Test: History - 1 - SSC CGL MCQ

Answer: C. Harshavardhana

Explanation:
Banabhatta as Court Poet:
- Banabhatta was a renowned Sanskrit scholar and poet.
- He served as the court poet under Emperor Harshavardhana.
- Harshavardhana was a prominent Indian emperor who ruled during the 7th century CE.
- Banabhatta composed two major works: Kadambari and Harshacharita.
Kadambari:
- Kadambari is a romantic novel in Sanskrit literature.
- It is known for its intricate plot and vivid descriptions.
- The novel is named after its central female character, Kadambari.
Harshacharita:
- Harshacharita is a biography of Emperor Harshavardhana.
- It provides valuable insights into the life and times of the emperor.
- The work describes the political, cultural, and social aspects of Harshavardhana's reign.

In summary, Banabhatta was a talented poet and scholar who served as the court poet of Emperor Harshavardhana. His works, such as Kadambari and Harshacharita, are significant contributions to Sanskrit literature and provide valuable information about the historical period during which he lived.

Answer: A - Rajaraja I

Rajaraja I and the Supremacy of Indian Navy in the Arabian Sea:
- Rajaraja I was a great Chola emperor who ruled from 985 CE to 1014 CE.
- He is credited with establishing the supremacy of the Indian Navy in the Arabian Sea.
- During his reign, Rajaraja I built a strong naval force and expanded the Chola Empire to include many territories in South India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.

Key factors contributing to Rajaraja I's naval supremacy:
1. Strategic location: The Chola Empire was located on the southeastern coast of India, which provided an advantageous position for controlling maritime trade routes in the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea.
2. Naval advancements: Rajaraja I invested in the development of advanced naval technologies, including warships and navigational equipment, to ensure the dominance of the Chola Navy.
3. Trade and diplomacy: Rajaraja I recognized the importance of maritime trade and established diplomatic relations with neighboring kingdoms and empires, allowing the Chola Navy to have access to strategic ports and resources.
4. Conquests and annexations: Rajaraja I expanded the Chola Empire through a series of conquests and annexations. He captured the island of Sri Lanka and established control over the Maldives, effectively securing control over crucial maritime trade routes in the Arabian Sea.
5. Effective administration: Rajaraja I maintained a strong and efficient administration system, which facilitated the smooth functioning of the navy and allowed it to remain a dominant force in the Arabian Sea.

In conclusion, Rajaraja I's strategic vision, investment in naval advancements, focus on trade and diplomacy, and effective administration allowed him to establish the supremacy of the Indian Navy in the Arabian Sea during his reign.Rajaraja Chola I created a powerful standing army and a considerable navy, which achieved even greater success under his son Rajendra Chola I. One of the last conquests of Rajaraja was the naval conquest of the 'old islands of the sea numbering 12,000', the Maldives. Chola Navy also had played a major role in the invasion of Lanka.

Answer: A. Kanishka
Explanation:

• The Saka Era, also known as the Shalivahana Era, was established by Kanishka, the emperor of the Kushan dynasty.
• Kanishka was a powerful ruler who reigned between 78 AD and 101 AD, and his empire extended from Central Asia to northern India.
• The Saka Era, which began in 78 AD, is still used in the Indian national calendar alongside the Vikram Samvat, which began in 57 BC.
• It is believed that Kanishka started the Saka Era to commemorate his victory over the Scythians, a Central Asian nomadic tribe.
• The Saka Era is particularly important in Indian history, as it is used to calculate dates for various historical events and has cultural and religious significance for many communities in India.
• The date of Kanishka's accession is disputed, ranging from 78 to 248. The generally accepted date of 78 is also the basis for an era presumably started by the akas and used in addition to the Gregorian calenr by the present-day Indian government Gandhara School of art is mainly related tona Buddhism which encouraged image work.

