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All questions of Kingdoms, Kings and an Early Republic for Class 6 Exam

Who worked as a farmers in the agriculture field
  • a)
    Dass, Landless people, Women
  • b)
    King, Purohit, Women
  • c)
    Dass, Shudras, Vaishyas
  • d)
    Dass, Brahmins, Kshatriyas
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Meera Singh answered
Dass, Landless and women were considered the lowest class jn the Varna system, who were to serve all the upper 3 classes and worked as Agriculturalists in the Later Vedic era.

Which of the following is not a Mahajanapadas
  • a)
    Magadha
  • b)
    Inamgaon
  • c)
    Avanti
  • d)
    Kamboj
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Amit Kumar answered
The Mahājanapadas were sixteen kingdoms or oligarchic republics that existed in ancient India from the sixth to fourth centuries BCE. Two of them were most probably ganatantras and others had forms of monarchy. Inamgaon wasn’t one of them.

Amatya means
  • a)
    Purohits
  • b)
    Kings
  • c)
    Ministers
  • d)
    Farmers
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Athira Mishra answered
Amatya means Ministers

Amatya refers to the term used for ministers in ancient Indian society. This term is primarily associated with the Maurya Empire, which was one of the largest and most powerful empires in ancient India. The Maurya Empire was established by Chandragupta Maurya in the 4th century BCE and reached its peak under the reign of Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.

Roles and Responsibilities of Amatyas (Ministers)

1. Advising the King: The primary role of Amatyas was to advise the king on matters of governance and administration. They provided counsel and guidance to the king on various issues related to the state.

2. Administrative Functions: Amatyas were responsible for the smooth functioning of the administration. They oversaw the day-to-day operations of the kingdom, including the collection of taxes, maintaining law and order, and ensuring the welfare of the people.

3. Policy Formulation: Amatyas played a crucial role in formulating policies and making important decisions for the state. They were involved in discussions and deliberations on matters of public interest and helped in shaping the overall direction of the kingdom.

4. Diplomatic Affairs: Amatyas also represented the king in diplomatic affairs. They interacted with foreign envoys, negotiated treaties, and maintained diplomatic relations with other kingdoms and empires.

5. Judicial Functions: In addition to their administrative roles, Amatyas also had judicial responsibilities. They participated in the administration of justice, resolving disputes, and ensuring the fair and impartial dispensation of justice.

Importance of Amatyas in Ancient Indian Society

Amatyas held a position of great importance in ancient Indian society and played a crucial role in the governance and administration of the kingdom. They were trusted advisors to the king and were responsible for ensuring the well-being of the state and its people. Their administrative skills, policy expertise, and diplomatic acumen were essential for the smooth functioning of the kingdom.

Conclusion

In ancient India, Amatya referred to ministers who held significant responsibilities in the governance and administration of the state. They played a crucial role in advising the king, formulating policies, maintaining law and order, and representing the kingdom in diplomatic affairs. Amatyas were an integral part of the administration and were responsible for the overall well-being of the state and its people.

Which of the following is not among the four varnas
  • a)
    Shakti
  • b)
    Brahmin
  • c)
    Vaishyas
  • d)
    Kshatriyas
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

The Varna system in Dharma-shastras divides society into four varnas (Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishya and Shudras). Those who fall out of this system because of their grievous sins are ostracised as outcastes (untouchables) and considered outside the varna system.

Magadha and ___ are examples of monarchical mahajanapadas
  • a)
    Shakyas
  • b)
    Lichchhavis
  • c)
    Vajji
  • d)
    Vatsa
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Amit Sharma answered
In the post-Vedic period, the entire northern territory mostly situated north of the Vindhyas and extending from the North-West frontier to Bihar was divided into sixteen states called Sodasha Mahajanapadas. These Mahajanapadas were either monarchical or republican in character. Examples of monarchical mahajanapadas are; Magadha: Between Anga and Vatsa there lay the kingdom of Magadha, corresponding to modern Patna and Gaya districts, bounded on the north and west by the rivers Ganga and Son, on the south by the Vindhya outcrop and on the east by the river Champa.
Vatsa: The Vatsa country had a monarchical form of government. Its capital was Kausambi (identified with the village of Kosam, 38 miles from Allahabad. Kausambi, a very prosperous city was the most important entre pot of goods and passengers from the south and the west.

