PRACTICE QUESTIONS UGC NET (HISTORY)
INCLUDED TOPICS
1. Archaeological Sources
2. Numismatic Sources
3. Literary Sources
4. Problem of Dating Secular and Religious Literature
5. Epigraphic Sources
6. Foreign Accounts
Negotiating the Sources
UGC NET HISTORY (UNIT 1)
Archaeological Sources
Which of the following sites is considered a prime example of the Indus Valley Civilization’s urban organization mentioned in the archaeological records?
A) Taxila
B) Mohenjo-daro
C) Sanchi
D) Arikamedu
The study of coins, which helps in identifying rulers and trade networks, is technically known as:
A) Palaeography
B) Numismatics
C) Epigraphy
D) Sigillography
In the context of ancient Indian inscriptions, the Brahmi script was famously deciphered by which scholar in 1837?
A) Alexander Cunningham
B) James Prinsep
C) Mortimer Wheeler
D) John Marshall
Which archaeological source is most effective for determining the chronological sequences and regional technological advancements of a culture?
A) Pottery
B) Literary texts
C) Natural remains
D) Religious sculptures
The Bhimbetka rock shelters, known for their prehistoric paintings, are located in which Indian state?
A) Uttar Pradesh
B) Madhya Pradesh
C) Maharashtra
D) Gujarat
Which specific dating method relies on the decay of carbon-14 in organic materials like charcoal or bone?
A) Thermoluminescence
B) Dendrochronology
C) Radiocarbon dating
D) Potassium-Argon dating
The discovery of which ancient port site provided evidence of maritime trade and the existence of a dockyard in the Indus Valley Civilization?
A) Muziris
B) Lothal
C) Tamralipti
D) Sopara
Epigraphs found on temple walls primarily provide insights into which of the following?
A) Artistic and linguistic traditions
B) Climate change patterns
C) Prehistoric dietary habits
D) Population genetics
Which dynasty’s coins are specifically noted for showcasing profound cultural crosscurrents and the depiction of various deities?
A) Mauryan
B) Kushan
C) Magadha
D) Chola
The systematic removal of soil layers to uncover remains while preserving stratigraphic context is known as:
A) Exploration
B) Excavation
C) Surveying
D) Conservation
Bioarchaeological studies of human skeletal remains are primarily used to determine:
A) The linguistic roots of the population
B) Diet, diseases, and physical activities
C) The architectural style of the period
D) The political boundary of a kingdom
Which of the following is categorized as a ‘Natural Remain’ in archaeological studies?
A) Terracotta figurines
B) Pollen grains
C) Inscribed clay tablets
D) Copper hoards
The ‘stratigraphy’ principle in archaeology implies that:
A) The top layer is always the oldest
B) Lower layers are generally older than the ones above them
C) All artifacts in a site belong to the same period
D) Soil color determines the wealth of a civilization
Which ancient text, though literary, is used by archaeologists to provide a narrative framework for understanding societal norms in ancient India?
A) The Vedas
B) Arthashastra
C) Indica
D) Periplus of the Erythraean Sea
What is the primary objective of ‘Preservation’ in the management of archaeological sites?
A) To repair broken artifacts
B) To prevent deterioration and damage through controlled conditions
C) To reconstruct missing parts of a monument
D) To sell artifacts to international museums
The Ashokan pillars are an example of which type of archaeological source?
A) Numismatic
B) Inscriptional
C) Bioarchaeological
D) Literary
Which of the following challenges involves the legal right of a community to get back their cultural artifacts?
A) Stratigraphic leakage
B) Repatriation
C) Decipherment
D) Urban development
The sculptures of Khajuraho are significant for understanding:
A) Prehistoric hunting tools
B) Religious beliefs and iconography
C) Ancient maritime law
D) Iron smelting techniques
Which technique helps in reconstructing ancient environments and vegetation patterns?
A) Epigraphy
B) Botanical studies and pollen analysis
C) Radiocarbon dating of stones
D) Metallurgical analysis
Taxila is an important excavated site associated with which period/tradition?
A) Mesolithic
B) Gandhara and Buddhist learning
C) Neolithic South India
D) Megalithic burials
Which material was NOT commonly used for inscriptions in ancient India according to the passage?
A) Stone
B) Metal
C) Clay
D) Wood
The “Great Bath” is a famous structure found at which excavated site?
A) Harappa
B) Mohenjo-daro
C) Kalibangan
D) Banawali
Which scholar is associated with the ‘Stratigraphic’ method of excavation in India?
A) John Marshall
B) Mortimer Wheeler
C) R.D. Banerji
) Dayaram Sahni
The study of ancient scripts and their development over time is called:
A) Palaeography
B) Archaeology
C) Anthropology
D) Ethnography
Which empire was the first to issue a large number of gold coins in India?
A) Mauryan
B) Kushan
C) Gupta
D) Satavahana
Which of the following is an ethical concern mentioned in the context of archaeological research?
A) Use of drones for surveying
B) Respecting the rights of local communities
C) Using computers for data analysis
D) Applying Carbon-14 dating
A ‘contextual analysis’ of an artifact refers to:
A) Checking its weight
B) Understanding its relationship with its surroundings at the find-spot
C) Comparing it with modern objects
D) Determining its market value
The Ellora caves are a notable archaeological source for:
A) Monastic complexes and religious art
B) Harappan trade seals
C) Pre-hominid fossils
D) Vedic literature composition
Which of the following is a major threat to the preservation of archaeological sites?
A) Urban development
B) Scientific documentation
C) Systematic excavation
D) International tourism revenue
NBPW (Northern Black Polished Ware) is a type of:
A) Weapon
B) Pottery
C) Coin
D) Inscription
Inscriptions like the Prayag Prashasti provide information about which ruler?
A) Ashoka
B) Samudragupta
C) Chandragupta Maurya
D) Kanishka
Archaeological sources are considered superior to literary sources because:
A) They are easier to read
B) They provide concrete evidence and are less prone to later interpolations
C) They are always found in perfect condition
D) They do not require interpretation
The discovery of Roman coins in South India (e.g., Arikamedu) proves:
A) Roman conquest of India
B) Extensive Indo-Roman trade
C) Romans invented the Indian currency
D) Lack of local currency in South India
Which site is famous for providing evidence of a ‘Ploughed Field’ from the Harappan era?
