History MCQs PDF - Ancient History

 CONTENTS ANCIENT HISTORY Chapter 1. Sources of Ancient History 1-9 Ÿ Archaeological Excavations Ÿ Coins Ÿ Inscriptions Ÿ Literary Sources Ÿ Foreign Accoun...

 CONTENTS ANCIENT HISTORY Chapter 1. Sources of Ancient History 1-9 Ÿ Archaeological Excavations Ÿ Coins Ÿ Inscriptions Ÿ Literary Sources Ÿ Foreign Accounts Ÿ Historians of Ancient India Chapter 2. Pre-History of India 10-20 Chapter 3. The Indus Valley Civilisation 21-33 Ÿ Town Planning and Structure Ÿ Agriculture and Domestication of Animals Ÿ Trade, Technology and Crafts Ÿ Political Organisation Ÿ Religious Practices Ÿ Art and Culture: Scripts, Pottery and Terracotta Figurines Ÿ End of Harappan Civilsation Chapter 4. Vedic Age 34-41 Ÿ Advent of Aryans Ÿ Political Organisation Ÿ Society Ÿ Economy Ÿ Miscellaneous Chapter 5. Mahajanpada 42-50 Ÿ The Sixteen Mahajanpadas Ÿ Magadha Empire Ÿ Iranian and Macedonian Invasion Chapter 6. Buddhism and Jainism 51-62 Ÿ Causes of Origin of Buddhism and Jainism Ÿ Gautama Buddha and Buddhism Ÿ Mahavira and Jainism Chapter 7. Mauryan Age 63-74 Ÿ Mauryan Empire Ÿ Rulers of Mauryan Empire Ÿ Inscriptions of Ashoka Ÿ Administration Ÿ Economy Ÿ Art and Architecture Ÿ Society Ÿ Miscellaneous Chapter 8. Post-Mauryan Age 75-89 Ÿ Shunga Dynasty Ÿ Kanva Dynasty Ÿ Satavahana Dynasty Ÿ Indo-Greek Invasions Ÿ The Shakas Ÿ The Parthians Ÿ The Kushans Ÿ Impact of Central Asian Contacts on Indian Culture Ÿ Miscellaneous Chapter 9. Gupta Age 90-99 Ÿ Gupta Empire Ÿ Rulers of Gupta Empire Ÿ Administration Ÿ Economy Ÿ Society and Religion Ÿ Art and Literature Ÿ Decline of Gupta Empire Ÿ Miscellaneous Chapter 10. Post-Gupta Age 100-106 Ÿ Harshavardhana Ÿ Regional Kingdoms Chapter 11. History of South India 107-122 Ÿ Sangam Age Ÿ Cholas Ÿ Cheras Ÿ Pandyas Ÿ Economy  Ÿ Society Ÿ Sangam Literature Ÿ Vakataka Dynasty Ÿ Ikshvakus Ÿ Pallavas Ÿ Kadamba Dynasty Ÿ Ganga Dynasty Ÿ Chalukya Dynasty Ÿ Imperial Cholas Ÿ Miscellaneous Chapter 12. Miscellaneous Aspects of Ancient History 123-132 Ÿ Tripartite Struggle Ÿ Pala Dynasty Ÿ Pratihara Dynasty Ÿ Rashtrakuta Dynasty Ÿ Development of Indian Philosophy Ÿ Development of Science and Technology Ÿ India and the World: Cultural Contacts MEDIEVAL HISTORY Chapter 13. Arab and Turk Invasion 133-136 Ÿ Arab Invasion Ÿ Ghaznavi Ÿ Ghurids Chapter 14. Delhi Sultanate 137-149 Ÿ Slave Dynasty Ÿ Khalji Dynasty Ÿ Tughlaq Dynasty Ÿ Sayyid and Lodi Dynasty Ÿ Central Administration Ÿ Military Department Ÿ Revenue System and Local Administration Ÿ Economic/Social/Religious Status Chapter 15. Vijayanagara, Bahmani and Other Kingdoms 150-161 Ÿ Vijayanagara Empire Ÿ Administration Ÿ Miscellaneous Ÿ Bahmani Kingdom Ÿ Regional Kingdoms (1400-1525) Chapter 16. Mughal Empire 162-178 Ÿ Babur Ÿ Humayun Ÿ Sher Shah Ÿ Akbar Ÿ Jahangir Ÿ Shah Jahan Ÿ Aurangzeb Ÿ Mughal Administration Ÿ Economic and Social Life Chapter 17. Bhakti and Sufi Movement 179-189 Ÿ Bhakti Movement Ÿ Sikhism Ÿ Sufi Movement Chapter 18. Decline of Mughal Empire 190-194 Chapter 19. Maratha Empire 195-198 MODERN HISTORY Chapter 20. India in the 18th Century and Rise of Provincial States 199-207 Ÿ Later Mughals Ÿ Rise of Provincial States Chapter 21. Advent of European Power in India and Establishment of British Rule 208-217 Ÿ Advent of European Power Ÿ Establishment of British Rule Chapter 22. Administrative and Economic Policies of British Period 218-229 Ÿ Administrative Structure Ÿ Economic Policies of British Period Chapter 23. Major Revolts (Tribal/Peasant/Civil) 230-235 Ÿ Tribal Movement Ÿ Peasant Movement Ÿ Civil Rebellion Ÿ Miscellaneous Chapter 24. Socio-Religious and Cultural Reforms 236-244 Ÿ Caste Movement and Organisations Ÿ Reforms among Muslims, Parsis and Sikhs Ÿ Women’s Education and Other Women Specific Reforms Ÿ Cultural Awakening Chapter 25. Revolt of 1857 245-251 Chapter 26. Freedom Struggle of India: First Phase (1885-1915) 252-262 Ÿ Pre-Congress Organisations/ Rise of Nationalism Ÿ Indian National Congress Ÿ Revolutionary Movements / Activities Ÿ Formation of Muslim League Chapter 27. Freedom Struggle of India: Second Phase (1915-1935) 263-274 Ÿ Revolutionary Activities Chapter 28. Freedom Struggle of India: Third Phase (1935-1947) 275-279 Chapter 29. Governor-Generals and Viceroys 280-284 Chapter 30. Post-Independent India 285-286 ART AND CULTURE Chapter 31. Architecture 287-294 Chapter 32. Sculpture 295-298 Chapter 33. Paintings 299-307 Chapter 34. Music and Dance 308-309 Chapter 35. Language and Literature 310-314 Practice Sets (1-3) 317-328  Ancient History 01 Sources of Ancient History New NCERT Class VI (What Books and Burials Tell Us), Old NCERT Class XI (The Importance of Ancient Indian History), Old NCERT Class XI (Modern Historians of Ancient India), Old NCERT Class XI (Types of Sources and Historical Construction), New NCERT Class XII (Bricks, Beads and Bones), New NCERT Class XII (Kings, Farmers and Towns) Vertical excavation is done by doing lengthwise digging Archaeological Excavations to uncover the period-wise sequence of cultures; it is 1. Archaeological evidence of a bead-making usually limited to a part of the site. industry in the Sangam Era, using precious and Horizontal excavation means digging the mound’s most semi-precious stones, has been found in of the part or entirely. This method enables the Kodumanal. It is located in which of the excavator to get a complete idea of the site culture in a following present day states of India? particular period. (Chap 2, Class-XII, New NCERT) 3. The excavation at Chanhudaro was directed by (a) Andhra Pradesh (b) Karnataka (Chap-1, Class-XII, New NCERT) (c) Tamil Nadu (d) Kerala (a) JH Mackay (b) Sir John Marshall j Ans. (c) (c) REM Wheeler (d) Sir Aurel Stein Exp. Archaeological evidence of a bead-making j Ans. (a) industry, using precious and semi-precious stones, has been found in Kodumanal. At present, it is located in Exp. The excavation at Chanhudaro was directed by Tamil Nadu. The site is located on North bank of river JH Mackay. Chanhudaro was tiny settlement (less than Noyyal. It was an important ancient trade city 7 hectares) located in Sindh province of Pakistan. This belonging to the Sangam Era. site was almost exclusively devoted to craft production, including bead-making, shell-cutting, metal-working, 2. With reference to the methodology of excavation seal-making and weight-making. of mound, which among the following statement(s) is/are correct? 4. Two Indians who were associated with discovery (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) of Indus Valley Civilisation are (Chap-4, Class-XI, Old NCERT) (CGPSC Pre 2003) 1. Vertical excavations results in uncovering the period-wise sequence of cultures. (a) Rakhal Das Banerjee and Dayaram Sahni 2. Horizontal excavation is generally confined to (b) John Marshall and Ishwari Prasad entire or part of a particular site. (c) Ashirwadi Lal Srivastava and Rangnath Rao Codes (d) Madhosarup Vats and UB Rao (a) Only 1 (b) Only 2 j Ans. (a) (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Exp. Rakhal Das Banerjee and Dayaram Sahni were j Ans. (c) two Indian Archaeologist associated with discovery of Indus Valley Civilisation. Dayaram Sahni was involved Exp. Both the statements (1) and (2) are correct in excavation of Harappa whereas Rakhal Das Banerjee with reference to the methodology of excavation of was involved in excavation of Mohenjodaro. They mound. A mound can be excavated vertically or carried out excavation under Director-Generalship of horizontally. Sir John Marshall.  NCERT MCQs Sources of Ancient History 02 5. With reference to John Marshall’s stint as 2. Coin moulds of burnt clay have been discovered Director-General of Archaeological Survey of in large numbers in India. India, which of the following statement(s) is/are 3. The coin moulds belonging to the post-Gupta correct? (Chap 1, Class-XII, New NCERT) period has been discovered in largest number. 