in the
Q31. Consider the following assertion with Pre-Mauryan times?
the given reason: 1. The power was vested in an
Assertion: The term shali for trans­ aristocratic Council.
plantation is found in the Pali, Prakrit, and 2. They were more ready to tolerate
Sanskrit texts of the period, and it appears unorthodox views and more open
that large-scale paddy transplantation to individualistic or independent
began in the age of the Buddha. opinions than the kingdoms.
Reason: Budhha encouraged people to 3. Most of the ganas were located
practise better agriculture methods. in the fertile alluvial tracts of the
Select the correct answer using the Ganga valley.
codes below: Select the correct answer using the
(a) Both assertion and reason are codes below:
correct and the reason is the correct (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only
explanation of the assertion. (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
(b) Both assertion and reason are
correct, but the reason is not Q35. Consider the following assertion with
the correct explanation of the the given reason:
assertion. Assertion: Patliputra area was far more
(c) The assertion is correct but the productive and fertile than the areas
reason is not correct. to the west of Allahabad. Even without
(d) The assertion is not correct but the irrigation, the area was productive due
reason is correct. to high rainfall.
Reason: Pataliputra was situated at the
Q32. Consider the following statements confluence of the Ganga, the Gandak
with reference to the rise of Magadha: and the Son, and a fourth river called
1. Rulers such as Bimbisara, the Ghaghra.
Ajatashatru, and Mahapadma Nanda Select the correct answer using the
are associated with the Magadha. codes below:
2. The two capitals of Magadha, the (a) Both assertion and reason are
first at Rajgir and the second at correct and the reason is the correct
Pataliputra, were situated at very explanation of the assertion.
strategic points. (b) Both assertion and reason are
Select the correct answer using the correct, but the reason is not the
codes below: correct explanation of the assertion.
(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Assertion is correct but the reason
(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 is not correct.

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(d) Assertion is not correct but the (a) 1, 2 and 4 only

reason is correct. (b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only
Q36. Which of the following can be the (d) 1, 2 and 3 only
reasons for the rise of Magadha as the
most powerful Mahajanapada between Q37. The early Buddhist and Jaina texts
the sixth century and fourth centuries mention the Sixteen States known as
BCE? Mahajanapadas. Which of the following
1. It had very productive agriculture. States were among the Mahajanapadas?
2. Large import of iron for making tools 1. Vajji
due to strong trade relations with 2. Koshala
other States. 3. Kuru
3. Elephants, used in wars and Select the correct answer using the
battles, were found in forests in the code given below:
region. (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only
4. River Ganga provided a cheap and (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
convenient mode of transportation.
Select the correct answer using the
code given below:

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6 The Mahajanapadas: Explanations

Q1. Answer: (c) Iranian word Deepi, Ashoka used the word
Statement 1 is not correct: In Northeast script.
India, small princely states and republics
gradually merged into the Magadha Empire. Q3. Answer: (a)
North-West India, however, presented a Statement 1 is correct: Alexander conquered
different picture in the 6th century BCE. not only Asia Minor and Iraq but also Iran in
Several smaller princely states, such as the 4th century BC. From Iran he travelled
Kamboja, Gandhara and Madras, fought to India, fascinated by its great wealth.
among themselves. There is no powerful Herodotus and other Greek writers, known
state like Magadha in this region to unite the as the fathers of history, portrayed India as
struggling communities and turn them into a a wonderful land that inspired Alexander
single united state. As the area is fertile and to invade. Alexander had a deep love for
rich in natural resources, it has attracted the geography and natural history. After the
attention of its neighbours. conquest of Iran, Alexander sailed for Kabul,
Statement 2 is not correct: The Achaemenid from where he marched towards India in 326
rulers of Iran, who expanded their empire BC via the Khyber Pass.
in the same way as the Magadha princes, Statement 2 is not correct: The political
used the political split on the northwestern situation in northwestern India was
border. Darius, the ruler of Iran, entered favourable to Alexander’s plans. The region
northwestern India in 516 BC and occupied was divided into several independent
Punjab west of the Indus and Indus. The monarchies and tribal republics, which were
area was transformed into Iran’s twentieth strongly associated with the soil and had a
province, or Satrapi, with a total of twenty- strong devotion to the principality in which
eight satrap. The Indian Satrapa includes the they lived. Alexander easily conquered these
Indus, the northwestern border and the part monarchical states one by one.
of Punjab west of the Indus. It was the most After the conquest of Iran, Alexander sailed
fertile and populous part of the empire. for Kabul, from where he marched towards
India in 326 BC via the Khyber Pass. It took
Q2. Answer: (c) him five months to reach the Indus. Ambi,
Statement 1 is correct: The Indo-Iranian the ruler of Taksila, immediately submitted
introduction lasted for about 200 years. to the invader to augment Alexander’s army
It gave impetus to Indo-Iranian trade and and replenish his treasury. When he reached
commerce. Cultural developments are even Jhelum, he encountered the first and
more important. Iranian writers brought India strongest resistance of the Porous.
a type of writing known as the Kharoshthi Statement 3 is not correct: Although
script written from right to left. Alexander defeated Porus, he was impressed
Statement 2 is correct: The Iranian by the courage and bravery of the Indian
influence on Mauryan sculpture is clearly prince. So, he restored his kingdom to him
recognizable. Monuments from the time of and made him his friend. Then he advanced
Ashoka, especially the bell-shaped capitals, up to Beas river.
are somewhat indebted to Iranian designs.
Iranian influence can be traced to the preface Q4. Answer: (d)
to Ashoka’s inscriptions as well as some of Statement 1 is Correct: The most important
the words used in them. For example, for the result of Alexander’s invasion was the

