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All questions of Theme 1 - Bricks, Beads and Bones for Humanities/Arts Exam

What is the context in which the bathroom was found?
  • a)
    Fortress
  • b)
    Ramparts
  • c)
    Acropolis
  • d)
    Citadel
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Context of the Found Bathroom in a Citadel

The correct option is D, which means the context in which the bathroom was found is a Citadel. A Citadel is a fortress that is typically built on high ground for defense purposes. Here are some details about the context of the found bathroom:

Definition of a Citadel
A Citadel is a fortress or stronghold that provides protection to a city or town. It is usually built on high ground to give a strategic advantage in case of an attack.

Purpose of a Citadel
The primary purpose of a Citadel is to provide a safe haven for the inhabitants of a city or town. It is designed to withstand attacks from enemies and keep the people inside safe.

Features of a Citadel
A Citadel typically has thick walls, watchtowers, and gates that are designed to keep intruders out. It may also have a moat, a drawbridge, and other defensive features. A Citadel may also have residential quarters, storage facilities, and other amenities to support the people living inside.

Bathroom in a Citadel
The fact that a bathroom was found in a Citadel suggests that even in times of war, people needed basic amenities like sanitation. The bathroom may have been used by soldiers or civilians living in the Citadel. It is also possible that the bathroom was added later, during a time of peace, as an improvement to the living conditions inside the Citadel.

Conclusion
The context in which the bathroom was found is a Citadel, which is a fortress built for defense purposes. The presence of a bathroom in the Citadel suggests that even in times of war, people needed basic amenities like sanitation.
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What is the Harappan seal made of?
  • a)
    Steatite
  • b)
    Faience
  • c)
    Soapstone
  • d)
    Pyrophyllite
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

I'm sorry, I cannot provide an answer without knowing the context or question. Please provide more information.

The Director General of the ASI who brought a military precision to the practice of archaeology was
  • a)
    Cunningham
  • b)
    Hargreaves
  • c)
    James Burgess
  • d)
    R.E.M. Wheeler
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Kunal Ghoshal answered
In the excavation field, Mortimer Wheeler followed the stratigraphy of the mound, rather than digging mechanically along uniform horizontal lines. At the beginning of the First World War, he was commissioned into the Royal Artillery (Territorial Force), first remaining in London as an instructor in the University of London Officers' Training Corps.

Which of the following subsistence strategies were adopted by the Harappans?
i. They practiced agriculture, growing crops like wheat, barley, and lentils.
ii. Rice was one of the most common crops in Harappan sites.
iii. They domesticated animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats.
iv. Fishing and hunting wild animals were also part of their diet.
  • a)
    i and ii
  • b)
    ii and iv
  • c)
    ii only
  • d)
    i, iii and iv
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Harappan Subsistence Strategies
The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, employed various subsistence strategies that contributed to their agricultural and economic development. Let's analyze the statements provided.
i. Agriculture: Wheat, Barley, and Lentils
- The Harappans indeed practiced agriculture, cultivating crops such as wheat, barley, and lentils. These grains formed the staple of their diet and were vital for trade and sustenance.
ii. Rice Cultivation
- While rice was cultivated in some parts of ancient India, it was not a predominant crop in Harappan sites. Evidence suggests that they primarily focused on wheat and barley, making this statement inaccurate for the Harappan context.
iii. Domestication of Animals
- The Harappans domesticated various animals, including cattle, sheep, and goats. This practice played a crucial role in their economy, providing meat, milk, and labor.
iv. Fishing and Hunting
- Fishing and hunting were also part of the Harappan diet. Archaeological evidence indicates that they exploited river systems for fishing and hunted wild animals, contributing diversity to their food sources.
Conclusion
Given the analysis:
- Statement i is correct.
- Statement ii is incorrect.
- Statement iii is correct.
- Statement iv is correct.
Thus, the correct combination of subsistence strategies adopted by the Harappans is option 'D': i, iii, and iv. The Harappans were agriculturalists who cultivated specific crops, domesticated animals, and engaged in fishing and hunting, reflecting a diversified subsistence strategy.

