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Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - UPSC MCQ


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15 Questions MCQ Test History for UPSC CSE - Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History

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Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 1

Consider the following statements:

1. The first discovery of rock paintings in India was made in 1867-68 by Archaeologist Archibold Carlleyle.

2. Bhimbetka Caves, discovered in 1957-58, exhibit nearly 400 painted rock shelters in five clusters.

3. The Upper Palaeolithic period is characterized by the artistic depiction of simple human figures, activities, geometric designs, and symbols.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Detailed Solution for Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 1

All three statements given are correct:

1. The first discovery of rock paintings in India was indeed made in 1867-68 by Archaeologist Archibold Carlleyle. This predates the discovery of similar paintings in Altamira, Spain, by twelve years.

2. Bhimbetka Caves were discovered in 1957-58, and they do exhibit nearly 400 painted rock shelters in five clusters, showcasing a long span of human occupation and artistic expression from 100,000 B.C to 1000 A.D.

3. The Upper Palaeolithic period is marked by the proliferation of artistic activities, including depictions of simple human figures, various activities, geometric designs, and symbols, indicating the development of early human artistic expression.

Thus, the correct answer is Option D

Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 2

Consider the following statements regarding the Late Stone Age (Mesolithic Age):
Statement-I: Microliths were the characteristic tools of the Late Stone Age.
Statement-II: The Late Stone Age began during a warm and dry climate following the Ice Age.
Statement-III: The Belan Valley provides a sequential record of Palaeolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic phases.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

Detailed Solution for Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 2

Answer: (b)

  • Microliths were the primary tools of the Late Stone Age, marking Statement-I as correct.
  • Statement-II provides the climatic context of the Mesolithic Age, explaining the emergence of microliths.
  • Statement-III highlights archaeological continuity but does not directly explain the tools.
  • Thus, both Statements II and III are correct, but only Statement-II explains Statement-I.
Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 3

The metal central to this age finds frequent mention in the Vedas and the age itself follows after the Chalcolithic Age. It can be

Detailed Solution for Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 3

The Iron Age is central to this era, often mentioned in the Vedas.
This age follows the Chalcolithic Age, known for its use of copper and stone tools.
The Iron Age brought significant advancements such as

  • Widespread use of iron tools and weapons.
  • Development of agriculture and permanent settlements.
  • Growth in trade and cultural exchanges.
Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 4

Consider the following statements:

Statement I: In the Mesolithic Period Art, the depiction of hunters in groups armed with barbed spears, pointed sticks, arrows, and bows is prevalent.

Statement II: In the Chalcolithic Period Art, pottery and metal tools are depicted in paintings, revealing associations with settled agricultural communities of the Malwa Plateau.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

Detailed Solution for Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 4

Statement I :In the Mesolithic Period Art, the depiction of hunters in groups armed with barbed spears, pointed sticks, arrows, and bows is prevalent.

This statement is correct. Mesolithic rock paintings, particularly those found in Bhimbetka and other prehistoric sites, frequently depict scenes of hunting, with human figures shown in groups carrying weapons like bows, arrows, and spears. These paintings highlight the hunting-based lifestyle of the period.

Statement II: In the Chalcolithic Period Art, pottery and metal tools are depicted in paintings, revealing associations with settled agricultural communities of the Malwa Plateau.
This statement is incorrect. While the Chalcolithic period saw advancements in pottery and metal tools, these were not commonly depicted in paintings. Instead, Chalcolithic art is largely associated with intricate designs on pottery rather than pictorial representations of tools and agriculture. The cultural association with settled communities is correct, but the depiction of metal tools in paintings is not widely evidenced.

Since Statement I is correct, but Statement II is incorrect, the correct answer is: Option B

Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 5

Consider the following statements:

Statement-I:
The ancient Indian literature, including the Puranas and epics, provides reliable glimpses of the culture and civilization of the ancient times.

Statement-II:
Literary works such as Vishakhadatta's Mudrarakshasa and Kalidasa's Malavikagnimitram offer insights into ancient Indian society, culture, and historical events.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

Detailed Solution for Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 5

Statement-I: "The ancient Indian literature, including the Puranas and epics, provides reliable glimpses of the culture and civilization of the ancient times."

This statement is correct. Ancient Indian literature such as the Puranas and epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana indeed provide valuable insights into the culture, society, and civilization of ancient India.

Statement-II: "Literary works such as Vishakhadatta's Mudrarakshasa and Kalidasa's Malavikagnimitram offer insights into ancient Indian society, culture, and historical events."

This statement is also correct. Vishakhadatta's Mudrarakshasa and Kalidasa's Malavikagnimitram are significant literary works that provide details about ancient Indian society, culture, and historical events.