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establishment of direct contact between Q6. Answer: (b)

India and Greece in various parts of the Statement 1 is correct: Although there are
world. Alexander’s campaign opened four examples of many kingdoms in the Buddhist
different avenues by land and sea, paved era, only Kosala and Magadha emerged as
the way for Greek merchants and artisans, powerful at the time. Both emerged into
and increased the facilities available for powerful and mature kingdoms by dynastic
trade. kings of the Kshatriya caste. The king held
Statement 2 is correct: The invasion the highest official position and special
multiplied Greek bases in the area, although protection for his person and property.
there were still some Greeks in the north- Statement 2 is not correct: Kings ruled with
west before Alexander’s invasion. The most the help of a large number of superior and
important of these is the city of Alexandria inferior authorities. Top officials are known as
in the Kabul region, Bucephala in Jhelum mahamatras who performed many functions
region and the city of Alexandria in Sindh. such as minister (ministers), commander
Although the whole area was occupied by the (Senanayak), judge, chief accountant and head
Mauryas, the Greeks continued to live under of the royal harem. A class of officers called
Chandragupta Maurya and Ashoka. Ayuktas may have also performed similar
Statement 3 is correct: By destroying functions in some States Appointments of
the power of the smaller kingdoms in high-ranking officials and ministers from
northwestern India, Alexander’s invasion the Brahmin clergy seem to have been high.
paved the way for the expansion of the It seems that they do not usually belong to
Mauryan Empire into the region. According to the royal family. This greatly weakened the
tradition, Chandragupta Maurya, the founder kinship politics of the Vedic period.
of the Mauryan Empire, saw the work of
Alexander’s military machine and gained Q7. Answer: (c)
some knowledge about what helped him to Option (c) is correct: We get information
destroy the Nanda power. about three kinds of villages from Pali texts
from the time of the Buddha:
Q5. Answer: (b) 1. The first category consists of specific
Statement 1 is not correct: In the time of villages inhabited by different castes and
the Buddha, farmers were required to pay communities; and these villages appear
one-sixth of the tax on their produce. Taxes to be the greatest in number and each of
were collected directly by royal agents these villages is headed by Bhojka.
and generally, no interim zamindar existed 2. The second consists of suburban villages
between the farmers and the state. which are in the nature of craft villages.
Statement 2 is correct: At this time, the 3. The third category includes border
village land was divided into cultivable plots villages, on the outskirts of rural areas
allotted to each family. Each family cultivates and mixed with surrounding forests.
its plots with farm labourers affiliated with
its members. Under the auspices of the Q8. Answer: (b)
village head, the peasant families collectively Option (b) is correct: Many cities were
blockaded the fields and dug irrigation government centres, but regardless of their
canals. origin, they eventually became markets and
Statement 3 is not correct: The main cereal inhabited by artists and merchants. During
produced in eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar the time of the Buddha, the city of Champa
during this period was rice (not wheat), as near Bhagalpur was known as Vaniyagama
described by different types of paddy and in the Prakrit scriptures which means the
paddy areas in Pali texts. base of traders. Both artisans and merchants

