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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.

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.

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.
 

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.

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.

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 decline of the Harappan civilization is attributed to multiple environmental and social factors.
Reason (R): The civilization experienced significant climatic changes that affected agriculture.
  • 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 Decline of the Harappan Civilization
The decline of the Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, is a topic of considerable scholarly interest. The statement presented in the assertion and reason highlights the complexity of this decline.
Assertion (A) Explained
- The Harappan civilization declined around 1900 BCE, and various environmental and social factors contributed to this decline.
- Key factors include:
- Climate Change: Evidence suggests significant shifts in climate that led to reduced rainfall and altered river patterns.
- Agricultural Stress: The reliance on agriculture meant that climatic changes critically affected food production.
- Social Factors: Possible social unrest, trade disruptions, and the movement of peoples may have exacerbated the situation.
Reason (R) Explained
- The reason provided indicates that climatic changes had a substantial impact on agriculture, which is true.
- These changes likely resulted in droughts and the depletion of river resources, directly affecting crop yields and food availability.
Relationship Between Assertion and Reason
- The reason (R) offers an explanation for one of the key elements mentioned in the assertion (A).
- The climatic shifts impacting agriculture were indeed one of the multiple factors leading to the civilization's decline, supporting the assertion directly.
Conclusion
Given that both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason accurately explains the assertion, the correct answer is option 'A'. The interplay of environmental changes and social dynamics ultimately led to the decline of this once-thriving civilization.

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?

Sarthak Joshi answered
Assertion (A) Analysis
The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley civilization, flourished around 2500 BCE in what is now Pakistan and northwest India. One of the key aspects of this civilization was its advanced agricultural practices.
Support for Assertion
- The Harappans cultivated various crops including wheat, barley, and pulses.
- They employed sophisticated techniques to enhance agricultural productivity.
Reason (R) Analysis
The reason states that evidence of canals and water reservoirs has been found at various Harappan sites, which is true.
Support for Reason
- Archaeological excavations have uncovered extensive irrigation systems including:
- Canals used to divert river water for agriculture.
- Large water reservoirs for storing rainwater.
- These findings indicate that the Harappans utilized these systems to support their agricultural activities.
Explanation of Relationship between A and R
- The existence of irrigation systems directly supports the assertion that the Harappan civilization engaged in agricultural practices.
- The canals and reservoirs were integral to their ability to cultivate crops effectively, especially in arid regions.
Conclusion
Given that both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason directly explains how the Harappans were able to practice agriculture effectively through irrigation, the correct answer is:
- Option A: Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
This relationship underscores the significance of irrigation in the agricultural success of the Harappan civilization.

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.

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.

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?

Arnav Basu answered
Assertion (A) Explained
The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, is renowned for its remarkable urban planning and architecture, especially during the Mature Harappan period (approximately 2600–1900 BCE).
Key Features of Assertion:
- Urban Layout: Cities were meticulously planned with a grid pattern.
- Architecture: Structures were constructed using standardized baked bricks.
- Public Spaces: Included large public baths and granaries, indicating social organization.
Reason (R) Explained
The archaeological evidence from sites such as Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa supports the assertion with findings that highlight their engineering skills.
Key Features of Reason:
- Large Buildings: Evidence of multi-story houses and administrative buildings.
- Sophisticated Drainage: Complex drainage systems included covered drains and latrines, emphasizing sanitation.
- Water Management: Well-planned water supply systems, including wells and reservoirs.
Connection Between Assertion and Reason
- Direct Correlation: The advanced urban planning (Assertion) is evident through the sophisticated drainage systems and large buildings (Reason).
- Reason as Explanation: The archaeological findings directly support and explain why the Harappan civilization is noted for its urban planning, making the Reason a correct explanation of the Assertion.
Conclusion
Both the Assertion and Reason are true, with the Reason effectively explaining the Assertion. Therefore, the correct answer is option 'A'. The Harappan civilization's achievements in urban planning and architecture are well-documented, and the archaeological evidence substantiates these claims.

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)
    ii, iv, i, iii
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

  • ii. Establishment of settlements in Gujarat
    (Occurred around 2600-2500 BCE when settlements emerged in the Indus Valley region.)
  • iv. Decline of the Mature Harappan phase
    (Occurred around 1900 BCE with the gradual decline of the civilization.)
  • i. Discovery of Harappan seals
    (Discovered first in the mid-19th century, notably in the 1850s.)
  • iii. Excavation at Harappa by John Marshall
    (Conducted systematic excavations in the 1920s, officially beginning in 1921 under Sir John Marshall.)

Which of the following statements is true regarding the urban planning of Harappan cities?
i. Streets were laid out in a grid pattern with an advanced drainage system.
ii. Houses were often built around courtyards for privacy and ventilation.
iii. Windows were commonly placed on the ground floor of houses.
iv. Wells were a common feature, with many houses having private wells.
  • a)
    i and iii
  • b)
    iv only
  • c)
    i, ii and iv
  • d)
    all of the above
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Malavika Patel answered
Overview of Harappan Urban Planning
The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, is renowned for its remarkable urban planning, which showcases advanced architectural and engineering skills.
True Statements About Harappan Cities
- Streets and Drainage System:
Harappan cities were characterized by streets laid out in a grid pattern, indicating meticulous planning. The drainage system was highly advanced, with covered drains running along the streets, reflecting an early understanding of sanitation.
- Houses and Courtyards:
Houses in Harappan cities were often constructed around central courtyards. This design allowed for increased privacy and better ventilation, optimizing living conditions.
- Windows on Ground Floors:
Contrary to statement iii, windows were generally not placed on the ground floor to maintain privacy and security. However, upper floors often had windows.
- Wells in Houses:
Many houses featured private wells, showcasing the importance of water supply and management in urban life. This was crucial for daily activities and hygiene.
Conclusion
Based on the analysis, statements i, ii, and iv are true regarding the urban planning of Harappan cities, while statement iii is misleading. Thus, the correct answer is option 'C' (i, ii, and iv).

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.

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.

  • 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 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.

  • 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 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.

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