Answer: B 

Gandhara School of Art
- Origin: The Gandhara School of Art came into existence in the Mahayana sect of Buddhism.
- Time Period: It flourished between the 1st century BCE and 7th century CE, mainly in the Gandhara region, which is now in present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan.
- Influences: The art style was heavily influenced by Greco-Roman art, as the region was part of the Hellenistic world after the conquests of Alexander the Great.
- Iconography: The Gandhara School of Art is known for its unique iconography, which includes depictions of the Buddha with wavy hair, elongated earlobes, and a serene expression, often wearing Greek-style robes.
- Sculpture: The main focus of the Gandhara School of Art was on sculptural representations of Buddhist themes, such as the life of the Buddha and scenes from the Jataka tales.
- Materials: The artists mainly used grey schist, a type of metamorphic rock, and stucco for their sculptures.
- Legacy: The Gandhara School of Art had a significant impact on the development of Buddhist art in India and other parts of Asia, and its influence can be seen in the later styles of Central Asian and East Asian Buddhist art.Theahaya hip. The Kushan kings, particularly Kanishka, encouraged the Gandhara artists. The Gandhara scul ptures have been found in the ruins of Taxila and in various ancient sites in Afghanistan and in West Pakistan. They consist mostly of the images of the Buda and relief sculptures presenting scenes from Buddhist texts. A number of Bodhisattva figures were carved out. 

The correct option is A: Rudradaman

The Junagarh Rock Inscription is associated with **Rudradaman**.
Background:
- Rudradaman was a Saka ruler of the Western Kshatrapas dynasty in India.
- He ruled during the 2nd century CE, around 130-150 CE.
- The Junagarh Rock Inscription, also known as the Girnar Rock Inscription, is located at Girnar Hill in Junagarh, Gujarat, India.
Significance of the Junagarh Rock Inscription:
- The inscription is written in Sanskrit, using the Brahmi script.
- It is considered one of the earliest examples of written Sanskrit.
- The inscription provides detailed information about Rudradaman's rule, his military victories, and his public works projects.
- It also mentions the earlier Maurya and Saka rulers and their contributions to the region.
Key Takeaways:
- The Junagarh Rock Inscription is associated with the Saka ruler, Rudradaman.
- It is an important source of historical information about the Western Kshatrapas dynasty and early Indian history.
- The inscription demonstrates the use of Sanskrit and the Brahmi script in ancient India.The Junagadh rock inscription, found in Junagadh was carved under the orders of King Rudradaman who had obtained the title of Mahakshatrapa. He was the grandson of the famous Mahakshatrapa Chastana and was a Saka ruler from the Western Kshatrapa dynasty. 

The Correct Option is A : Buddhism

Nalanda University: A Great Center of Learning in Buddhism
Historical Background
- Nalanda University was an ancient center of higher education in India, located in present-day Bihar.
- It was established during the Gupta Empire in the 5th century CE and thrived until the 12th century.
- The university attracted scholars and students from various parts of the world, including China, Korea, Tibet, and Central Asia.
Focus on Buddhism
- Nalanda University was primarily a center for learning and research in Buddhism.
- It was associated with the Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions of Buddhism.
- The university played a crucial role in the development and dissemination of Buddhist teachings, philosophy, and literature.
- Many famous Buddhist scholars, such as Nagarjuna, Vasubandhu, and Dharmakirti, were associated with Nalanda University.
Curriculum and Learning
- While the main focus was on Buddhism, Nalanda University also offered a wide range of subjects, including logic, grammar, medicine, astronomy, and mathematics.
- The university had a vast library, which housed thousands of manuscripts and texts on various subjects.
- Students were required to engage in rigorous debates and discussions to deepen their understanding of the subjects.
Legacy
- The teachings and knowledge disseminated from Nalanda University had a significant impact on the spread of Buddhism across Asia.
- The university's decline began in the 12th century, when it was destroyed by invading forces.
- Today, the ruins of Nalanda University are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, serving as a reminder of its glorious past as a center of learning in Buddhism.