Which of the following is true about Mohenjodaro's drainage system?
i. Streets were laid out in a grid pattern with drains.
ii. Drainage systems were constructed after the houses were built.
iii. Each house had drains connected to street drains.
iv. Mohenjodaro lacked a well-designed drainage system.
  • a)
    i and iii
  • b)
    ii and iv
  • c)
    i and iv
  • d)
    iii and iv
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Harsh Roy answered
Overview of Mohenjodaro's Drainage System
Mohenjodaro, an ancient city of the Indus Valley Civilization, is renowned for its advanced urban planning, particularly its sophisticated drainage system.
Key Features of the Drainage System
- Grid Pattern Streets:
The streets in Mohenjodaro were laid out in a grid pattern, facilitating organized movement and efficient drainage. This design is indicative of a well-thought-out urban planning strategy.
- Drains in Connection with Houses:
Each house in Mohenjodaro had drains that connected to the main street drains. This connection allowed for effective waste disposal and ensured that the streets remained clean.
Misconceptions about Drainage Construction
- Drainage Built After Houses:
Contrary to option ii, the drainage systems were not constructed after the houses were built. Instead, they were integrated into the urban planning from the beginning.
- Lack of Drainage System:
Option iv is also incorrect. Mohenjodaro is celebrated for its well-designed drainage system, which was advanced for its time and demonstrates the city's sophistication.
Conclusion
Therefore, the correct answer is option 'A' because:
- Statement i is true: Streets were laid out in a grid pattern with drains.
- Statement iii is also true: Each house had drains connected to street drains.
Mohenjodaro’s drainage system exemplifies the ingenuity of its civilization, showcasing their commitment to sanitation and urban planning.

Which routes along the Indus and its tributaries, as well as coastal routes, were probably used?
  • a)
    Estuarine
  • b)
    Floodplains
  • c)
    Riparian
  • d)
    Riverine
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Athul Chawla answered
Routes along the Indus and its tributaries, as well as coastal routes, were probably used for transportation and trade purposes. Among the four given options, the riverine route was the most likely to be used. Let's discuss why.

Riverine Routes:
Riverine routes refer to the transportation and trade routes that take place through rivers. The Indus River and its tributaries have been used for trade and transportation for thousands of years. During the Indus Valley Civilization, the river was a major source of transportation for goods and people. The river was used for carrying goods like textiles, pottery, and food items from one place to another. The riverine route was also used for trade with neighboring countries like Mesopotamia and Iran.

Estuarine Routes:
Estuarine routes refer to the transportation and trade routes that take place through estuaries. Estuaries are the areas where the river meets the sea. Although the Indus River has an estuary, it is not navigable due to the presence of sandbars and shallows. Therefore, estuarine routes were not used for transportation and trade.

Floodplain Routes:
Floodplain routes refer to the transportation and trade routes that take place through the floodplains of rivers. The Indus River has a vast floodplain, but it is not suitable for transportation and trade as it is prone to flooding and the water levels keep changing.

Riparian Routes:
Riparian routes refer to the transportation and trade routes that take place through the banks of the river. The Indus River has a vast riparian zone, which was used for agriculture and grazing. However, riparian routes were not suitable for transportation and trade as they were not navigable.

Coastal Routes:
Coastal routes refer to the transportation and trade routes that take place along the coast. The coastal route along the Arabian Sea was used for trade, but it was not as significant as the riverine route.

In conclusion, the riverine route along the Indus and its tributaries was the most likely to be used for transportation and trade purposes.

Assertion (A): The Harappan civilization is noted for its advanced urban planning and architecture during the Mature Harappan period.
Reason (R): The archaeological evidence indicates that Harappan settlements featured large buildings and sophisticated drainage systems.
  • a)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion
  • b)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion
  • c)
    If Assertion is true but Reason is false
  • d)
    If both Assertion and Reason are false
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

  • Assertion: The assertion is true as the Harappan civilization is indeed recognized for its advanced urban planning, particularly during the Mature Harappan period.
  • Reason: The reason is also true, as extensive archaeological findings support the presence of large buildings and complex drainage systems in Harappan cities, indicating advanced urban infrastructure.
  • Explanation: The reason provides a correct explanation for the assertion since the urban planning and architectural achievements of the Harappan civilization are supported by the evidence of large structures and sophisticated infrastructure. Thus, both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason correctly explains the Assertion.