A) Kalibangan
B) Lothal
C) Ropar
D) Alamgirpur
The term ‘Epigraphy’ refers specifically to the study of:
A) Human bones
B) Inscriptions
C) Ancient animals
D) Ancient rocks
Match List I (Archaeological Source) with List II (Associated Information):
| List I | List II |
| (a) Inscriptions | (i) Diet and Diseases |
| (b) Coins | (ii) Political Ideologies |
| (c) Pottery | (iii) Monetary Practices |
| (d) Human Remains | (iv) Chronological Sequences |
A) (a)-ii, (b)-iii, (c)-i, (d)-iv
B) (a)-ii, (b)-iii, (c)-iv, (d)-i
C) (a)-iii, (b)-ii, (c)-iv, (d)-i
D) (a)-iv, (b)-i, (c)-ii, (d)-iii
Match List I (Site) with List II (Nature of Site):
| List I | List II |
| (a) Bhimbetka | (i) Dockyard |
| (b) Lothal | (ii) Rock Art |
| (c) Sanchi | (iii) Cave Architecture |
| (d) Ellora | (iv) Buddhist Stupa |
A) (a)-ii, (b)-i, (c)-iii, (d)-iv
B) (a)-ii, (b)-i, (c)-iv, (d)-iii
C) (a)-i, (b)-ii, (c)-iv, (d)-iii
D) (a)-iv, (b)-iii, (c)-ii, (d)-i
Match List I (Dynasty) with List II (Archaeological Evidence):
| List I | List II |
| (a) Maurya | (i) Gold Coins (Dinara) |
| (b) Kushan | (ii) Punch Marked Coins |
| (c) Gupta | (iii) Bilingual Coins |
| (d) Indus Valley | (iv) Steatite Seals |
A) (a)-i, (b)-ii, (c)-iii, (d)-iv
B) (a)-ii, (b)-iv, (c)-i, (d)-iii
C) (a)-ii, (b)-iii, (c)-i, (d)-iv
D) (a)-iv, (b)-iii, (c)-ii, (d)-i
Match List I (Text) with List II (Subject Matter):
| List I | List II |
| (a) Vedas | (ii) Religious/Philosophical |
| (b) Epigraphs | (ii) Writing on Stone/Metal |
| (c) Bioarchaeology | (iii) Study of Skeletal remains |
| (d) Numismatics | (iv) Study of Coins |
A) (a)-i, (b)-ii, (c)-iii, (d)-iv
B) (a)-iv, (b)-iii, (c)-ii, (d)-i
C) (a)-ii, (b)-i, (c)-iv, (d)-iii
D) (a)-iii, (b)-iv, (c)-i, (d)-ii
Match List I (Terminology) with List II (Description):
| List I | List II |
| (a) Stratigraphy | (i) Study of layers |
| (b) Conservation | (ii) Stabilizing fragile objects |
| (c) Excavation | (iii) Systematic digging |
| (d) Decipherment | (iv) Reading ancient scripts |
A) (a)-ii, (b)-i, (c)-iii, (d)-iv
B) (a)-i, (b)-ii, (c)-iii, (d)-iv
C) (a)-iv, (b)-iii, (c)-ii, (d)-i
D) (a)-iii, (b)-iv, (c)-i, (d)-ii
Match List I (Archaeological Method) with List II (Primary Goal):
| List I | List II |
| (a) Radiocarbon Dating | (i) Environment reconstruction |
| (b) Pollen Analysis | (ii) Absolute Chronology |
| (c) Site Management | (iii) Contextual analysis |
| (d) Systematic Survey | (iv) Heritage preservation |
A) (a)-ii, (b)-i, (c)-iv, (d)-iii
B) (a)-i, (b)-ii, (c)-iii, (d)-iv
C) (a)-iv, (b)-iii, (c)-ii, (d)-i
D) (a)-iii, (b)-iv, (c)-i, (d)-ii
Match List I (Region) with List II (Historical Significance):
| List I | List II |
| (a) Northwest India | (i) Taxila learning center |
| (b) Deccan | (ii) Ellora Caves |
| (c) Central India | (iii) Bhimbetka shelters |
| (d) Gujarat | (iv) Lothal Port |
A) (a)-i, (b)-ii, (c)-iii, (d)-iv
B) (a)-i, (b)-ii, (c)-iii, (d)-iv
C) (a)-iv, (b)-iii, (c)-ii, (d)-i
D) (a)-ii, (b)-i, (c)-iv, (d)-iii
Match List I (Material) with List II (Source Type):
| List I | List II |
| (a) Clay | (i) Terracotta Artifacts |
| (b) Stone | (ii) Rock Edicts |
| (c) Metal | (iii) Copper Plate Inscriptions |
| (d) Bone | (iv) Bioarchaeological remains |
A) (a)-i, (b)-ii, (c)-iii, (d)-iv
B) (a)-i, (b)-ii, (c)-iii, (d)-iv
C) (a)-iv, (b)-iii, (c)-ii, (d)-i
D) (a)-iii, (b)-iv, (c)-i, (d)-ii
Match List I (Scholar/Concept) with List II (Area of Work):
| List I | List II |
| (a) Decipherment | (i) Brahmi Script |
| (b) Stratigraphy | (ii) Relative Dating |
| (c) Epigraphy | (iii) Temple Wall Writings |
| (d) Pottery | (iv) Painted Grey Ware |
A) (a)-i, (b)-ii, (c)-iii, (d)-iv
B) (a)-iv, (b)-iii, (c)-ii, (d)-i
C) (a)-ii, (b)-i, (c)-iv, (d)-iii
D) (a)-iii, (b)-iv, (c)-i, (d)-ii
Match List I (Ancient City) with List II (Modern Location/Civilization):
| List I | List II |
| (a) Mohenjo-daro | (i) Indus Valley |
| (b) Taxila | (ii) Ancient Pakistan (Gandhara) |
| (c) Sanchi | (iii) Madhya Pradesh |
| (d) Muziris | (iv) Kerala Coast |
A) (a)-ii, (b)-i, (c)-iii, (d)-iv
B) (a)-i, (b)-ii, (c)-iii, (d)-iv
C) (a)-iv, (b)-iii, (c)-ii, (d)-i
D) (a)-iii, (b)-iv, (c)-i, (d)-ii
Assertion (A): Archaeological sources are often more reliable than literary sources for the study of ancient history.
Reason (R): Archaeological sources are tangible, less prone to revision, and can be scientifically dated.
A) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
B) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
C) (A) is true, but (R) is false.
D) (A) is false, but (R) is true.
Assertion (A): The study of pottery is crucial for archaeologists to determine the cultural levels of a site.
Reason (R): Pottery styles remained identical across all regions and periods in ancient India.
A) Both (A) and (R) are true.
B) (A) is false, but (R) is true.
C) (A) is true, but (R) is false.
D) Both (A) and (R) are false.
Assertion (A): Ashokan inscriptions are found in various parts of the Indian subcontinent.
Reason (R): Emperor Ashoka wanted to spread his Dhamma and administrative policies to his subjects.
A) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
B) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
C) (A) is true, but (R) is false.
D) (A) is false, but (R) is true.
Assertion (A): Radiocarbon dating cannot be used to date stone tools directly.
Reason (R): Radiocarbon dating only works on materials that were once part of a living organism (organic).
A) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
B) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
C) (A) is true, but (R) is false.
D) (A) is false, but (R) is true.
Assertion (A): Deciphering the Indus Script is one of the biggest challenges in Indian archaeology.
Reason (R): The script is logo-syllabic and no bilingual inscription (like the Rosetta Stone) has been found yet.
A) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
B) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
C) (A) is true, but (R) is false.
D) (A) is false, but (R) is true.
Numismatic Sources
The earliest coins in the world are believed to have appeared in which region around c. 700 BCE?
(A) Mesopotamia
(B) Egypt
(C) Lydia in West Asia
(D) China
The earliest coins of the world were primarily made of:
(A) Bronze
(B) Copper
(C) Electrum
(D) Iron
In numismatics, the main message-bearing side of a coin is called:
(A) Reverse
(B) Obverse
(C) Margin
(D) Fabric
The opposite side of the obverse of a coin is known as:
(A) Fabric
(B) Legend
(C) Reverse
(D) Margin
Which of the following functions of money refers to its role in settling future obligations?