The Correct Option is B : Pali

Explanation:

• Historical Background: Pali is an ancient language that belongs to the Indo-Aryan family of languages. It was widely used in Northern India, particularly in the region of Magadha, where Buddhism originated.
• Association with Buddhism: Pali is closely associated with Theravada Buddhism, as it is the language in which the early Buddhist scriptures, known as the Pali Canon or Tipitaka, were written. These texts form the basis of Theravada Buddhist teachings and practices.
• Preservation of Oral Tradition: Prior to being written in Pali, the teachings of the Buddha were transmitted orally for several centuries. The use of Pali helped in preserving these teachings and making them accessible to a wider audience.
• Spread of Buddhism: As Buddhism spread across South and Southeast Asia, Pali became the main medium for the transmission of Buddhist teachings. This led to the development of Pali literature, which includes religious texts, commentaries, and historical accounts, in various regions such as Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, and Cambodia.
• Significance in Linguistics: Pali has also played a significant role in the study of Indo-Aryan languages and the history of Indian linguistics. Pali grammar, particularly the work of the scholar Kachayana, has influenced the study of Sanskrit and other Indian languages.

While Sanskrit, Brahmi, and Kharosthi were also used in ancient times for various purposes, Pali stands out as the primary language used to write source materials, particularly in the context of early Buddhism and the preservation of its teachings.

The Correct Answer is C: Hunas.

India's trade with the Roman Empire came to an end with the invasion of Rome by the Hunas. The reasons behind this disruption can be explained as follows:
1. Invasion of the Hunas:
- The Hunas were a nomadic tribe that originated from Central Asia.
- They invaded the Roman Empire in the 5th century AD, leading to the fall of the Western Roman Empire and the disruption of trade routes.
2. Disruption of Trade Routes:
- The invasion of the Hunas led to the collapse of the Western Roman Empire and the establishment of barbarian kingdoms in its place.
- These events disrupted the existing trade routes between India and the Roman Empire, resulting in a decline in trade between the two regions.
3. Shift in Trade Patterns:
- With the decline of the Roman Empire, trade patterns shifted towards the East.
- India began to establish trade relations with countries in East Asia and Southeast Asia, reducing the dependence on trade with the Roman Empire.
In conclusion, the invasion of Rome by the Hunas played a significant role in ending India's trade with the Roman Empire. This invasion disrupted trade routes and led to a shift in trade patterns towards the East, eventually resulting in the decline of trade between India and Rome.Roman trade with India started around the beginning of the Common Era following the reign of Augustus and his conquest of Egypt. 

The Correct Option is A: Pucca bricks

Indus Valley Civilization House Construction

• The people of the Indus Valley Civilization primarily built their houses using pucca bricks (answer A).
• Pucca bricks were made from baked mud, which was a readily available material in the region.
• These bricks were durable, strong, and resistant to moisture, making them an ideal building material for the houses in the Indus Valley Civilization.
• While stone and wood may have been used occasionally, pucca bricks were the most common and preferred building material in the Indus Valley Civilization.
• The Indus Valley Civilization, marked by its remarkable level of urbanization despite being a Bronze Age culture, is noted for its cities built of brick, roadside drainage systems, and multistoried houses. Houses were one or two stories high, made of baked brick, with flat roofs, and were just about identical. Each was built around a courtyard, with windows overlooking the courtyard.
• The outside walls had no windows. Each home had its own private drinking well and its own private bathroom.

The Correct Answer: D. Kanishka in AD 78
Explanation:
- The Saka Era was started by King Kanishka.
- Kanishka was a ruler of the Kushan Empire, which was a central Asian empire that extended into South Asia.
- The Saka Era began in AD 78, marking the beginning of Kanishka's reign.
- This era was used as a calendar reference in India and other parts of South Asia. Most of what is known about Kanishka derives from Chinese sources, particularly Buddhist writings When Kanishka came to the throne is uncertain. His accession has been estimated as occurring between his reigns is believed to have lasted 23 years. The year 78 marks the beginning of the Saka era, a system of dating that Kanishka might have initiated.