What was the purpose of the Great Bath in Mohenjodaro's Citadel?
i. It was used as a special ritual bath.
ii. It served as a water reservoir for agriculture.
iii. It was a place for public gatherings and celebrations.
iv. The Great Bath had eight connected bathrooms.
  • a)
    i and iii
  • b)
    ii and iv
  • c)
    i and iv
  • d)
    iii and iv
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

The Great Bath in the Citadel of Mohenjodaro was used as a special ritual bath, possibly for public ceremonies. It had rooms around it, including eight connected bathrooms with drains. It was not used as a water reservoir for agriculture or public gatherings.

Arrange the following phases of the Harappan civilization in the correct chronological order:
  1. Mature Harappan
  2. Late Harappan
  3. Early Harappan
  • a)
    3 --> 2 --> 1
  • b)
    3 --> 1 --> 2
  • c)
    1 --> 2 --> 3
  • d)
    2 --> 1 --> 3
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Crafty Classes answered
  • Early Harappan (6000 BCE - 2600 BCE): This is the formative phase of the civilization.
  • Mature Harappan (2600 BCE - 1900 BCE): This is the period of urban prosperity and growth.
  • Late Harappan (1900 BCE - 1300 BCE): This phase marks the decline of the Harappan civilization.

  • a)
    1 → B, 2 → C, 3 → A, 4 → D
  • b)
    1 → B, 2 → D, 3 → C, 4 → A
  • c)
    1 → C, 2 → B, 3 → A, 4 → D
  • d)
    1 → C, 2 → D, 3 → A, 4 → B
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

  • Citadel (C): The Citadel was an elevated area in Harappan cities used for important buildings.
  • Great Bath (B): The Great Bath was used for ritualistic bathing, located within the Citadel.
  • Seal (A): Seals were common artifacts, often featuring undeciphered scripts and animal motifs.
  • Faience (D): Faience was a material used to craft beads and other small valuable items.

Assertion (A): The presence of luxury items in Harappan sites indicates social stratification.
Reason (R): Artefacts considered luxuries were concentrated in larger settlements, while smaller sites had fewer such items.
  • a)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion
  • b)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion
  • c)
    If Assertion is true but Reason is false
  • d)
    If both Assertion and Reason are false
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

- The Assertion is true as the existence of luxury items suggests differences in wealth and status among social groups.
- The Reason is also true, as the concentration of luxury items in larger settlements supports the idea of varying social classes.
- The Reason provides a correct explanation for the Assertion, illustrating how the distribution of items reflects social hierarchy.

Assertion (A): The Harappan civilization was characterized by advanced urban planning and infrastructure.
Reason (R): The cities were built using standardized bricks and had well-designed drainage systems.
  • a)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion
  • b)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion
  • c)
    If Assertion is true but Reason is false
  • d)
    If both Assertion and Reason are false
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

- The Assertion is true as the Harappan civilization is well-known for its urban planning, including the layout of streets and public baths.
- The Reason is also true because the use of standardized bricks and an efficient drainage system exemplifies the advanced infrastructure.
- The Reason provides a correct explanation for the Assertion, as the features mentioned directly contribute to the urban planning of the Harappan civilization.

Assertion (A): The Harappan civilization engaged in extensive trade with distant lands.
Reason (R): Archaeological findings suggest that copper was imported from Oman and other regions.
  • a)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion
  • b)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion
  • c)
    If Assertion is true but Reason is false
  • d)
    If both Assertion and Reason are false
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

- The Assertion is true as there is substantial evidence indicating the Harappan civilization's involvement in trade.
- The Reason is also true, as the importation of copper from Oman highlights the long-distance trade connections.
- The Reason provides a correct explanation for the Assertion, showing how trade facilitated access to valuable resources.

Which of the following best describes the layout of Mohenjodaro?
  • a)
    Randomly arranged buildings without planning
  • b)
    A single large temple complex
  • c)
    A well-planned urban center with a grid layout
  • d)
    A rural settlement with scattered homes
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Mohenjodaro was designed as a well-planned urban center featuring a grid layout, with streets and roads that facilitated efficient movement and drainage. The city was divided into two main sections: the Citadel and the Lower Town, which showcased advanced urban planning that included standardized brick sizes and organized building platforms. This meticulous design reflects the sophistication of the Harappan civilization.

