Test: Trade & Commerce In The Pre Gupta & Gupta Period - UPSC MCQ

Yijing or I-tsing, was a Tang-era Chinese Buddhist monk famed as a traveler and translator. His account of his travels is an important source for the history of the medieval kingdoms along the sea route between China and India. He gave account of the first gupta ruler Srigupta.

Paharpur is in insignificant border hamlet about three miles West of Jamalgunj railway station, in Bogra district of Bangadesh on the main line of Bangladesh Eastern Railway.
There are inscribed copper plate grants and stone inscriptions, which throw light on the history of the site. The earliest is Copper Plate, dated 159 of Gupta era (478 AD), of the Budha Gupta period, found from the monastery area. It records the purchase and grant of land by Brahman couple, for maintenance of Arhats and resting place at Vihara, presided over by Jaina teacher Gahanandin and his disciple, and disciple of disciples.

The correct option is A.
- Devichandraguptam: This play, attributed to Vishakhadatta, provides information about the Gupta dynasty, particularly the succession of Chandragupta I. It covers the events leading to Chandragupta’s ascension to the throne and his consolidation of power.

- Mrichchakatika: Written by Shudraka, this play does not relate to the Gupta dynasty or Chandragupta I. It is a story focused on romance and societal issues.

- Abhijnana Sakuntalam: A famous play by Kalidasa about the story of Shakuntala and Dushyanta, unrelated to Gupta history.

- Kaumudi Mahotsava: A Sanskrit play by a later author, not directly linked to the succession of Chandragupta I.

Thus, the correct answer is A: Devichandraguptam.

The correct option is Option B. 
Samudragupta inscription. A later inscription, also known as the Prayag Prashasti, is attributed to the 4th century CE Gupta emperor Samudragupta, and follows immediately below the edicts of Ashoka. It is considered "the most important historical document of the classical Gupta age".
Two other records are attributed to Samudragupta's reign, but the genuineness of these records is disputed:
Nalanda inscription, dated to the regnal year 5
Gaya inscription, dated to the regnal year 9
The Eran inscription of Samudragupta is of considerable historical and epigraphic interest. 

Chronological Order of Famous Ancient Indian Astronomers and Mathematicians:

The correct chronological order of the following famous Ancient Indian astronomers and mathematicians is:

I. Aryabhatta

II. Varahamihira

III. Brahmagupta

IV. Bhaskara

Explanation:

The chronological order of these astronomers and mathematicians can be determined based on the time periods in which they lived and made significant contributions to their respective fields.

• Aryabhatta: Aryabhatta was an ancient Indian mathematician and astronomer who lived during the 5th century. He is known for his work on mathematics, including the concept of zero and the decimal system.


• Varahamihira: Varahamihira was an Indian astronomer and mathematician who lived during the 6th century. He made significant contributions to the field of astronomy, including the calculation of planetary positions and the prediction of eclipses.


• Brahmagupta: Brahmagupta was an Indian mathematician and astronomer who lived during the 7th century. He is known for his work on mathematics, including the development of algebra and the study of quadratic equations.


• Bhaskara: Bhaskara was an Indian mathematician and astronomer who lived during the 12th century. He made significant contributions to both mathematics and astronomy, including the development of trigonometry and the study of planetary motion.

Therefore, the correct chronological order of these famous Ancient Indian astronomers and mathematicians is I. Aryabhatta, II. Varahamihira, III. Brahmagupta, IV. Bhaskara.

Option A: I, II, III, IV is the correct answer.

The correct option is A.
St. Thomas came to India in the reign of Parthians.Gondophernes, also spelled Gondophares, (flourished 1st century ce), an Indo-Parthian king in the areas of Arachosia, Kabul, and Gandhara (present Afghanistan and Pakistan).

An important feature of Vaishnavism in the Gupta Age was the popular worship of the avatars, i.e. descents or incarnations of Vishnu. Epigraphic and literary records of the period throw light on the evolution of the theory of avatara, the germ of which is, however, to be traced in the later Vedic literature.

B is the correct option. Unlike the age old and pre-Gupta gahapatis, Internecine wars amongst the Cholas, Pandyas and the Cheras, on between the 8th and 15th century which had no bearing,as such, before

The correct option is D.
The lamentation of the Roman writer Pliny in the 1st century A.D refers to heavy drain of Gold from Roman into India in payment of her imports from India. He writes that the drain of Gold is in return for unproductive luxuries.

