Class 6 History Chapter 7 Case Based Questions - From a Kingdom to an Empire

Case 1: Ashoka the Great's Message

Ashoka, the famous Mauryan ruler, played a pivotal role in shaping the history of ancient India. His unique approach to governance and his commitment to spreading a message of peace and ethical living had a profound impact on his empire. Here's a case based on Ashoka's life and beliefs:

Q1: What script was used in Ashoka's inscriptions?
Ans: Ashoka's inscriptions were written in the Brahmi script.

Q2: Describe Ashoka's war in Kalinga and its consequences.
Ans: Ashoka's war in Kalinga was a brutal conflict that led him to embrace non-violence.

Q3: What was the key focus of Ashoka's dhamma, and how did he address societal issues?
Ans: Ashoka's dhamma focused on ethical living and addressing societal problems.

Q4: Explain the role of the dhamma mahamatta in Ashoka's administration.
Ans: The dhamma mahamatta were officials appointed by Ashoka to spread his message.

Q5: How did Ashoka spread his message of dhamma beyond the borders of his empire?
Ans: Ashoka spread his message of dhamma through inscriptions, messengers, and actions beyond his empire's borders.

Case 2: Ruling the Mauryan Empire

The Mauryan Empire under Ashoka's rule was vast and diverse. Ruling such a large empire presented unique challenges and administrative complexities. Let's explore this scenario:

Q6: How did the Mauryan Empire differ from smaller kingdoms in terms of resources and administration?
Ans: The Mauryan Empire needed more resources and larger armies compared to smaller kingdoms.

Q7: Describe the structure of the Mauryan administration, especially in the capital region around Pataliputra.
Ans: In the capital region around Pataliputra, officials collected taxes and enforced the ruler's orders.

Q8: Explain the role of provincial capitals like Taxila and Ujjain in governing the empire.
Ans: Provincial capitals like Taxila and Ujjain governed their regions with some control from Pataliputra.

Q9: What were the methods employed by the Mauryas to control resources, including roads and rivers?
Ans: The Mauryas controlled resources by managing key transportation routes.

Q10: Differentiate between taxes and tribute, and explain their collection methods during Ashoka's reign.
Ans: Taxes were collected regularly, while tribute was collected irregularly, sometimes unwillingly.

Case 3: The Lion Capital of Sarnath

The lion capital, a magnificent stone sculpture, has been an iconic symbol associated with Ashoka and his empire. Let's delve into the history and significance of this emblem:

Q11: How many lions are depicted in our national emblem?
Ans: The national emblem depicts four lions.

Q12: Describe the story behind the lion capital at Sarnath.
Ans: The lion capital at Sarnath was a symbol of strength and heritage.

Q13: What does the lion capital symbolize in terms of strength and heritage?
Ans: It represents Ashoka's embrace of Buddhism and his commitment to non-violence.

Q14: Explain the importance of symbols and emblems in the context of ancient Indian rulers.
Ans: Symbols and emblems conveyed important messages and values in ancient Indian rulership.

Q15: Discuss the historical and cultural significance of the lion capital in the Mauryan Empire.
Ans: The lion capital holds significant historical and cultural value for the Mauryan Empire.

Case 4: Empires vs. Kingdoms

Understanding the key differences between empires and kingdoms is essential to grasp the complexity of ancient governance. Let's explore this topic:

Q16: How do empires differ from kingdoms in terms of size, power, and administration?
Ans: Empires are larger and more powerful than kingdoms, with diverse territories.

Q17: What are the specific challenges emperors face, which kings may not encounter?
Ans: Emperors face challenges like resource management, larger armies, and diverse populations.

Q18: Explain the need for larger armies and officials in empires compared to kingdoms.
Ans: Emperors need more officials and armies compared to kings.

Q19: Describe the factors that made Chandragupta Maurya's empire distinct from a traditional kingdom.
Ans: Chandragupta Maurya's empire was distinct due to its size and centralized governance.

Q20: How did diversity in languages, food, and clothing manifest within the Mauryan Empire?
Ans: Diversity in languages, food, and clothing existed within the Mauryan Empire due to its vast expanse.

Case 5: Influence of Chanakya and the Arthashastra

The guidance of Chanakya, also known as Kautilya, played a crucial role in the rise and administration of the Mauryan Empire. Let's explore his influence:

Q21: Who was Chanakya, and what was the significance of his ideas in the Mauryan Empire?
Ans: Chanakya, or Kautilya, was a wise advisor who played a crucial role in the Mauryan Empire.

Q22: Describe the content and purpose of Chanakya's book, the Arthashastra.
Ans: The Arthashastra was a book written by Chanakya, focusing on statecraft and governance.

Q23: How did Chanakya's ideas contribute to the formation and governance of the Mauryan Empire?
Ans: Chanakya's ideas shaped the formation and governance of the Mauryan Empire.

Q24: Explain the role of wise advisors and ministers in the administration of empires.
Ans: Wise advisors and ministers were essential in governing empires effectively.

Q25: Discuss the lasting impact of Chanakya's teachings on ancient Indian governance and political thought.
Ans: Chanakya's teachings had a lasting impact on Indian governance and political thought.