All questions of Class 6 History for UPSC CSE Exam

Correct answer is D only .Today, As we use dominant number 10 for weights & measures i.e 50kg, 100, 200 . At the time of indus valley civilization they used dominant number 16 . Weights & measures were done in the multiple of 16 i.e 32, 64 etc.

Pandyas★.It is the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu and the administrative headquarters of Madurai District, the third largest city in Tamil Nadu and 44th most populated city in India.

Dog

Roman gold coins have been found in South India. The presence of Roman gold coins in South India indicates a historical connection between the Roman Empire and the Indian subcontinent. The discovery of these coins provides valuable insights into ancient trade routes and cultural exchanges.

Historical Context:
During the ancient period, India was a major center for trade and commerce. It had extensive trade links with various regions, including the Roman Empire. The Roman Empire, at its height, stretched from Europe to North Africa and the Middle East. It was a hub of economic activity and a major player in the global trade network.

Trade between the Roman Empire and India:
Trade between the Roman Empire and India was mainly facilitated through the maritime route. Roman merchants sailed across the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea to reach the western coast of India. They traded a variety of goods such as spices, silk, precious stones, and textiles with Indian merchants.

Importance of Gold Coins:
Gold coins were widely used as a medium of exchange during ancient times. They were valuable commodities and a symbol of wealth and power. The discovery of Roman gold coins in South India suggests that trade between the Roman Empire and India was not limited to goods alone but also involved the exchange of currency.

Possible Reasons for the Presence of Roman Gold Coins in South India:
1. Trade: The presence of Roman gold coins in South India indicates that there was a significant volume of trade between the Roman Empire and the Indian subcontinent. These coins might have been used by Roman merchants to conduct transactions with Indian traders.

2. Cultural Exchanges: The presence of Roman gold coins also points towards cultural exchanges between the two regions. It suggests that there might have been interactions between the Roman and Indian societies, leading to the circulation of Roman currency in South India.

3. Pilgrimage: Another possible reason for the presence of Roman gold coins in South India could be the influx of Roman pilgrims. South India is known for its rich religious heritage, and it attracted pilgrims from various parts of the world. Roman pilgrims visiting South India might have brought along their currency, thus contributing to the circulation of Roman gold coins in the region.

Conclusion:
The discovery of Roman gold coins in South India highlights the historical and economic ties between the Roman Empire and the Indian subcontinent. It provides evidence of ancient trade routes and cultural exchanges. Further research and archaeological excavations in the region may reveal more about the extent and nature of this ancient connection.

The sun may appear to be largest star in sky but that's just because it's the closest. on a stellar scale, it's really quite average -about half of the known stars are larger, half are smaller.

Kushanas
The Kushanas were among the earliest rulers who issued gold coins. They ruled over a vast empire in Central Asia and Northern India from the 1st to the 4th century AD. The Kushanas were known for their promotion of trade and commerce, as well as their adoption of Hellenistic culture.

Importance of Gold Coins
The Kushanas issued gold coins to facilitate trade and to establish their authority over their vast empire. These gold coins were not only a symbol of wealth and power but also served as a medium of exchange in their commercial transactions. The Kushanas were able to establish themselves as a dominant force in the region through the circulation of these gold coins.

Design and Inscriptions
The gold coins issued by the Kushanas were typically round in shape and featured various designs such as images of rulers, deities, and animals. Inscriptions on these coins were in Greek, Kharoshthi, and Brahmi scripts, reflecting the diverse cultural influences of the Kushana empire.

Legacy
The issuance of gold coins by the Kushanas set a precedent for future rulers in India, such as the Gupta and Mughal empires, who also issued their own gold coins. The Kushana gold coins are not only valuable artifacts for historians and numismatists but also serve as a reminder of the economic and cultural achievements of this ancient civilization.