____ means unquestioned control over an area in which the royal horse move uninterrupted
  • a)
    Shermedha
  • b)
    Ashvamedha
  • c)
    Singhmedha
  • d)
    Shatriyas
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Jatin Desai answered
Ashvamedha - Unquestioned Control over an Area for Royal Horses

The Ashvamedha was an ancient Hindu ritual performed by kings to demonstrate their power and authority over a particular region. It involved the release of a horse, which was left to roam freely for a year, during which time any neighbouring kingdom could challenge the king's supremacy by attempting to capture the horse. If no one was able to capture the horse, it was brought back to the king's capital, where it was ritually sacrificed, and the king's power was affirmed.

Meaning of Ashvamedha

The word Ashvamedha is derived from two Sanskrit words: Ashva, meaning horse, and Medha, meaning sacrifice. The ritual was considered a powerful demonstration of a king's military strength and political authority, and it was often performed as a part of a larger campaign to expand a kingdom's territory and power.

Significance of Ashvamedha

The Ashvamedha was considered one of the most powerful and significant rituals in ancient India. It was believed to confer great blessings on the king who performed it, including the power to control the entire region in which the horse roamed. The ritual was also seen as a way to assert a king's dominance over his rivals and to demonstrate his military and political prowess.

The Ritual Process

The Ashvamedha was a complex and elaborate ritual that required significant resources and preparation. The king would begin by selecting a white horse, which was considered the most auspicious, and having it ritually purified and decorated. The horse was then released to roam freely for a year, during which time the king's army would follow it and protect it from any challengers.

If the horse was not captured during that time, it was brought back to the king's capital, where it was ritually sacrificed. The king would then perform a series of elaborate ceremonies to affirm his power and authority, including a procession through the city, the recitation of sacred hymns, and the distribution of gifts to his subjects.

In conclusion, Ashvamedha was an ancient Hindu ritual performed by kings to demonstrate their power and authority over a particular region. It involved the release of a horse, which was left to roam freely for a year, during which time any neighbouring kingdom could challenge the king's supremacy by attempting to capture the horse. If no one was able to capture the horse, it was brought back to the king's capital, where it was ritually sacrificed, and the king's power was affirmed.

Which of the following was a key feature of the Vajji gana or sangha?
  • a)
    A single ruler with absolute power
  • b)
    Frequent public assemblies
  • c)
    A strong military presence
  • d)
    High taxation rates
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Shalini Desai answered
Vajji Gana: An Overview
The Vajji gana, also known as the Vajji sangha, was a prominent political and social organization in ancient India, particularly during the time of the Mahajanapadas. It is often noted for its unique governance system.
Key Feature: Frequent Public Assemblies
- The Vajji gana was characterized by its democratic structure, where decision-making was carried out through public assemblies.
- These assemblies, known as the "Mahasabha," allowed all members of the gana to participate actively in discussions and decisions, ensuring a collective approach to governance.
- The practice of frequent public assemblies fostered a sense of community and accountability, making it distinct from other political entities ruled by a single authority.
Contrast with Other Options
- A single ruler with absolute power: This option does not apply to the Vajji gana, as it lacked a centralized authority and was organized as a collective.
- A strong military presence: While the Vajji gana had defense mechanisms, it was not primarily defined by military strength but rather by its governance style.
- High taxation rates: The economic policies of the Vajji gana were relatively flexible compared to the heavy taxation seen in monarchies, focusing more on communal well-being.
Conclusion
The key feature of the Vajji gana was its emphasis on frequent public assemblies, which facilitated participatory governance and distinguished it from more autocratic systems of the time. This unique approach played a crucial role in the social and political dynamics of ancient India.