The Correct Answer is C : Indus Valley Civilization

Explanation 
Archaeological evidence:
- Numerous terracotta figurines of female deities have been discovered at various Indus Valley Civilization sites, such as Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa.
- These figurines are characterized by their intricate craftsmanship and prominent feminine features, such as wide hips, large breasts, and elaborate headdresses, signifying fertility and abundance.
Role in the society:
- The prevalence of these figurines suggests that the Mother Goddess held a central role in the religious beliefs and practices of the Indus Valley Civilization.
- As a fertility deity, the Mother Goddess was likely associated with agricultural prosperity, the growth of crops, and the overall well-being of the community.
Continuation of the tradition:
- The worship of the Mother Goddess continued even after the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization, as seen in the later Vedic Civilization and other ancient Indian cultures.
- The worship of goddesses like Durga, Kali, and Parvati in Hinduism can be traced back to the early Mother Goddess cults of the Indus Valley Civilization.
In conclusion, the worship of the Mother Goddess was an important aspect of the religious and cultural practices of the Indus Valley Civilization, as evidenced by the numerous archaeological findings and the continued tradition of goddess worship in subsequent Indian civilizations.In view of the large number of figurines found in the Indus valley, some scholars believe that the Harappan people worshipped a Mother goddess symbolizing fertility, a common practice among rural Hindus even today.

The Correct Answer is A: Hydaspes

Background of the Battle

• Alexander the Great was a Macedonian king who embarked on a conquest to expand his empire across Asia.
• King Porus was a powerful Indian ruler who governed the region between the rivers Hydaspes (modern-day Jhelum) and Acesines (modern-day Chenab) in present-day Punjab, Pakistan.
• Alexander, as part of his conquest, reached the Indian subcontinent and wanted to expand his empire further east.
• Porus, determined to defend his kingdom, prepared to face the invading army of Alexander.

The Battle of Hydaspes

• The battle between Alexander and Porus took place in 326 BCE at the river Hydaspes (modern-day Jhelum).
• This battle is considered one of the most significant and hard-fought battles in Alexander's military campaigns.
• Alexander's army was technologically and strategically superior, while Porus' forces were known for their bravery and war elephants.
• Despite facing a fierce resistance from Porus' army, Alexander managed to emerge victorious in the battle.

Significance and Aftermath

• After the battle, Alexander was highly impressed by Porus' courage and decided to let him retain his kingdom as a satrap under Alexander's rule.
• The victory at the Battle of Hydaspes marked the easternmost extent of Alexander's conquests.
• The battle also showcased the tactical brilliance of Alexander and the valor of Indian soldiers and their war elephants, which later influenced warfare in the region.
• However, the exhausted and homesick Macedonian army refused to march further east, forcing Alexander to abandon his plans of conquering the entire Indian subcontinent.

The Correct Answer is A: Pallavas

Explanation:
Mahabalipuram and the Pallavas
- Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a town in the southeastern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is famous for its ancient rock-cut temples, cave sanctuaries, and other historical monuments.
- The city was an important center of art, architecture, and culture during the reign of the Pallava dynasty (3rd to 9th centuries CE).
- The Pallavas were a South Indian dynasty that ruled over a large portion of present-day Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and parts of Karnataka.
- The rulers of the Pallava dynasty were great patrons of the arts, and they commissioned numerous temples, sculptures, and monuments during their rule.
Significance of Mahabalipuram in Pallava Art and Architecture
- The monuments and temples at Mahabalipuram are some of the finest examples of Dravidian-style architecture and sculpture.
- The most famous monuments at Mahabalipuram include the Shore Temple, the Five Rathas, and the Arjuna's Penance relief.
- The Shore Temple, built in the 8th century CE, is one of the oldest stone temples in India and is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures.
- The Five Rathas are a group of monolithic rock-cut temples, each dedicated to a different Hindu god and named after the five Pandava brothers from the epic Mahabharata.
- The Arjuna's Penance relief is a large rock carving that depicts scenes from the Mahabharata and is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of Indian art.
- The artists and sculptors of the Pallava period were skilled in working with different materials, including granite, sandstone, and wood, showcasing their mastery of various techniques and styles.
 

