8. Flashcards

1
Q

When did the use of iron tools begin in the Indian subcontinent?

(a) Around 5000 years ago
(b) Around 3000 years ago
(c) Around 2500 years ago
(d) Around 2000 years ago

A

(b) Around 3000 years ago

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2
Q

Iron tools found in megalithic burials were primarily used for:

(a) Hunting and warfare
(b) Religious ceremonies
(c) Agricultural purposes
(d) Decorative purposes

A

(a) Hunting and warfare

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3
Q

Megalithic burials are significant in studying the history of iron usage because they:

(a) Contain the oldest evidence of iron use in India
(b) Provide a large collection of iron tools and weapons
(c) Indicate the role of iron in ancient rituals
(d) Reveal the trade of iron tools with foreign countries

A

(b) Provide a large collection of iron tools and weapons

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4
Q

Who were the large landowners in the Tamil region during ancient times?

(a) Uzhavar
(b) Kadaisiyar
(c) Adimai
(d) Vellalar

A

(d) Vellalar

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4
Q

Who were the landless labourers in Tamil villages?

(a) Vellalar
(b) Kadaisiyar and adimai
(c) Uzhavar and vellalar
(d) Uzhavar and kadaisiyar

A

Answer: (b) Kadaisiyar and adimai
Explanation: The kadaisiyar and adimai were landless labourers, often including slaves, in the Tamil region.

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5
Q

What was the role of the uzhavar in the villages of the Tamil region?

(a) They were large landowners.
(b) They were ordinary ploughmen.
(c) They were priests performing rituals.
(d) They were traders in agricultural produce.
.

A

Answer: (b) They were ordinary ploughmen.
Explanation: The uzhavar were ordinary ploughmen who worked the land in the Tamil region

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6
Q

Which of the following groups does adimai refer to in the context of Tamil villages?

(a) Large landowners
(b) Traders
(c) Slaves
(d) Village officials

A

Answer: (c) Slaves

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6
Q

Who was the village headman in the northern part of ancient India?

(a) Vellalar
(b) Uzhavar
(c) Grama bhojaka
(d) Grihapati

A

Answer: (c) Grama bhojaka
Explanation: The grama bhojaka was the village headman in northern India, often the largest landowner and a hereditary position.

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7
Q

What is the correct sequence of societal hierarchy in Tamil villages as per their roles?

(a) Kadaisiyar → Uzhavar → Vellalar
(b) Vellalar → Uzhavar → Kadaisiyar and Adimai
(c) Uzhavar → Kadaisiyar → Vellalar
(d) Adimai → Kadaisiyar → Vellalar

A

Answer: (b) Vellalar → Uzhavar → Kadaisiyar and Adimai
Explanation: The hierarchy in Tamil villages began with vellalar (large landowners), followed by uzhavar (ploughmen), and then kadaisiyar and adimai (landless labourers, including slaves).

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8
Q

What were the responsibilities of the grama bhojaka in ancient villages?

(a) Collecting taxes and administering justice
(b) Performing religious ceremonies
(c) Teaching the Vedas to villagers
(d) Maintaining village irrigation systems

A

Answer: (a) Collecting taxes and administering justice
Explanation: The grama bhojaka collected taxes, acted as a judge, and sometimes functioned as a policeman.

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9
Q

Who were the grihapatis in the context of village society in northern India?

(a) Large landowners
(b) Independent farmers
(c) Landless labourers
(d) Craftspeople

A

Answer: (b) Independent farmers
Explanation: The grihapatis were independent farmers who were smaller landowners compared to the grama bhojaka.

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10
Q

What term referred to landless labourers in northern villages who worked on others’ fields?

(a) Grihapati
(b) Dasa karmakara
(c) Grama bhojaka
(d) Craftspersons

A

Answer: (b) Dasa karmakara
Explanation: The dasa karmakara were landless labourers who earned their living by working on fields owned by others.