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formed guilds under their respective chiefs. Kshatriyas (who were against the Brahmanical
There are eighteen associations of artisans domination of power), the Vaishyas (for their
but only associations of blacksmiths, own cause) extended generous support to
carpenters, leather workers and painters are both Mahavira and Gautama Buddha.
mentioned. Both artists and merchants lived
in certain parts of the cities. Varanasi has Q11. Answer: (c)
Vesa or merchant streets and ivory worker Option (c) is correct: Increased use of iron
roads. Thus, specialisation was developed in during the 6th century BC in eastern Uttar
the craft on the strength and localization of Pradesh and western Bihar led to a series of
the guild system. new developments altogether. With the use
of new agricultural tools and implements,
Q9. Answer: (c) the area under agriculture substantially
Statement 1 is correct: In the Vedic scriptures, increased, which led to surplus production.
the words nishka and satmana are considered Military and administrative expenses backed
as the names of coins, but they appear to by surplus production led to the territorial
be prestigious objects made of metal. Coins expansion at the cost of neighbouring areas.
made of metal first appeared in the time All these material advantages created
of the Buddha. The first were mostly made conditions for the towns and large states
of silver, although there were also some to appear from 6th century BC. As a result,
copper coins. They are called punch-marked people owed strong allegiance to the
because they have some markings on silver Janapada or the territory to which they
and copper pieces such as hill, tree, fish, bull, belonged rather than to their Jana or Tribe.
elephant and crescent. During the Mauryan
and later periods, printed coins and die-cut Q12. Answer: (a)
coins of various metals were also used. Statement 1 is correct: Mahajanapadas,
Statement 2 is correct: Ancient deposits of or large states emerged during the time of
coins were found in eastern Uttar Pradesh Buddha. These states (Magadha, Koshala,
and Magadha, although some early coins Vatsa, Avanti), monarchies as well as republics,
were also found in Takshila. Pali texts refer arose in the doab area of the northern rivers
to the abundant use of money, and coins are like Ganges, Yamuna, and their tributaries
used to pay wages and to buy goods. The use i.e., the upper and mid-Gangetic plains.
of money has become so universal that even Statement 2 is not correct: As the
a dead rat is valued. development of agriculture led to the
formation of towns and states towards the
Q10. Answer: (c) end of Vedic age, settlements became bigger
Statement 1 is not correct: In the fifth century and bigger and a common feature around
BC, the coins were generally of the punch- 500 BC. There are forty janapadas mentioned
marked variety. For the first time, these coins by Panini while Pali text mentions sixteen
were circulated in Bihar and eastern Uttar of Mahajanapada (that is, Janapadas grew
Pradesh. The use of these coins facilitated into Mahajanapadas or large states). Out
trade and commerce, which later enhanced of these sixteen Mahajanapada, nine are
the importance of the Vaishyas (not Shudras) mentioned by Panini but as Janapadas (not
in society. as Mahajanapadas).
Statement 2 is not correct: In the Brahmanical
society, the Vaishyas were ranked third after Q13. Answer: (a)
the Brahmanas and Kshatriyas. Naturally, the Options (a) is correct: During the time
Vaishyas sought a religion that would improve of Gautam Buddha, sixteen great powers
their position in society. Along with the (Mahajanpadas) existed in the 7th and early