(A) Store of value
(B) Unit of account
(C) Medium of exchange
(D) Medium of deferred payment
The study of coins is known as:
(A) Epigraphy
(B) Paleography
(C) Numismatics
(D) Archaeometry
Which aspect of numismatics deals with the measurement and arrangement of coins by weight?
(A) Fabric analysis
(B) Epigraphy
(C) Metrology
(D) Cartography
The earliest Indian coins are generally known as:
(A) Dinars
(B) Satamana
(C) Punch-marked coins
(D) Tanka
Punch-marked coins in ancient India were generally made of:
(A) Gold and bronze
(B) Silver or copper
(C) Iron and lead
(D) Brass and tin
The emergence of coins in India marked a significant transition from:
(A) Tribal economy to urban economy
(B) Rural to industrial economy
(C) Barter system to monetary exchange
(D) Agrarian system to feudalism
The ship motif on certain Satavahana coins indicates:
(A) Military supremacy
(B) Religious significance
(C) Maritime trade importance
(D) Agricultural prosperity
Roman coins discovered in India primarily indicate:
(A) Gupta expansion
(B) Buddhist influence
(C) Indo-Roman trade relations
(D) Mauryan conquest
The wide circulation of Kushana coins reflects:
(A) Political decline
(B) Religious intolerance
(C) Flourishing trade
(D) Collapse of urbanization
Which scientific technique is considered non-destructive in determining metal composition of coins?
(A) Carbon dating
(B) Metallography
(C) X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry
(D) Acid testing
Coin hoards are particularly important for understanding:
(A) Temple architecture
(B) Military organization
(C) Monetary history
(D) Literary traditions
Debasement of coins is often interpreted by historians as an indicator of:
(A) Agricultural expansion
(B) Financial crisis or economic decline
(C) Religious transformation
(D) Urban prosperity
Which coins often provide dates in the Saka Era?
(A) Kushana coins
(B) Mauryan coins
(C) Western Kshatrapa coins
(D) Satavahana coins
The archaeological site of Sonkh near Mathura was divided into periods mainly based on:
(A) Pottery remains
(B) Temple ruins
(C) Coin finds
(D) Inscriptions
The term ‘gana’ on Yaudheya and Malava coins suggests:
(A) Monarchical polity
(B) Religious kingdom
(C) Non-monarchical polity
(D) Colonial administration
Most Indo-Greek kings are primarily known through:
(A) Literary records
(B) Foreign travel accounts
(C) Coins
(D) Temple inscriptions
The only specific biographical detail about Chandragupta I comes from coins depicting:
(A) His military conquest
(B) His Ashvamedha sacrifice
(C) His marriage with a Lichchhavi princess
(D) His naval expedition
Coins helped establish the historical existence of which Gupta ruler?
(A) Skandagupta
(B) Vishnugupta
(C) Ramagupta
(D) Chandragupta III
The lyrist type coins of Samudragupta depict him:
(A) Hunting lions
(B) Offering sacrifice
(C) Playing the vina
(D) Riding elephants
Representations of Balarama and Krishna appear on coins of which Indo-Greek ruler?
(A) Menander
(B) Agathocles
(C) Demetrius
(D) Apollodotus
The coins of Kushana rulers reflect:
(A) Exclusive Brahmanical traditions
(B) Strict Buddhist ideology
(C) Eclectic religious traditions
(D) Jain dominance
Which script was commonly used on ancient northwestern Indian coins?
(A) Tamil-Brahmi
(B) Grantha
(C) Kharosthi
(D) Sharada
The Gupta gold coins are generally known as:
(A) Nishka
(B) Karshapana
(C) Dinars
(D) Tanka
Which symbol is frequently associated with ancient Indian religious coin motifs?
(A) Crescent moon only
(B) Anchor
(C) Swastika
(D) Crown emblem
The presence of Greek motifs on Indian coins is evidence of:
(A) Religious conflict
(B) Cultural exchange through trade
(C) Colonial administration
(D) Political subordination
Which dynasty’s coins are often considered symbols of India’s ‘Golden Age’?
(A) Maurya
(B) Satavahana
(C) Gupta
(D) Chola
Match List I with List II regarding ancient coins and their significance.
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| a. Satavahana Coins | 1. Marriage with Lichchhavi princess |
| b. Chandragupta I Coins | 2. Maritime trade |
| c. Kushana Coins | 3. Eclectic religious imagery |
| d. Roman Coins in India | 4. Indo-Roman trade |
(A) a-2, b-1, c-3, d-4
(B) a-2, b-1, c-3, d-4
(C) a-3, b-2, c-4, d-1
(D) a-4, b-3, c-2, d-1
Match List I with List II.
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| a. XRF Spectrometry | 1. Weight measurement |
| b. Metrology | 2. Coin composition analysis |
| c. Hoards | 3. Monetary history |
| d. Fabric | 4. Shape and thickness |
(A) a-2, b-1, c-3, d-4
(B) a-2, b-1, c-3, d-4
(C) a-1, b-3, c-4, d-2
(D) a-4, b-2, c-1, d-3
Assertion (A): Coins are important sources for reconstructing ancient political history.
Reason (R): Coins often contain names, titles, dates, and political symbols of rulers.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(B) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(C) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(D) A is false but R is true.
Assertion (A): Coin debasement always indicates economic decline.
Reason (R): Debasement may also occur due to increased demand for coinage amid shortage of precious metals.
(A) Both A and R are true.
(B) A is true but R is false.
(C) A is false but R is true.
(D) Both A and R are false.
Who among the following introduced punch-marked coins in India according to conventional chronology?
(A) Kushanas
(B) Guptas
(C) Mahajanapada period rulers
(D) Delhi Sultans
Which among the following is considered one of the earliest punch-marked coin traditions in India?
(A) Gupta coinage
(B) Mughal coinage
(C) Mahajanapada coinage
(D) Sultanate coinage
Which of the following ancient Indian dynasties issued coins depicting extensive royal portraits and deities?
(A) Harappan Civilization
(B) Vedic tribes
(C) Gupta Dynasty
(D) Sangam chiefs
The presence of coin moulds in large numbers at a site generally indicates:
(A) Religious center
(B) Agricultural settlement
(C) Mint town
(D) Burial ground
Coins are especially useful in dating archaeological layers because they:
(A) Are made of precious metals
(B) Contain myths and legends
(C) Serve as chronological markers
(D) Were used only by kings
Which of the following rulers issued coins depicting the performance of Ashvamedha sacrifice?
(A) Chandragupta Maurya and Ashoka
(B) Kanishka and Huvishka
(C) Samudragupta and Kumaragupta I
(D) Harsha and Pulakeshin II
Match List I with List II.
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| a. Gupta Coins | 1. Ship symbol |
| b. Satavahana Coins | 2. Marriage depiction |
| c. Chandragupta I | 3. Gold dinars |
| d. Samudragupta | 4. Lyrist coin type |
(A) a-3, b-1, c-2, d-4
(B) a-3, b-1, c-2, d-4
(C) a-2, b-4, c-3, d-1
(D) a-4, b-2, c-1, d-3
Match List I with List II.