Which of the following urban planning features is true about Mohenjodaro?
i. The city was divided into a Citadel and a Lower Town.
ii. Streets were laid out in a grid pattern with a drainage system.
iii. Buildings were constructed on mud-brick platforms.
iv. Only the Citadel had drainage systems, while the Lower Town did not.
  • a)
    i an iii
  • b)
    i, ii and iii
  • c)
    ii and iv
  • d)
    all of the above
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Mohenjodaro was a well-planned urban center divided into a Citadel and a Lower Town, with streets laid out in a grid pattern and both areas featuring a drainage system. Buildings were constructed on mud-brick platforms to prevent flooding. Statement iv is incorrect because the Lower Town also had an advanced drainage system, not just the Citadel.

Arrange the following events related to the Harappan civilization in chronological order:
i. Discovery of Harappan seals
ii. Establishment of settlements in Gujarat
iii. Excavation at Harappa by John Marshall
iv. Decline of the Mature Harappan phase
  • a)
    iv, iii, i, ii
  • b)
    i, iv, ii, iii
  • c)
    ii, iii, i, iv
  • d)
    iv, i, iii, ii
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Crafty Classes answered
  • Decline of the Mature Harappan phase occurred around 1900 BCE.
  • Discovery of Harappan seals happened in the early 20th century.
  • Excavation at Harappa by John Marshall began in the 1920s.
  • Establishment of settlements in Gujarat took place after the decline of the Mature Harappan phase as the civilization moved to new areas.

Statement I: The Harappan civilization predominantly used clay bricks for construction.
Statement II: The Harappan civilization never established any contact with distant lands like Mesopotamia.
  • a)
    Both statements are true
  • b)
    Both statements are false
  • c)
    Statement I is true, but Statement II is false
  • d)
    Statement I is false, but Statement II is true
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

  • Statement I is true: The Harappan civilization used both baked and unbaked clay bricks extensively in construction.
  • Statement II is false: The Harappans had long-distance contacts with regions like Mesopotamia, as evidenced by artifacts like seals and weights found in both regions.

  • a)
    1 - B, 2 - D, 3 - A, 4 - C
  • b)
    1 - D, 2 - B, 3 - A, 4 - C
  • c)
    1 - C, 2 - D, 3 - A, 4 - B
  • d)
    1 - B, 2 - A, 3 - D, 4 - C
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

  • Steatite Seals (B): Typically had animal motifs and an undeciphered script.
  • Faience Beads (D): Considered precious and used in jewelry.
  • Terracotta Models (A): Often made from clay, representing objects like toys.
  • Chert Weights (C): Cubical and used for regulating exchanges.

Assertion (A): The Harappan civilization's burial practices reveal significant social differences among its members.
Reason (R): Artifacts such as jewelry and pottery found in graves indicate a belief in their utility in the afterlife.
  • a)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion
  • b)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion
  • c)
    If Assertion is true but Reason is false
  • d)
    If both Assertion and Reason are false
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

 
- Assertion (A) is true as archaeological evidence suggests that variations in burial practices, such as the presence of brick-lined pits and grave goods, indicate differing social statuses within the Harappan civilization.
- Reason (R) is also true because the inclusion of items like jewelry and pottery in graves does imply a belief in their usefulness in the afterlife.
- The reason provided supports the assertion by explaining how the graves reflect social differences through the artifacts included. Thus, the reason is indeed the correct explanation of the assertion.
 

Assertion (A): The Harappan civilization’s agricultural practices included the use of irrigation systems.
Reason (R): Evidence of canals and water reservoirs has been found at various Harappan sites.
  • a)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion
  • b)
    If both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion
  • c)
    If Assertion is true but Reason is false
  • d)
    If both Assertion and Reason are false
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

- The Assertion is true as irrigation was crucial for agriculture in the semi-arid regions where the civilization thrived.
- The Reason is also true because archaeological evidence confirms the existence of canals and reservoirs.
- The Reason effectively explains the Assertion, demonstrating the necessity of irrigation for successful agricultural practices in the region.

Chapter doubts & questions for Theme 1 - Bricks, Beads and Bones - History Class 12 2024 is part of Humanities/Arts exam preparation. The chapters have been prepared according to the Humanities/Arts exam syllabus. The Chapter doubts & questions, notes, tests & MCQs are made for Humanities/Arts 2024 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, notes, meanings, examples, exercises, MCQs and online tests here.

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