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6th centuries BC. Among them important which was one of the capitals of the Republic
Republics were the Sakyas of Kapilavastu of Mallas (not Koshala). Koshala was the
and the Licchavis of Vaishali. neighbouring state of Mallas.
Besides the Republics, there were Monarchical Statement 3 is correct: Vatsas kingdom,
States, among which the important ones were a kuru clan, was on the bank of Yamuna
Kaushambi (Vatsa), Magadha, Kosala and River having its capital (Kaushambi) at the
Avanti. These States were ruled by vigorous confluence of Ganga and Yamuna.
personalities who had embarked upon the
policies of aggrandisement and absorption Q16. Answer: (b)
of neighbouring states and expansion. Statement 1 is not correct: Bimbisara of
Haryanka dynasty, following the policy of
Q14. Answer: (b) conquest and aggression was responsible
Statement 1 is correct: At modern day for the Magadha to raise it into prominence.
Bhagalpur and Munger, there was the kingdom He captured and placed the kingdom of
of Anga (capital Champa). There are signs of Anga under his son Ajatashatru. His policy of
habitation and mud fortification dating back conquest continued till Ashoka’s Kalinga war.
to the 5th century BC. Magadha, a powerful Statement 2 is correct: Along with the policy
kingdom of the time, swallowed the Kingdom of conquest and aggression, Bimbisara also
of Anga. While the west situated kingdom, adopted the policy of marriage alliance
Kashi also shows the signs of mud fortification with the kingdom of Kosala and Vaishali by
like that of Anga. As the kingdom of Anga got marrying the sister of kosala king Prasenjit of
merged into Magadha, the Kingdom of Kashi Koshala and chellana, Lichchhavi princess of
succumbed to the Kingdom of Kosala. Vaishali. These marriage alliances helped him
Statement 2 is not correct: Having its raise a large sum of revenue through dowry
strategic location and bed of rich iron ore (kashi was given as dowry) and strategic
resources, Magadha emerged as the leading upper hand in dealing with enemy states
state of the time. The previous fortified which lent diplomatic prestige and ultimately
capital of Magadha was Rajgir (not Patliputra) expansion of the empire.
and later Patliputra.
Statement 3 is correct: The kingdom of Q17. Answer: (d)
Kosala, having its capital at Shravasti Statement 1 is correct: During the time,
(coterminous with Sahet–Mahet) was situated availability of iron ore played a significant role
in the eastern Uttar Pradesh. The famous city in determining the supremacy of a kingdom
Ayodhya was in the Kosala kingdom. Shakyas because weapons could be forged which
of Kapilavastu, a tribal republican territory could give an edge in the battle. Avanti was
was also included in the Kosala kingdom. the most serious rival of Magadha because
like Magadha, Avanti had iron mines not far
Q15. Answer: (a) away from its capital at Ujjain.
Statement 1 is not correct: Gandhara and Statement 2 is correct: Magadha had two
kamboja kingdoms were in North-west while capitals located at strategic locations. Earliest
Avanti was in Central Malwa region having capital was at Rajgir (also known as Girivraja),
its capital at Ujjain. Kamboja Kingdom finds fortified with stone walls and surrounded by
mention in Pali texts as Mahajanapda while hills which made it impregnable. Later the
Panini mentions kamboja as janapada. It capital of Magadha was Patliputra.
was well connected with Patliputra through Statement 3 is correct: Bimbisara was
Uttarapatha. ousted and had his throne seized by his
Statement 2 is not correct: Buddha passed son Ajatashatru. He continued the policy
away at Kusinara, coterminous with Kaisa, of aggressive expansion like his father and