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11
Q

Which of the following statements about the grama bhojaka is correct?

(a) The post was typically elected by the villagers.
(b) The grama bhojaka was usually a hereditary position.
(c) The grama bhojaka only worked as a judge and had no other roles.
(d) The grama bhojaka had no connection with the king.

A

Answer: (b) The grama bhojaka was usually a hereditary position.
Explanation: The grama bhojaka was typically from the largest landowning family, and the position was passed down through generations.

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12
Q

Which of the following craftspersons were commonly found in ancient Indian villages?

(a) Blacksmiths, carpenters, potters, and weavers
(b) Goldsmiths, tailors, and jewelers
(c) Masons, painters, and sculptors
(d) Soldiers, priests, and scribes

A

Answer: (a) Blacksmiths, carpenters, potters, and weavers
Explanation: Blacksmiths, carpenters, potters, and weavers were essential craftspersons in most villages.

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13
Q

Why is Tamil literature from this period called Sangam literature?

(a) It was compiled during religious ceremonies.
(b) It was composed in assemblies of poets.
(c) It was sponsored by kings and merchants.
(d) It focused on agricultural practices.

A

(b) It was composed in assemblies of poets.

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13
Q

What is the name of the earliest Tamil literary works composed around 2300 years ago?

(a) Arthashastra
(b) Sangam literature
(c) Jataka tales
(d) Silappadikaram

A

Answer: (b) Sangam literature
Explanation: The earliest Tamil literary works, known as Sangam literature, were composed around 2300 years ago.

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13
Q

Which of the following correctly describes Sangam literature?

(a) It is primarily religious in nature.
(b) It includes texts composed by royal ministers.
(c) It is secular and deals with themes like war, love, and daily life.
(d) It was written in Prakrit.

A

Answer: (c) It is secular and deals with themes like war, love, and daily life.
Explanation: Sangam literature is notable for its secular content, dealing with diverse themes like war, love, and social life.

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14
Q

In which city were the Sangam assemblies traditionally believed to have been held?

A

Madurai

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15
Q

What are some of the Tamil terms mentioned in Sangam literature?

(a) Vellalar, Uzhavar, Kadaisiyar
(b) Grama bhojaka, Grihapati, Dasa karmakara
(c) Kshatriya, Vaishya, Shudra
(d) Mahamatra, Bhikkhu, Bhikkhuni

A

Answer: (a) Vellalar, Uzhavar, Kadaisiyar
Explanation: These terms are found in Sangam literature, representing various social and occupational groups in Tamil society.

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16
Q
  1. Which of the following statements regarding punch-marked coins is correct?

Punch-marked coins were made out of flattened metal globules or cut from metal sheets.
These coins were inscribed with detailed information about the issuer.
They were in use for about 500 years and found in most parts of the subcontinent.
The coins featured symbols stamped using dies or punches.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 3, and 4 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

A

Correct Answer: (b)

Explanation:

Punch-marked coins were made of flattened metal globules or cut metal sheets (Statement 1: Correct).
These coins were not inscribed but featured symbols stamped using dies or punches (Statement 2: Incorrect; Statement 4: Correct).
They were in use for about 500 years and found across most parts of the subcontinent (Statement 3: Correct).

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17
Q
  1. Punch-marked coins were unique because they:
    (a) Featured inscriptions in Brahmi script.
    (b) Were made of precious gemstones.
    (c) Had symbols stamped using dies or punches without inscriptions.
    (d) Were circular coins made exclusively from gold.
A

Correct Answer: (c)

Explanation:
Punch-marked coins were distinct for being stamped with symbols using dies or punches and lacked any inscriptions.

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18
Q
  1. Which period is most associated with the usage of punch-marked coins?
    (a) Mauryan Empire
    (b) Gupta Empire
    (c) Mughal Empire
    (d) Satavahana Dynasty
A

Correct Answer: (a)

Explanation:
The widespread use of punch-marked coins is primarily associated with the Mauryan Empire, although they existed before and continued for centuries.