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| a. Yaudheyas | 1. Indo-Roman trade |
| b. Western Kshatrapas | 2. Saka era dates |
| c. Roman Coins | 3. Republican polity |
| d. Sonkh | 4. Archaeological dating |
(A) a-2, b-1, c-3, d-4
(B) a-4, b-3, c-1, d-2
(C) a-3, b-2, c-1, d-4
(D) a-1, b-4, c-2, d-3
Match List I with List II.
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| a. Agathocles | 1. Vina player depiction |
| b. Samudragupta | 2. Balarama and Krishna motifs |
| c. Kanishka | 3. Religious eclecticism |
| d. Chandragupta I | 4. Lichchhavi connection |
(A) a-1, b-2, c-3, d-4
(B) a-2, b-1, c-3, d-4
(C) a-3, b-4, c-1, d-2
(D) a-4, b-3, c-2, d-1
Match List I with List II.
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| a. Obverse | 1. Coin treasure deposits |
| b. Reverse | 2. Main message-bearing side |
| c. Hoards | 3. Opposite side |
| d. Electrum | 4. Gold-silver alloy |
(A) a-2, b-3, c-1, d-4
(B) a-2, b-3, c-1, d-4
(C) a-3, b-2, c-4, d-1
(D) a-4, b-1, c-2, d-3
Match List I with List II.
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| a. Brahmi Script | 1. Northwestern India |
| b. Kharosthi Script | 2. Religious symbols |
| c. Swastika | 3. Historical inscriptions |
| d. Lotus | 4. Auspicious symbol |
(A) a-3, b-1, c-2, d-4
(B) a-3, b-1, c-2, d-4
(C) a-2, b-4, c-3, d-1
(D) a-1, b-2, c-4, d-3
Assertion (A): Roman coins found in India are evidence of long-distance trade.
Reason (R): Roman political control extended directly over India.
(A) Both A and R are true and R explains A.
(B) Both A and R are true but R does not explain A.
(C) A is true but R is false.
(D) A is false but R is true.
Assertion (A): Numismatic evidence is particularly important for reconstructing Indian political history between c. 200 BCE and 300 CE.
Reason (R): Most Indo-Greek kings are known almost entirely from their coins.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(B) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(C) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation.
(D) A is false but R is true.
Assertion (A): Ancient Indian coins provide information only about economic history.
Reason (R): Coins also reveal political, linguistic, and religious developments.
(A) Both A and R are true.
(B) A is true but R is false.
(C) A is false but R is true.
(D) Both A and R are false.
Assertion (A): The depiction of diverse deities on Kushana coins indicates multiple religious traditions within the empire.
Reason (R): Kushana rulers used varied religious symbols to legitimize political authority.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(B) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(C) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation.
(D) A is false but R is true.
Which among the following statements about ancient Indian coins is correct?
(A) Coins are useful only for political history
(B) Ancient Indian coins lacked regional diversity
(C) Coin legends provide no linguistic evidence
(D) Ancient coins provide insights into economic, political, religious, and cultural history
Literary Sources
1. Which of the following is considered a literary source of history?
Inscriptions
Coins
Chronicles and manuscripts
Excavated pottery
(A) 3 only
(B) 1 and 2 only
(C) 2 and 4 only
(D) 1, 3 and 4 only
2. Literary sources belong to a later phase of human evolution because:
(A) Humans began hunting in groups
(B) Humans started living in organized societies and developed writing
(C) Agriculture was discovered
(D) Metals were first used
3. Which among the following is correctly matched?
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Kautilya | 1. Arthashastra |
| B. Bharata Muni | 2. Natyashastra |
| C. Aryabhatta | 3. Astronomy |
| D. Kalidasa | 4. Sanskrit literature |
(A) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
(B) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(C) A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
(D) A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2
4. Primary literary sources are characterized by:
(A) Interpretation of earlier evidence
(B) Summarization of historical findings
(C) Original and unaltered accounts of events
(D) Mythological imagination only
5. Which of the following best explains the difficulty in dating literary sources?
(A) Lack of language experts
(B) Foreign invasions destroyed all records
(C) Manuscripts were manually copied by scribes
(D) No scripts existed in ancient India
6. Which foreign traveler wrote Natural Historia?
(A) Herodotus
(B) Megasthenes
(C) Pliny
(D) Ptolemy
7. Match the following Buddhist literary works with their contents:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Vinaya Pitaka | 1. Philosophical aspect |
| B. Sutta Pitaka | 2. Rules of Buddhist Sangha |
| C. Abhidhamma Pitaka | 3. Teachings of Buddha |
| D. Jatakas | 4. Stories of previous births |
(A) A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
(B) A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4
(C) A-1, B-4, C-3, D-2
(D) A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
8. Assertion (A): Literary sources are completely reliable for reconstructing history.
Reason (R): Authors may manipulate events according to their perspectives.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
9. Which of the following texts is regarded as the earliest surviving Tamil grammar text?
(A) Silappadikaram
(B) Manimekhalai
(C) Tholkappiyam
(D) Pattupattu
10. Match the following foreign travelers with their contributions:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Fa-Hien | 1. Rashtrakutas |
| B. Al-Masudi | 2. Gupta India |
| C. Al-Biruni | 3. Taqeeq-e-Hind |
| D. Sulaiman | 4. Pal and Pratihar rulers |
(A) A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
(B) A-2, B-4, C-3, D-1
(C) A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
(D) A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4
11. Which of the following belongs to Shruti literature?
Vedas
Brahmanas
Upanishads
Puranas
(A) 1 and 4 only
(B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1, 2 and 3 only
(D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
12. Assertion (A): Vedas are called “apaurusheya”.
Reason (R): Aryans believed that Vedas were heard and not created by humans.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
13. Which among the following is NOT one of the six Vedangas?
(A) Jyotish
(B) Kalpa
(C) Nirukta
(D) Vedanta
14. Match the following Vedic texts with their purposes:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Brahmanas | 1. Philosophical knowledge |
| B. Aranyakas | 2. Ritual sacrifices |
| C. Upanishads | 3. Mysticism in isolation |
| D. Vedangas | 4. Auxiliary disciplines |
(A) A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
(B) A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
(C) A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4
(D) A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
15. Which Buddhist text gives information regarding the Mauryan emperor Ashoka?
(A) Arthashastra
(B) Acharanga Sutra
(C) Dipvamsha and Mahavamsha
(D) Rigveda
16. Assertion (A): Jain literature is useful for reconstructing the history of Jain doctrines.
Reason (R): Jain literature was compiled in Prakrit and includes Agamas.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
17. Which among the following texts sheds light on Chandragupta Maurya and Bhadrabahu?
(A) Bhagavati Sutra
(B) Maha Purana
(C) Bhadrabahu Charita
(D) Samaysar
18. Match the following Jain texts with their themes:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Acharanga Sutra | 1. Mahavir’s life |
