Quiz: General Knowledge- 5 - Class 9

Who destroyed the Nalanda University?
The Nalanda University, located in present-day Bihar, India, was one of the world's oldest universities and a center of learning during ancient times. It was founded in the 5th century CE and flourished as a renowned Buddhist center of education and research. However, the university met its unfortunate demise due to various invasions. The destruction of Nalanda University is attributed to:
Bakhtiyar Khilji:
- Bakhtiyar Khilji, a Turkish military general, is widely believed to have led the invasion and destruction of Nalanda University in 1193 CE.
- He was a commander under the Delhi Sultanate and attacked the university during his conquest of Bihar.
- Bakhtiyar Khilji and his forces set fire to the university, resulting in the destruction of its extensive library, temples, and educational facilities.
Therefore, the correct answer is C: Bakhtiyar Khilji as the one who destroyed the Nalanda University.

Smallest Continent: Australia
- Australia is the smallest continent in the world. Here's why:
Comparing the Continents:
- Antarctica: It is the southernmost continent and the fifth-largest continent in terms of land area. While it is the coldest continent, it is not the smallest.
- Europe: Europe is the second-smallest continent by land area, but it has a significantly higher population and is densely populated.
- North America: North America is the third-largest continent by land area, covering a vast region from Canada to Mexico. It is not the smallest continent.
- Australia: Australia is the smallest continent, located between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It is also the only continent that is a single country.
Size and Land Area:
- Australia has a land area of approximately 7.6 million square kilometers, making it significantly smaller than other continents.
- Its smaller size is primarily due to its isolation as an island continent, separate from other land masses.
- The continent consists of mainland Australia, Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands.
Population and Geography:
- Despite its small size, Australia has a population of around 25 million people (as of 2021).
- The continent is known for its diverse landscapes, including vast deserts, tropical rainforests, and stunning coastlines.
- Australia is home to unique wildlife, such as kangaroos, koalas, and various endemic species.
In conclusion, the smallest continent in the world is Australia, with its relatively small land area and distinct geographical features.

When was Gandhi-Irwin Pact signed?
The Gandhi-Irwin Pact was signed on March 5, 1931.
Explanation:
The Gandhi-Irwin Pact, also known as the Delhi Pact, was an agreement signed between Mahatma Gandhi and Lord Irwin, the then Viceroy of India, on March 5, 1931. This pact marked an important milestone in India's struggle for independence from British colonial rule. Here are some key points regarding the signing of the pact:
- Purpose: The pact aimed to resolve the issues arising from the Civil Disobedience Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi and the subsequent arrest of many Indian nationalists.
- Negotiations: The negotiations for the pact took place between Gandhi and Lord Irwin in February 1931. The main points of discussion were the release of political prisoners, the withdrawal of the salt tax, and the participation of the Indian National Congress in the Second Round Table Conference.
- Terms of the Pact: The Gandhi-Irwin Pact consisted of several important provisions, including the release of all political prisoners except those charged with violence, the return of confiscated properties, the permission to make salt for personal use, and the participation of Congress representatives in the Second Round Table Conference.
- Impact: The signing of the pact led to a temporary truce between the Indian National Congress and the British government. It also marked the beginning of a series of negotiations and discussions between the two parties to find a lasting solution to India's struggle for independence.
In conclusion, the Gandhi-Irwin Pact was signed on March 5, 1931, and it played a significant role in shaping the future course of India's independence movement.

Location of Nalanda in India:
Nalanda is located in the state of Bihar, India.
Key Points:
- Nalanda is a town in Bihar, situated in the northeastern part of India.
- It is approximately 95 kilometers southeast of the capital city, Patna.
- The town of Nalanda is renowned for its historical and cultural significance.
- Nalanda is famously known for the ancient Nalanda University, which was one of the most prestigious centers of learning in ancient India.
- The ruins of the Nalanda University are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attract tourists from all over the world.
- The town is also home to other important archaeological sites, including the Nalanda Museum and the Nalanda Mahavihara, which provide insights into the rich history and heritage of the region.
In summary:
Nalanda is located in the state of Bihar, India. It is known for its ancient Nalanda University and is a significant historical and cultural site. The town attracts tourists who are interested in exploring the rich heritage of the region.

Answer:
Introduction:
The second smallest continent is Europe. Europe is a diverse and historic continent located entirely in the Northern Hemisphere. It is bordered by the Arctic Ocean to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the west, and the Mediterranean Sea to the south.
Detailed Explanation:
Here is a detailed explanation of why Europe is the second smallest continent:
1. Land Area:
Europe has a land area of approximately 10.18 million square kilometers, making it the second smallest continent in terms of land area.
2. Population:
Europe is also the second most populous continent in the world, with a population of over 700 million people. This high population density is due to the presence of many developed and densely populated countries in Europe.
3. Size Comparisons:
Comparing Europe to other continents, we can see the following:
- Europe is smaller than Asia, which is the largest continent.
- Europe is smaller than Africa, which is the second-largest continent.
- Europe is smaller than North America, which is the third-largest continent.
- Europe is smaller than South America, which is the fourth-largest continent.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Europe is the second smallest continent in terms of both land area and population. It is situated in the Northern Hemisphere and is bordered by the Arctic Ocean, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Mediterranean Sea.

Abiy Ahmed is the Prime Minister of Ethiopia.