Factors that gave a fillip to trade and commerce in the pre-Gupta period:
1. The need of the Roman empire:
- The Roman empire had a high demand for Indian goods such as textiles, spices, precious stones, and metals.
- This created a significant opportunity for trade and commerce as Indian merchants were able to cater to the needs of the Roman empire.
2. The coming of banking system led to the emergence of financiers or sreshthins:
- The emergence of a banking system facilitated the growth of trade and commerce.
- Financiers, known as sreshthins, played a crucial role in financing trade transactions and providing credit to merchants.
- They also acted as intermediaries between buyers and sellers, further promoting trade.
3. Introduction of superior coins:
- The introduction of superior coins, such as gold coins, by the Gupta rulers boosted trade and commerce.
- These coins were widely accepted and facilitated smooth transactions, leading to increased trade activities.
4. Establishment of guild system:
- The establishment of guilds provided a structured framework for trade and commerce.
- Guilds ensured fair practices, regulated prices, resolved disputes, and provided a platform for merchants to collaborate and protect their interests.
- This system promoted trust and encouraged merchants to engage in trade more actively.
In conclusion, while all the factors mentioned above played a significant role in promoting trade and commerce in the pre-Gupta period, the need of the Roman empire stands out as the most important factor. The demand from the Roman empire created a thriving trade network and opened up opportunities for Indian merchants to expand their businesses.

A review is presented of the surviving primary evidence of Hippalus as the discoverer of the trade route that allowed sailing vessels to run before the wind from the mouth of the Arabian Sea to the southern ports of India during the summer, and return with the winter monsoon during the 1st century ce.

The correct option is D.
The Sakas and Kushanas used two trade routes from north-western frontier to the western seacoast of India that was Taxila.

Statement Analysis:
A: The trade with south-east Asia was vigorously pursued by all the coastal areas of India.
B: The trade with south-east Asia was occasioned by the demand of Rome of more and more of spices.
C: While the impact of Greeco-Roman ideas was more evident in the North, the South witnessed the impact of Roman trade.
D: Trade grew further when Indian traders settled in south-east Asia.

The correct answer is A. The statement "The trade with south-east Asia was vigorously pursued by all the coastal areas of India" is not correct. It is important to note that the trade with southeast Asia was not vigorously pursued by all the coastal areas of India during the pre-Gupta period. The other statements are correct:
- B: The trade with southeast Asia was indeed occasioned by the demand of Rome for more and more spices. The Romans had a high demand for spices, which led to increased trade with southeast Asia.
- C: While the impact of Greeco-Roman ideas was more evident in the North, the South witnessed the impact of Roman trade. This statement is accurate, as the South of India experienced the influence of Roman trade.
- D: Trade grew further when Indian traders settled in southeast Asia. This statement is correct, as Indian traders played a significant role in establishing trade networks and settlements in southeast Asia, leading to further growth in trade.
In conclusion, the correct answer is A: The trade with southeast Asia was not vigorously pursued by all the coastal areas of India.

The Periplus of the Erythrean Sea
The Periplus of the Erythrean Sea is an ancient Greek manuscript that provides a detailed account of the maritime trade routes and commercial activities in the Indian Ocean during the 1st century CE. It was written by an anonymous author, commonly referred to as the "Periplus writer." The book covers a wide range of topics related to trade, geography, and culture.
Main focus of the Periplus of the Erythrean Sea:
The main focus of the Periplus of the Erythrean Sea is on the Indian exports to the Roman world. It provides valuable information about the trade networks, commodities, and trading ports along the coast of the Indian Ocean. The book describes the various goods and products that were exported from different regions of India to the Roman Empire, including spices, pearls, textiles, precious stones, and exotic animals.
Other topics covered in the Periplus:
While the main emphasis of the Periplus is on Indian exports to the Roman world, it also provides insights into other aspects of the ancient maritime trade. Some of the other topics covered in the Periplus include:
1. Geography: The book describes the geographical features of the regions visited by the author, including the coastlines, rivers, mountains, and islands.
2. Trade routes: The Periplus provides detailed information about the trade routes followed by the merchants, including the ports they visited and the distances between them.
3. Local customs and cultures: The author describes the social and cultural practices of the people living in the regions visited, including their languages, religions, and political systems.
4. Navigation and sailing techniques: The Periplus includes valuable information about navigation, sailing techniques, and the use of celestial navigation for determining the position at sea.
5. Commercial relationships: The book highlights the commercial relationships between different regions and the role of intermediaries in facilitating trade.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Periplus of the Erythrean Sea primarily focuses on the Indian exports to the Roman world. It provides a comprehensive account of the trade routes, commodities, and trading ports along the coast of the Indian Ocean during the 1st century CE. However, it also covers various other topics related to geography, navigation, and local customs, making it a valuable source of information about the ancient maritime trade.

