Chapter Test: When, Where and How - 1 - CTET & State TET MCQ

Countries, like India, have adopted the terms 'CE' (Common Era) and 'BCE' (Before Common Era) to standardize dating systems globally. This shift aims to promote inclusivity and cultural neutrality in historical chronology, reflecting a more universal approach to representing dates. By using 'CE' and 'BCE,' these countries align with international practices and facilitate cross-cultural understanding in a diverse world.

The term "pasts" in the title "Our Pasts" is used to draw attention to the fact that the past was different for different groups of people. It highlights the idea that the lives of various groups, such as herders, farmers, kings, queens, merchants, and craftspersons, were diverse and distinct. This term underscores the importance of recognizing and understanding the varied experiences and perspectives of different groups throughout history.

The year 1 BC indicates the year immediately before AD 1 in the dating system related to the birth of Jesus Christ. This system uses the year 1 BC as the year that comes right before the start of the AD (Anno Domini) era.

Dates are usually referenced in relation to the birth of Jesus Christ by being counted forwards. For instance, the year 2000 means 2000 years after the birth of Christ, while dates before his birth are counted backwards.

The letters 'AD' stand for "Anno Domini," which is a Latin term meaning 'in the year of the Lord' (i.e., Christ). This term is commonly used to refer to years after the birth of Jesus Christ. It is essential to understand this abbreviation when interpreting historical timelines and events in relation to the Christian calendar.

The term "Bharata" was initially used for a group of people living in the northwest as mentioned in the Rigveda. Over time, this term transitioned to represent the country as a whole, signifying a shift from a specific group to a broader national identity.

2. History is synonymous with dates.

Explanation: In the past, the common-sense notion about history was that it primarily involved memorizing important dates and events. History was often seen as a timeline of significant occurrences, wars, and political changes, and the focus was heavily on when things happened rather than on understanding broader social, cultural, or economic contexts.

Kings often kept records of their victories in battle in ancient times. These records served to glorify their achievements, showcase their military prowess, and reinforce their power and authority among their subjects and neighboring kingdoms.

The natural frontiers, such as hills, mountains, and seas, fostered unity and cooperation among people in the subcontinent. While these frontiers posed challenges to cross, they did not prevent people from different regions from interacting, exchanging ideas, and sharing cultural practices. This facilitated a diverse cultural exchange that enriched the traditions of the subcontinent over time.

In ancient times, inscriptions were typically written on relatively hard surfaces such as stone or metal. Kings and rulers often had important decrees or orders inscribed on durable materials to ensure that they were visible, readable, and obeyed by the people.

2. By setting up record rooms attached to administrative institutions.

Explanation: The British administration ensured the preservation of important documents and letters by establishing record rooms attached to various administrative institutions. This allowed them to systematically store and archive important files, making them accessible for future reference and maintaining a permanent record of administrative actions.

Many manuscripts were preserved over the years in temples and monasteries. These religious institutions often acted as repositories for ancient texts, safeguarding them from destruction and ensuring their survival for future generations.

Objects made of hard, imperishable substances like stone, bone, baked clay, or metal usually survive for a long time due to their durability. These materials have a higher chance of preservation over extended periods, aiding archaeologists in their study of past civilizations.

The word "India" is derived from the river name "Indus," known as "Sindhu" in Sanskrit. This term was used by the Iranians and Greeks who traveled through the northwest region around 2500 years ago. They referred to the land east of the Indus River as India, thus giving rise to the name.

The Iranians and Greeks referred to the Indus River as "Indos" or "Hindos" when they traveled through the northwest region around 2500 years ago. This alternate naming eventually led to the term "India" being used to describe the land east of the river.

The terms 'CE' and 'BCE' stand for 'Common Era' and 'Before Common Era,' respectively. They are used as a secular alternative to 'AD' (Anno Domini) and 'BC' (Before Christ) to provide a more inclusive and neutral dating system. This change in terminology reflects a shift towards a universal calendar system that is not tied to any specific religious beliefs.

Historians and archaeologists use sources like manuscripts, inscriptions, and archaeological findings as clues to uncover details about the past. By carefully analyzing these sources, they piece together historical narratives, akin to detectives solving mysteries, to reconstruct the events and lives of bygone eras.

Historians frequently use the term "sources" to describe the information gleaned from manuscripts, inscriptions, and archaeological discoveries. These sources serve as vital pieces of evidence that enable historians to delve into the past and construct narratives that shed light on historical events, cultures, and societies.

The term "BC" stands for "Before Christ" when used in reference to dates. It is a way to indicate years that occurred before the birth of Jesus Christ. This dating system uses the year 1 BC as the year immediately before AD 1.

Years are typically counted from the birth of Jesus Christ in the dating system. For example, the year 2000 signifies 2000 years after the birth of Christ. This method helps establish a common reference point for dating historical events and timelines.