____ and its tributaries flows through the kingdom of Magadha
  • a)
    Indus
  • b)
    Yamuna
  • c)
    Tapi
  • d)
    Ganga
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Kabir Verma answered
D is the correct option. We know that the Magadha kingdom was located in North East region of India (not in the region of 7 sister states but the area of bihar). History says that it covered most of the parts from Bihar and orissa. Since river ganga flows In that region, we can conclude that Magadha empire was in the area of tributaries of Ganga.

Who can not participate in horse sacrifice
  • a)
    Shudras
  • b)
    Vaishya
  • c)
    Kshatriyas
  • d)
    Brahmins
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Kabir Verma answered
Manual workers who served the first three classes and mainly did physical labour were called the shudras. They were not allowed to take part in any religious events like the horse sacrifice, etc.

A group of merchants following the same trade known as
  • a)
    Bhag
  • b)
    Group
  • c)
    Shreni
  • d)
    System
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Prateek Kumar answered
Explanation:



A group of merchants following the same trade is known as a Shreni.

Shreni is a Sanskrit word which means a group of people following the same occupation or profession.

It was a common feature in ancient India, where people of the same profession would come together to form a guild or association to regulate their trade and protect their interests.

These guilds were responsible for setting quality standards, fixing prices, and resolving disputes among members.

Shrenis were prevalent in various fields such as agriculture, trade, and crafts. Individuals belonging to the same shreni were considered to be like-minded individuals and shared common goals and aspirations.

Shrenis were also instrumental in the development of the Indian economy. They played a significant role in trade and commerce, and their activities helped to create a stable economic environment that benefited both merchants and consumers.

Shrenis were also responsible for promoting innovation and creativity in their respective fields. Members of the shreni would share their knowledge and expertise, and this led to the development of new techniques and methods that helped to improve the quality of products and services.

Overall, shrenis played an essential role in the social, economic, and cultural life of ancient India. They were an integral part of the Indian society and contributed significantly to its growth and development.

Classification of society into four groups on the basis of their occupation is called
  • a)
    Vajja
  • b)
    Vista
  • c)
    Varna
  • d)
    Vedas
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Sagar Pillai answered
Classification of Society into Four Groups Based on Occupation

Classification of society into four groups based on their occupation is called Varna. This term is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Vri’ which means ‘to choose’ or ‘to select’. The four varnas were designed to create a balanced and harmonious society where each individual could contribute to the overall well-being of the community.

The Four Varnas

The four varnas are Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras.

1. Brahmins: The Brahmins were the priests and scholars who were responsible for the spiritual and intellectual guidance of the society. They were expected to be well-versed in the Vedas and other religious texts.

2. Kshatriyas: The Kshatriyas were the warriors and rulers who were responsible for protecting the society and maintaining law and order. They were expected to be brave, just, and honorable.

3. Vaishyas: The Vaishyas were the farmers, traders, and merchants who were responsible for the economic well-being of the society. They were expected to be hardworking, honest, and enterprising.

4. Shudras: The Shudras were the laborers and artisans who were responsible for the manual work in the society. They were expected to be skilled and dedicated workers.

The Caste System

Over time, the varna system became rigid and turned into a caste system. The caste system was based on birth and was hierarchical in nature. The caste system was used to discriminate against certain groups of people who were considered lower in the hierarchy.

Conclusion

The varna system was designed to create a balanced and harmonious society where each individual could contribute to the overall well-being of the community. However, over time, it turned into a rigid and discriminatory caste system. Despite its flaws, the varna system is still relevant today as it reminds us of the importance of each individual’s contribution to the society.

____ began to be used on a much larger scale
  • a)
    Iron
  • b)
    Bricks
  • c)
    Stone
  • d)
    Copper
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Chhota Nagpur plateau is a store house of mineral resources such as mica, bauxite, copper, limestone, iron ore and coal. The Damodar valley is rich in coal and it is considered as the prime centre of coking coal in the country.

