Rise of Kingdoms
We
know that the Aryans originally came to the Indian subcontinent as a group
of tribes. Over time, the tribes gave way to more permanent settlements.
These settlements gave rise to territorial states in north India called the
janapadas, and eventually, larger and more powerful states called the
mahajanapadas. A state can be defined as a political organization that has
complete and independent control over an area.
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Vadic period |
Mahajanapadas |
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1500 BC -1000 BC Early Vadic Period |
1000BC-600 BC Later Vadic Period |
600 BC-325 BC 1.
Haryanka
dynasty, Shishunag Dynasty, Nand Dynasty 2.
Relition
Movement-Buddhism and Jainism |
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|
JANAPADAS
In
the later stages of their settlement, the Aryans had expanded their control
over areas between the Ganga and Yamuna valleys, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and
even Bihar. They cleared large tracts of land in the area by burning
forests or with the help of iron implements like axes. The use of iron
tools and implements in agriculture also helped produce surplus food.
Gradually, arts and crafts emerged. Trade and commerce also
developed. The Aryan tribes now began to settle down in permanent settlements.
As a result, the earlier tribal set-up gave way to territorial states called
the janapadas.
The
word janapada means a place where the jana (tribe) set foot and stayed on.
SOURCES
Literary sources
Later
Vedic texts such as the Sam Veda, Yajur Veda, Atharva Veda, and Upanishads
shed light on this period along with Ramayana and Mahabharata.Other
sources of information include Buddhist texts like the Digha Nikaya.
Archaeological
sources
Archaeologists
have discovered a number of settlements in janapadas like Delhi, Meerut, and
Etah. They have found grey or red earthen pots from these sites. They
have also found a unique kind of pottery known as Painted Grey Ware. It mainly
comprises plates, bowls, and pots, decorated with geometric designs. The
grey pots and vessels are quite smooth to touch. They were perhaps used on
special occasions or for important people.
List of 16 Mahajanapadas:
1.
Magadha-Districts of Patna and Gaya in Bihar
3.
Malla-Gorakhpur region
4.
Chedi- Bundelkhand in Madhya Pradesh
5.
Vatsa- Allahabad
6.
Kashi-Banaras
7.
Kosala-Ayodhya
8.
Vajji- North Bihar
9.
Kuru-Thaneshwar, Meerut and present Delhi
10.
Panchala-Bareilly
11.
Matsya-Jaipur and Alwar
12.
Surasena- Mathura
13.
Asaka- Godawari Valley
14.
Gandhara- Rawalpindi and Kabul
15.
Kamboja-Kashmir and Afghanistan
16.
Avanti- Ujjain
MAHAJANAPADAS
About
500 years after the rise of the janapadas, i.e., about 500 BC, some large
states arose in the subcontinent. These were originally janapadas, which had become
more important than others with the passage of time. They were, therefore,
called mahajanapadas.
According
to Buddhist literature, by the 6th Century BC, there were 16 mahajanapadas in
the Indian subcontinent, such as Gandhara, Kashi, Vajji, Koshala, and Magadha.
|
A wooden elephant Pradyota, the king of Avanti, and
Udayan, who ruled over Vatsa, were bitter enemies. Once, Pradyota made a plan
to capture Udayan. He knew that Udayan liked elephants. So he built a hollow
wooden elephant, put 60 men inside it, and placed it in the forest. As soon
as Udayan came to know of the enormous elephant in the forest, he went
looking for it and was captured. However, Pradyota's daughter Vasavadatta
fell in love with Udayan and helped him escape. They both went to Vatsa,
where they were married. |
In
about 200 years, the rulers of Magadha managed to conquer many janapadas and
the kingdom emerged as an important seat of us political power in north India.
New rulers
Unlike
the rajas in the earlier periods, the rulers of mahajanapadas kept regular
armies. They built massive forts, perhaps to protect themselves from
attacks from other kings. They also built huge walls of wood, stone, or
brick all around their capital cities. This was perhaps to demonstrate
their power or for ease of administration.
Areas
lying inside walls would have been easier to govern. Constructing forts and
fortifying cities involved a lot of planning and expenditure. Also, keeping a
regular army meant paying salaries to soldiers all through the year. This would
have required huge resources, which were usually obtained from people in the
form of taxes.
Literary sources
There
are a number of sources which tell us about the mahajanapadas like the Mahabharata,
Brahmanas and the Upanishads. Besides this, the Jataka tales, Puranas,
Mahavamsa, and Jain texts also shed light on the period. The Jataka
tales are a collection of Buddhist stories. The Puranas are a collection of
Hindu religious stories and the Mahavamsa is a Buddhist chronicle.
KINGDOMS AND REPUBLICS
Depending
on their system of governance the mahajanapadas were of two types: kingdoms
and republics.
Those
mahajanapadas that were ruled by a king were known as kingdoms or monarchies.
The king enjoyed absolute power. He was not chosen by the people. Succession to
the throne was hereditary, i.e., kings were succeeded by their sons. Most of
the mahajanapadas in the 6th century BC were monarchies.
However,
there were some mahajanapadas such as Vajji and Malla which followed
the republican form of government. In such mahajanapadas, the common people
chose a group of representatives who took important decisions on their behalf.
The representatives usually arrived at their decisions through discussions and
debates.
THE KINGDOM OF MAGADHA
Of
the 16 mahajanpadas which emerged in the 6" century BC, Magadha eventually
managed to conquer many janapadas to emerge as an important seat of political
power in north India in about 200 years. Historians have attributed the rise of
Magadha to its favourable geographical location, besides its powerful rulers.
