The widespread use of iron in eastern Uttar Pradesh and western Bihar from the sixth century B.C. led to the formation of ___ states.

Large territorial

True or False: The Mahajanapadas included 16 large states during the Buddha's age, primarily located north of the Vindhyas.

True

Fill in the blank: The powerful state that emerged as the leading Mahajanapada was ___, which included districts like Patna and Gaya.

Magadha

What was the capital of the Kingdom of Anga?

Champa

True or False: The capital of the Malla kingdom was Kushinara, which is known as the place of Gautama Buddha's passing away.

True

Which Mahajanapada included the tribal republican territory of the Shakyas?

Kosala

Fill in the blank: The capital of the Vatsa kingdom was ___, located along the bank of the Yamuna.

Kaushambi

True or False: The Kurus and Panchalas were emerging states of great political importance during the time of the Mahajanapadas.

False: They were older states diminishing in political importance.

What were the two capitals of the Avanti state?

Ujjain (northern part) and Mahishamati (southern part)

Magadha was brought into prominence by which ruler?

Bimbisara of the Haryanka dynasty.

True or False: Ajatashatru was successful in his conflicts with both Kashi and Koshala.

True.

Ajatashatru used advanced war tactics including a ___ and a ___ attached chariot.

War engine; mace.

Fill in the blank: The dynasty that succeeded Bimbisara was the ___ dynasty.

Shishunaga.

What significant action did Mahapadma Nanda take to expand Magadhan power?

He conquered Kalinga

True or False: The later Nandas were known for their strength and popularity.

False. The later Nandas were weak and unpopular.

Fill in the blank: The fertile alluvial soil in Magadha supported the cultivation of various crops, particularly ___.

Paddy

What role did economic prosperity play in the expansion of Magadha?

Economic prosperity, driven by the rise of towns and the use of coins, enabled the Magadhan princes to levy tolls on trade, accumulating wealth for maintaining their armies.

Fill in the blank: Magadha pioneered the use of ___ on a large scale in warfare, which was crucial for storming fortresses.

Elephants

True or False: The social structure of Magadha was homogenous and did not include groups looked down upon by orthodox society.

False. The social structure was unorthodox, including groups like the Kiratas and Magadhas, who were initially marginalized.

Discuss the importance of agricultural fertility to Magadha's success.

Agricultural fertility was critical as it provided the necessary resources to support a large population and army, enabling sustained military campaigns and economic stability.