1. During his stint, the Indus Valley Civilisation was Codes excavated. (a) 1 and 2 (b) Only 2 2. He recognised while excavating that it was (c) Only 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 necessary to follow stratigraphy of the site. j Ans. (c) 3. He brought his experience of working in Greece and Crete to India. Exp. Statement (3) is incorrect with reference to the coins issued in ancient India as most of the discovered Codes coin moulds belong to the Kushan period between the (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c)1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 first to third century AD. j Ans. (c) In Post-Gupta times, use of such moulds disappeared. Exp. Statements (1) and (3) are correct with reference Ancient coins found in India were made mostly of to John Marshall’s stint as Director-General of copper, gold, silver in lead. Coin moulds have also been Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). found at many sites in large numbers which are usually John Marshall as Director-General of the ASI worked in made of burnt clay. the excavations of Indus Valley Civilisation. He was the 8. Consider the following statements regarding first professional archaeologist to work in India who brought his experience of working in Greece and Crete coins in ancient India. (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) to the field of archaeology. He was interested in 1. The coins mentioned the names of kings, gods or spectacular findings and was equally keen to look for dates. patterns of everyday life. 2. Coins were issued by the guilds of merchants and Statement (2) is incorrect as Marshall usually excavated goldsmiths with the permission of ruler. along regular horizontal units, measured uniformly 3. Coins of major dynasties have been catalogued throughout the mound, ignoring the stratigraphy of and preserved in various museums in India. the site. 4. Coins belonging to the Harappa Civilisation carried symbol of humped bull. Coins Which of the statements given above is/are 6. The history of Punjab and Haryana in first correct? century AD has been reconstructed on the basis (a) 1, 2 and 4 (b) 2, 3 and 4 of study of several thousand copper coins issued (c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) All of these by (Chap 2, Class-XII, New NCERT) (a) tribal republics of Kanva j Ans. (c) (b) tribal republics of Yaudheya Exp. Statements (1), (2) and (3) are correct regarding (c) tribal republics of Gandhara coins of ancient India. (d) Karkota dynasty of Kashmir Earliest coins of ancient India’s have a few symbols, but the later coins have the names of kings, gods or dates. j Ans. (b) The areas where they are found indicate the region of Exp. The history of Punjab and Haryana in first century their circulation. Some coins were issued by the guilds AD has been reconstructed on the basis of several of merchants and gold-smiths with the permission of the thousand copper coins issued by tribal republics of rulers. This shows that crafts and commerce had Yaudheya. This republic was formed in the areas become important. between the Indus river and the Ganges river and was Coins helped transactions on a large scale and contemporaries to Shunga, Indo-Greek and Kushan contributed to trade. Coins of the major dynasties have Empire. The God Kartikeya is depicted on their coins been catalogued and published most notably in Indian which only utilised Brahmi script. Museum at Kolkata and British Museum at London. Statement (4) is incorrect as coins belonging to the 7. With reference to the coins issued in ancient Harappa Civilisation have not been discovered yet. The India, which of the following statements is/are trade and commerce in Harappa Civilisation was done incorrect? (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) through barter and humped bull is found on a seal not 1. Ancient coins are made up of metals such as on coins. copper, silver, gold and lead.  NCERT MCQs Sources of Ancient History 03 9. Match the following lists correctly and choose the 11. The earliest inscriptions in India was recorded correct code. (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) on which of the following material ? (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) List II List I (a) Copper (b) Iron (c) Stone (d) Wood (Historical (Ingredients of the Coins) Reconstruction) j Ans. (c) A. Names of kings and dates 1. Flourishing trade and Exp. The earliest inscription in India was recorded on commerce. stone. These inscriptions were commissioned by the B. More circulation of gold 2. Ruling dynasties and rulers as well as by guilds and provincial governors. coins their extent They give an useful insight into the socio-political and C. Religious symbols and 3. Socio-economic aspect of economic progress in ancient India. Large number of gods history stone inscriptions belonging to the megalith and D. Coins used for donations 4. Art and religion Sangam Era had been discovered from South India. Codes 12. The Hathigumpha inscription gives year-wise A B C D account of the reign of (a) 1 2 3 4 (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) (UPPSC Pre 2018) (b) 2 3 1 4 (a) Narasimhavarman II of Kanchipuram (c) 2 1 4 3 (b) Pulakeshin II of Vatapi (d) 3 1 4 2 (c) Kharavela of Kalinga j Ans. (c) (d) Baladitya of Kashmir Exp. The correct matching is A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3. j Ans. (c) Names of kings, gods and dates on coins help in finding Exp. The Hathigumpha inscription gives year-wise the area of their circulation and about ruling dynasties at account of the reign of king Kharvela of Kalinga. This that time. It had helped in reconstruction of history of inscription is near Udayagiri hills in Bhubaneswar, tribal republic of Yaudheyas based in Haryana and Odisha and is dated between second century BC to first Punjab between first to second century AD. century AD. This inscription also highlights the More circulation of gold coins indicates flourishing patronage of Jainism by the king Kharavela. trade and communication as it helped in large scale of transactions and helped commerce in the areas. For 13. The office of Chief Epigraphist of India which instance, the large circulation of gold coins in Gupta era contains the largest number of inscriptions is attested the flourishing trade with Roman Empire. located at which of the following places? Religious symbols and gods help us understand the (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) people’s culture and religious traditions. It also (a) Kolkata (b) New Delhi portrayed their artistic sense. The portrayal of god and (c) Chennai (d) Mysore goddesses helps in figuring out the religion patronised by the ruling dynasty. j Ans. (d) Coins used for donations tell about the socio-economic Exp. The largest number of inscriptions are found conditions of the period. For instance, land and in the office of the Chief Epigraphist at Mysore. monetary grants (through coins) by ruler of Satavahana It was established in 1886 in Bangalore with dynasty. Dr. E Hultzsch as the head of the office. 14. With reference to the cultural history of India, Inscriptions what is the significance of ‘Corpus Inscriptionum 10. The study of the old writing used in inscriptions Indicarum’? (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) and other old records is called (a) It is a series of collection containing inscriptions (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) belonging to Maurya, Post-Maurya and Gupta times. (a) Epigraphy (b) Palaeography (b) It is a collection of inscription containing history of (c) Ethnography (d) Palaeontology ancient and medieval India. j Ans. (b) (c) It is a series of collection containing inscriptions Exp. Palaeography is the study of old writings used in belonging to the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka. inscriptions and other old records. Study of writing on (d) It is a museum in London dedicated to the inscriptions is known as epigraphy. inscriptions containing history of India.  NCERT MCQs Sources of Ancient History 04 j Ans. (a) were also written in Kharosthi script which is written Exp. ‘Corpus Inscriptionum Indicarum’ is a published from right to left. series of collection. It has records on the history of Statement (3) is incorrect as the oldest inscriptions Mauryan, Post-Mauryan and Gupta times. No such deciphered so far were issued by Ashoka in the third compilation is available for post-Gupta times. century BC. 15. Consider the following statements. 