• Background: Abiy Ahmed is an Ethiopian politician and the current Prime Minister of Ethiopia. He assumed office on April 2, 2018.


• Role: As the Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed is the head of government and holds the highest executive authority in Ethiopia.


• Reforms and Achievements: During his tenure, Abiy Ahmed has implemented several significant reforms and policies, both domestically and internationally, aimed at promoting peace, stability, and economic development in Ethiopia.


• Peace Initiatives: Abiy Ahmed played a crucial role in normalizing relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea, ending a 20-year-long conflict, and establishing peace between the two nations.


• Political Reforms: He has also initiated political reforms within Ethiopia, including the release of political prisoners, the lifting of bans on opposition groups, and the promotion of a more inclusive political environment.


• Economic Development: Abiy Ahmed has focused on economic development and has implemented various policies to attract foreign investment, boost infrastructure development, and improve the overall economy of Ethiopia.

In conclusion, Abiy Ahmed is the Prime Minister of Ethiopia and has been instrumental in bringing about significant political and diplomatic changes in the country. His leadership and reforms have been recognized both nationally and internationally.

Spouse of Chandragupta Maurya:
Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Maurya Empire in ancient India, had multiple spouses. However, the most well-known and prominent spouse of Chandragupta Maurya was Durdhara.
Durdhara:
- Durdhara was the primary and most renowned spouse of Chandragupta Maurya.
- She was the daughter of the chief of the Licchavi tribe, which was a powerful clan in ancient India.
- Durdhara played a significant role in the life of Chandragupta Maurya and the formation of the Maurya Empire.
- She is also known for an incident where she saved Chandragupta's life by consuming a poisonous meal intended for him.
- Durdhara gave birth to Chandragupta's son, Bindusara, who later succeeded him as the Emperor of the Maurya Empire.
It is important to note that Sanghamitta, Charumati, and Kunala were not the spouses of Chandragupta Maurya. Sanghamitta was the daughter of Emperor Ashoka, Charumati was the wife of Emperor Ashoka, and Kunala was the son of Emperor Ashoka.

Which is the Second Largest continent?

The second largest continent in the world is Africa.
Explanation:
To determine the second largest continent, we need to compare the land area of each continent. Here is a breakdown of the land areas of the continents:
- Africa: Africa is the second largest continent, covering approximately 30.37 million square kilometers.
- Antarctica: Although Antarctica is the fifth largest continent in terms of land area, it is mostly covered by ice and has a very limited population.
- Europe: Europe is the sixth largest continent, covering approximately 10.18 million square kilometers.
- None of These: This option is incorrect as Africa is indeed the second largest continent.
Therefore, the correct answer is C: Africa.

Second Buddhist Council

The Second Buddhist Council was an important event in the history of Buddhism. It took place approximately 100 years after the passing of Gautama Buddha. The council was convened to settle disputes and clarify the teachings of Buddhism.

Presiding Monk

• Sabakami: The Second Buddhist Council was presided over by Sabakami, a respected monk from the city of Vaisali. He was chosen to lead the council due to his deep knowledge and understanding of Buddhist scriptures.

Significance of the Council

• The Second Buddhist Council was primarily held to address the growing differences in interpretation of Buddhist teachings.


• It aimed to reinforce the purity and authenticity of Buddhist doctrine.


• The council focused on clarifying and preserving the Vinaya, the code of discipline for monks and nuns.


• During the council, various sects and schools of Buddhism were analyzed and evaluated.


• Controversial teachings and practices were discussed, and decisions were made to maintain doctrinal unity.

Outcome

• The council resulted in the expulsion of certain monks who held views contradictory to the established Buddhist principles.


• Efforts were made to preserve the teachings of Buddhism and maintain the purity of the monastic community.


• The council also led to the development of new commentaries and scriptures to further elucidate the Buddha's teachings.

In conclusion, the Second Buddhist Council was presided over by Sabakami, and it played a crucial role in consolidating and preserving the teachings of Buddhism. The council addressed doctrinal disputes and ensured the continuity of the Buddhist tradition.

Sri Gupta was the founder of the Gupta Empire, also known as the Gupta Dynasty. Here is a detailed explanation of the answer:
Background:
- The Gupta Empire was an ancient Indian empire that existed from around 240 to 550 CE.
- It is considered a golden age in Indian history, known for advancements in art, science, mathematics, and literature.
Founder:
- The founder of the Gupta Empire was Sri Gupta.
- Sri Gupta was a king from the Gupta clan who established his rule in the Magadha region in northern India.
- He laid the foundation of the Gupta Dynasty and started the Gupta Empire.
Significance of Sri Gupta:
- Sri Gupta is considered the first ruler of the Gupta Empire.
- He expanded his kingdom through military conquests and alliances.
- Sri Gupta's reign marked the beginning of a period of stability and prosperity for the empire.
Successors:
- Sri Gupta was succeeded by his son, Ghatotkacha.
- Ghatotkacha was succeeded by his son, Chandragupta I, who played a significant role in expanding the Gupta Empire.
Conclusion:
- Sri Gupta was the founder of the Gupta Empire, also known as the Gupta Dynasty.
- His reign marked the beginning of a golden age in Indian history.
- Sri Gupta's successors, including Chandragupta I, further consolidated and expanded the empire.