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19
Q
  1. The distribution of punch-marked coins across the subcontinent indicates:
    (a) A centralized currency system under one ruler.
    (b) Extensive trade networks across regions.
    (c) Exclusive use by the elite class.
    (d) Limited circulation in southern India.
A

Correct Answer: (b)

Explanation:
Punch-marked coins were found across the subcontinent, suggesting they were part of extensive trade and exchange networks rather than being restricted to a single region or class.

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20
Q
  1. Based on the Sangam poem, which of the following statements best describes the trade practices of the period?
    (a) Trade was primarily conducted by kings and officials.
    (b) Barter was a common means of exchange, with goods like salt and paddy being traded.
    (c) Merchants preferred to travel alone for efficiency.
    (d) Long-distance trade was rare and limited to luxury goods.
A

Correct Answer: (b)

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21
Q

. What does the Sangam poem suggest about the role of salt in ancient Tamil society?

a] Salt was a plentiful resource along the coastal regions.
b ] It was a significant trade commodity exchanged for agricultural produce.
c ] The production of salt was monopolized by the ruling class.
d ) Merchants traveled with their families for long distances to trade salt.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 4 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

A

Correct Answer: (b)

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21
Q
  1. According to the Sangam literature, what role did families play in trade activities?
    (a) Families primarily stayed at home while merchants traveled.
    (b) Entire families often participated in long-distance trade journeys.
    (c) Only the male members of a family were involved in trade.
    (d) Families were prohibited from traveling together for trade.
A

Correct Answer: (b)

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22
Q
  1. Which of the following professions are mentioned in the inscriptions found in Mathura?

Goldsmiths
Basket makers
Sculptors
Perfumers
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 4 only
(c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
(d) 2 and 3 only

A

Correct Answer: (c)

Explanation:
The inscriptions found in Mathura highlight contributions from various professions, including goldsmiths, basket makers, sculptors, and perfumers.

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23
Q
  1. What were the primary functions of Mathura in ancient times?
    (a) Religious center, military hub, and producer of agricultural surplus
    (b) Trade hub, artistic center, and religious hub
    (c) Administrative capital, mining center, and trade hub
    (d) Agricultural producer, maritime center, and religious hub
A

Correct Answer: (b)

Explanation:
Mathura was a trade hub due to its strategic location, an artistic center producing fine sculptures, and a religious hub with Buddhist monasteries, Jaina shrines, and Krishna worship.

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24
Q
  1. Which of the following best describes the historical significance of Mathura?
    (a) A city known solely for its military importance
    (b) A hub of maritime trade and Buddhist learning
    (c) A center of trade, religion, and fine art production
    (d) A city primarily devoted to the worship of Krishna
A

Correct Answer: (c)

Explanation:
Mathura’s significance lies in its strategic trade location, religious diversity, and reputation for producing fine sculptures, making it a multifaceted urban center.

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25
Q
  1. Consider the following statements regarding the Northern Black Polished Ware (NBPW):

1 NBPW is a type of pottery found primarily in the southern part of the Indian subcontinent.
2 The pottery is characterized by its shiny black, metallic-like surface.
3 It was produced using high-temperature firing and a fine black slip.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

A

Correct Answer: (b)

Explanation:
NBPW is predominantly found in the northern part of the subcontinent, not the south. It is known for its shiny, metallic-like black surface and was created using high-temperature firing and a black slip.

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26
Q
  1. Why is Northern Black Polished Ware (NBPW) significant in Indian archaeology?
    (a) It provides evidence for advanced textile manufacturing techniques.
    (b) It indicates the development of specialized pottery-making skills.
    (c) It suggests the existence of maritime trade routes.
    (d) It proves the use of iron in early agricultural tools.
A

Correct Answer: (b)

Explanation:
NBPW demonstrates advanced pottery-making techniques, including high-temperature firing and the application of a fine black slip, highlighting specialized craftsmanship in ancient India.