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provoked Kashi and Koshala against him. In supremacy. It had a huge army, cavalry, and
war, he was able to compel the Koshala king elephants to its muscle. The deterrence of
to buy peace in exchange of his daughter and Magadha prevented Alexander from advancing
sole possession of Kashi. against Nanda. The maintenance of such a
huge army was made possible through an
Q18. Answer: (c) effective and elaborate taxation system in
The 16 Mahajanapadas of 6th century BC were place. After Nanda, the Maurya dynasty made
described in Buddhist text Anguttara Nikaya the empire reach its apex.
and Jain text Bhagwati Sutra. Though both
mention of 16 Mahajanpadas, the names in Q21. Answer: (b)
both differ from each other. Other texts such Statement 1 is correct: In the age of iron,
as Panini’s Ashtadhyayi , a book on Sanskrit easy availability of iron ore was the most
grammar is also an important source for 6th important factor for an empire to get an
century state and social life mentions about edge over its rivals. Rich iron deposits near
Janapadas. Another Buddhist text Digha Nikaya the Rajgir and Patliputra equipped Magadha
mentions only 12 Mahajanapadas instead of of the weapons into advantageous position.
16. It also gives a theory of the origin of state Statement 2 is correct: Considering the
similar to social contract theory. strategic location, the capital of Magadha was
shifted from Rajgir to Patliputra. As it was
Q19. Answer: (c) on the confluence of rivers from all sides, it
Statement 1 is correct: As Avanti, like provided the pivotal position in commanding
Magadha, had access to iron mines, it emerged a communication network from all sides and
as the most serious rival of Magadha. Avanti the army could move readily following the
had Vatsa of Kaushabi defeated and now it course of these rivers.
was a serious threat to Magadha. So, the Statement 3 is not correct: Given the river
fortification of Rajgir was done by Ajatashatru on sides (Ganges on north, Son on west and
to meet the possible threat. Punpun on south) of Patliputra, its location
Statement 2 is correct: Son of Ajatashatru, could be regarded as geographically strategic
Udayin is known to have built fort near the and could be termed as a true Jaladurga
confluence of the Ganges and Son at Patna (water fort). So , Rajgir cannot be regarded
because it was at the centre of Magadha as jaladurga.
kingdom, a strategic location.
Q22. Answer: (d)
Q20. Answer: (d) Statement 1 is correct: As referred to by Pali
Statement 1 is correct: Avanti, the most text during Buddha’s time, there were around
serious rival of Magadha was destroyed by the twenty towns situated in mid- Gangetic plains.
Shishunaga dynasty (succeeded by Udayin), The existence of these towns contributed
who shifted their capital to Vaishali. After economically to the Magadha and helped
this, Avanti remained part of the Magadha the trade and commerce grow faster. All this
empire till Maurya rule. led to use of mental money, levy of tolls on
Statement 2 is correct: Mahapadma Nanda commodities etc as in a growing economy
after conquering Kalinga, brought the image and ultimately provided for the maintenance
of Jina as a symbol of victory. Succeeding for the army.
Shishungas, Nanda extended the Magadha Statement 2 is correct: Though the use of
empire by capturing Kalinga and proved to horses and chariots was in prevalence,
be the most powerful rulers. Magadha reflected its superior military
Statement 3 is correct: Under Nandas, organisation skills and used elephants in
Magadha reached its new heights in warfare for the first time on a large scale. Now

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with the use of elephants they could storm the Buddha indicates a real increase in state
fortresses and could march through difficult power. During Alexander’s invasion, the ruler
terrain easily. According to Greek sources, of Magadha managed 20,000 cavalry, 200,000
Magadha maintained 6000 elephants. infantry, 2000 four - horse chariots, and about
Statement 3 is correct: Considering 6000 elephants. Horse-drawn carriages lost
the dense vegetation of the region and their importance not only in Northeast India
references by Megasthenes of wooden but also in the Northwest, where they were
walls and houses confirms the fact that introduced by the Vedic people.
availability of timber was in abundance. Statement 2 is correct: The large, long-
As there was availability of timber and serving army had to be fed from the state
existence of rivers in the area, it is natural treasury. Warriors and priests, i.e., Kshatriyas
that all this have led to the development of and Brahmins were exempted from paying
boat manufacturing. taxes, and the burden fell mainly on
farmers who were Vaishyas or householders
Q23. Answer: (b) (Grihapati).
During the reign of the Haryanka dynasty, the Statement 3 is not correct: The discovery of
area under the Magadha empire was enlarged several piles of punched-mark coins shows
by its most important king, Ajatashatru. that the payment was made in cash and in
He even waged war against Lichchhavis kind. In Northeast India, payment was made
(Vaishali), with whom he had maternal in paddy in addition to these taxes, peasants
relations. His reign is known for the invention were subjected to forced labour for royal
of Mahashilakantaka (a war engine to throw work. The Jatakas state that sometimes the
stones) and Rathamusala (a mase-attached peasants left the king’s country to escape
chariot to facilitate mass killing). By using the burden of tax oppression.
these new elements of warfare, he enlarged
the kingdom by adding Kashi and Vaishali Q26. Answer: (a)
into it. Statement 1 is correct: In the time of the
Buddha the regional kings abandoned the
Q24. Answer: (b) Sabha and Samiti. Prominent tribal assemblies
Statement 1 is not correct: Magadhan society almost disappeared after the Vedic period.
is not known for its orthodox character rather As the tribes split into races and lost their
unorthodox nature. identity into vernas hence they diminished
Statement 2 is correct: Magadha society had and disappeared. Their place was occupied
a special characteristic. It was a liberal society by racial and caste groups, so the authors of
having Kiratas and Magadhas i.e Aryans and the law-books give due importance to caste
non-Aryans living together. Though, orthodox laws and customs.
brahmins held non-Aryans in low esteem Statement 2 is not correct: The old assembly
but overall, it went through a happy ethnic could not accommodate the many non-Vedic
admixture with the coming of Vedic people. tribes living in the new states due to being
Emergence of Jainism and Buddhism during tribal. Therefore, the changed conditions
this period was instrumental in bringing were not conducive to the continuation
revolution in thought and philosophy and of the old meetings. In their place a small
ultimately making the character of the organisation called the Parishad, consisting
society as more liberal and open. exclusively of Brahmins, was formed.
There were conferences even during this
Q25. Answer: (d) period, but not so in the monarchies. They
Statement 1 is not correct: The formation developed in small republican states like
of a large professional army in the time of Shakya, Licchavi etc.