17. The Girnar rock inscription states that repair of (Chap-3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) Sudarshana lake was undertaken by the rulers of 1. An epigraphist can decipher most inscription of various dynasties of ancient India. The kings of the country up to about 7th century AD, if he had which among the following dynasties were carefully learnt Brahmi script. associated with Girnar rock inscriptions? (Chap 2, Class-XII, New NCERT) 2. Kharosthi script was written from left to right and was prevalent in North-Western part of Indian 1. Mauryan Empire 2. Saka Empire subcontinent. 3. Gupta Empire 4. Kushan Dynasty Which of the statement(s) given above is/are Codes correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2, 3 and 4 (a) Only 1 (b) Only 2 (c) 1, 2 and 4 (d) All of these (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 j Ans. (a) j Ans. (a) Exp. The kings of Mauryan Empire, Saka Empire and Exp. Statement (1) is correct as knowledge of Brahmi Gupta Empire are associated with the Girnar script is essential for an epigraphist to decipher most inscription. This inscription mentions that Sudarshana inscription of the country up to about 7th century AD. lake, with embankments and water channels, was built This script was used by rulers of major dynasties by a local governor during the rule of the Mauryas. including Ashoka for engraving their inscriptions in However, a terrible storm broke the embankments and Indian subcontinent. After the 7th century AD, there water gushed out of the lake. were strong regional variations in the script. Then, Saka ruler Rudradaman, who was then ruling in Statement (2) is incorrect as Kharosthi script was the area, got the lake repaired using his own resources, written from right to left. This script was used by without imposing any tax on his subjects. Another Ashoka to engrave his inscriptions in North-Western inscription on the same rock (c. fifth century) mentions part of Indian subcontinent. Later, it was also used by how one of the rulers of the Gupta dynasty got the lake rulers of Indo-Greeks and Kushans. repaired once again. Kushan dynasty was associated with the Rabatak 16. Consider the following statements regarding inscription. inscriptions in India. (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) 1. The earliest inscriptions are found on the seals of 18. The Allahabad Pillar Inscriptions helped in Harappa belonging to about 2500 BC. historical reconstruction of which of the following Kingdoms/ Empires of ancient and 2. Ashokan inscriptions were engraved in the Brahmi script, which was written from left to right. medieval India? (Chap 7, Class-VI, New NCERT) (UP RO/ARO Pre 2016) 3. The oldest inscriptions deciphered so far were issued by Harappans in India. 1. Maurya Empire 2. Gupta Empire Which of the statements above is/are correct? 3. Delhi Sultanate 4. Mughal Empire (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 Codes (c)1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2, 3 and 4 (c) 1, 2 and 4 (d) All of these j Ans. (a) j Ans. (c) Exp. Statements (1) and (2) are correct regarding inscriptions in India. Exp. Allahabad Pillar Inscription helped in historical The earliest inscriptions are found on the seals of reconstruction of Maurya Empire, Gupta Empire and Harappa belonging to about 2500 BC. They have not Mughal Empire. been deciphered so far. They are written in pictographic This inscription also known as Prayag Prashasti. It was form. commissioned during the reign of Ashoka. It also has Ashokan inscriptions were written in Brahmi script, eulogy about Samudragupta and his exploits as king. It which is written from left to right. Though some of them also had writings about Mughal Emperor Jahangir.  NCERT MCQs Sources of Ancient History 05 19. With reference to limitations of inscriptions as a Royal inscriptions as evident from the name were the source of historical reconstruction, which of the orders and decree which were issued in the form of following statement(s) is/are correct? inscription. (Chap 2, Class-XII, New NCERT) Eulogy was written in praise of kings and warriors in inscription form. It was usually written in exaggeration 1. The content of the inscriptions only projects the and tells about the exploits of the King. perspective of the person(s) who commissioned Donative inscriptions had records of donations made by them. women and men to religious institutions. These people 2. History regarding socio-cultural life of the were mostly merchants and traders. common people is often missing in the inscriptions. Literary Sources 3. As all of them are recorded on perishable materials which provides scope for alteration. 21. The ancient manuscripts of India were written on which of the following materials? Codes (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 (a) Wooden tablets (b) Copper plate j Ans. (a) (c) Sheep leather (d) Birch bark Exp. Statements (1) and (2) are correct with reference j Ans. (d) to limitations of inscriptions as a source of historical reconstruction. Inscriptions were commissioned by Exp. The ancient manuscripts of India were written on people who were kings or in power and usually contain birch bark. Although the ancient Indians knew writing what they wanted to show or perspective of the ruling as early as 2500 BC, most ancient manuscripts, not elites. The history regarding socio-cultural life of people older than the fourth century AD have been found in is often missing in the sculptures. Central Asia. In India, they were written on birch bark Statement (3) is incorrect as some of the inscriptions and palm leaves, but in Central Asia, where the Prakrit were also recorded on non-perishable materials such as language had spread from India, manuscripts were also stones and metals. written on sheep leather and wooden tablets. 20. Match the following lists correctly and choose the 22. In which of the following texts the list of the correct code. (Chap 2, Class-XII, New NCERT) sixteen great states (Shodasa Mahajanapadas) of ancient India occur? List I List II (Chap-2, Class-XI, Old NCERT) (RAS, RTS 2016) (Types of Inscriptions) (Characteristics) 1. Arthashastra 2. Anguttara Nikaya A. Votive 1. Highlights the achievements 3. Digha Nikaya 4. Bhagavati Sutra of conquerors and rulers Codes B. Royal 2. Gifts of money and cattle by artisans and merchants (a) 2 and 3 (b) 2, 3 and 4 C. Eulogy 3. Gifts made to religious (c) 1 and 4 (d) 1, 2 and 3 institutions j Ans. (b) D. Donative 4. Decree issued by the Kings Exp. Among the given options, the Buddhist text, and Princes Anguttara Nikaya and Digha Nikaya give the list of sixteen great states (Shodasa Mahajanapadas) of ancient Codes India. These sixteen Mahajanapadas occured around A B C D A B C D 600 BC and is referred as the period of second (a) 1 2 3 4 (b) 2 3 1 4 urbanisation in India. The list of sixteen Mahajanapadas (c) 2 1 4 3 (d) 3 4 1 2 is also found in Jaina text Bhagavati Sutra. j Ans. (d) Arthashastra is treatise on statecraft written by Kautilya. Exp. The correct matching is A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2. It gives information regarding the state of polity Votive By the second century BC, short votive prevalent in Mauryan Empire. inscriptions were found. These mention the name of the donor, and sometimes specify his/ her occupation as 23. The best example of the earliest historical writing well. They tell us about people who lived in towns i.e., is provided in the Rajatarangini written by weavers, scribes, carpenters, potters, goldsmiths, (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) (BPSC Pre 2011) blacksmiths, officials, religious teachers, merchants and (a) Kalhana (b) Bilhana kings. (c) Kalidasa (d) Panini  NCERT MCQs Sources of Ancient History 06 j Ans. (a) 26. With reference to the earliest Buddhist texts, Exp. One of the best and earliest example of historical which of the following statements is/are correct? writing found in Rajatarangini, meaning ‘The Stream of (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) Kings’ was written by Kalhana in the 12th century AD. 1. They helps in historical reconstruction of the It is a series of biographies of the kings of Kashmir and Magadha, North Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh. has traits of history as it is understood in present. 