Important Questions Test: From a Kingdom to an Empire - Class 6 MCQ

Correct option is A. Chandragupta-II

D is the correct option.Though popular worldwide, black pepper is native to South India, originating in the Western Ghats and the Malabar Coast. The heavy, regular, rainfall of the region provides the perfect conditions for growing the spice, which the area still exports to much of the world.

The lethal war with Kalinga transformed the vengeful Emperor Ashoka into a stable and peaceful emperor, and he became a patron of Buddhism. According to the prominent Indologist, A. L. Basham, Ashoka's personal religion became Buddhism, if not before, then certainly after the Kalinga War.

• Most of Ashoka’s inscriptions were in Prakrit and were written in the Brahmi script.

The Arthashastra is an ancient Indian Sanskrit treatise on statecraft, economic policy and military strategy. Kautilya, also identified as Vishnugupta and Chanakya, is traditionally credited as the author of the text. The latter was a scholar at Takshashila, the teacher and guardian of Emperor Chandragupta Maurya. Hence the answer is option (B).

Book written by Chanakya:

• Arthashastra: This is a book written by Chanakya, also known as Kautilya or Vishnugupta. It is an ancient Indian treatise on statecraft, economic policy, and military strategy. It covers various topics such as governance, law, economics, diplomacy, and espionage. The Arthashastra is considered one of the most influential texts in the field of political science.


• Rajnikit Shastra: This book is not written by Chanakya. It does not pertain to his works.


• Rajtarangini: This book is not written by Chanakya. It is a historical chronicle of the kings of Kashmir, written by Kalhana in the 12th century.


• Vinaya Pitaka: This book is not written by Chanakya. It is a part of the Tripitaka, the canonical scriptures of Buddhism.

Therefore, the correct answer is Arthashastra.

Occupations followed by people within the Mauryan Empire:
- Craftsmanship
- Farming
- Hunting
Occupation not followed by the people within the Mauryan Empire:
- Tailoring
Detailed
The Mauryan Empire, which existed in ancient India, was known for its organized administration and diverse economic activities. The people within the Mauryan Empire were engaged in various occupations to sustain their livelihoods. However, tailoring was not one of the occupations followed by the people within the Mauryan Empire.
Reasons:
- Limited evidence: There is limited historical evidence or records that suggest tailoring was a prominent occupation within the Mauryan Empire.
- Cultural context: The society within the Mauryan Empire had a distinct division of labor, with specific roles and occupations assigned to different groups of people. Tailoring might not have been considered a significant occupation within this context.
- Economy and resources: The main economic activities within the Mauryan Empire were centered around agriculture, craftsmanship, and trade. Tailoring, although it existed in some form, might not have been a major occupation due to the availability of other resources and economic opportunities.
In conclusion, while craftsmanship, farming, and hunting were occupations followed by the people within the Mauryan Empire, tailoring was not a prominent occupation during that time.

Ashoka conveyed his message to the people through carving on inscriptions.
- Carving on inscriptions: Ashoka used rocks and pillars to inscribe his messages. These inscriptions were carved in various places across his empire, such as in major cities, along trade routes, and near important religious sites.
- Content of inscriptions: The inscriptions contained Ashoka's edicts, which were his policies and principles for good governance and moral conduct. They covered a wide range of topics, including social and religious tolerance, non-violence, respect for elders, and welfare measures for the people.
- Multilingual approach: Ashoka's inscriptions were written in multiple languages of the time, including Prakrit, Greek, and Aramaic. This ensured that people from different regions and linguistic backgrounds could understand his message.
- Wide distribution: The inscriptions were strategically placed in prominent locations, accessible to a large number of people. This allowed for widespread dissemination of Ashoka's message and ensured that it reached a diverse audience.
- Educational purpose: Along with conveying his policies, Ashoka's inscriptions also served an educational purpose. They aimed to educate and enlighten the people about moral values and the principles of good governance.
- Enduring legacy: Ashoka's inscriptions have survived through the centuries, and many can still be found in present-day India, Nepal, and Afghanistan. They continue to provide valuable insights into Ashoka's reign and his efforts to promote peace, harmony, and ethical conduct among his subjects.

Bimbisara was the son of Bhattiya, a chieftain. He ascended to throne at the age of 15 in 543 BC. He established the Haryanka dynasty laid the foundations of Magadha by fortification of a village, which later became the city of Pataliputra. Bimbisara's first capital was at Girivraja (identified with Rajagriha).

Adviser of Chandragupta Maurya - Solution

• Option A: Buddha


• Option B: Tansen


• Option C: Kautilya


• Option D: Birbal

The correct answer is Option C: Kautilya.

Here is a detailed explanation:

1. Chandragupta Maurya

Chandragupta Maurya was the founder of the Maurya Empire in ancient India. He ruled from 322 BCE to 298 BCE.

2. Importance of Advisers

Advisers played a crucial role in the governance and decision-making process of ancient rulers. They provided guidance, advice, and strategic insights to the rulers.

3. Kautilya - The Adviser of Chandragupta Maurya

Kautilya, also known as Chanakya or Vishnugupta, was the chief adviser and mentor of Chandragupta Maurya. He was a renowned scholar, economist, and political strategist.

4. Role of Kautilya

Kautilya played a pivotal role in shaping the policies, administration, and military strategies of the Maurya Empire. He authored the famous treatise called "Arthashastra," which encompassed various aspects of governance and statecraft.

5. Arthashastra

The "Arthashastra" written by Kautilya provided guidelines for efficient governance, including principles of economics, taxation, diplomacy, espionage, and warfare. It served as a comprehensive manual for rulers and administrators.