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Q27. Answer: (c) called king, and that is how kingship, or the
Statement 1 is correct: In the republics, State originated.
real power in the time of the Buddha was in
the hands of the tribal elites. In the Sakyas Q29. Answer: (b)
and Lichchavi republics, the ruling class Option (b) is correct: The Pali texts mention
belonged to the same clan and the same ten despicable crafts and castes, including
caste. Although 7707 kings were seated the Chandas. They are called ‘Hina’, which
in the assembly at Mote hal in the case of means poor, low and inferior. In contrast,
Vaishali Lichchaviras, there is no mention of Kshatriyas and Brahmins are called the Uttam
Brahmins in this context. or the best caste. The jurists propagated that
Statement 2 is correct: In the Malawian the Shudras were born from the feet of the
and Kshudrakas republics, Kshatriyas and Creator. Therefore, members of the upper
Brahmins were granted citizenship, while castes, especially the Brahmins, abandoned
slaves and mercenaries were excluded. the association of the Shudras. A Shudra
In the state on the Beas River in Punjab, could not be appointed to high positions
membership was limited to those who can and, most importantly, he was specifically
supply at least one elephant to the state and asked to serve a twice-born as slave, artisan
this is a feature of the Indus Valley’s oligarchy. and farm laborer.

Q28. Answer: (c) Q30. Answer: (a)

Statement 1 is correct: Republics differ from Statement 1 is correct: Buddhist literature,
monarchy in many ways. In monarchies, the Anguttara Nikaya, mentioned that before
king was said to be the only person who the birth of Gautam Buddha, whole North
received income from the peasants, but in India was divided into 16 major states.
the republics this claim was made by every They have been called Shodasha (sixteen)
tribal oligarch who was known as Raja. Mahajanpadas.
Each monarchy maintained its own regular Statement 2 is not correct: There are
standing army and did not allow any group or references of Oligarchies, commonly known
group of individuals to carry weapons within as Ganas or Sanghas. Instead of all power
its borders. However, in a tribal oligarchy, resting in one king (ekrat), power in these
each Raja was free to manage his army under Oligarchies was shared by a set of people
his senapati, allowing each to compete with called Rajas. Buddha and Mahavira also
the other. belonged to such Oligarchies (Ganas).
Statement 2 is not correct: The Brahmins had
a great influence on the monarchy, but they Q31. Answer: (c)
had no place in the republics, nor did they Option (c) is correct: The term shali for
recognize these states in their law books. transplantation is found in the Pali, Prakrit,
Statement 3 is correct: Digha Nikaya, one and Sanskrit texts of the period, and it appears
of the oldest Buddhist texts in Pali, states that large-scale paddy transplantation began
that humans lived happily in the early stages. in the age of the Buddha.
Gradually they owned private property and They also produced pulses, millets, barley,
began to settle with their wives, and this cotton, sugarcane. There is no connection
led to disputes between the property and with Budhha.
the women. The Chief was elected to put an
end to such struggles and maintain law and Q32. Answer: (c)
order and protect the people. In exchange Both statements are correct: Due to the
for security, the people assured the Chief of conquest and diplomacy policy of ambitious
a share of the paddy. The chief came to be rulers such as Bimbisara, Ajatashatru and