2. They were written in Pali language and were finally 24. Consider the following statements regarding compiled in the second century BC in Sri Lanka. Mahabharata. (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) 3. The Buddhist canonical literature, Jataka throws 1. It was composed by the sage Vyasa and is older invaluable light on social and economic conditions than Ramayana. ranging from the fifth to second century BC. 2. Originally, it consisted 24,000 verses and was Codes called Jaya Samhita. (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 3. The final compilation brought the verses to (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 100,000 which came to be known as Satasahasri j Ans. (a) Samhita. Exp. Statements (1) and (2) are correct with reference Which of the statement(s) given above are correct? to earliest Buddhist text. (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 The earliest Buddhist texts tell us not only about the life j Ans. (c) of the Buddha but also about some of his royal contemporaries who ruled over Magadha, North Bihar Exp. Statements (1) and (3) are correct regarding and Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Mahabharata. They were written in the Pali language, which was The two epics (Ramayana and Mahabharata) seem to spoken in Magadha or South Bihar. They were finally have been compiled around the 4th century AD. compiled in the second century BC in Sri Lanka. Mahabharata written by sage Vyasa is older in age and Statement (3) is incorrect because the most important reflects the state of affairs from 10th century BC to 4th and interesting portion of the ‘non-canonical’ literature century AD. Its final compilation brought the verses to is provided by the stories of the previous births of 100,000 which came to be known as Satasahasri Gautama Buddha. Each birth story is called a Jataka Samhita. which is a folk tale. These Jatakas throw invaluable light Statement (2) is incorrect as originally Mahabharata on social and economic conditions. consisted 8,000 verses and was known as ‘Jaya’ stories of victories. 27. With reference to earliest Jaina literature, which of the following statement(s) is/are correct? 25. Consider the following statements regarding (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) Ramayana. (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) 1. They were written in Prakrit and were finally 1. It was composed by the sage Valmiki and compiled in the sixth century AD in originally consisted of 6000 verses. Shravanabelagola in Karnataka. 2. Contrary to Mahabharata, it contains only 2. They help in reconstructing the political history of narrative portion. Eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar in the age of 3. Its composition was started in the fifth century BC Mahavira. and since then it passed through five stages. 3. It also throws light on the state of trade and crafts Which of the statements above is/are correct? and repeatedly refers to trade and traders. (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 Codes j Ans. (c) (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 Exp. Statements (1) and (3) are correct regarding (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ramayana. j Ans. (b) Ramayana, composed by Valmiki originally consisted of 6,000 verses and its final compilation contains 24,000 Exp. Statements (2) and (3) are correct with reference verses. The Ramayana composition started in 5th century to earliest Jaina literature. BC and since then it is passed through five stages, and The Jaina texts contain political history of Eastern Uttar the fifth stage is as late as the 12th century AD. Pradesh and Bihar in the age of Mahavira. Statement (2) is incorrect as Ramayana also had its own It also has details and information which provides didactic portions which were added to it later. valuable data about trade, crafts, and about traders.  NCERT MCQs Sources of Ancient History 07 Statement (1) is incorrect as the Jaina texts were written Grihasutras listed out domestic rituals related to birth, in Prakrit and were compiled in Vallabhi, Gujarat, in naming, marriage, funerals etc. sixth century AD. Sulvasutras prescribed various kinds of measurements for construction of sacrificial platforms. 28. Match the following lists correctly and choose the Upanishada had philosophical speculation about the correct code. (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) nature of the world and social realities. List I List II (Biographical Accounts) (Authors) Foreign Accounts A. Harshacharita 1. Sandhyakara Nandi 30. The identification of an Indian king who was B. Ramacharita 2. Banabhatta contemporary of Alexander as ‘Sandrokottas’ by C. Vikramanakadevacharita 3. Bilhana Greek writers has served sheet-anchor in the D. Mushika Vamsha 4. Atula ancient Indian chronology. Codes Which Indian ruler is described in the description given above? (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) A B C D A B C D (a) 1 2 3 4 (b) 2 3 1 4 (a) Ashoka (c) 2 1 3 4 (d) 3 1 4 2 (b) Chandragupta Maurya (c) Samudragupta j Ans. (c) (d) Harshavardhana Exp. The correct matching is A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4. j Ans. (b) Harshacharita is a biographical account of Harshavardhana. It was written by his court poet Exp. Indian ruler Chandragupta Maurya is described at Banabhatta in 7th century AD. Sandrokottas by Greek writers. The Greek writers Ramacharita was written by Sandhyakara Nandi in 12th mention Sandrokottas, a contemporary of Alexander the century AD. It tells the story of conflict between the Great who invaded India in 326 BC. Sandrokottas is Kaivarta peasants and the Pala Prince Ramapala. identified with Chandragupta Maurya, whose date of accession is fixed at 322 BC. This identification has Vikramanakadevacharita was written by Bilhana, which served as the sheet-anchor in ancient Indian tells the achievements of his patron Vikramaditya VI chronology. (1076-1127 AD). He was a Chalukyan king. Mushika Vamsha was written in the 11th century by 31. Which among the following ancient text Atula. It gives record of dynasty of Mushikas which originally written in Latin, provides information ruled in Northern Kerala. about trade between India and Roman Empire in 29. Match the following lists correctly and choose the first century AD? (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) correct code. (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) (a) Indika written by Megasthenes (b) Geography written by Ptolemy List I List II (Ancient Literature) (Characteristics) (c) Naturalis Historia written by Pliny A. Srautasutras 1. Domestic rituals (d) Periplus of Erythrean Sea by an anonymous writer. B. Grihyasutras 2. Philosophical speculations j Ans. (c) C. Sulvasutras 3. Royal coronation ceremonies Exp. Naturalis Historia written by Pliny that belongs to D. Upanishad 4. Measurements for the first century AD, was originally written in Latin, construction of sacrificial altars and provides information about trade between India and Roman Empire. Codes Indika written by Megasthenes describes the state of A B C D A B C D society and polity during the reign of Chandragupta (a) 1 2 3 4 (b) 2 3 1 4 Maurya. (c) 2 1 4 3 (d) 3 1 4 2 Ptolemy was Greek Geographer, who in his j Ans. (d) Geography of India described about flora and fauna of the country. Exp. The correct matching is A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2. Periplus of Erythrean Sea was written by an anonymous Srautasutras provide for many pompous royal Greek writer. It provides information regarding trade coronation ceremonies. They mention that it big public relation between South India and Roman Empire. sacrifices meant for princes.  