B

**Explanation:**

The wife of Rama was Sita. She is one of the central characters in the Hindu epic Ramayana. Here is a detailed explanation of why the correct answer is option 'C':

**1. Ramayana:**
Ramayana is an ancient Hindu epic that narrates the story of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his adventures. It is attributed to the sage Valmiki and is considered one of the two major Sanskrit epics of ancient Indian literature.

**2. Rama and Sita's Marriage:**
According to the Ramayana, Rama is the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu, and Sita is the incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi. Rama and Sita's marriage is an important event in the epic. Rama's father, King Dasharatha, organized a Swayamvar (a ceremony where a princess chooses her husband) for Sita, and Rama won her hand by breaking the divine bow of Lord Shiva.

**3. Sita's Character:**
Sita is portrayed as an ideal wife and devoted to Rama. She accompanies Rama during his exile to the forest and stands by his side through various trials and tribulations. Sita's abduction by the demon king Ravana and Rama's subsequent efforts to rescue her form the major plot points of the Ramayana.

**4. Sita's Abduction and Rescue:**
Ravana, the antagonist of the Ramayana, kidnaps Sita and takes her to Lanka, his kingdom. Rama, aided by his loyal devotee Hanuman and an army of monkeys, embarks on a journey to rescue Sita. Eventually, Rama defeats Ravana in a fierce battle and rescues Sita.

**5. Agni Pariksha (Trial by Fire):**
After Sita's rescue, doubts are raised about her chastity during her captivity. To prove her purity, Sita undergoes the Agni Pariksha, a trial by fire. She emerges unscathed, thus vindicating her loyalty and purity.

**6. Sita's Return to Ayodhya:**
After the rescue and the successful completion of their exile, Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana return to Ayodhya, where Rama is crowned as the king. However, due to societal rumors questioning Sita's purity, Rama reluctantly sends her into exile again.

**7. Sita's Fate:**
Sita seeks refuge in the hermitage of sage Valmiki, where she gives birth to her twin sons, Luv and Kush. In due course, Rama learns the truth about Sita's purity and calls for her return. However, Sita, feeling betrayed, chooses to return to the earth and asks Mother Earth to take her back. She disappears into the earth, leaving Rama grief-stricken.

In conclusion, Sita is the wife of Rama according to the Hindu epic Ramayana.

Option B is correct answer.

Background:
Aryabhata was a prominent Indian mathematician and astronomer who lived during the 5th century. He made significant contributions to the fields of mathematics and astronomy.

Astronomer and Mathematician:
- Aryabhata is best known for his work in astronomy and mathematics. He is credited with introducing the concept of zero to the world.
- In astronomy, Aryabhata developed a model that explained the motion of celestial bodies, including the sun and the moon.
- He also accurately calculated the length of a year and the timing of eclipses, showing his prowess in observational astronomy.

Mathematical Contributions:
- Aryabhata's mathematical work included advancements in algebra, trigonometry, and arithmetic.
- He wrote the Aryabhatiya, a mathematical and astronomical treatise that covered various topics such as algebra, trigonometry, and spherical geometry.
- Aryabhata's work laid the foundation for future developments in mathematics and astronomy in India and beyond.

Legacy:
- Aryabhata's contributions to astronomy and mathematics had a lasting impact on the field. His work influenced later scholars and helped shape the way we understand the universe today.
- He is considered one of the greatest mathematicians and astronomers of ancient India, and his work continues to be studied and admired by scholars around the world.

Chalcolithic

See now the fact is that the early humans used to move from one place to another mainly for food and water so they eventually got tired of shifting and shifting and at 12,000 BC the ice sheets started melting so the temperature became warm and it led to growing of grain bearing grasses "after they became ripe they fell down and started a fresh growth of crops " I.E Reproduction so that gave the idea for humans to grow it

The Harshacharita is the biography of Indian emperor Harsha, written by Banabhatta, also known as Bana. He was a Sanskrit writer of the seventh century CE.