The most significant Roman export to India in the early centuries of the Christian era was a larger number of:

• Gold coins: The Roman Empire was known for its abundant gold reserves and minted gold coins, which were highly valued in trade.


• Silver coins: The Romans also exported a considerable number of silver coins, which were widely accepted as a form of currency in India.


• Horses: The Romans traded horses with India, as they had well-bred and strong horses that were in demand in various parts of the world.


• Red wares: The Romans were renowned for their pottery, including red wares, which were exported to India and appreciated for their quality and craftsmanship.

Explanation:
During the early centuries of the Christian era, the Roman Empire had extensive trade connections with India. The Romans exported a variety of goods to India, but the most significant export was a larger number of gold coins. These coins were highly valued in trade transactions and played a crucial role in facilitating economic exchanges between the Roman Empire and India. The Romans also exported silver coins, which were widely accepted as a form of currency in India. Additionally, the Romans traded horses with India, as they had well-bred and strong horses that were in demand. Furthermore, the Romans exported their renowned pottery, including red wares, to India, which were appreciated for their quality and craftsmanship.

The trade in spices lessened after the fall of the Roman Empire, but demand for black pepper, cloves, cinnamon and nutmeg revived the trade in later centuries.
The correct answer is 'Pepper'.
 

The Milinda Pañha is a Buddhist text which dates from sometime between 100 BCE and 200 CE. It purports to record a dialogue between the Buddhist sage Nāgasena, and the Indo-Greek king Menander I of Bactria, who reigned in the 2nd century BCE.

Answer:
The item that was exported to the Abyssinian ports and enjoyed great prestige in western Asia during the post-Mauryan period was Iron and Steel.
Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Background:
- The post-Mauryan period refers to the time after the Mauryan Empire, which existed from 322 BCE to 185 BCE in ancient India.
- During this period, trade and commerce flourished, and various goods were exported to different regions.
2. Abyssinian Ports:
- Abyssinian ports were located in the region known as Abyssinia, which is present-day Ethiopia.
- These ports were crucial for trade between India and western Asia.
3. Iron and Steel:
- Iron and steel were highly valued commodities during the post-Mauryan period.
- India had advanced techniques for iron and steel production, and its exports were in high demand in western Asia.
- Iron and steel were used for various purposes, including weapons, tools, and construction materials.
4. Prestige in Western Asia:
- The high quality and craftsmanship of Indian iron and steel products gained them great prestige in western Asia.
- Indian steel was known for its strength and durability, making it highly sought after in the region.
- The reputation of Indian iron and steel contributed to the growth of trade between India and western Asia.
Conclusion:
During the post-Mauryan period, iron and steel were exported to Abyssinian ports and enjoyed great prestige in western Asia. The superior quality and craftsmanship of Indian iron and steel products made them highly valued commodities in the region.

The correct answer is D as Zoroasterv’s end Avesta. has nothing to do with India’s trade and commercial contacts with the rest of the world.

Statement on Southern Trade and Commerce in the Pre-Gupta Period

Incorrect Statement: No southern dynasty except the Pandyas had any share in carrying out the trade.