| B. Bhagavati Sutra | 2. Conduct of Jain monks |
| C. Samaysar | 3. Jain philosophy |
| D. Padmacharit | 4. Jain Purana |
(A) A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
(B) A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
(C) A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2
(D) A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
19. Which of the following is NOT categorized as secular literary source?
(A) Eulogies
(B) Dramas
(C) Poetry
(D) Upanishads
20. Assertion (A): Sangam literature helps us understand early South Indian history.
Reason (R): Sangam poems were collections of folklore gathered from ecological regions of South India.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
21. Match the following Sangam literary works:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Manimekhalai | 1. Sangam text |
| B. Pattupattu | 2. Collection of poems |
| C. Silappadikaram | 3. Tamil epic |
| D. Tholkappiyam | 4. Tamil grammar |
(A) A-2, B-4, C-1, D-3
(B) A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2
22. Which Gupta-age scholar is associated with major advances in mathematics and astronomy?
(A) Varahamihira
(B) Nagarjuna
(C) Aryabhatta
(D) Panini
23. Assertion (A): Literary sources mainly focus on elite and prominent personalities.
Reason (R): Common people generally remained outside the focus of literary narratives.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
24. Which one of the following pairs is incorrectly matched?
(A) Herodotus – Persian-Greek wars involving Indians
(B) Fa-Hien – Gupta period India
(C) Al-Biruni – Taqeeq-e-Hind
(D) I-tsing – Arthashastra
25. Which of the following statements regarding literary sources is/are correct?
They provide information on polity, economy, and religion.
They are entirely free from bias.
They are often fragmentary in nature.
They provide evidence for Stone Age societies extensively.
(A) 1 and 2 only
(B) 2 and 4 only
(C) 1 and 3 only
(D) 1, 2 and 3 only
Problem of Dating Secular and Religious Literature
1. The problem of dating literature primarily affects our understanding of:
(A) Printing technology only
(B) Linguistic structure only
(C) Historical context, authenticity, and evolution of ideas
(D) Religious authority alone
2. Which of the following is an example of religious literature?
The Bible
The Bhagavad Gita
Shakespeare’s Plays
The Quran
(A) 1 and 2 only
(B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1, 2 and 4 only
(D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
3. Match the following religious texts with their associated traditions:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Bible | 1. Islam |
| B. Quran | 2. Taoism |
| C. Bhagavad Gita | 3. Christianity |
| D. Tao Te Ching | 4. Hinduism |
(A) A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
(B) A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2
(C) A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4
(D) A-1, B-4, C-3, D-2
4. Which of the following creates difficulty in dating religious texts?
(A) Presence of printing presses
(B) Lack of spiritual content
(C) Oral tradition and multiple authorship
(D) Absence of manuscripts entirely
5. Assertion (A): Religious texts are often difficult to date accurately.
Reason (R): Many religious texts emerged from oral traditions before being written down.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
6. The dating of early Christian writings is closely linked to the historical context of:
(A) Gupta Empire
(B) Ottoman Empire
(C) Roman Empire
(D) Persian Empire
7. Match the following challenges in dating religious literature with their explanation:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Multiple Authors | 1. Written after centuries of oral transmission |
| B. Oral Tradition | 2. Different contributors across time |
| C. Historical Events | 3. Cultural and political shifts affect chronology |
| D. Translation Issues | 4. Variations introduced in later versions |
(A) A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
(B) A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
(C) A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
(D) A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2
8. Which translation of the Hebrew Bible is cited as an example of translation-related dating issues?
(A) Latin Vulgate
(B) Syriac Bible
(C) Septuagint
(D) Dead Sea Scrolls
9. Assertion (A): Misdating religious texts may distort theological understanding.
Reason (R): The chronology of texts influences interpretation of doctrines and historical significance.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
10. Which of the following best defines secular literature?
(A) Literature based exclusively on mythology
(B) Literature based only on political ideologies
(C) Non-religious texts dealing with human experiences and society
(D) Texts confined to scientific themes
11. Match the following secular authors with their literary forms:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Shakespeare | 1. Essays |
| B. Charles Dickens | 2. Plays |
| C. Virginia Woolf | 3. Novels |
| D. George Orwell | 4. Political writings |
(A) A-3, B-2, C-4, D-1
(B) A-1, B-4, C-3, D-2
(C) A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4
(D) A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3
12. Which factor particularly complicates the dating of secular texts?
(A) Priesthood intervention
(B) Oral recitation only
(C) Lack of clear documentation and references
(D) Divine revelation
13. Assertion (A): Literary movements help scholars date secular literature.
Reason (R): Features of movements like Romanticism and Modernism indicate historical periods.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
14. Which author’s works faced significant publication delays before reaching the public?
(A) Charles Dickens
(B) Shakespeare
(C) Franz Kafka
(D) George Orwell
15. Match the following issues related to secular literature with their outcomes:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Lack of Documentation | 1. Difficulty identifying original writer |
| B. Literary Movements | 2. Ambiguity in chronology |
| C. Censorship | 3. Publication delays |
| D. Authorship Disputes | 4. Uncertain dating |
(A) A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
(B) A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1
(C) A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
(D) A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
16. Which of the following is a major implication of misdating secular literature?
(A) Weakening of religious doctrines
(B) Loss of manuscript evidence
(C) Distorted understanding of literary history and influences
(D) Elimination of literary genres
17. Assertion (A): Religious literature mainly emphasizes spiritual beliefs and moral teachings.
Reason (R): Religious texts are generally disconnected from faith traditions.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is false but R is true
(D) A is true but R is false
18. Match the following methodologies for dating literature with their functions:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Historical Contextualization | 1. Study of language and vocabulary |
| B. Philological Analysis | 2. Comparing with dated texts |
| C. Manuscript Evidence | 3. Historical and cultural background |
| D. Intertextual Analysis | 4. Examination of ink, paper, script |
(A) A-2, B-4, C-1, D-3
(B) A-1, B-3, C-4, D-2
(C) A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2
(D) A-4, B-2, C-3, D-1
19. Which methodology focuses on changes in language and vocabulary to determine chronology?
(A) Historical contextualization
(B) Intertextual analysis
(C) Philological analysis
(D) Archaeological analysis
20. Which of the following statements is/are correct?
Manuscript evidence includes study of ink and writing style.
Intertextual analysis compares themes across texts.
Religious literature never emerges from oral tradition.
Secular literature always has exact publication dates.