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27
Q
  1. Which ancient cities were famous for cloth production, as per historical texts?
    (a) Taxila and Mathura
    (b) Pataliputra and Ujjain
    (c) Varanasi and Madurai
    (d) Kashi and Kanchipuram
A

(c) Varanasi and Madurai

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27
Q
  1. Which of the following statements is true about crafts in ancient India?
    (a) Crafts were primarily practiced by men in urban areas.
    (b) Pottery like NBPW indicates the use of primitive firing techniques.
    (c) Both men and women contributed to the craft of textile manufacturing.
    (d) Archaeological evidence confirms the existence of all ancient crafts mentioned in texts.
A

Correct Answer: (c)

Explanation:
Textile manufacturing involved both men and women, and while some crafts have archaeological evidence, not all mentioned in texts have survived.

28
Q
  1. What technological innovation contributed to the distinct appearance of NBPW pottery?
    (a) Use of iron tools in shaping pottery
    (b) Application of a fine black slip
    (c) Firing at low temperatures for a polished finish
    (d) Usage of glazed coating to enhance durability
A

Correct Answer: (b)

Explanation:
The application of a fine black slip, along with high-temperature firing, gave NBPW its distinctive mirror-like shine and metallic appearance.

29
Q
  1. Which of the following functions did the shrenis perform in ancient India?

(a) Providing training to craftspersons
(b) Organising trade
(c) Serving as banks for the wealthy
(d) All of the above

A

Answer: (d) All of the above

30
Q
  1. Shrenis were associations formed by which of the following groups?

(a) Priests and scholars
(b) Craftspersons and merchants
(c) Farmers and herders
(d) Kings and their officials

A

(b) Craftspersons and merchants

31
Q
  1. How did shrenis contribute to the economy of ancient India?

(a) By controlling the political affairs of cities
(b) By offering loans and investing in religious institutions
(c) By providing military support to the rulers
(d) By setting up temples for rituals and sacrifices

A

Answer: (b) By offering loans and investing in religious institutions

31
Q
  1. Which of the following was a primary role of the shrenis of craftspersons in ancient India?

(a) Collecting taxes for the state
(b) Training artisans, procuring raw materials, and distributing finished products
(c) Controlling the religious practices in society
(d) Organising political assemblies

A

(b) Training artisans, procuring raw materials, and distributing finished products

32
Q
  1. What was the primary role of Arikamedu between 2200 and 1900 years ago?

(a) It was a major agricultural centre.
(b) It was a coastal settlement for unloading goods from distant lands.
(c) It was a religious centre for worship of sea gods.
(d) It was a military outpost for guarding the coastal region.

A

Answer: (b) It was a coastal settlement for unloading goods from distant lands

33
Q
A
33
Q
  1. Which of the following items found at Arikamedu indicates trade relations with the Mediterranean region?

(a) Roman coins
(b) Amphorae (double-handled jars)
(c) Northern Black Polished Ware (NBPW)
(d) Iron tools

A

Answer: (b) Amphorae (double-handled jars)

34
Q
  1. Which of the following materials was used in the local pottery found at Arikamedu?

(a) Clay from the Mediterranean
(b) Stamped red-glazed pottery (Arretine Ware)
(c) Porcelain from China
(d) Painted terracotta from Egypt

A

Answer: (b) Stamped red-glazed pottery (Arretine Ware)

35
Q
  1. What does the discovery of small tanks at Arikamedu suggest about the settlement?

(a) It was involved in gold and gemstone mining.
(b) It had a significant textile industry, including dyeing of cloth.
(c) It was a site for religious rituals and ceremonies.
(d) It was a major agricultural hub for growing dye plants.

A

Answer: (b) It had a significant textile industry, including dyeing of cloth.