Since both statements are correct and Statement-II provides specific examples that support the broader assertion made in Statement-I, the correct answer is: Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I

Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 6

Consider the following statements regarding the Palaeolithic Age:
Statement-I: Palaeolithic tools were made of rough stones used for hunting and food gathering.
Statement-II: Palaeolithic culture in India developed predominantly during the Pleistocene period.
Statement-III: Evidence of caves and rock shelters in the Belan Valley indicates their use as seasonal camps.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

Detailed Solution for Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 6

Answer: (a)

  • Palaeolithic tools were rough stone tools primarily used for hunting and gathering, which links Statement-I with the development of Palaeolithic culture during the Pleistocene period (Statement-II) and the use of caves as seasonal camps (Statement-III).
  • Both Statements II and III correctly explain the context of Statement-I.
Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 7

The Neolithic period is followed by the Chalcolithic period. In the Chalcolithic period, the use of which of the following started?
1. Copper and bronze
2. The technology of smelting metal ore
3. Crafting metal artefacts
Select the correct answer using the codes below.

Detailed Solution for Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 7

The Chalcolithic period marks the beginning of significant advancements in metallurgy.

  • Copper and bronze use started, paving the way for new tools and artefacts.
  • The technology of smelting metal ore was developed, allowing for the extraction of metals from raw materials.
  • People began crafting metal artefacts, demonstrating increased skill and innovation.

All these developments collectively define the Chalcolithic era. Therefore,Correct Answer - Option D

Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 8

Which among the following Harappan sites is not located in Gujarat?

Detailed Solution for Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 8

The Correct Answer is D: Banawali

Explanation of the Harappan Sites Location

  • Surkotada: This Harappan site is located in the Kutch district of Gujarat, India. It is notable for the discovery of horse remains dated c. 2000 BCE; however, the interpretation of these findings is disputed.
  • Lothal: Lothal is one of the most prominent cities of the ancient Indus valley civilization. It is located in the Bhal region of the modern state of Gujarat and dates from 2400 BCE.
  • Dholavira: Dholavira is an archaeological site in the Kutch district of Gujarat. It represents a ruin of an ancient city of the Harappan civilization that was inhabited over a period of 1,200 years from 3000 BCE to 1800 BCE.
  • Banawali: Contrarily, Banawali is an archaeological site belonging to the Indus Valley Civilization period in Fatehabad district, Haryana, India, and is not located in Gujarat. It was a fortified town that flourished from 2600 BCE to 1900 BCE.

So, among the given options, Banawali is the Harappan site not located in Gujarat.

Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 9

Consider the following statements:

Statement-I:
The prehistoric art during the Paleolithic Age mainly consisted of stick-like representations of human beings and depictions of animals and geometric designs.

Statement-II:
 India witnessed the discovery of rock paintings in caves dating back to around 1867-68, before similar discoveries in other parts of the world.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

Detailed Solution for Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 9

- Statement-I is correct as Paleolithic art is characterized by simple, stick-like representations of humans, along with animals and geometric designs, often found in cave paintings.
- Statement-II is also correct. Rock paintings in India were discovered in the Bhimbetka caves around 1867-68, showcasing early human creativity.
- However, Statement-II does not explain Statement-I; rather, it provides historical context specific to India.
- Therefore, the correct answer is B: Both statements are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I.

Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 10

The first metal used by the man was

Detailed Solution for Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 10

The first metal used by Man was Copper.

  • Copper was one of the earliest metals used because it occurs naturally in its pure form.
  • It was easy to shape into tools and ornaments, aiding early human development.
  • Its use marked a significant step in technological advancement.
Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 11

Consider the following pairs:

1. Alexander Cunningham: Discovery of Indus Valley Civilisation

2. R.D. Banerjee: Excavation of Mohenjodaro

3. James Prinsep: Decipherment of Brahmi Script

4. Samudragupta: Issued coins depicting Ashwamedha

How many pairs given above are correctly matched?

Detailed Solution for Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 11

1. Alexander Cunningham: Discovery of Indus Valley Civilisation - Incorrect - Alexander Cunningham is known as the Father of Indian Archaeology and was responsible for the excavation of pre-Aryan culture. However, the discovery of the Indus Valley Civilisation is credited to Daya Ram Sahni and his team in 1921.

2. R.D. Banerjee: Excavation of Mohenjodaro - Correct - R.D. Banerjee played a significant role in the excavation of Mohenjodaro in 1922, confirming its status as a pre-Aryan civilisation of great antiquity.

3. James Prinsep: Decipherment of Brahmi Script - Correct - James Prinsep, Secretary of the Asiatic Society of Bengal, successfully deciphered the Brahmi script, which was a significant breakthrough in understanding ancient Indian inscriptions.