NCERT MCQs Sources of Ancient History 08 32. Match the following lists correctly and choose His book which was based on a deep study of the the correct code. (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) available sources gave primacy to political history. It served as a text book for nearly fifty years and is still List I List II used by scholars. (Foreign Travellers/ (Historical Writers) Reconstruction of) 34. ‘A History of South India’ is the first modern book A. Megasthenes 1. Trade between India and to give a detailed historiography of the South Roman Empire India. It was written by B. Ptolemy 2. India in fourth century BC (a) R C Majumdar (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) (b) K A Nilakanta Sastri C. Fa-Hien 3. India in fourth and fifth century AD (c) Devdatta Ramakrishna Bhandarkar (d) Pandurang Vaman Kane D. Hiuen Tsang 4. India in seventh century AD j Ans. (b) Codes Exp. ‘A History of South India’ is written by K A A B C D Nilakanta Sastri (1892-1975). Most writers on early (a) 1 2 3 4 Indian history did not give adequate attention to (b) 2 1 3 4 South India. (c) 2 1 4 3 Even KA Nilakanta Sastri , the great historian from (d) 3 1 4 2 South India, followed the same approach in his ‘A History of Ancient India’. This was more than rectified j Ans. (b) in ‘A History of South India’ written by him. Exp. The correct matching is A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4. Megasthenes’s Indika tells about Maurya rule in the 35. With reference to the contributions of Max time of Chandragupta Maurya in the 4th century and Mueller in Indian historiography, which of the helps reconstruct the history of the period. following statement(s) is/are correct? Ptolemy’s Geography was written in Greek and (Chap 2, Class-XI, Old NCERT) provides information about ancient geography and 1. Under his editorship ancient Indian scriptures commerce between India and the Roman empire were translated on the massive scale and were around 150 AD. published under the Sacred Books of the East Fa-Hien a Chinese traveller/pilgrim came in the age of Series. Guptas in fifth century AD and describes the social, religious and economic situations. 2. He opposed the popular belief that ancient Indian lacked a sense of chronology and were accustomed His writing inspired other Buddhist scholars and to the despotic rule. travellers from China to visit India in subsequent years. Hiuen Tsang came to India in the seventh century AD. Codes He gave an elaborate account of state of polity, society, (a) Only 1 (b) Only 2 economy and culture of India during the reign of (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Harshavardhana. j Ans. (a) Exp. Only statement (1) is correct with reference to Historians of Ancient India the contribution of Max Mueller in the Indian 33. Which among the following authors is credited historiography. with the first systematic history of Ancient The greatest push to Indological or Indian studies was India? (Chap 2, Class-XI, Old NCERT) given by the German-born scholar F. Max Mueller (1823-1902) who spent most of his time in England. (a) Vincent Arthur Smith (b) William Hawkins Ancient scriptures were translated on a massive scale (c) Max Mueller under the editorship of Max Mueller. Altogether fifty volumes, some in several parts were published under the (d) William Jones Sacred Books of the East Series. j Ans. (a) Statement (2) is incorrect as he didn’t oppose but put Exp. Vincent Arthur Smith is credited with the first down the popular belief that ancient Indians lacked a systematic history of Ancient India. He has prepared sense of chronology and were accustomed to despotic the first systematic history of ancient India in 1904. rule.  NCERT MCQs Sources of Ancient History 09 36. With reference to the Colonial school of Exp. Statements (1) and (3) are correct with reference historiography, which of the following statement(s) to the Nationalist school of historiography. is/are correct? (Chap 2, Class-XI, Old NCERT) Historians and scholars from nationalist approach took upon themselves not only the mission to reform Indian 1. It believed that India did not experienced political society but also to reconstruct ancient Indian history in modern unity until the establishment of British such a manner as to make a case for social reforms and, rule in India. more importantly, for self-government. 2. It made generalisation to serve as propaganda They wrote about republics which had self-governments material for perpetuation of the despotic British to highlight this perspective. rule in India. Statement (2) is incorrect as they wrote about ancient 3. It didn’t write about the prevalence of caste culture and social history of Indo-Aryans, Vaishnavism system in early Indian society. and others. Codes (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 38. Match the following lists correctly and choose the (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 correct code. (Chap 2, Class-XI, Old NCERT) j Ans. (a) List I (Scholars related with List II Exp. Statements (1) and (2) are correct with reference Nationalist School of (Books) to the colonial school of historiography. Historiography) British colonial historians stated that the ancient Indians lacked a sense of history especially of the factor of time A. Rajendra Lal Mitra 1. History of Institutions of Marriage and chronology. They added that the Indians were accustomed to despotic rule. B. R G Bhandarkar 2. Political history of The Western scholars stressed that the Indians had Deccan under neither experienced feelings of nationhood nor any kind Satavahanas of self-government. So, they justified the British rule C. V K Rajwade 3. Indo-Aryans over India. D. Pandurang Vaman Kane 4. History of the Statement (3) is incorrect as they wrote about caste Dharamasastra systems, and considered it as worst form of discrimination. Codes A B C D A B C D 37. With reference to the Nationalist school of (a) 1 2 3 4 (b) 2 3 1 4 historiography, which of the following statement(s) (c) 2 1 4 3 (d) 3 2 1 4 is/are correct? (Chap 3, Class-XI, Old NCERT) j Ans. (d) 1. They exploded the myth of Indian despotism and highlighted that republic existed in ancient India Exp. The correct matching is A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4. and enjoyed a measure of self-government. Rajendra Lal Mitra (1822-1891) wrote a book named 2. They focused on the political history alone and ‘Indo-Aryans’. He took rational view of ancient society. ignored the cultural and social history. RG Bhandarkar (1837-1925) reconstructed the political 3. They reconstructed ancient Indian history in such history of the Deccan under Satavahanas and History of Vaishnavism and other sects. a manner as to make a case for social reforms and self-government. VK Rajwade (1869-1926) wrote a book named ‘History of Institutions of Marriage’. Codes Pandurang Vaman Kane (1880-1972) wrote ‘History (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 of Dharamasastra’ for which he received Bharat Ratna (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 in 1963. It is 6500 pages research work conducted in j Ans. (c) 40 years.  