Explanation:

The correct statement is that no southern dynasty except the Cholas had any share in carrying out the trade during the pre-Gupta period. The Pandyas were also involved in trade, but they were not the only southern dynasty involved.
Here is a breakdown of each statement and its accuracy:
- Statement A: The most profitable trade was with the Romans.
- This statement is correct. Trade with the Romans was indeed highly profitable during the pre-Gupta period.
- Statement B: A number of harbors, docks, lighthouses, and custom houses came into existence.
- This statement is correct. The development of these infrastructures facilitated trade and commerce in the southern regions.
- Statement C: According to Pliny, the largest Indian ship was of 75 tons.
- This statement is correct. Pliny, a Roman author, recorded that the largest Indian ship during that period was around 75 tons.
- Statement D: No southern dynasty except the Pandyas had any share in carrying out the trade.
- This statement is incorrect. The Cholas were also actively involved in trade during the pre-Gupta period, along with the Pandyas.
Therefore, the correct answer is statement D.

Statement: Pliny complained that Indian trade was a serious drain of wealth of the Roman empire.
This statement proves that India gained from the trade with the West during the pre-Gupta period because:
1. Pliny's complaint:
- Pliny, a Roman author and natural philosopher, complained that Indian trade was draining the wealth of the Roman empire.
- This indicates that India was able to export valuable goods and commodities to the West, resulting in significant economic gains.
2. Indian exports:
- The complaint implies that India had valuable products that were in high demand in the West.
- This suggests that India had a thriving trade industry and was able to export goods that were profitable.
3. Economic prosperity:
- The fact that Pliny considered Indian trade as a drain on Roman wealth indicates that India was economically prosperous during the pre-Gupta period.
- This suggests that India gained wealth, power, and influence through its trade with the West.
4. Long-distance trade:
- Pliny's complaint also highlights the existence of long-distance trade routes between India and the West.
- The trade routes facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural influences, further contributing to India's economic and cultural growth.
In conclusion, Pliny's complaint about the drain of wealth from the Roman empire due to Indian trade provides evidence that India gained from its trade with the West during the pre-Gupta period. India's ability to export valuable goods, its economic prosperity, and the existence of long-distance trade routes all support this statement.

The correct answer is D as all the statements except option D are true regarding the craft of this age

The first to establish trade/contacts with the Roman empire was tamil kingdom.

Incorrect Statement: D. Strikes of workers to raise wages were allowed.
Explanation:
During the pre-Gupta period in ancient India, certain regulations and practices were implemented regarding trade and labor. Let's analyze each statement to identify the incorrect one:
A. The wholesale prices of articles were fixed by the superintendent of commerce.
This statement is correct. During the pre-Gupta period, the superintendent of commerce had the authority to regulate and fix the wholesale prices of articles.
B. During the pre-Gupta period, a trader was required to get a license.
This statement is correct. Traders during the pre-Gupta period were obligated to obtain a license to engage in commercial activities.
C. During the pre-Gupta period, a foreign trader had to get a passport.
This statement is correct. Foreign traders were required to obtain a passport or a permit to conduct trade activities in ancient India during the pre-Gupta period.
D. Strikes of workers to raise wages were allowed.
This statement is incorrect. Strikes of workers to demand higher wages were not permitted during the pre-Gupta period. The laborers had limited bargaining power, and their wages were often fixed by the authorities.
Therefore, option D is the incorrect statement.
Note: It is important to remember that historical contexts and practices can vary, and the information provided here specifically pertains to the pre-Gupta period in ancient India.

During the Gupta period, India did not trade with Greece.
During the Gupta period, which lasted from around 320 to 550 CE, India had extensive trade networks with various regions across the world. However, Greece was not one of the regions with which India traded. Here are some key points to explain in detail:
1. Trade during the Gupta period:
- The Gupta Empire was known for its prosperous economy and flourishing trade relations with different regions.
- India had established trade links with several countries, including Sri Lanka, China, and Southeast Asia.
2. Trade with Sri Lanka:
- India had a long history of trade with Sri Lanka during the Gupta period.
- The trade between the two countries primarily involved the exchange of spices, pearls, textiles, and precious metals.
3. Trade with China:
- India and China had significant trade connections during the Gupta period.
- The trade between the two countries involved the exchange of silk, tea, spices, and other luxury goods.
4. Trade with Southeast Asia:
- India had extensive trade links with various countries in Southeast Asia, such as Myanmar, Cambodia, and Indonesia.
- The trade between India and Southeast Asia included the exchange of goods like spices, textiles, precious stones, and metals.
5. Lack of trade with Greece:
- Although India had trade relations with many regions, Greece was not one of them during the Gupta period.
- The distance between India and Greece, along with geopolitical factors, might have limited their trade interactions.
In conclusion, while India had flourishing trade connections with Sri Lanka, China, and Southeast Asia during the Gupta period, there was no significant trade relationship with Greece.

