introduction to mauryan Flashcards
When did the Gupta Empire rise, and which dynasties preceded it?
The Gupta Empire rose in the middle of the 3rd century AD after the decline of the Satavahanas, Kushans, and Murundas.
Where was the center of power of the Gupta Empire?
The center of power was in Prayaga (modern-day Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh).
What was the possible origin of the Gupta dynasty?
The Guptas were possibly of Vaishya origin.
How did the Gupta Empire compare in size to the Mauryan Empire?
The Gupta Empire was not as large as the Mauryan Empire but kept North India united for over a century.
Which regions were included in the Gupta Empire?
The Gupta Empire covered Anuganga (Middle Gangetic Basin), Prayag, Saketa (modern Ayodhya), Magadh, parts of the West, Northwest, and extended to the East coast of Deccan near the Pallava Kingdom.
What were the key reasons for the rise of the Gupta Empire?
Fertile land in Madhyadesha (Bihar and Uttar Pradesh), access to iron ores in South Bihar and Central India, and proximity to Silk Trade routes with the Byzantine Empire.
Who founded the Gupta dynasty and what title did he adopt?
Sri Gupta (240–280 AD) founded the dynasty and adopted the title ‘Maharaja’.
Who succeeded Sri Gupta and what title did he hold?
Ghatotkacha (280–319 AD) succeeded him, also holding the title ‘Maharaja’.
Who was the first Gupta ruler to adopt the title ‘Maharajadhiraja’?
Chandragupta I (319–335 AD) was the first to be called ‘Maharajadhiraja’ (Great King of Kings).
What significant marriage alliance did Chandragupta I make?
He married Kumaradevi, a Licchavi princess from Nepal, to enhance the dynasty’s prestige.
Who was called the ‘Napoleon of India’ and why?
Samudragupta (335–375 AD) was called the ‘Napoleon of India’ by V.A. Smith due to his numerous military conquests.
What is the significance of the Allahabad Pillar Inscription?
It was composed by Harisena in Sanskrit and details Samudragupta’s military campaigns.
What title did Chandragupta II assume after defeating the Sakas?
He assumed the title ‘Sakari’ (Destroyer of the Sakas).
Which Chinese traveler visited India during Chandragupta II’s reign?
The Chinese traveler Fa Hein visited India from 399–414 AD.
Who founded Nalanda University?
Kumaragupta I (415–455 AD) founded Nalanda University.
What was Skandagupta’s major achievement?
He successfully repelled an invasion by the Huns.
What administrative structure did the Gupta Empire have?
The empire was divided into Bhuktis (Provinces), Vishayas (Districts), Vithis (Towns), and Villages (Grama).
What was the role of Kumaramatyas in the Gupta administration?
They were high-ranking officials, often compared to princes, managing provincial and financial affairs.
What were some major economic activities of the Gupta Empire?
Agriculture, trade (both internal and external), and mining (especially iron and copper).
What was the primary mode of taxation in the Gupta Empire?
Land tax called Bhaga, trade taxes, and forced labor (Vishti).
Name an important port during the Gupta period.
Tamralipti (Bengal) was a significant port for trade with China, Sri Lanka, and Java.
What was the major artistic contribution of the Gupta period?
Ajanta cave paintings, Buddhist stupas, and the development of temple architecture.
What mathematical concept was developed during the Gupta era?
The concept of zero and the decimal system were developed.
Who was Aryabhata and what were his contributions?
Aryabhata was a mathematician and astronomer who wrote the ‘Aryabhatiyam’ and introduced the concept of the earth’s rotation.
What led to the decline of the Gupta Empire?
Repeated invasions by the Huns, economic decline, loss of Western territories, and rising regional powers.