(A) 1 and 4 only
(B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 2 only
(D) 1, 2 and 4 only
21. Match the following aspects with religious or secular literature:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Faith and morality | 1. Religious literature |
| B. Human experiences | 2. Secular literature |
| C. Bhagavad Gita | 3. Religious literature |
| D. George Orwell’s works | 4. Secular literature |
(A) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
(B) A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
22. Which of the following can help establish a chronological framework between texts?
(A) Translation criticism
(B) Comparative religion
(C) Intertextual analysis
(D) Numismatics
23. Assertion (A): The authorship of some Shakespearean plays remains debated.
Reason (R): Disputed authorship can complicate the dating of texts.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
24. Which among the following pairs is incorrectly matched?
(A) Septuagint – Greek translation of Hebrew Bible
(B) Philological Analysis – Language study
(C) Historical Contextualization – Cultural background
(D) Intertextual Analysis – Study of manuscript ink
25. According to literary historiography, the most reliable dating of a text is generally achieved through:
(A) Mythological references alone
(B) Oral traditions alone
(C) Combined use of philology, manuscript evidence, and historical context
(D) Religious authority only
Epigraphic Sources
1. The study of inscriptions is known as:
(A) Numismatics
(B) Paleontology
(C) Epigraphy
(D) Archaeometry
2. The study of ancient writing used in inscriptions and historical documents is called:
(A) Historiography
(B) Palaeography
(C) Archaeology
(D) Cartography
3. Which among the following dynasties is NOT explicitly mentioned in the passage as known through inscriptions?
(A) Shungas
(B) Satavahanas
(C) Guptas
(D) Cholas
4. Match the following inscriptions with their associated rulers/dynasties:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Hathigumpha Inscription | 1. Kharavela |
| B. Rabatak Inscription | 2. Kanishka |
| C. Junagarh Inscription | 3. Rudradaman I |
| D. Mehrauli Iron Pillar | 4. Chandragupta II |
(A) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
(B) A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
5. Assertion (A): Inscriptions are valuable historical sources.
Reason (R): They provide dates, royal genealogies, and evidence of governance.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
6. Indian inscriptions began appearing prominently from:
(A) Sixth century C.E.
(B) First century B.C.E.
(C) Third century B.C.E.
(D) Fifth century C.E.
7. Which material hosted the majority of South Indian inscriptions?
(A) Palm leaves only
(B) Wooden planks
(C) Copper plates and temple stone walls
(D) Clay tablets only
8. Match the following scripts/languages with inscriptions:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Brahmi | 1. Early Ashokan inscriptions |
| B. Kharoshthi | 2. Northwestern inscriptions |
| C. Greek | 3. Edict 13 of Ashoka |
| D. Aramaic | 4. Bilingual Ashokan edict |
(A) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
(B) A-1, B-4, C-2, D-3
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
9. The earliest evidence of epigraphy in South Asia is found in:
(A) Brahmi inscriptions of Ashoka
(B) Kharoshthi cave inscriptions
(C) Tamil Brahmi inscriptions in Sri Lanka
(D) Gupta copper plates
10. Assertion (A): Inscriptions are useful in understanding the evolution of Indian languages.
Reason (R): Linguists study vocabulary and syntax preserved in inscriptions.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
11. Which among the following inscriptions is regarded as the first physical evidence of Buddhism?
(A) Junagarh inscription
(B) Rabatak inscription
(C) Ashokan inscriptions
(D) Halmidi inscription
12. The Halmidi inscription is significant because it:
(A) Records Ashoka’s Dhamma
(B) Is written in Sanskrit prose
(C) Is the oldest known Kannada inscription
(D) Mentions Mihirakula’s defeat
13. Match the following inscriptions with their notable feature:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Halmidi inscription | 1. Oldest Kannada inscription |
| B. Hathigumpha inscription | 2. Kharavela’s victories |
| C. Rabatak inscription | 3. Kushan genealogy |
| D. Junagarh inscription | 4. Sudarshana Lake restoration |
(A) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
(B) A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
14. Which ruler’s inscription mentions the policy of “Dhamma” or “Law of Piety”?
(A) Rudradaman I
(B) Kanishka
(C) Yasodharman
(D) Ashoka
15. Assertion (A): Ashoka’s inscriptions were written only in Brahmi script.
Reason (R): Some Ashokan edicts were also inscribed in Greek and Aramaic.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
16. Which lake is associated with Rudradaman’s Junagarh inscription?
(A) Pushkar Lake
(B) Dal Lake
(C) Sudarshana Lake
(D) Chilika Lake
17. The Junagarh inscription is regarded as an early example of:
(A) Prakrit literature
(B) Tamil poetry
(C) Chaste Sanskrit prose
(D) Persian epigraphy
18. Match the following rulers with associated events mentioned in inscriptions:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Chandragupta Maurya | 1. Sudarshana Lake construction |
| B. Rudradaman I | 2. Lake restoration |
| C. Kharavela | 3. Hathigumpha victories |
| D. Kanishka | 4. Rabatak inscription |
(A) A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3
(B) A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1
19. The Mehrauli Iron Pillar is famous because:
(A) It contains the earliest Tamil script
(B) It records Satavahana genealogy
(C) It has not rusted despite exposure for centuries
(D) It contains Ashokan edicts
20. Assertion (A): The Mehrauli Iron Pillar demonstrates ancient Indian scientific skill.
Reason (R): The iron pillar has resisted corrosion for over 1600 years.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
21. Hathigumpha inscription was issued by:
(A) Satakarni I
(B) Ashoka
(C) Rudradaman I
(D) Kharavela
22. Hathigumpha inscription was engraved in:
(A) Kharoshthi script
(B) Greek language
(C) Brahmi letters
(D) Grantha script
23. Match the following inscriptions with their locations:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Hathigumpha | 1. Afghanistan |
| B. Rabatak | 2. Karnataka |
| C. Halmidi | 3. Bhubaneswar |
| D. Mandsaur | 4. Madhya Pradesh |
(A) A-1, B-3, C-2, D-4
(B) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
(C) A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
(D) A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
24. Which inscription was discovered near Surkh Kotal in Afghanistan?
(A) Junagarh inscription
(B) Mehrauli inscription
(C) Rabatak inscription
(D) Nanaghat inscription
25. Assertion (A): Rabatak inscription expanded historians’ understanding of Kushan territory.
Reason (R): It suggested that Kanishka’s empire extended beyond previously accepted limits.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
26. The Rabatak inscription was written in:
(A) Sanskrit and Brahmi
(B) Tamil and Grantha
(C) Bactrian language and Greek script
(D) Prakrit and Kharoshthi
27. Nanaghat inscription is important for understanding the:
(A) Gupta administration
(B) Mauryan taxation system
(C) Origins and governance of the Satavahana dynasty
(D) Chola maritime policy
28. Match the following inscriptions with their scripts/languages:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Nanaghat inscription | 1. Puruvada-hala Kannada |
| B. Halmidi inscription | 2. Brahmi and Prakrit |
| C. Rabatak inscription | 3. Bactrian and Greek |
| D. Ashokan inscriptions (Eastern India) | 4. Magadhi and Brahmi |
(A) A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4
(B) A-1, B-3, C-4, D-2
(C) A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
(D) A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3
29. Nanaghat pass historically connected inland regions with:
(A) Bengal ports
(B) Gujarat trade centres
(C) Northern Konkan seaports
(D) Coromandel coast
30. Assertion (A): Nanaghat inscription is important for Satavahana history.
Reason (R): It records Satakarni I’s rule and sacrificial performances.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
31. The Nanaghat cave is also called:
(A) Vihara cave
(B) Garuda sanctuary
(C) Pratimaghara or Satavahana Statue Sanctuary
(D) Chaitya cave
32. Naganika, associated with the Nanaghat inscription, was the wife of:
(A) Simuka
(B) Gautamiputra Satakarni
(C) Satakarni I
(D) Pulumavi
33. Match the following rulers with inscriptions associated with them:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Ashoka | 1. Pillar Edicts |
| B. Rudradaman I | 2. Junagarh inscription |
| C. Kharavela | 3. Hathigumpha inscription |
| D. Yasodharman | 4. Mandsaur inscription |
(A) A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
(B) A-3, B-2, C-4, D-1
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-4, B-3, C-1, D-2
34. The Halmidi inscription dates approximately to:
(A) 250 C.E.