B

The Buddha primarily used simple language and engaged in discussions to teach his message. He chose to speak in Prakrit, the language of ordinary people, to ensure that his teachings were accessible to everyone. This approach allowed him to reach a broad audience and spread his ideas effectively, emphasizing direct communication and personal understanding over complex rituals or written texts. An interesting fact is that the use of Prakrit made his teachings more relatable and easier to follow for the general populace of that time.

The Transformation of Ashoka
After the Kalinga War, a significant turning point in his reign, Emperor Ashoka underwent a profound transformation. This conflict, which was marked by extreme violence, deeply impacted his worldview and led him to abandon the path of warfare.
Impact of Kalinga Conflict
- Violence and Loss of Life: The Kalinga War resulted in massive casualties and suffering. Ashoka witnessed firsthand the brutality of war and the devastation it brought to families and communities.
- Personal Reflection: The sheer scale of death and destruction troubled Ashoka’s conscience. He began to reflect on the moral implications of his actions as a ruler.
Shift Towards Peace
- Philosophy of Non-Violence: Influenced by Buddhism, which emphasizes compassion and non-violence, Ashoka decided to adopt a more peaceful approach to governance. He recognized that true strength lies in promoting peace rather than engaging in violent conflicts.
- Promotion of Dharma: Ashoka dedicated himself to the principles of Dharma (moral law), focusing on ethical governance and the welfare of his subjects. He sought to spread the teachings of Buddhism and foster harmony among people.
Legacy of Ashoka
- Focus on Internal Development: Rather than pursuing military conquests, Ashoka concentrated on enhancing trade, infrastructure, and public welfare. This shift not only improved the lives of his subjects but also established a legacy of peace and prosperity.
- Cultural Influence: His commitment to non-violence and moral governance influenced future generations, making Ashoka a symbol of peace in history.
In summary, it was the profound sorrow and realization of the consequences of violence that led Ashoka to stop fighting wars, aligning his reign with principles of peace and compassion.

The Role of Governors in Provincial Areas
In ancient Indian empires, particularly during the Mauryan period, governors or royal princes played a crucial role in maintaining the administration and governance of distant provinces such as Taxila and Ujjain.
Complete Control with Acknowledgment of Central Authority
- Governors were appointed by the central authority, typically the emperor residing in Pataliputra.
- They had significant autonomy in managing local affairs, which included law and order, administration, and the implementation of policies.
- Despite this autonomy, they recognized the overarching control of the emperor, ensuring that the local governance aligned with the central government's directives.
Responsibilities and Functions
- Governors were responsible for collecting taxes, managing trade routes, and ensuring the economic prosperity of their provinces.
- They also played a vital role in maintaining the welfare of the population and implementing public works, which were essential for local development.
Communication and Reporting
- While they operated with a degree of independence, governors maintained regular communication with the central authority.
- This communication was crucial for reporting local issues, troop movements, and the collection of taxes, thereby ensuring a cohesive governance structure across the empire.
Conclusion
In summary, governors in provinces like Taxila and Ujjain had complete control over local administration but operated under the acknowledgment of the central authority based in Pataliputra. This balance of power allowed the Mauryan Empire to maintain stability and efficiency across its vast territories.

Depending on the methods of counting, as many as three hundred versions of the Indian epic poem, the Ramayana, are known to exist. The oldest version is generally recognized to be the Sanskrit version attributed to the sage Valmiki.