02 Pre-History of India New NCERT Class VI (From Hunting-Gathering to Growing Food), Old NCERT Class VI (Early Man), Old NCERT Class IX (Life in Prehistoric Times), New NCERT Class XI (The Dawn of History in the Deep South), Old NCERT Class XI (The Geographical Setting), Old NCERT Class XI (The Stone Age : The Early Man), Old NCERT Class XI (Chalcolithic Farming Cultures), New NCERT Class XII (Kings, Farmers and Towns) 1. The Palaeolithic phase of the cultural evolution of 3. Which one the following pre-historic sites of man is also referred as (Chap 4, Class-XI, Old NCERT) India, is not related with Lower Palaeolithic (a) Old Stone age age? (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) (b) Ice age (a) Soan Valley (b) Bhimbetka (c) Both ‘a’ and ‘b’ (c) Sarai Nahar Rai (d) Didwana (d) First revolution of mankind j Ans. (c) j Ans. (c) Exp. Among the given options sarai Nahar Rai is not related with Lower Paleolithic age. It is a Mesolithic Exp. The old stone age is known as palaeolitic age. In site discovered from Pratapgarh district of Uttar India, it is divided into three phases according to the Pradesh. nature of the stone tools used by the people and also according to the nature of change in climate. This period Soan or Sohan valley is among the earliest discovered is also known as Ice age, as the stone age started during Lower Palaeolithic Site in India. It was discovered the Pleistocene period of ice age. under Yale-Cambridge expedition and is presently found in Pakistan. Sites belonging to Lower Paleolithic 2. With reference to the Pre-history, the three major age have also been discovered form Didwana in tool types- hand axes, choppers and flake Rajasthan and Bhimbetka, Adamgarh and Narsinghpur implements are associated with which phase of in Madya Pradesh. human cultural evolution? (Chap 1, Class-IX, Old NCERT) 4. With reference to pre-historic site of ‘Kurnool (a) Neolithic (b) Palaeolithic caves’, which of the following statements is/are (c) Mesolithic (d) Chalcolithic correct? (Chap-2, Class-VI, New NCERT) j Ans. (b) 1. This cave is located in Andhra Pradesh and Exp. With reference to the Pre-history, the three major belongs to Palaeolithic phase of early history of tool types- hand axes, choppers and flake implements South India. are associated with Palaeolithic Phase. The Lower 2. People belonging to this site were acquainted Palaeolithic or the Early Old Stone age covers the with the knowledge of fire. greater part of the Ice age. Its characteristic feature is Codes the use of hand-axes, cleavers and choppers. (a) Only 1 The axes found in India are more or less similar to those (b) Only 2 of Western Asia, Europe and Africa. Stone tools were (c) Both 1 and 2 used mainly for chopping, digging and skinning. (d) Neither 1 nor 2  NCERT MCQs Pre-History of India 11 j Ans. (c) 2. The important tools of this phase were varieties of Exp. Both the statements (1) and (2) are correct blades, points, borers and scrapers. regarding pre-historic site of ‘Kurnool Caves’. This cave 3. The artefacts of this age are found at several places is located in Andhra Pradesh and belongs to near Narmada river basin. Palaeolithic phase of early history of South India. One Codes of the remarkable facts associated with the Kurnool (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 cave is that people living near the cave site were j Ans. (b) acquainted with the knowledge of fire. Exp. Statements (2) and (3) are correct. 5. Which of the following Indian archaeologist first The important tools in the Middle Palaeolithic phase visited ‘Bhimbetka caves’ and discovered were varieties of blades, points, borers and scrapers pre-historic significances of its rock paintings? made of flakes. There were also found a large number of (Chap-1, Class-XI, New NCERT Art and Culture) (UPPSC Pre 2020) borers and blades-like tools. The geographical horizon (a) Madho Swaroop Vatsa (b) HD Sankalia of the Middle Palaeolithic sites coincides roughly with (c) VS Wakankar (d) VN Mishra that of the Lower Palaeolithic sites. The artefacts of this age are also found at several places j Ans. (c) around the Narmada river and South of the Exp. Among the given options, VS Wakankar first Tungabhadra river. visited ‘Bhimbetka caves’ and discovered pre-historic Statement (1) is incorrect as the Middle Palaeolithic significances of its rock paintings. He spent several phase is placed between 50,000 BC and 40,000 BC. years in surveying these inaccessible hills and jungles to study these paintings. 8. The modern Homo sapiens emerged in which Bhimbetka located in the Vindhyan hills in Madhya phase of Human’s cultural history? Pradesh contains about eight hundred rock shelters, five (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) hundred of which bear rock paintings belonging to (a) Neolithic (b) Upper Palaeolithic Middle and Upper Palaeolithic Age. (c) Middle Palaeolithic (d) Lower Palaeolithic 6. With reference to the cultural phase of Lower j Ans. (b) Palaeolithic in India, which of the following Exp. The modern Homo sapiens emerged in Upper statement(s) is/are incorrect? Paleolithic phase. In this period, the climate became (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) warmer and it coincided with the last phase of the 1. It was characterised by glaciations and covered Ice age. greater part of ice age. 9. The Upper Palaeolithic phase of Andhra Pradesh 2. During this phase, rock shelters served as seasonal and Karnataka gives evidences of which of the camps for human beings. following types of tools? (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) 3. The cultivation of crops and domestication of animals started in Lower Palaeolithic age. (a) Blades and burins (b) Hand axes and cleavers (c) Microliths (d) Borers and burins Codes (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 j Ans. (a) (c) Only 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 Exp. Upper Palaeolithic phase in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka has evidence of use of blades and burins. j Ans. (c) These tools have also been found in upper levels of Exp. Statement (3) is incorrect with reference to the Gujarat dunes. cultural phase of Lower Palaeolithic in India as in the Caves and rock shelters of this age have been Lower Palaeolithic period there wasn’t domestication of discovered at Bhimbetka near Bhopal. Homo sapiens animals or any kind of agricultural activities, it only also mark their presence in upper Palaeolithic age. started in the Mesolithic Age. 10. With reference to the pre-historic art, which of 7. With reference to culture phase of Middle the following statement(s) is/are correct? Palaeolithic in India, which of the following (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) statement(s) is/are correct? (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) 1. The early men practised rock paintings which depicted different facets of hunting-gathering 1. It occurred between 500,000 BC to 50,000 BC. economy.  NCERT MCQs Pre-History of India 12 2. Bhimbetka situated in Maharashtra contains more Mesolithic Age in India. Birbhanpur is located in than 500 painted rock shelters. present day state of West Bengal whereas Tirunelveli is Codes located in present day state of Tamil Nadu. From both of these sites, microliths belonging to the Mesolithic (a) Only 1 (b) Only 2 period had been excavated. (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Balu and Manda are the sites associated with the Indus j Ans. (a) Valley Civilisation, are located in Haryana and Jammu Exp. Only statement (1) is correct with reference to the and Kashmir respectively. Pre-historic art. The people of Palaeolithic and Mesolithic ages used painting which shows they were 13. Which among the following changes in the hunters and food gatherers. Prehistoric art appears at Mesolithic phase paved the way for formation of several places, but Bhimbetka in Madhya Pradesh civilisation in later phases? contains richest specimen of Prehistoric art. It is (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) situated in the Vindhyan range, 45 km South of Bhopal. 1. Climate became warm and dry. It has more than 500 painted rock shelters, distributed 2. People started fishing and food gathering. in an area of 10 sq km. 3. Domestication of animals was introduced. Statement (2) is incorrect as Bhimbetka is in Madhya Pradesh. Codes (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 11. Consider the following statement with reference (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 to cultural phase of Upper Palaeolithic in India. j Ans. (c) (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) Exp. Changes mentioned in statements (1) and (3) are 1. It coincided with last phase of the Ice age when the changes in Mesolithic phase that paved the way for climate became comparatively warm. formation of civilisation in later phases. 2. Caves and rock shelters used by early human The Upper Palaeolithic Age came to an end with the beings in the Upper Palaeolithic phase have been end of the Ice Age around 9000 BC and the climate discovered at Bhimbetka. became warm and dry. Climatic changes brought about 3. Most of the sites belonging to the Upper changes in flora and fauna and made it easier for Palaeolithic phase have been discovered in humans to travel. alluvial plains of the Indus and the Ganga. It is seen as a transitional phase between the Palaeolithic Age and the Neolithic or New Stone Age. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are incorrect? The Mesolithic people lived on hunting, fishing and food gathering and at a later stage, they also (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 domesticated animals. (c) Only 1 (d) Only 3 Statement (2) is incorrect as fishing and food gathering j Ans. (d) were present already in the Upper Palaeolithic phase. Exp. Statement (3) is incorrect with reference to Cultural phase of Upper Palaeolithic in India as the 14. With reference to cultural phase of Mesolithic in sites belonging to the Upper Palaeolithic phase are India, which of the following statement(s) is/are absent in alluvial plains of the Indus and the Ganga. correct? (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) 1. Stone tools found during this period are smaller in 12. Consider the following pre-historic site of ancient size, and are called microliths. India. (Chap-5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) 2. It intervened as a transitional phase between the 1. Birbhanpur 2. Tirunelveli Old and New Stone age. 3. Balu 4. Manda 3. This phase of cultural evolution flourished Which among the given sites were associated with between the 18,000 BC to 10,000 BC in India. the Mesolithic age? Codes (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 2, 3 and 4 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 j Ans. (a) j Ans. (a) Exp. Among the given options, Birbhanpur and Exp. Statements (1) and (2) are correct with reference Tirunelveli are the pre-historic sites associated with the to cultural phase of Mesolithic in India.  NCERT MCQs Pre-History of India 13 The characteristic tools of the Mesolithic Age were Exp. Statement (1) is correct regarding Neolithic site of microliths. They were smaller in size and were Burzahom. This site is located near Srinagar, the capital distinctively different from lower Palaeolithic period’s of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. This site is axes, choppers and cleavers. characterised by use of coarse grey pottery. This phase was a phase of change between Upper It is one of the most extensively studied Neolithic sites Palaeolithic period and Neolithic period, people of India and was first excavated by De Terra and changed from hunting, fishing and food gathering to Patterson. domesticating animals and pastoralism. Statement (2) is incorrect as Burzahom has yielded Statement (3) is incorrect as flourishing time period for skeleton of dog (not cow) with human skeleton in burial. Mesolithic phase was from 9000 BC to 4000 BC. 17. The evidence of pit-dwelling has been obtained 15. Match the following lists correctly and choose the from (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) (UPPSC Mains 2011) correct code. (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) (a) Burzahom (b) Koldihwa List I List II (c) Brahmagiri (d) Sanganakallu (Mesolithic Sites) (Present day states) j Ans. (a) A. Bagor 1. Uttar Pradesh Exp. The evidence of pit-dwelling has been obtained B. Adamgarh 2. Tamil Nadu from Burzahom. Burzahom located in Kashmir valley is C. Belan Valley 3. Rajasthan dated around 2400 BC and is characterised by coarse D. Theni 4. Madhya Pradesh grey pottery and pit-dwelling. The people of Neolithic age used tools and implements of polished stone. Codes A C B D A C B D 18. The Neolithic site of which among the following (a) 1 2 3 4 (b) 2 3 1 4 places is noted for the cultivation of rice in the (c) 2 1 4 3 (d) 3 4 1 2 sixth millennium BC? (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) j Ans. (d) (a) Koldhiwa (b) Narsinghpur Exp. The correct matching is A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2. (c) Sanganakallu (d) Langhanaz Bagor is presently in Bhilwara district in Rajasthan. It j Ans. (a) had a microlith industry and inhabitants lived pastoral Exp. Neolithic sites of Koldhiwa in Prayagraj district is lives and hunted animals. noted for the cultivation of rice in the sixth millennium Adamgarh is in Madhya Pradesh. This site is placed BC. This site is dated around 7000 BC and contains around 5000 BC and is characterised by domestication earliest evidences suggesting cultivation of rice in of animals. It is presently in Hoshangabad district. Indian subcontinent. Belan Valley is in Uttar Pradesh at the Northern side of Vindhyan ranges. It has evidence of all three phases of 19. Which among the following ancient pre-historic Palaeolithic, and also of Mesolithic and Neolithic age. site contains archaeological evidences of all the Theni is located in Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, three phases of Paleolithic followed by the here microliths tools of Mesolithic Age have been found. Mesolithic and Neolithic cultural phase? (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) 16. With reference to the Neolithic site of Burzahom, (a) Belan Valley in Uttar Pradesh which of the following Statement(s) is/are (b) Bagor in Rajasthan correct? (Chap-5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) (UKPSC Pre 2010) (c) Mehargarh in Pakistan 1. It is located near Srinagar and was characterised (d) Inamgaon in Maharashtra by coarse grey pottery. j Ans. (a) 2. It has yielded skeleton of the cow along with human skeleton in burial. Exp. On the Northern spurs of the Vindhyas in the Belan valley in Uttar Pradesh, all the three phases of Codes the Palaeolithic followed by the Mesolithic and then by (a) Only 1 the Neolithic have been found in a sequence, and same (b) Only 2 is the case with the middle part of the Narmada valley. (c) Both 1 and 2 The Pre-historic sites of Belan valley include Mahgara, (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Chopani Mando and Koldihwa in Belan valley have j Ans. (a) provided earliest evidence of rice cultivation.  NCERT MCQs Pre-History of India 14 20. The Neolithic sites of South India are 3. People living in this site set-up seasonal camps distinguished on the basis of tools used. They surrounded by cowpens made with posts and were (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) stakes. (a) axes with oval sides and pointed butt Codes (b) rectangular axes with curved cutting edge (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) polished stone axes with rectangular butt (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 (d) polished stone axes with triangular butt j Ans. (b) j Ans. (a) Exp. Statements (2) and (3) are correct with reference to the Neolithic site of ‘Piklihal’. The Neolithic Exp. The Neolithic sites of South India are inhabitants in Piklihal were cattle-herders. They distinguished on the basis of axes with oval sides and domesticated cattle, sheep, goats, etc and set up camps pointed butt. Based on the types of axes used by surrounded by cowpens made with posts and stakes. Neolithic settlers, there are three important areas of Neolithic settlements; North-Western, North-Eastern In these enclosures, they accumulated dung. Then the and Southern. The Southern group is distinguished by entire camping ground was put to fire and cleared for axes with oval sides and pointed butt. The camping in the next session. North-Western group of Neolithic tools represents Both ash mounds and habitation sites have been found rectangular axes with curved cutting edges. The in Piklihal. North-Eastern group shows polished stone axes with Statement (1) is incorrect as Piklihal is in Karnataka. rectangular butt and has occasional shouldered hoes. 23. Which among the following innovations started 21. Consider the following statements with reference in the Neolithic age is still used by the people of to the Neolithic age in South India. India? (Chap 2, Class-VI, New NCERT) (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) 1. Mortars and pestles for grinding grain. 1. People of this age usually settled on the top of 2. Earthen pots for cooking and storing grains. Granite hills or on plateaus near the river banks. 3. Needles for weaving clothes. 