(B) 320 C.E.
(C) 450 C.E.
(D) 600 C.E.
35. Assertion (A): Halmidi inscription demonstrates Kannada’s administrative use.
Reason (R): It contains the first evidence of Kannada being employed in governance.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
36. The Halmidi inscription was found in present-day:
(A) Tamil Nadu
(B) Andhra Pradesh
(C) Karnataka
(D) Maharashtra
37. Which inscription mentions Yasodharman’s victory over Mihirakula?
(A) Junagarh inscription
(B) Rabatak inscription
(C) Mandsaur inscription
(D) Hathigumpha inscription
38. Match the following personalities with related inscriptions:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Mihirakula | 1. Defeated in Mandsaur inscription |
| B. Vatsabhatta | 2. Composer of inscription |
| C. Yasodharman | 3. Malwa ruler |
| D. Kumaragupta | 4. Period of inscription writing |
(A) A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
(B) A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-3, B-2, C-4, D-1
39. Mandsaur inscription was written in:
(A) Tamil
(B) Prakrit
(C) Sanskrit
(D) Pali
40. Assertion (A): Mandsaur inscription provides information on migration of silk weavers.
Reason (R): It records movement of silk weavers from Lata to Dasapura.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
41. Tamil copper-plate inscriptions mainly record:
(A) Military conquests only
(B) Religious sermons only
(C) Land grants and privileges by rulers
(D) Maritime trade accounts only
42. Which dynasties are prominently connected with Tamil copper-plate inscriptions?
Chalukyas
Cholas
Vijayanagar rulers
Guptas
(A) 1 and 2 only
(B) 2 and 4 only
(C) 1, 2 and 3 only
(D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
43. Match the following copper plate inscriptions with their significance:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Thiruvalangadu Plates | 1. Rajendra Chola I’s donation |
| B. Chola Copperplate | 2. Vishnu temple dues |
| C. Tamil Copper Plates | 3. Medieval socioeconomic conditions |
| D. Copper-plate records | 4. Taxation system |
(A) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
(B) A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
44. Thiruvalangadu copper plates were unearthed in:
(A) 1890 C.E.
(B) 1899 C.E.
(C) 1905 C.E.
(D) 1910 C.E.
45. Assertion (A): Thiruvalangadu plates contain both Sanskrit and Tamil texts.
Reason (R): The manuscripts appear to have been written at least a decade apart.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
46. Which Chola ruler’s donation is documented in the Thiruvalangadu plates?
(A) Rajaraja Chola I
(B) Uththama Chola
(C) Rajendra Chola I
(D) Kulothunga Chola I
47. The Chola seal on copper plates depicts:
(A) Lion and elephant
(B) Fish and lotus
(C) Tiger, fish, and bow
(D) Bull and wheel
48. Match the following places with inscriptions:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Girnar | 1. Junagarh inscription |
| B. Mehrauli | 2. Iron Pillar |
| C. Udayagiri | 3. Hathigumpha inscription |
| D. Halmidi | 4. Kannada inscription |
(A) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
(B) A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
49. More than what percentage of epigraphical inscriptions discovered in India by ASI are in Tamil?
(A) 35%
(B) 45%
(C) 55%
(D) 65%
50. Assertion (A): Inscriptions alone provide a complete and unbiased history of ancient India.
Reason (R): Many inscriptions use lavish and exaggerated language and must be corroborated with other sources.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
51. Which of the following best explains the historical importance of inscriptions?
(A) They only preserve literary traditions
(B) They only provide religious teachings
(C) They provide evidence of rulers, genealogy, administration, and chronology
(D) They only describe wars
52. The earliest inscriptions in the Indian subcontinent were primarily written in:
(A) Grantha script
(B) Tamil script
(C) Brahmi script
(D) Devanagari script
53. Match the following inscriptions with their historical contribution:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Ashokan Edicts | 1. Spread of Buddhism |
| B. Junagarh Inscription | 2. Water management |
| C. Mandsaur Inscription | 3. Silk weavers’ migration |
| D. Rabatak Inscription | 4. Kushan genealogy |
(A) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
(B) A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
54. Assertion (A): Ashoka’s inscriptions offer the earliest physical evidence of Buddhism.
Reason (R): The edicts describe Buddhist propagation under royal patronage.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
55. The Greek colonies referred to in Ashokan inscriptions were mainly located in:
(A) Bengal and Odisha
(B) Tamil Nadu and Kerala
(C) Gandhara and Southern Afghanistan
(D) Gujarat and Rajasthan
56. Which among the following is NOT associated with Ashokan inscriptions?
(A) Brahmi script
(B) Kharoshthi script
(C) Greek language
(D) Grantha script
57. Match the following rulers with regions associated in inscriptions:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Ashoka | 1. Mauryan Empire |
| B. Kharavela | 2. Kalinga |
| C. Rudradaman I | 3. Kathiawar |
| D. Kanishka | 4. Kushan Empire |
(A) A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4
(B) A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
58. Which inscription is directly associated with the restoration of a dam?
(A) Hathigumpha inscription
(B) Halmidi inscription
(C) Junagarh inscription
(D) Nanaghat inscription
59. Assertion (A): The Junagarh inscription is significant for environmental history.
Reason (R): It provides details regarding ancient water management and reservoir restoration.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
60. Which inscription directly commemorates the victories of Kharavela?
(A) Rabatak inscription
(B) Mandsaur inscription
(C) Hathigumpha inscription
(D) Mehrauli inscription
61. The Mehrauli Iron Pillar inscription is traditionally attributed to:
(A) Samudragupta
(B) Chandragupta II
(C) Kumaragupta
(D) Skandagupta
62. Match the following inscriptions with their dates/periods:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Ashokan Edicts | 1. Third century B.C.E. |
| B. Nanaghat inscription | 2. First century B.C.E. |
| C. Halmidi inscription | 3. Fifth century C.E. |
| D. Mandsaur inscription | 4. Sixth century C.E. |
(A) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
(B) A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
63. Assertion (A): Halmidi inscription reflects advanced linguistic development in Kannada.
Reason (R): The inscription is composed in poetic form showing grammatical sophistication.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
64. Which inscription mentions the migration of silk weavers from Lata to Dasapura?
(A) Hathigumpha inscription
(B) Junagarh inscription
(C) Mandsaur inscription
(D) Rabatak inscription
65. Match the following scholars/terms with descriptions:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Epigraphy | 1. Study of inscriptions |
| B. Palaeography | 2. Study of ancient scripts |
| C. Brahmi | 3. Early script of inscriptions |
| D. Kharoshthi | 4. Northwestern script |
(A) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
(B) A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
66. Which of the following statements is/are correct?
Copper-plate inscriptions were used as land ownership records.
Inscriptions help reconstruct royal genealogies.
All inscriptions are completely unbiased.
Inscriptions preserve early forms of Indian languages.