Reason for Fortified Capital Cities
Fortified capital cities were a key feature of the mahajanapadas, the ancient Indian republics that emerged around the 6th century BCE. One of the primary reasons for constructing these fortified cities was to provide protection against attacks.
Protection Against Attacks
- Increased Conflicts: During this period, various kingdoms and tribes often engaged in warfare to expand their territories. The fortified cities served as a defensive measure against external threats and invasions.
- Strategic Defense: The walls and fortifications were designed to enhance the security of the capital, making it difficult for enemy forces to penetrate. This strategic defense was crucial for maintaining the stability and continuity of the mahajanapada.
- Safe Havens: Fortified cities acted as safe havens for the inhabitants, especially during times of conflict. People could seek refuge within the walls, ensuring their safety and survival.
- Centralized Power: By fortifying the capital, rulers could consolidate their power and authority. A stronghold helped deter would-be aggressors and showcased the strength of the ruling authority.
Additional Benefits
- Economic Stability: While protection against attacks was the primary reason, fortified cities also contributed to economic stability. A secure environment encouraged trade and interactions with neighboring regions.
- Cultural Development: The safety provided by these fortified cities allowed for cultural and social development, as people could focus on arts, education, and governance without the constant fear of invasion.
In summary, the construction of fortified capital cities by the mahajanapadas was fundamentally about ensuring protection against attacks, thereby fostering a secure environment for governance, trade, and cultural growth.

The Village: A Place for Mutual Cooperation and Better Protection

Living together in a community provides several benefits, including mutual cooperation and better protection. One such place where many families choose to live together is a village. Let's explore why villages are often preferred for these purposes.

Mutual Cooperation:
1. Sense of Community: In a village, families often have close-knit relationships with their neighbors. This fosters a sense of community and encourages mutual cooperation.
2. Shared Resources: Villagers often share resources and help each other in times of need. For example, they may share farming equipment, assist in agricultural activities, or support each other during festivals or events.
3. Collaborative Efforts: Villagers often work together on community projects, such as building schools, repairing roads, or organizing cultural events. This collaboration strengthens the bond between families and promotes mutual cooperation.

Better Protection:
1. Increased Security: Living in a village provides a sense of security as families can rely on their neighbors for support and protection. This is particularly important in rural areas where law enforcement may be limited.
2. Shared Responsibility: Villagers collectively take responsibility for the safety and well-being of their community. They may establish local watch groups or community policing initiatives to ensure the security of their neighborhood.
3. Stronger Social Networks: In villages, families often know each other well, which creates strong social networks. These networks play a crucial role in providing support during emergencies or crises, such as natural disasters or health emergencies.

Other Factors:
1. Access to Basic Amenities: Villages typically have basic amenities such as schools, healthcare facilities, and markets within close proximity. This makes it convenient for families to access essential services.
2. Closer to Nature: Villages are often located in rural areas, surrounded by natural landscapes. This offers families the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful environment and engage in activities like farming or gardening.

Conclusion:
Villages are popular choices for families seeking mutual cooperation and better protection due to the sense of community, shared resources, increased security, and stronger social networks they offer. Living in a village provides families with a supportive environment and a close-knit community that promotes cooperation and protection.

Explanation:
Megaliths were not only used for marking burial sites but also for various other purposes.

• Public Ceremonies: Megaliths were used as sites for public ceremonies, rituals, and gatherings, showcasing the importance of communal activities in ancient societies.
• Astronomical Observations: Some megalithic structures were aligned with celestial events like solstices and equinoxes, suggesting a possible use for astronomical observations or as calendars.
• Social Status: Megaliths could also signify social status or serve as territorial markers for different groups within a community.
• Religious or Spiritual Purposes: Megaliths may have been used for religious or spiritual practices, symbolizing beliefs or connections to the divine.
• Artistic Expression: Some megaliths were decorated with intricate carvings or designs, indicating a form of artistic expression or storytelling.
• Defensive Structures: In some cases, megalithic structures were used for defensive purposes, such as fortifications or barriers during times of conflict.

Therefore, it is false to say that megaliths were only used for marking burial sites, as they had diverse functions and meanings in ancient societies.

Different Puranas describe a number of stories where Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva compete for supremacy. In some Puranas, such as Devi Bhagavata, the Goddess Devi joins the competition and ascends for the position of being Supreme. Further, most Puranas emphasize legends around one who is either Shiva, or Vishnu, or Devi.