36
Q
  1. What does the presence of Roman lamps, glassware, and gems at Arikamedu suggest?

(a) The settlement was a major military base for the Roman Empire.
(b) Arikamedu was part of a global trade network, especially with the Roman Empire.
(c) The settlement was a key centre for Roman religious practices.
(d) Roman items were brought to Arikamedu only for decorative purposes.

A

Answer: (b) Arikamedu was part of a global trade network, especially with the Roman Empire.

37
Q
  1. Why was navigating the gulf at Barygaza challenging?
    (a) The strong currents in the gulf made sailing impossible.
    (b) The gulf was extremely narrow, requiring skilled navigation.
    (c) Foreign ships were not permitted to enter the gulf.
    (d) It was located in a region with unpredictable weather conditions.
A

Answer: (b) The gulf was extremely narrow, requiring skilled navigation.

38
Q
  1. Which of the following roles did local fishermen play in Barygaza’s trade?
    (a) They acted as tax collectors for the king.
    (b) They were hired to steer ships into the port.
    (c) They were traders in agate and carnelian.
    (d) They built ships for merchants in the region.
A

Answer: (b) They were hired to steer ships into the port.

38
Q
  1. What were the primary imports into Barygaza?
    (a) Cotton and silk
    (b) Coral and gold coins
    (c) Himalayan plants and perfumes
    (d) Ivory and agate
A

Answer: (b) Coral and gold coins

38
Q
  1. Which of the following were among the exports from Barygaza?

Cotton
Agate
Wine
Carnelian
Select the correct option:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2, 3, and 4 only
(c) 1, 2, and 4 only
(d) 1, 3, and 4 only

A

Answer: (c) 1, 2, and 4 only

39
Q
  1. What special gifts did merchants bring for the king of Barygaza?
    (a) Himalayan herbs, spices, and pearls
    (b) Ships, sailors, and exotic animals
    (c) Silver vessels, fine wines, and beautiful women
    (d) Singing birds, gemstones, and coral
A

Answer: (c) Silver vessels, fine wines, and beautiful women

40
Q
  1. What does the Greek sailor’s account of Barygaza primarily highlight?
    (a) The cultural exchanges between the Greeks and Indians.
    (b) The role of Bharuch as a key port in Indo-Roman trade.
    (c) The religious significance of Barygaza in ancient India.
    (d) The development of navigation technologies in ancient India.
A

Answer: (b) The role of Bharuch as a key port in Indo-Roman trade.

41
Q
  1. Which of the following best describes the overall economic significance of Barygaza in ancient India?
    (a) It was a minor port known for its exports of textiles.
    (b) It acted as a major hub for Indo-Roman trade.
    (c) It was a center for agricultural production.
    (d) It served as a key node in local trade only.
A

Answer: (b) It acted as a major hub for Indo-Roman trade.

42
Q
  1. Which of the following statements is correct about the trade at Barygaza?
    (a) Precious metals were both imported and exported.
    (b) Indian exports were predominantly raw materials and luxury items.
    (c) The majority of imports were agricultural products.
    (d) Himalayan plants were imported for medicinal use.
A

Answer: (b) Indian exports were predominantly raw materials and luxury items.

43
Q
  1. Which of the following accurately reflects the nature of trade at Barygaza?
    (a) Imports were primarily luxury items, while exports focused on textiles.
    (b) Imports included minerals and luxury goods, while exports included natural products.
    (c) The focus of imports was on industrial goods, while exports included agricultural tools.
    (d) Both imports and exports focused exclusively on textiles and perfumes.
A

Answer: (b) Imports included minerals and luxury goods, while exports included natural products.