Regarding the trade and commerce of pre-Gupta period, the incorrect statement is:
A: Roads were built and trade routes established; the famous trade routes being Northern and Southern highways.

- The statement is correct. Roads were indeed built and trade routes were established during the pre-Gupta period. The Northern and Southern highways were famous trade routes during this time.
B: Merchant vessels used to sail Sri Lanka, Burma and southern Arabia.

- The statement is correct. Merchant vessels did sail to Sri Lanka, Burma, and southern Arabia for trade purposes during the pre-Gupta period.
C: Like artisans, merchants were also specialized in particular trades.

- The statement is correct. Just like artisans, merchants in the pre-Gupta period were also specialized in specific trades.
D: The appearance of a large number of coins (in the Ist to the 5th Century A.D.) was the beginning of the money economy.

- The statement is correct. The appearance of a large number of coins during the 1st to the 5th century A.D. marked the beginning of the money economy in the pre-Gupta period.
E: The state in order to promote trade pursued the policy of protection in preference to free trade.

- The statement is incorrect. In fact, the state in the pre-Gupta period pursued the policy of free trade rather than protection in order to promote trade.
Therefore, the correct answer is E.

Best Producer of Silk
Answer: Varanasi
Explanation:
- Silk production in India has a long history, and several cities have been known for their silk production.
- Among these cities, Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, has been regarded as the best producer of silk.
- Varanasi is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh in northern India.
- The city has a rich tradition of silk weaving, with skilled artisans producing high-quality silk fabrics.
- Varanasi silk, also known as Banarasi silk, is famous for its intricate designs and luxurious feel.
- The silk weavers of Varanasi use traditional handloom techniques to create beautiful sarees, dupattas, and other silk products.
- The city is known for its silk sarees, especially the Banarasi silk sarees, which are highly sought after in India and around the world.
- The silk industry in Varanasi has flourished for centuries and continues to be a major economic activity in the region.
- The city's silk products are known for their craftsmanship, quality, and timeless beauty.
- Varanasi's reputation as the best producer of silk is a result of the city's rich textile heritage and the skill and dedication of its artisans.

India has been well known for her textile goods since very ancient times. ... The cotton textile industry, however, made its real beginning in Bombay, in 1850s. The first cotton textile mill of Bombay was established in 1854 by a Parsi cotton merchant then engaged in overseas and internal trade.

According to Fa-hien, the most common medium of exchange during the Gupta period was the Courie. Here is a detailed explanation:
Background:
- Fa-hien was a Chinese Buddhist monk who traveled to India during the Gupta period (4th to 6th century CE).
- He documented his travels and observations in his book "Records of the Western World."
- His writings provide valuable insights into the social, economic, and cultural aspects of ancient India.
Medium of Exchange:
- During the Gupta period, the Courie was the most common medium of exchange.
- Courie refers to small copper coins that were widely circulated and used in daily transactions.
- These coins were minted by the Gupta rulers and bore inscriptions in Brahmi script.
Evidence from Fa-hien:
- Fa-hien mentions the widespread use of Courie in his accounts.
- He describes how people used Courie to buy goods and services in the marketplaces.
- He also notes that merchants and traders accepted Courie as payment for their products.
Importance of Courie:
- The use of Courie as a medium of exchange facilitated trade and commerce during the Gupta period.
- It provided a standardized form of currency that was widely accepted and recognized.
- The availability of Courie coins also indicates a well-developed monetary system in Gupta society.
In conclusion, according to Fa-hien, the most common medium of exchange during the Gupta period was the Courie. These small copper coins were widely circulated and used in daily transactions, facilitating trade and commerce in ancient India.

B is the correct option.Kātyāyana also spelled as Katyayana was a Sanskrit grammarian, mathematician and Vedic priest who lived in ancient India.According to him an honest price of a commodity The price fixed by the knowledgeable and honest body of neighbours.