Chanakya

One significant difference between the ashrama system and the Buddhist sangha is that ashramas were traditionally exclusive to Brahmins and involved a structured progression through different stages of life, while the Buddhist sangha was open to all social classes. The sangha allowed individuals from various backgrounds, including kshatriyas, merchants, and laborers, to join and follow a monastic lifestyle. This inclusivity was a key feature of the Buddhist monastic community compared to the more exclusive nature of the ashrama system.

Overview of the Mauryan Empire
The Mauryan Empire, established in 322 BCE by Chandragupta Maurya, was one of the largest empires in ancient India. It reached its zenith under Emperor Ashoka, who ruled from 268 to 232 BCE. The empire was known for its political and military prowess, as well as significant contributions to art, culture, and trade.
Principal Cities of the Mauryan Empire
The major cities of the Mauryan Empire served as important centers for administration, trade, and culture. Here are the three key cities:

• Pataliputra: The capital city, located at the confluence of the Ganges and Son rivers, it was the political and cultural heart of the empire.
• Ujjain: A significant trade center, Ujjain played a crucial role in commerce and was strategically located on trade routes.
• Taxila: An important city known for its educational institutions and as a hub of trade, Taxila was located at the crossroads of several major routes.

Why Delhi is NOT a Principal City
While Delhi is a prominent city in modern India, it was not a principal city during the time of the Mauryan Empire. Here’s why:

• Historical Context: Delhi's significance rose later, primarily during the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire periods.
• Geographical Location: Delhi was not strategically important for the Mauryan Empire as compared to Pataliputra, Ujjain, and Taxila.
• Administrative Role: The administrative and cultural functions during the Mauryan period were centered in the mentioned cities, not in Delhi.

In conclusion, option 'D' (Delhi) is the correct answer as it was not a principal city of the Mauryan Empire.

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.

Is one of the oldest stone structure and important monuments in india..it is originally commissioned by the emperor ashoka in 3rd century BCE.

Sukta: Definition and Significance
The term "Sukta" originates from ancient Indian texts, particularly the Vedas, which are the oldest sacred scriptures of Hinduism.
Meaning of Sukta
- Sukta literally translates to "well-said" or "well-uttered."
- It is primarily understood as a hymn or a sacred verse that is chanted or recited during rituals and ceremonies.
Characteristics of Sukta
- Composed in Verse: Sukta is typically composed in a poetic form, using rhythmic and melodic patterns that enhance its spiritual significance.
- Devotional Context: These hymns often express devotion to various deities, invoke blessings, and articulate philosophical concepts.
- Cultural Heritage: Sukta represents a rich cultural heritage, encapsulating the spiritual and philosophical wisdom of ancient Indian civilization.
Usage in Rituals
- Ceremonial Importance: Sukta is integral to various Vedic rituals and ceremonies, where it is recited to invoke divine presence and favor.
- Spiritual Practice: Reciting Sukta is considered a means of meditation and prayer, connecting practitioners with the divine.
Conclusion
In summary, the correct answer is indeed option 'C,' as "Sukta" refers to a hymn or well-said verse that plays a crucial role in the spiritual and cultural practices of ancient India. Understanding Sukta enriches one’s appreciation of the Vedic tradition and its profound impact on Indian spirituality.

Significant Climate Change 12,000 Years Ago
Around 12,000 years ago, a significant climatic transition marked the end of the last Ice Age, leading to the development of grasslands across various regions.
End of the Ice Age
- The Earth experienced a warming trend, resulting in the melting of glaciers that had covered large portions of North America, Europe, and Asia.
- This period is known as the Younger Dryas, characterized by fluctuating temperatures, but it ultimately paved the way for a more stable climate.
Development of Grasslands
- As temperatures rose, forests began to retract, and open landscapes emerged.
- The warming climate favored the growth of grasses over forests, leading to the establishment of vast grassland ecosystems.
- These grasslands provided new habitats for various species and greatly influenced human migration and settlement patterns.
Impact on Ecosystems
- The shift to grasslands brought about changes in biodiversity, fostering the growth of herbivorous animals that thrived in open spaces.
- Species such as bison, antelope, and various birds adapted to the new habitats, changing the dynamics of the food web.
Significance for Humans
- The emergence of grasslands was crucial for early human societies, as it facilitated the domestication of animals and the development of agriculture.
- This transition laid the groundwork for the rise of civilizations by providing resources and supporting larger populations.
In summary, the climatic change around 12,000 years ago led to the development of grasslands, which significantly impacted ecosystems and human societies, marking a pivotal moment in Earth's climatic history.