(A) 1 and 3 only
(B) 2 and 4 only
(C) 1, 2 and 4 only
(D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
67. Assertion (A): Tamil copper-plate inscriptions are important for reconstructing medieval Tamil history.
Reason (R): They contain records of donations, taxation, and royal administration.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
68. Which among the following inscriptions contains both Sanskrit and Tamil portions?
(A) Nanaghat inscription
(B) Halmidi inscription
(C) Thiruvalangadu copper plates
(D) Hathigumpha inscription
69. Match the following inscriptions with the themes they illuminate:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Ashokan inscriptions | 1. Dhamma and morality |
| B. Nanaghat inscription | 2. Satavahana sacrifices |
| C. Mehrauli pillar | 3. Metallurgical excellence |
| D. Junagarh inscription | 4. Reservoir restoration |
(A) A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1
(B) A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
70. Which of the following best summarizes the contribution of inscriptions to ancient Indian history?
(A) They only record religious doctrines
(B) They mainly focus on myths and legends
(C) They provide evidence on administration, society, religion, language, and political history
(D) They replace all other historical sources entirely
Foreign Accounts
1. Foreign accounts of Indian history mainly consist of writings of:
(A) Indian monks and rulers
(B) Buddhist and Jain scholars only
(C) Roman, Chinese, Greek, Arab, and Persian travellers
(D) Gupta court historians only
2. Foreign travellers are considered important sources because:
(A) They focused only on mythology
(B) They supported Indian rulers politically
(C) They had no loyalty to local elites and often wrote impartial accounts
(D) They ignored social and economic issues
3. Match the following travellers with their works/accounts:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Megasthenes | 1. Indica |
| B. Fa-Hien | 2. Fo-Kuo-Ki |
| C. Hiuen-Tsiang | 3. Si-Yu-Ki |
| D. Alberuni | 4. Kitab-ul-Hind |
(A) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
(B) A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
4. The two early Greek and Roman historians who mentioned India were:
(A) Megasthenes and Ptolemy
(B) Pliny and Strabo
(C) Thucydides and Herodotus
(D) Arrian and Diodorus
5. Assertion (A): Foreign accounts provide insights ignored by Indian historiography.
Reason (R): Foreign travellers often focused on political, social, and economic matters rather than only religious issues.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
6. Which Roman scholar authored Naturalis Historia?
(A) Ptolemy
(B) Tacitus
(C) Pliny the Elder
(D) Strabo
7. Naturalis Historia is significant because it provides information regarding:
(A) Gupta administration only
(B) Buddhist philosophy only
(C) Trade relations between India and Rome
(D) Satavahana inscriptions only
8. Match the following travellers with their major contributions:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Herodotus | 1. Mentioned Indian warriors with Persians |
| B. Ptolemy | 2. Geography of India |
| C. Pliny | 3. Indo-Roman trade |
| D. Megasthenes | 4. Mauryan administration |
(A) A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
(B) A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
9. Periplus of the Erythraean Sea mainly provides information on:
(A) Gupta political system
(B) Harsha’s administration
(C) Indo-Roman maritime trade and ports
(D) Buddhist monasteries
10. Megasthenes visited India as an envoy of:
(A) Antiochus
(B) Darius
(C) Seleucus Nicator
(D) Cyrus
11. Assertion (A): The original text of Indica is available today in complete form.
Reason (R): Later travellers only referred to Megasthenes’ observations indirectly.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
12. Match the following observations of Megasthenes with themes:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Pataliputra | 1. Timber wall and moat |
| B. Administration | 2. Complex bureaucracy |
| C. Army | 3. Thirty-member military board |
| D. Castes | 4. Seven social divisions |
(A) A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1
(B) A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
13. According to Megasthenes, Pataliputra was protected by:
(A) Stone ramparts and lakes
(B) Wooden fort and canals
(C) Timber wall, moat, towers, and gates
(D) Brick walls and iron pillars
14. Megasthenes divided Indian society into how many castes?
(A) Four
(B) Five
(C) Six
(D) Seven
15. Assertion (A): Megasthenes’ account supports some details found in Kautilya’s Arthashastra.
Reason (R): Both describe a sophisticated Mauryan administrative structure.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
16. Fa-Hien visited India during the reign of:
(A) Harshavardhana
(B) Samudragupta
(C) Chandragupta II
(D) Ashoka
17. Fa-Hien’s travelogue is known as:
(A) Si-Yu-Ki
(B) Kitab-ul-Hind
(C) Fo-Kuo-Ki
(D) Tabaqat-i-Nasiri
18. Match the following Chinese travellers with features of their accounts:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Fa-Hien | 1. Gupta period |
| B. Hiuen-Tsiang | 2. Harsha’s reign |
| C. It-tsing | 3. Nalanda and Vikramshila |
| D. Hiuen-Tsiang | 4. Study of Buddhism at Nalanda |
(A) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
(B) A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
19. Hiuen-Tsiang stayed in India for approximately:
(A) 5 years
(B) 10 years
(C) 15–16 years
(D) 30 years
20. Assertion (A): Hiuen-Tsiang’s account is important for understanding Harsha’s reign.
Reason (R): He described political, religious, educational, and social conditions of the time.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
21. Which Chinese traveller spent time at Nalanda and Vikramshila universities?
(A) Fa-Hien
(B) Hiuen-Tsiang
(C) It-tsing
(D) Sung-Yun
22. Match the following Arab travellers with their observations:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Sulaiman | 1. Pratiharas and Palas |
| B. Al-Masudi | 2. Rashtrakutas |
| C. Alberuni | 3. Kitab-ul-Hind |
| D. Abdur Razzak | 4. Vijayanagara Empire |
(A) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
(B) A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
23. Al-Masudi is often called the:
(A) Father of Geography
(B) Arab Marco Polo
(C) Herodotus of the Arabs
(D) Persian Chronicler
24. Assertion (A): Al-Masudi believed the Atlantic and Indian Oceans were interconnected.
Reason (R): He referred to the Atlantic Ocean as the “Dark-Green Sea.”
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
25. Alberuni visited India in:
(A) 712 C.E.
(B) 950 C.E.
(C) 1017 C.E.
(D) 1206 C.E.
26. Which ruler accompanied Alberuni to India?
(A) Muhammad Ghori
(B) Timur
(C) Mahmud of Ghazni
(D) Alauddin Khalji
27. Match the following travellers with the dynasties/rulers they described:
| List I | List II |
|---|---|
| A. Megasthenes | 1. Chandragupta Maurya |
| B. Fa-Hien | 2. Chandragupta II |
| C. Hiuen-Tsiang | 3. Harshavardhana |
| D. Abdur Razzak | 4. Dev Raya II |
(A) A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
(B) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3
(C) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4
(D) A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
28. Abdur Razzak visited India during the reign of:
(A) Krishnadevaraya
(B) Harihara I
(C) Dev Raya II
(D) Bukka Raya
29. Assertion (A): Foreign accounts should be used critically by historians.
Reason (R): Some travellers had limited regional exposure and cultural biases despite offering valuable observations.
(A) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
(B) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
(C) A is true but R is false
(D) A is false but R is true
30. Which of the following best explains the historical significance of foreign accounts of India?
(A) They replaced indigenous historical traditions entirely
(B) They focused only on religion and mythology
(C) They provide relatively impartial insights into political, social, economic, and cultural conditions
(D) They only describe military invasions