2. They used rubbing stone querns, which shows Codes that they were acquainted with the art of (a) 1 and 2 producing cereals. (b) 2 and 3 Which of the statement(s) given above is/are (c) 1 and 3 correct? (d) 1, 2 and 3 (a) Only 1 (b) Only 2 j Ans. (d) (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Exp. All the Neolithic innovations mentioned in the j Ans. (c) question are still used by the people of India. Exp. Both the statements (1) and (2) are correct with Mortars and pestles for grinding grain, earthen pots for reference to the Neolithic age in South India. cooking and storing grains and needles for weaving A group of Neolithic people lived in South India, South of clothes, all three techniques of Neolithic age are still the Godavari river. They usually settled on the tops of used in different forms, by people of India. Granite hills or on plateaus near the river banks. They used stone axes and also some kind of stone blades. 24. Identify the Neolithic site with the help of Fire-baked earthen figurines suggest that they kept a statements given below. (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) large number of cattle. They possessed cattle, sheep and 1. It has yielded considerable amount of bone goats. They used rubbing stone querns, which shows that implement made up of horns of deer. they were acquainted with the art of producing cereals. 2. It is situated on the bank of confluence of three 22. With reference to the Neolithic site of ‘Piklihal’, rivers– Ganga, Gandak and Ghaghra. which of the following statement(s) is/are 3. It is marked by the paucity of stone tools. correct? (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) Codes 1. It is located in the present day state of Andhra (a) Chirand (b) Mahagara Pradesh of India. (c) Koldihwa (d) Sarai Nahar Rai 2. Both ash mounds and habitation sites have been j Ans. (a) found at Piklihal.  NCERT MCQs Pre-History of India 15 Exp. Chirand is the Neolithic site mentioned in the Koldihwa is located in Vindhyan range in Uttar Pradesh. question. This site has yielded considerable bone Here archaeological evidences suggesting prevalence of implement in India. It is situated 40 km West of Patna agriculture and animal domestication had been on the Northern side of the Ganga. excavated. Made of antlers (horns of deer), these implements have Chirand is located 40 km West of Patna in Bihar, it is at been found in a late Neolithic set in an area which the Northern side of the Ganga river. Here considerable received about 100 cm of rainfall. amounts of bone implements have been found. The settlement became possible because of the open Daojali Hading is in Assam where Neolithic tools have land available on account of the joining together of the been discovered. They are also found in range of Garo three rivers-Ganga, Gandak and Ghaghra at this place. hills in Meghalaya. It is marked by the paucity of stone tools. 27. With reference to the Neolithic settlements of 25. Consider the following statements with South India, which of the given statement(s) is/are reference to the Neolithic site of Mehargarh. correct? (Chap-5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) (Chap 2, Class-VI, New NCERT) 1. The settlements were formed on the top of Granite 1. Presently, it is situated near the Gomal Pass in hills or on plateaus near the river banks. the Baluchistan province of Pakistan. 2. The people lived settled life and were primarily 2. It is one of the oldest excavated Neolithic sites in involved in agriculture. India attributed to 7000 BC. Codes 3. It provides earliest evidences of cultivation of (a) Only 1 (b) Only 2 wheat and barley in the Indian sub-continent. (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Which of the statement(s) given above are j Ans. (c) incorrect? Exp. Both the statements (1) and (2) are correct with (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) Only 1 (d) Only 3 reference Neolithic settlements of South India. The j Ans. (c) Neolithic people of South India usually settled on the Exp. Statement (1) is incorrect with reference to the tops of Granite hills or on plateaus near the river banks. Neolithic site of Mehargarh as Mehargarh is situated They used stone axes and also some kind of stone blades. near Bolan (not Gomal) pass in present day The Neolithic settler of this region lived settled life and Baluchistan province of Pakistan. were primarily involved in agriculture. They constructed circular or rectangular houses made of mud and reed. 26. Match the following lists correctly and choose the correct code. (Chap 2, Class-VI, New NCERT) 28. Consider the following Assertion (A) and Reason (R) and choose the correct code. List I List II (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) (Neolithic Sites) (Present day states) Assertion (A) People of Stone Age could not found A. Brahmagiri 1. Uttar Pradesh settlements far away from the hilly areas. Reason (R) They had to depend almost entirely on B. Koldihwa 2. Assam tools and weapons made of stone. C. Chirand 3. Bihar Codes D. Daojali Hading 4. Karnataka (a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. Codes (b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct A B C D A B C D explanation of A. (a) 1 2 3 4 (b) 2 3 1 4 (c) A is true, but R is false. (c) 4 1 3 2 (d) 3 1 4 2 (d) A is false, but R is true. j Ans. (c) j Ans. (a) Exp. The correct matching is A-4, B-1, C-3, D-2. Exp. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Brahmagiri is a Neolithic site located in Southern India Reason (R) is the correct explanation of Assertion (A). in the state of Karnataka. Maski, Hallur, Kodekal, The people of the Stone Age had one great limitation as Sanganakallu, T. Narasipura and Takkalakota are other they had to depend almost entirely on tools and weapons Neolithic sites of Karnataka. made of stone.  NCERT MCQs Pre-History of India 16 They could not settle far away from the hilly areas. They Which of the statement(s) given above is/are settled down only on the slopes of hills, rock shelters incorrect? and hilly river valleys. (a) 1 and 2 (b) Only 1 (c) Only 3 (d) 2 and 3 29. Which one of the following periods is also known j Ans. (b) as Chalcolithic age? Exp. Statement (1) is incorrect regarding Chalcolithic (Chap-5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) (BPSC Pre 2000) culture of Ahar and Gilund as both of these culture (a) Old Stone age (b) New Stone age flourished in the dry zones of Banas river in Rajasthan. (c) Copper age (d) Iron age 33. The Chalcolithic communities of South India j Ans. (c) were specialised in the production of which of Exp. The pre-historic period belonging to the Copper the following crops? (Chap 6, Class-XI, Old NCERT) age is also known as Chalcolithic age. This period (a) Sugarcane (b) Barley started towards the end of the Neolithic period and is (c) Wheat (d) Rice characterised by the use of the first metal, the copper. j Ans. (d) The earliest settlements belonging to this phase are found in South-Eastern Rajasthan, the Western part of Exp. The Chalcolithic communities of South India Madhya Pradesh, Western Maharashtra and also in were specialised in the production of rice. The Eastern India. communities of this age founded the first large village in Peninsular India and cultivated far more cereals than 30. Which among the following metal was first used the Neolithic communities. by the man? In particular, they cultivated barley, wheat and lentil (Chap 6, Class-XI, Old NCERT) (RAS/RTS Pre 2012) in Western India, and rice in Southern and Eastern (a) Copper (b) Iron India. (c) Bronze (d) Zinc 34. The people of Chalcolithic age domesticated j Ans. (a) which of the following animals? Exp. The metal to be first used by man was copper. (Chap 6, Class-XI, Old NCERT) Several cultures were based on the use of stone and copper implements. The end of the Neolithic period 1. Cow 2. Camel saw the use of metals. 3. Horse 4. Sheep Codes 31. In which state, the Navdatoli is located? (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2, 3 and 4 (Chap 5, Class-XI, Old NCERT) (UPPSC Mains 2009) (c) 1, 3 and 4 (d) 1, 2 and 4 (a) Gujarat j Ans. (d) (b) Maharashtra Exp. People in the Chalcolithic period domesticated (c) Chhattisgarh