4. Samudragupta: Issued coins depicting Ashwamedha - Correct - Samudragupta issued coins depicting events such as the Ashwamedha, reflecting his ambitions and achievements.

Hence, three pairs are correctly matched.

Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 12

Consider the following statements:

Statement-I:
Archaeological evidence is obtained through systematic and skilled examination of building monuments and works of art.

Statement-II:
Inscriptions provide the most reliable evidence and their study is known as epigraphy.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

Detailed Solution for Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 12

Statement-I: Archaeological evidence is obtained through systematic and skilled examination of building monuments and works of art.
This statement is correct. Archaeology involves the scientific study of past human activity through material remains, including monuments, artifacts, inscriptions, and works of art. Systematic excavations and research help in reconstructing history by analyzing these sources.

Statement-II:  Inscriptions provide the most reliable evidence, and their study is known as epigraphy.
This statement is correct. Inscriptions, often found on stone, metal, or other durable materials, offer first-hand historical records, making them one of the most reliable sources of information. The study of inscriptions is called epigraphy, which helps in understanding ancient scripts, languages, rulers, and historical events.

While both statements are correct, Statement-II does not directly explain Statement-I. Statement-I discusses archaeological evidence in a broad sense, including buildings and art, whereas Statement-II focuses specifically on inscriptions and epigraphy. Since inscriptions are only a part of archaeology, Statement-II does not fully explain Statement-I.

Therefore,Correct Answer- Option B

Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 13

Bhimbetka caves show the continuity of human evolution from the Lower Palaeolithic period to the Mesolithic period to the Chalcolithic period. Why?
1. It contains evidence of the use of tools and implements from all these periods.
2. There are a large number of Shankhalipi inscriptions in the Bhimbetka cluster of rock shelters.

Which of the above is/are correct?

Detailed Solution for Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 13

The Bhimbetka caves showcase the progression of human evolution through various prehistoric periods:

  • They contain evidence of tool use from the Lower Palaeolithic, Mesolithic, and Chalcolithic periods.
  • While there are Shankhalipi inscriptions, they are not directly linked to these prehistoric periods.

Therefore, the correct statement is 1 only.

Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 14

Consider the following statements:

1. The Puranas and the epics provide definite dates for events and kings in ancient Indian history.

2. Kalidasa's Malavikagnimitram offers insights into ancient Indian society, culture, and historical events.

3. Panini's grammar provides information on ancient Indian astronomy.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Detailed Solution for Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 14

1. The Puranas and the epics provide definite dates for events and kings in ancient Indian history.
This statement is incorrect. The ancient Indian literature, including the Puranas and the epics, mostly contains religious narratives and lacks definite dates for historical events and kings.

2. Kalidasa's Malavikagnimitram offers insights into ancient Indian society, culture, and historical events.
This statement is correct. Kalidasa's works, such as Malavikagnimitram, are valuable sources of information on ancient Indian society, culture, and historical events.

3. Panini's grammar provides information on ancient Indian astronomy.
 This statement is incorrect. Panini's grammar primarily provides insights into ancient Indian linguistics and grammar, not astronomy. Ancient Indian astronomy is more accurately reflected in works like the Gargi Samhita.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option D: 2 Only.

Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 15

Consider the following pairs:

1. Paleolithic Age Art - Depiction of complex human activities and advanced tools.

2. Bhimbetka Caves - Located in Madhya Pradesh.

3. First Discovery of Rock Paintings - Discovered in India by Archaeologist Archibold Carlleyle in 1867-68.

4. Upper Paleolithic Art - Green paintings depicting dances.

How many pairs given above are correctly matched?

Detailed Solution for Test: Prehistoric Period & Sources of Ancient History - Question 15

1. Paleolithic Age Art - Depiction of complex human activities and advanced tools.
 Incorrect. Paleolithic Age Art mainly depicted simple human figures, activities, geometric designs, and symbols, not complex human activities and advanced tools.

2. Bhimbetka Caves - Located in Madhya Pradesh.
 Correct. Bhimbetka Caves are indeed located in Madhya Pradesh.

3. First Discovery of Rock Paintings - Discovered in India by Archaeologist Archibold Carlleyle in 1867-68.
Correct. The first discovery of rock paintings in India was made by Archaeologist Archibold Carlleyle in 1867-68.

4. Upper Paleolithic Art - Green paintings depicting dances.
 Incorrect. Upper Paleolithic Art predominantly filled with geometric patterns; green paintings depict dances but this is more characteristic of the Mesolithic period art.

Thus, pairs 2 and 3 are correctly matched. Therefore,Correct Answer - Option B

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