44
Q

Consider the following pairs of trade goods at Barygaza:

Good Trade Type
1. Wine Import
2. Cotton Export
3. Carnelian Export
4. Lead Export

A

Answer: (b) 1, 2, and 3 only

45
Q

Barygaza’s also known as

A

baruch

46
Q
  1. Which of the following was referred to as “black gold” in ancient India?
    (a) Gold
    (b) Iron
    (c) Pepper
    (d) Silk
A

Answer: (c) Pepper

47
Q
  1. Consider the following statements about South Indian trade during ancient times:

1 . South India was famous for the export of spices, especially pepper.
2! Roman gold coins found in South India suggest significant trade with the Roman Empire.
3 .The primary mode of trade with Rome was through overland routes exclusively.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All of the above

A

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

48
Q
  1. What does the term “Northern Black Polished Ware” (NBPW) signify in the context of ancient trade?
    (a) Luxury pottery manufactured exclusively for local use.
    (b) A type of pottery traded extensively across the subcontinent.
    (c) A durable ware used for religious rituals and offerings.
    (d) Pottery made in the south and exported to the north.

Answer: (b) A type of pottery traded extensively across the subcontinent.

A

Answer: (b) A type of pottery traded extensively across the subcontinent.

49
Q
  1. Match the following trade goods with their regions of fame in ancient India:

Good Region
1. Spices (A) South India
2. Black Polished Ware (B) Northern India
3. Precious Stones (C) Central India

A

Answer: (a) 1 - A, 2 - B, 3 - C

50
Q
  1. What was the primary reason pepper was highly valued in the Roman Empire?
    (a) It was rare and grew only in India.
    (b) It had medicinal properties unknown to the Romans.
    (c) It was used as both a spice and a preservative.
    (d) It was seen as a symbol of wealth and luxury.
A

Answer: (d) It was seen as a symbol of wealth and luxury.

51
Q
  1. Which of the following accurately describes the role of traders in ancient India?
    (a) They were responsible for producing goods like pottery and spices.
    (b) They facilitated cultural exchange by trading with regions like Rome.
    (c) They operated exclusively within local markets to distribute goods.
    (d) They primarily traded luxury goods from Europe to Indian markets.
A

Answer: (b) They facilitated cultural exchange by trading with regions like Rome.

52
Q
  1. The poem about trade in Puhar mentions goods brought to the port from various regions. Which of the following were among these goods?

Black pepper
Sandalwood
Pearls
Pottery from Myanmar
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1, 2, and 3 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

A

Answer: (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

52
Q
  1. What does the reference to “prancing horses by sea in ships” in the poem indicate about ancient trade?
    (a) Horses were domesticated only in coastal regions of India.
    (b) Horses were a major export of ancient Indian ports like Puhar.
    (c) Horses were imported into India via maritime trade routes.
    (d) Horses were symbols of military power and traded exclusively within India.

Answer: (c) Horses were imported into India via maritime trade routes.

A

(c) Horses were imported into India via maritime trade routes.

53
Q
  1. Match the goods mentioned in the poem to their regions of origin:

Goods Region of Origin
1. Sandalwood (A) Western hills
2. Gems and gold (B) Himalayas
3. Pearls (C) Southern seas
4. Pottery (D) Myanmar

A

Answer: (a) 1 - A, 2 - B, 3 - C, 4 - D

54
Q
  1. What does the Sangam poem about Puhar reveal about ancient Indian trade?

1 Indian ports like Puhar were hubs for both domestic and international trade.
2 The Ganga and the Kaveri river systems played a crucial role in supplying goods to Puhar.
3 Rare imports, including luxury items, were brought to India from regions as far as the Mediterranean.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

A

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 and 3

55
Q
  1. Which of the following facilitated ancient sea trade in the Indian Ocean?
    Knowledge of monsoon winds
    Construction of sturdy ships
    Use of advanced navigational instruments
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 1 and 3 only
    (c) 2 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2, and 3
A
  1. (a) 1 and 2 only

Knowledge of monsoon winds (statement 1) and sturdy ships (statement 2) were key factors in enabling long sea journeys.
Advanced navigational instruments like the compass were not widely used in this period; sailors primarily relied on the winds and stars. Hence, statement 3 is incorrect.