The Mahajanapadas: Explanations 75

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Mahapadma Nanda. They employed all means, Q34. Answer: (a)

fair and foul, at their disposal to enlarge their Option (a) is correct: The Gana-Sanghas were
kingdoms and to strengthen their states. an alternative polity to the kingdoms. Unlike
The rise of Magadha started with the accession kingdoms where they had a single hereditary
of Bimbisara to its throne. Bimbisara ruled monarch, they had a governing assembly
for nearly forty-nine years. Its capital was and within this assembly too, they had an
Rajagriha. oligarchy.
The foundation of the political supremacy of The chief office was not hereditary and was
Magadha was laid by Ajatasatru by defeating known as Ganapati or Ganaraja. The power was
the strong confederacy of Vriji. vested in an aristocratic Council (comprising
Strategic location:an advantageous heads of leading Kshatriya families) and the
geographical position in the age of iron authority structure of ganas had greater
because the richest iron deposits were elements of tribal organisation. They were
situated not far away from Rajgir. The two more ready to tolerate unorthodox views and
capitals of Magadha, the first at Rajgir and the more open to individualistic or independent
second at Pataliputra, were situated at very opinion than the kingdoms. Example: The
strategic points. Vajjian Confederacy of the sixth century BCE
Effective weapons: which were not easily was composed of different kinds of clans.
available to their rivals. All these clans ruled independently and had
Rajgir was surrounded by a group of five hills, their own independent points of view. But
and so it was rendered impregnable. when a decision had to be taken, it was done
through an assembly.
Q33. Answer: (c) Location: The Ganasanghas were located not
Statements 1 and 2 are correct: The six in the middle Ganga plains but were generally
Mahanagaras mentioned in Buddhist sources situated in the peripheral areas, such as the
were: foothills of the Himalayas, or further south,
Sravasti (the capital of Kosala in the or in the north-west, and sometimes in the
Buddhist period seems to have replaced the eastern part of the subcontinent. Most of the
Ayodhya of the Ramayana, possibly because ganas were located in or near the Himalayan
the latter was too far south and, therefore, foothills in eastern India.
not on the main route running closer to the
foothills; Q35. Answer: (a)
Saketa remains a major city on the route Option (a) is correct: Environmental factors
from Kosala to Kaushambi, thereby giving conducive to agriculture helped Magadha. The
Kosala the advantage of two major cities; alluvium, once cleared of jungles with the help
Rajagriha, the capital of Magadha, of new iron made agricultural tools, proved
commanding the fertile tract between the immensely fertile. Given the heavy rainfall,
Ganga and the eastern outcrops of the the area could be made productive even
plateau; without irrigation. The countryside produced
Champa, the capital of Anga (the Bhagalpur varieties of paddy, which are mentioned in
region of Bihar) and an active river port on the early Buddhist texts. This area was far
the Ganga controlling trade going east; more productive than the areas to the west
Kasi, the center of the kingdom of the same of Allahabad. This naturally enabled the
name and close to the confluence of the peasants to produce a considerable surplus,
Ganga and the Gomati; which could be mopped up by the rulers in
Kausambi, near the confluence of the Ganga the form of taxes.
and the Yamuna, with access to the route Pataliputra was situated at the confluence
southwards through the Vindhyas. of the Ganga, the Gandak and the Son, and

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a fourth river called the Ghaghra. Magadha y Elephants, an essential component of the
lay at the center of the middle Gangetic army, were found in forests in the region.
plain. Being surrounded by rivers on almost (Statement 3 is correct)
all sides, it was not easy to capture [true y Also, the Ganga and its tributaries
water fort- jaladurga]. Military organisation: provided a means of cheap and convenient
Magadha enjoyed a special advantage – communication. (Statement 4 is correct)
they accumulated wealth by levying tolls to
maintain the army. Q37. Answer: (d)
Option (d) is correct: The sixth century BCE
Q36. Answer: (c) is often a significant turning point in early
Between the sixth and the fourth centuries Indian history. It is an era associated with
BCE, Magadha (in present-day Bihar) became early States, cities, the growing use of iron,
the most powerful Mahajanapada. Modern the development of coinage, etc. It also
historians explain this development in a witnessed the growth of diverse systems of
variety of ways: thought, including Buddhism and Jainism.
y Magadha was a region where agriculture Early Buddhist and Jaina texts mention,
was incredibly productive. (Statement 1 amongst other things, sixteen states known
is correct) as Mahajanapadas. Although the lists vary,
y Besides, iron mines (in present-day some names such as Vajji, Magadha, Koshala,
Jharkhand) were accessible and provided Kuru, Panchala, Gandhara and Avanti occur
resources for tools and weapons. frequently. These were amongst the essential
(Statement 2 is not correct) Mahajanapadas.

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