Champa was the capital of
  • a)
    Kuru
  • b)
    Magadha
  • c)
    Anga
  • d)
    Malla
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Gayatri Chavan answered
Anga was an ancient Indian kingdom that flourished on the eastern Indian subcontinent and one of the sixteen mahajanapadas ("large state"). It lay to the east of its neighbour and rival, Magadha, and was separated from it by the river Champa. The capital of Anga was located on the bank of this river and was also named Champa. It was prominent for its wealth and commerce. Anga was annexed by Magadha in the 6th century BCE.

Who was gramini
  • a)
    The old man of a village
  • b)
    The headman of a village
  • c)
    The head farmer of a village
  • d)
    The small man of a village
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Garima Tiwari answered
Who was Gramini?

Gramini was the headman of a village. He was responsible for maintaining law and order in the village and resolving disputes among the villagers.

Roles and Responsibilities of Gramini:

The Gramini held a significant position in the village and performed several roles and responsibilities. Some of them are:

1. Maintaining Law and Order: The Gramini was responsible for maintaining law and order in the village. He ensured that the villagers followed the rules and regulations set by the government.

2. Resolving Disputes: The Gramini acted as a mediator and resolved disputes among the villagers. He listened to both sides of the story and made a fair decision.

3. Collecting Taxes: The Gramini collected taxes from the villagers and used the funds for the development of the village.

4. Implementing Government Schemes: The Gramini implemented government schemes in the village and ensured that the benefits reached the deserving people.

5. Conducting Elections: The Gramini conducted elections in the village and ensured that the process was fair and transparent.

Importance of Gramini:

The Gramini held a crucial position in the village and played a significant role in maintaining law and order. He acted as a bridge between the villagers and the government and ensured that the welfare schemes reached the deserving people. The Gramini was also responsible for maintaining the cultural and social values of the village.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the Gramini was the headman of a village and performed several roles and responsibilities. He played a crucial role in maintaining law and order in the village and resolving disputes among the villagers. The Gramini held a significant position in the village and ensured that the welfare schemes reached the deserving people.

Chota Nagpur Plateau has been rich in
  • a)
    Iron-ore and Coal-ore
  • b)
    tin-ore
  • c)
    Gold-ore
  • d)
    None of these
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

This region has vast reserves of coal & iron ore. iron ore is cheaply available thus , raw materials for iron & steel industries are available eaisly.

Patliputra is present day
  • a)
    Jaipur
  • b)
    Chandigarh
  • c)
    Kanpur
  • d)
    Patna
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Amit Sharma answered
Patliputra is present day Patna. It was a city in ancient India, originally built by Magadha ruler Udayin in 490 BCE as a small fort (Pāṭaligrāma) near the Ganges river.

The small tribes of the earlier period that gave way to large kingdoms were called
  • a)
    Mahajanapadas
  • b)
    Janapadas
  • c)
    Monarchies
  • d)
    Republics
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

This freed up more land for agriculture and eventually the smaller, fragmented tribes made way for larger and coherent kingdomsknown as Janapadas.

Which historical figure is known for reaching the Indian subcontinent from Macedonia?
  • a)
    Chandragupta Maurya
  • b)
    Alexander
  • c)
    Ashoka
  • d)
    Bimbisara
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

EduRev Class 6 answered
Alexander the Great, also known as Alexander of Macedonia, reached the Indian subcontinent but did not conquer it. His campaign extended up to the Beas River, and his army was deterred from advancing further east due to the formidable military presence in India.

Champa was a great port in
  • a)
    Anga
  • b)
    Magadha
  • c)
    Kuru
  • d)
    Malla
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Neha Joshi answered
The correct option is A.
Anga was an ancient Indian kingdom that flourished on the eastern Indian subcontinent and one of the sixteen mahajanapadas. It lay to the east of its neighbour and rival, Magadha, and was separated from it by the river Champa in the modern day Bhagalpur and Munger in the state of Bihar. The capital of Anga was located on the bank of this river and was also named Champa and Malini. It was prominent for its wealth and commerce.