56
Q
  1. Which of the following regions was most likely connected to India by sailors using the south-west monsoon winds?
    (a) Southeast Asia
    (b) East Africa
    (c) Mediterranean
    (d) China
A

(b) East Africa
(b) East Africa

The south-west monsoon winds would help sailors travel from East Africa or Arabia to the western coast of India, as mentioned in the passage

57
Q
  1. Which of the following is correct about the term “Muvendar”?
    (a) It refers to a system of taxation in ancient Tamil regions.
    (b) It denotes three chief ports in South India.
    (c) It is a Tamil term referring to the three ruling families of Cholas, Cheras, and Pandyas.
    (d) It signifies the three prominent poets of Sangam literature.
A

(c) It is a Tamil term referring to the three ruling families of Cholas, Cheras, and Pandyas.

58
Q
  1. Which cities served as key centers of power for the Cholas and Pandyas, respectively?
    (a) Kanchipuram and Tanjore
    (b) Puhar and Madurai
    (c) Kaveripattinam and Kanchipuram
    (d) Uraiyur and Tanjore
A

. (b) Puhar and Madurai

Puhar or Kaveripattinam was the port city of the Cholas, and Madurai was the capital of the Pandyas.

59
Q
  1. The chiefs mentioned in Sangam poems did not collect regular taxes but instead relied on which of the following?
    Tribute from military expeditions
    Gifts from the people
    Trade revenues from coastal cities
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2, and 3
A
  1. (a) 1 and 2 only

The chiefs relied on gifts from the people and tributes collected through military expeditions. Trade revenues are not explicitly mentioned as a source in the passage.

60
Q
  1. Consider the following statements about the Satavahanas:
    Gautamiputra Shri Satakarni was one of their most important rulers.
    The term dakshinapatha referred to the route leading to South India and also the entire southern region.
    Satavahana rulers were known to regularly collect taxes and tribute from neighbouring areas.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 1 and 3 only
    (c) 2 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2, and 3
A

(a) 1 and 2 only

Statements 1 and 2 are correct. The Satavahana rulers are not mentioned as regular tax collectors in the passage, making statement 3 incorrect.

61
Q
  1. Which of the following statements is correct regarding the ruling families mentioned in Sangam literature?
    (a) The Cheras ruled exclusively along the eastern coast of South India.
    (b) The Cholas had Puhar as one of their important centers of power.
    (c) The Pandyas controlled trade routes along the northwestern regions.
    (d) The Muvendar is a collective term used for all Satavahana rulers.
A
  1. (b) The Cholas had Puhar as one of their important centers of power.

The passage mentions Puhar or Kaveripattinam as the port of the Cholas. The Cheras ruled on the western coast, and the term Muvendar is unrelated to the Satavahanas.

62
Q
  1. What does the term “dakshinapatha” signify in the context of the Satavahana dynasty?
    (a) A military route connecting South India with North India.
    (b) A name for the entire southern region of the subcontinent.
    (c) A trading route linking South India to the Roman Empire.
    (d) The fertile plains of the Kaveri river valley.
A

. (b) A name for the entire southern region of the subcontinent.

The term dakshinapatha was used to denote both the southern region and the route leading to the south.

63
Q
  1. Which of the following activities contributed to the power of the chiefs mentioned in Sangam poems?
    1 Control over fertile river valleys and coastal regions.
    2 Establishment of trade centers like Madurai and Puhar.
    3 Participation in the Roman trade of black gold (pepper).
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 1 and 3 only
    (c) 2 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2, and 3
A
  1. (d) 1, 2, and 3

All three activities—control over fertile areas, establishing trade hubs, and involvement in international trade—strengthened the power of the chiefs

64
Q
  1. Consider the following statements about Gautamiputra Shri Satakarni:
    1 His achievements are mentioned in an inscription composed by his mother, Gautami Balashri.
    2 He expanded the Satavahana influence to the eastern and southern coasts of India.
    3 He was known as the lord of dakshinapatha.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 1 and 3 only
    (c) 2 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2, and 3
A

d) 1, 2, and 3

All statements about Gautamiputra Shri Satakarni are correct as per the passage.