The Correct Option is D : Pavapuri

Lord Mahavira's Death
- Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism, passed away at Pavapuri.
- Pavapuri is located in the Nalanda district of Bihar, India.
- At the time of his death, Lord Mahavira was 72 years old.
- His death marked the beginning of the end of the Vardhaman Mahavira era, which lasted for about 30 years after his Nirvana (liberation).
- Lord Mahavira attained Moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death) at Pavapuri, and it is considered a sacred place by Jains.
- Pavapuri is an important pilgrimage site for Jains, and it houses several temples dedicated to Lord Mahavira and other Tirthankaras.

The Correct Option is B : The Greeks

Introduction of Gold Coins in India
- The gold coins were introduced first in India by the Greeks.
- The Greeks came to India after the conquests of Alexander the Great in the 4th century BCE.
Indo-Greek Kingdom
- The Indo-Greek Kingdom was established by Demetrius I around 180 BCE.
- The kingdom was centered in the northwestern regions of India, including present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Gold Coins
- The Indo-Greek kings were the first to introduce gold coins in India.
- These gold coins were called Dinars.
- The coins had inscriptions in both Greek and Kharoshthi scripts.
- They featured portraits of the kings and various deities, representing a fusion of Greek and Indian art.
Impact on Indian Coinage
- The introduction of gold coins by the Greeks had a lasting impact on the Indian coinage system.
- Subsequent empires and dynasties in India, including the Kushanas, Sakas, and Parthians, continued to mint gold coins.
- The use of gold coins in India persisted until the end of the Gupta Empire in the 6th century CE..

Answer: C. The Cholas

Explanation:
- The Chola dynasty, also known as the Imperial Cholas, was a prominent Tamil dynasty that ruled primarily over the southern region of India and also extended their influence over Sri Lanka and Southeast Asian countries.
Conquest of Sri Lanka:
- The Chola king, Rajaraja Chola I, invaded Sri Lanka in 993 AD, and his son Rajendra Chola I continued the conquest, eventually annexing the entire island by 1017 AD.
- The Cholas ruled Sri Lanka for about seven decades, during which time they built several temples and monuments, including the Siva Devale temple in Polonnaruwa.
Expansion in Southeast Asia:
- Rajendra Chola I, who ruled from 1014 to 1044 AD, was responsible for the Chola dynasty's expansion in Southeast Asia.
- His naval expeditions led to the conquest of the Maldives, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and parts of present-day Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand.
- The Cholas established trade relations with the Southeast Asian countries, particularly the Srivijaya empire in present-day Indonesia.
- The Chola navy was instrumental in controlling the maritime trade routes in the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean, ensuring the prosperity of the Chola empire.

Answer: d. Pulakesin II
Explanation:
Pulakesin II was the most distinguished ruler of the Chalukyan dynasty, which ruled over the Deccan Plateau in India between the 6th and 12th centuries CE. He is considered the greatest ruler of the dynasty for several reasons:
- Expansion of the Chalukyan kingdom: During his reign, Pulakesin II expanded the Chalukyan kingdom significantly. He conquered many neighboring territories, such as the Kadambas of Banavasi, the Gangas of Mysore, and the Mauryas of Konkan, and also made inroads into the Pallava kingdom.
- Defeat of Harsha: In 612 CE, Pulakesin II defeated the powerful North Indian emperor Harsha in a battle fought on the banks of the river Narmada. This victory halted the northward expansion of Harsha's empire and established the supremacy of the Chalukyan dynasty in the Deccan region.
- Patronage of arts and literature: Pulakesin II was a great patron of arts and literature. His court was adorned with renowned scholars and literary figures, such as the poet Ravikirti, who authored the Aihole Prashasti, an important historical record of the time.
- Construction of temples and monuments: During Pulakesin II's reign, numerous temples and monuments were constructed, showcasing the Chalukyan style of architecture. Some of the most famous examples include the rock-cut temples at Aihole, Badami, and Pattadakal.
- Cultural and economic prosperity: Under Pulakesin II's rule, the Chalukyan empire experienced a period of cultural and economic prosperity. Trade and commerce flourished, and the Chalukyan kingdom became an important center for learning and the arts.