What was the primary purpose of the ashvamedha sacrifice in ancient times?
  • a)
    To increase the kingdom's wealth
  • b)
    To test the loyalty of other kings
  • c)
    To celebrate the harvest
  • d)
    To choose new rulers
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Tanishq Rane answered
Primary Purpose of Ashvamedha Sacrifice in Ancient Times
The primary purpose of the Ashvamedha sacrifice in ancient times was to test the loyalty of other kings.

Significance of the Ashvamedha Sacrifice
- The Ashvamedha sacrifice was a ritualistic practice conducted by ancient Indian kings to assert their supremacy and establish their authority over other kingdoms.
- It was believed that by performing the Ashvamedha sacrifice, the king could demonstrate his power and dominance, thereby ensuring the loyalty and submission of neighboring rulers.

Process of the Ashvamedha Sacrifice
- The Ashvamedha sacrifice involved the ceremonial release of a horse into the territory of neighboring kingdoms.
- The horse was allowed to roam freely for a specified period, during which time the king's army would follow it to ensure its safety.
- If the horse was captured by another kingdom, it was seen as a challenge to the king's authority, leading to potential conflicts and battles.

Outcome of the Ashvamedha Sacrifice
- The successful completion of the Ashvamedha sacrifice was seen as a symbol of the king's power and influence.
- It helped in solidifying the king's position as a supreme ruler and establishing his dominance over other kingdoms.
- The Ashvamedha sacrifice was not only a religious ritual but also a political strategy used to maintain control and authority in ancient times.

What was a major agricultural change during the time of the mahajanapadas?
  • a)
    Introduction of rice farming
  • b)
    Use of iron ploughshares
  • c)
    Development of new irrigation systems
  • d)
    Expansion of crop varieties
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Kds Coaching answered
One significant agricultural change was the use of iron ploughshares. These tools allowed farmers to turn heavy clayey soil more effectively than wooden ploughshares, leading to increased grain production.

Which social category was expected to be farmers, herders, and traders?
  • a)
    Brahmins
  • b)
    Kshatriyas
  • c)
    Vaishyas
  • d)
    Shudras
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Prasad Basu answered
Understanding the Social Categories in Ancient India
In ancient Indian society, the social structure was divided into four main categories known as the Varnas. Each category had specific roles and responsibilities. The category referred to in the question is the Vaishyas.
Role of Vaishyas
- The Vaishyas were primarily associated with agriculture, trade, and livestock.
- This group played a crucial role in the economy of ancient India by engaging in farming, herding, and the trading of goods.
Characteristics of Vaishyas
- Farmers: They cultivated land, grew crops, and ensured food supply for the population.
- Herders: They managed livestock, which was vital for agricultural productivity and trade.
- Traders: They facilitated commerce by buying and selling goods, both locally and over long distances.
Comparison with Other Categories
- Brahmins: This category comprised priests and scholars responsible for religious rituals and teaching.
- Kshatriyas: They were warriors and rulers, tasked with protecting the land and maintaining order.
- Shudras: This group typically consisted of laborers and service providers, performing tasks for the other three Varnas.
Conclusion
The Vaishyas were integral to the economic framework of ancient Indian society, engaging in vital activities that supported community sustenance and development. Their roles as farmers, herders, and traders positioned them as key contributors to both the agrarian and commercial aspects of life. Thus, option 'C' is indeed the correct answer, highlighting the importance of Vaishyas in the social hierarchy.

What was one reason why mahajanapadas built fortified capital cities?
  • a)
    To host large festivals
  • b)
    To control the population
  • c)
    To protect against attacks
  • d)
    To increase trade
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Dr Manju Sen answered
Mahajanapadas built fortified capital cities primarily for protection against attacks from other kings. The massive walls made of wood, brick, or stone helped defend the cities and showcase the rulers' power and wealth.

Spices and precious stones came to Magadha from
  • a)
    Texila
  • b)
    Ujjayini
  • c)
    South India
  • d)
    Punjab
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

C is the correct option.Magadha was an ancient Indian kingdom in southern Bihar, and was counted as one of the sixteen Mahajanapadas, 'Great Countries' of ancient India. From south India, the Traders brought spices and precious Stones to Magadh.

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