6. Legacy of Kautilya

Kautilya's teachings and principles continue to be studied and revered in the field of political science and administration. His contributions to the Maurya Empire and his strategic insights have had a lasting impact on Indian history.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option C: Kautilya, as he was the adviser of Chandragupta Maurya.

According to Arthashastra, during the Mauryan period North-West was important for blankets. 
 

tax was a compulsory payment to be made to the ruler and all those under the obligation had to pay.

Explanation:
The national emblem of India is derived from the Lion Capital of Ashoka, which is a sculpture of four lions standing back to back on a circular abacus. This sculpture is originally from the pillar at Sarnath, near Varanasi in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. The Lion Capital of Ashoka was erected by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE and is considered to be one of the finest examples of Mauryan art and architecture.
- The national emblem of India is based on the Lion Capital of Ashoka.
- The Lion Capital of Ashoka is a sculpture of four lions standing back to back on a circular abacus.
- The sculpture is originally from the pillar at Sarnath, near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India.
- Emperor Ashoka erected the Lion Capital of Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.
- The Lion Capital of Ashoka is considered to be one of the finest examples of Mauryan art and architecture.
- The national emblem of India symbolizes power, courage, and the rich cultural heritage of the country.

Chanakya was also known as Kautilya

• Introduction: Chanakya, a prominent figure in ancient Indian history, was a statesman, economist, philosopher, and royal advisor.


• Alternate Name: He was also known by the name Kautilya, which was derived from his clan name Kutala.


• Author of Arthashastra: Chanakya is famously known for writing the Arthashastra, an ancient Indian treatise on statecraft, economic policy, and political strategy. He wrote it under the pen name Kautilya.


• Advisor to Chandragupta Maurya: Chanakya played a significant role in the establishment of the Maurya Empire. He served as the chief advisor to Chandragupta Maurya, the first Mauryan emperor.


• Political Influence: Chanakya's strategic thinking and political acumen were instrumental in Chandragupta Maurya's rise to power and the subsequent expansion of the Mauryan Empire.


• Legacy: Chanakya's teachings and principles continue to be studied and revered in modern times. His ideas on governance, economics, and diplomacy are still relevant and influential.

In conclusion, Chanakya, the renowned ancient Indian scholar, was also known as Kautilya. His contributions to statecraft and political philosophy under the name Kautilya continue to be admired and studied.

Prakrit word for Dharma
The Prakrit language is an ancient language from India and is closely related to Sanskrit. The word for Dharma in Prakrit is "Dhamma." Here is a detailed explanation:
Meaning of Dharma:
- Dharma is a Sanskrit term that can be translated as "duty," "righteousness," or "law."
- It refers to the moral and ethical principles that govern an individual's behavior and actions.
- Dharma is a fundamental concept in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
Prakrit Language:
- Prakrit is an ancient Indo-Aryan language that was spoken in the Indian subcontinent.
- It evolved from Vedic Sanskrit and was widely used in ancient Indian literature and scriptures.
- Prakrit was the language of the common people, while Sanskrit was used by the elite and for religious purposes.
Dhamma in Prakrit:
- In Prakrit, the word for Dharma is "Dhamma."
- The Prakrit language has different variations, such as Ardhamagadhi, Maharashtri, and Jain Prakrit, among others.
- The term "Dhamma" is used in various Prakrit texts, including Jain scriptures.
Importance of Dhamma:
- Dhamma emphasizes the importance of leading a righteous and ethical life.
- It guides individuals to fulfill their duties and responsibilities towards themselves, others, and the world.
- Dhamma promotes virtues such as honesty, compassion, non-violence, and self-discipline.
Conclusion:
- The Prakrit word for Dharma is "Dhamma."
- Dhamma is a fundamental concept in various Indian religions and emphasizes moral and ethical principles.
- Prakrit is an ancient language closely related to Sanskrit and was widely used in ancient Indian literature.
- Understanding the Prakrit word for Dharma helps in exploring the cultural and linguistic heritage of ancient India.

As the empire was so large, different parts were ruled differently. The area around Pataliputra was under the direct control of the emperor. This meant that officials were appointed to collect taxes from farmers, herders, crafts persons and traders, who lived in villages and towns in the area. There were other areas or provinces. Each of these was ruled from a provincial capital such as Taxila or Ujjain. Although there was some amount of control from Pataliputra, and royal princes were often sent as governors, local customs and rules were probably followed.

Ashoka was a great ruler and on his instructions inscriptions were carved on pillars.This stone pillar has carvings which tell us this pillar was built by Ashoka.

Ancient name of Coastal Orissa:
Kalinga
- The ancient name of Coastal Orissa is Kalinga.
- Kalinga was a historical region located on the eastern coast of India, encompassing parts of present-day Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.
- It was an important maritime trade center and had flourishing trade relations with Southeast Asia and other parts of the world.
- Kalinga is well-known for its rich cultural heritage, art, and architecture.
- The region played a significant role in the spread of Buddhism during the rule of Emperor Ashoka.
- The Kalinga War, fought between the Mauryan Empire led by Emperor Ashoka and the state of Kalinga, is a significant event in Indian history.
- The war resulted in a massive loss of life and inspired Ashoka to renounce violence and embrace Buddhism.
- The ancient name of Coastal Orissa as Kalinga is still remembered and revered for its historical significance.

The dynasty name of Ashoka was Maurya.
The Maurya Empire was geographically extensive Iron Age historical power based in Magadha dominated the Indian subcontinent between 322 and 185 BCE. Comprising the majority of South Asia, the Maurya Empire was centralized by the conquest of the Indo-Gangetic Plain, and its capital city was located at Pataliputra.

the tax was supposed to be paid by all of these.