The Correct Option is B : Banabhatta

Harsha Charita was written by Banabhatta. Here's an explanation about the text and its author:
About Banabhatta:

• Banabhatta was a renowned Sanskrit scholar, poet, and writer who lived during the 7th century CE.
• He served as the court poet in the kingdom of Harsha, under the patronage of Emperor Harsha-Vardhana.
• Banabhatta is best known for his two major works, Harsha Charita and Kadambari.

About Harsha Charita:

• Harsha Charita, also known as the "Deeds of Harsha," is a biographical work that narrates the life of Emperor Harsha-Vardhana.
• It is considered to be the first historical biography in Sanskrit literature.
• The text provides an insight into the political, social, and cultural aspects of the 7th-century Indian society.
• Harsha Charita is not only a biography but also a piece of art, as Banabhatta has employed various poetic and literary devices in its composition.

In conclusion, Harsha Charita was written by Banabhatta, a renowned Sanskrit poet and writer who lived during the 7th century CE. The text is a biographical work that narrates the life of Emperor Harsha-Vardhana and provides valuable insights into the historical and cultural context of that time.

The Correct Option is C: Buddhist

Tripitaka: The Religious Book of Buddhists
The Tripitaka, also known as the Pali Canon, is the religious book of Buddhists. It is a collection of sacred writings that form the foundation of Buddhist teachings. The term "Tripitaka" literally means "Three Baskets," as the texts are traditionally divided into three main categories:
1. Sutta Pitaka:
- Contains the discourses of the Buddha and his teachings
- Consists of five collections, known as Nikayas
- Provides guidance on morality, meditation, and wisdom
2. Vinaya Pitaka:
- Deals with rules and regulations for the monastic community (Sangha)
- Covers various aspects of monastic life, including ordination, daily conduct, and disciplinary measures
- Aims to maintain harmony and order within the monastic community
3. Abhidhamma Pitaka:
- Contains detailed analysis and interpretation of Buddhist teachings
- Presents complex philosophical and psychological concepts in a systematic framework
- Explores the nature of mind, matter, and their interrelations
In summary, the Tripitaka is the religious book of Buddhists, containing the teachings of the Buddha, monastic rules, and detailed philosophical analysis. It serves as a comprehensive guide for Buddhists to follow in their spiritual journey.Tripitaka is the three main categories of texts that make up the Buddhist canon. As the name suggests a Tripitaka traditionally contains three "baskets" of teachings: a Sutra Pitaka, a Vinaya Pitaka and an Abhidharma Pitaka.

The Correct Option is A: Terracota

Harappan Seals: Material Used
The Harappan seals were mainly made of:
- Terracotta: This was the primary material used for making seals in the Harappan civilization. Terracotta is a type of clay-based ceramic that is fired at a relatively low temperature. It was readily available and easy to work with, making it the ideal material for creating seals.
Other materials used in the manufacture of Harappan seals, although less commonly, include:
- Steatite: Steatite, or soapstone, is a soft, easily carved stone that was used to create some of the more detailed and intricately designed seals. The steatite seals were often fired at high temperatures to make them harder and more durable.
- Faience: Faience is a type of glass-like material made by grinding quartz or sand and mixing it with an alkaline binder, such as plant ash or lime. Some Harappan seals were made of faience, which was then glazed and fired to create a hard, shiny surface.
- Metal: Although not as common, a few Harappan seals were made from metals like copper and bronze. These seals were likely reserved for high-ranking officials or used for special purposes due to the higher cost and difficulty of working with metal.
In conclusion, terracotta was the main material used in the manufacture of Harappan seals due to its availability and ease of use. While other materials like steatite, faience, and metal were also used, they were less common.Seals are an impressive part of surviving art of Harappan culture. Of these the great majority has animals engraved on them and a short inscription They are mainly made of terracotta which is a type of earthenware, or clay-based unglazed or glazed ceramic where the fired body is porous.