Explanation:

Ancient Burial Sites:
- Ancient burial sites are archaeological sites where human remains are buried along with various items and artifacts.
- These sites provide valuable insights into the culture, beliefs, and practices of ancient civilizations.

Common Items Found in Ancient Burial Sites:
- Gold beads, stone beads, and copper bangles were commonly found in ancient burial sites.
- These items were often included in burials as grave goods, meant to accompany the deceased into the afterlife.

Clay Pots:
- Clay pots were commonly used in ancient civilizations for various purposes such as storage, cooking, and ritual practices.
- However, clay pots were not typically found as burial goods in ancient burial sites.
- While they were essential in everyday life, they were not commonly included in burials as grave goods like gold beads, stone beads, and copper bangles.

Conclusion:
- In summary, clay pots were not commonly found in ancient burial sites, unlike gold beads, stone beads, and copper bangles which were frequently included as grave goods.

Unique Feature of Dholavira:
Dholavira, one of the five largest Harappan cities, is known for its unique feature in comparison to other Harappan cities.

Large Open Area for Public Ceremonies:
One of the distinguishing characteristics of Dholavira is the presence of a large open area specifically designed for public ceremonies. This area, known as the 'stadium', is believed to have been used for various communal activities and gatherings. This feature sets Dholavira apart from other Harappan cities, as it indicates a focus on public events and community engagement.

Significance of the Stadium:
The stadium at Dholavira was meticulously planned and constructed, highlighting the importance of public ceremonies and gatherings in the city. It served as a central space for social interactions, religious rituals, and other communal activities. The presence of such a designated area underscores the organized nature of urban planning in Dholavira.

Archaeological Evidence:
Archaeological excavations at Dholavira have revealed the layout and structure of the stadium, providing valuable insights into the social and cultural practices of the Harappan civilization. The presence of this unique feature has led researchers to speculate on the significance of public ceremonies and communal activities in the daily life of the inhabitants of Dholavira.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the large open area for public ceremonies at Dholavira distinguishes it from other Harappan cities and sheds light on the social dynamics and community interactions of the ancient civilization. This unique feature adds to the historical significance of Dholavira as a key archaeological site in understanding the Harappan civilization.

Importance of Water Sources for Early Humans
Early humans chose to settle near water sources primarily due to the essential role water played in their survival.
Survival Needs
- Hydration: Water is vital for maintaining physiological functions; without it, dehydration can occur, leading to severe health consequences.
- Food Sources: Proximity to water bodies facilitated access to aquatic resources such as fish, which became a critical part of their diet, providing essential nutrients.
Agricultural Development
- Irrigation: As early humans transitioned to agriculture, being near water sources allowed for easier irrigation of crops, enhancing food production and supporting larger populations.
- Fertile Land: Riverbanks often featured nutrient-rich soil due to regular flooding, making them ideal locations for planting crops.
Social and Cultural Factors
- Community Gathering: Water sources often served as communal zones where groups could gather, fostering social interactions and cultural development.
- Trade Routes: Rivers and lakes provided natural pathways for trade and exchange, enhancing the economic stability of settled communities.
Conclusion
In summary, the choice of living near water sources was fundamentally driven by the necessity for hydration, food security, and agricultural opportunities. This strategic decision not only ensured immediate survival but also laid the groundwork for the development of complex societies. Thus, option 'B' accurately reflects the primary reason for early human habitation near water sources.