65
Q
  1. Consider the following statements regarding the Muvendar as mentioned in Sangam poems:
    1 The term refers to the three ruling families of the Cheras, Cholas, and Pandyas.
    2 Each ruling family controlled only coastal regions for trade dominance.
    3 The Muvendar distributed their wealth among their supporters, poets, and soldiers.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 1 and 3 only
    (c) 2 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2, and 3
A
  1. (b) 1 and 3 only

The Muvendar refers to the Cheras, Cholas, and Pandyas, who ruled both inland and coastal regions. They distributed wealth among their supporters, but their control was not limited to the coast.

66
Q
  1. Which of the following statements accurately describes the Sangam-era port cities?
    1 Puhar served as a significant port of the Cholas.
    2 Madurai was a coastal trade hub under the Pandyas.
    3 Both cities were key centers of trade and political power.
    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 1 and 3 only
    (c) 2 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2, and 3
A

(b) 1 and 3 only

Puhar was a port city of the Cholas, but Madurai was an inland capital of the Pandyas, not a coastal port korkai

67
Q
  1. What distinguishes the Satavahana rulers from the Muvendar of Sangam literature?
    (a) Satavahana rulers expanded their influence through tribute collection, while the Muvendar relied solely on military conquests.
    (b) Satavahanas controlled the dakshinapatha, whereas the Muvendar were confined to specific river valleys.
    (c) Satavahana rulers issued regular taxes, unlike the Muvendar chiefs.
    (d) Satavahanas were known for establishing their capital inland, whereas the Muvendar exclusively ruled coastal regions.
A
  1. (b) Satavahanas controlled the dakshinapatha, whereas the Muvendar were confined to specific river valleys.

The Satavahanas expanded their power across the southern region (dakshinapatha), whereas the Muvendar are primarily associated with the Tamil region.

68
Q
  1. Which of the following contributions of the Muvendar rulers is explicitly mentioned in the Sangam poems?
    (a) Construction of irrigation systems for agricultural expansion.
    (b) Patronage of poets and distribution of wealth in the form of gifts.
    (c) Establishment of diplomatic relations with the Satavahanas.
    (d) Introduction of regular tax systems for revenue generation.
A
  1. (b) Patronage of poets and distribution of wealth in the form of gifts.

The Sangam poems highlight the rulers’ generosity towards poets and supporters through rewards like gold and elephants.

69
Q
  1. Consider the following statements regarding trade practices during the Sangam age:
    1 Gifts were offered by traders and merchants to rulers to secure their favor.
    2 Coastal rulers controlled the flow of goods to major ports like Puhar and Madurai.
    3 Trade activities in South India included goods like pepper, gold, and precious stones exported to Rome.
A

(d) 1, 2, and 3

All the statements accurately reflect trade practices during the Sangam age, as per the details in the passage.

70
Q
  1. Why did some kings try to control the Silk Route?
    To increase their influence over the vast regions of Central Asia.
    To collect taxes, tributes, and gifts from traders using the route.
    To provide protection to traders from attacks by robbers.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2, and 3
A
  1. (b) 2 and 3 only

Kings controlled the Silk Route to benefit from taxes, tributes, and gifts brought by traders. In return, they protected the traders from robbers.

71
Q
  1. Which of the following statements about the Kushanas and the Silk Route is true?
    (a) The Kushanas controlled only the western parts of the Silk Route.
    (b) The Kushanas’ major centres of power were Peshawar, Mathura, and Taxila.
    (c) The Kushanas were responsible for the expansion of the Silk Route into Europe.
    (d) The Kushanas’ rule led to the closure of trade routes from Central Asia to India
A
  1. (b) The Kushanas’ major centres of power were Peshawar, Mathura, and Taxila.

The Kushanas had major centres of power in these cities, not just in the western parts of the route. They were instrumental in the development of the Silk Route.