The first
capital of Magadha, Rajgriha (Bihar), was surrounded by hills which made it
difficult to be conquered. Pataliputra, which later became the capital of
Magadha, was situated at the confluence of the rivers Ganga, Gandak and Son.
Magadha
controlled vast tracts of plains between the rivers Ganga and Son. These
fertile plains were ideal for the growth of farming. The rivers which flowed
through Magadha served as important sources of transport, allowing trade to
flourish. They also ensured the kingdom was well-supplied with water.
Magadha
also controlled vast forests, which supplied wood for construction and also
animals like elephants for the army. It had access to vast deposits of
copper and iron ore, which allowed production of more advanced farming
equipment as well as weapons for warfare. The efficient rulers of Magadha
such as Bimbisara and Ajatashatru with their vast armies also played a
role in making Magadha a powerful kingdom.
IMPORTANT RULERS
Bimbisara
Bimbisara
was the first important ruler of Magadha. He ascended the throne in the middle
of 6th century BC and managed to establish friendly relations with other
kingdoms by entering into matrimonial alliances with them.
Anga
was
perhaps the only neighbouring mahajanapada which he captured with the help of
his large army. He was a patron of Buddhism.
Ajatashatru
Bimbisara's
son Ajatashatru managed to extend the boundaries of the kingdom by defeating a
number of janapadas. Pataliputra became the capital of Magadha during
Ajatashatru's rule. After Ajatashatru's death, his successors failed to
keep their control over the kingdom, which soon passed into the hands of the
Shishunagas and later, the Nandas.
Mahapadma Nanda
Mahapadma
Nanda and his successors ruled over Magadha till the second decade of the 4th
century BC. With the help of his vast army comprising foot soldiers, chariots,
and elephants, Mahapadma Nanda managed to extend the boundaries of the
kingdom to the northwest of the subcontinent.
LIFE IN MAGADHA
ADMINISTRATION
The
king enjoyed great power in the kingdom of Magadha. He commanded a large
regular army which helped him expand his territory and protect the people. The
king usually had a group of ministers to advise him and help him administrate
the kingdom. He also appointed officials for collecting taxes.
SYSTEM OF TAXATION
Unlike
the rajas of the janapadas, the kings of mahajanapadas like Magadha did not
depend on gifts brought by ordinary people. Instead, they collected taxes to
build forts and maintain their armies. Some of the taxes imposed at the time
include:
Tax on farmers:This was perhaps
an important source of income because most of the people living in the
mahajanapadas were farmers. They were required to give a part of their produce,
or bhaga, as tax. The bhaga was usually fixed at 1/6 of the total produce.
Tax on crafts
persons:
This was probably paid in kind. For example, the crafts persons may have been required
to work for the king from time to time.
Tax on herders: People who reared
animals were expected to give animals or some of their produce to the
king.
Tax on
hunters-gatherers:
Hunters-gatherers who usually lived in forests were required to give a part
of the forest produce to the king.
Tax on trade: Taxes were also
imposed on buying and selling of goods. Traders had to pay taxes on sales,
which were collected by officials known as shaulkikas.
CHANGES IN AGRICULTURE
There
seem to have been many changes in agricultural techniques around the time
mahajanapadas such as Magadha flourished with vast areas being brought under
cultivation. This was perhaps to ensure higher production of food grains to
support a growing population. Some of the changes include:
Use of iron
ploughshares:
Farmers seem to have begun using ploughshares made of iron, which were
more effective in turning soil than traditional ploughshares made of wood. A
ploughshare is essentially a cutting blade that is fixed to a plough.
Crop transplantation: Farmers also began
to grow and plant saplings, rather than seeds, in their fields. This
ensured more plants survived and therefore, better production of crops like
paddy. The process of growing saplings and then planting them in fields is
known as transplantation. This involves a lot of work. Transplantation work
was usually done by farm labourers (kammakaras) who did not own land, or by
slaves (dasas).
TRADE
Trade
flourished during this period. People started using coins to pay for goods,
instead of bartering (exchanging) goods. Coins used during this period were
punched marked, i.e., their designs were usually punched onto silver or copper.
Besides land, people had begun to conduct trade via sea since the later Vedic
period.
GUILDS
Archaeological
evidence suggests pottery and cloth weaving emerged as important crafts in the
subcontinent after the rise of the janapadas and the mahajanapadas. Gradually,
the crafts persons formed associations called shrenis. There were
separate shrenis for different crafts. These associations provided training to
crafts persons, bought raw materials, and even helped them transport and sell
finished products.
|
A shiny pottery In many parts of north India,
archaeologists have discovered a special type of fine black pottery with a
distinctive shine, known as Northern Black Polished Ware. The pottery was
used from the 6" century BC up to the 1" century BC. |
Like
crafts persons, merchants and traders in the cities also organised themselves
into shrenis. These shrenis even served as banks, which invested the
money deposited by people.
OCCUPATION AND SOCIETY
Farming
continued to be the major occupation along with cattle rearing and crafts. The varna
system continued to be practised, but became even more rigid. There was
also a growing movement against the elaborate rituals and practices prescribed
by Brahmanas. They performed all important rituals and sacrifices, and enjoyed
the highest status in society. It was in this backdrop that Gautama Buddha and
Vardhaman Mahavira tried to spread their message of ahimsa (non- violence) and
equality of living beings. Their teachings became quite popular.
|
Magadhan dynasties Magadha rose to prominence under a
number of dynasties:- Brihadratha dynasty: According to the Puranas, the Magadha Empire was
established by the Brihadratha dynasty. Vayu Purana mentions that the
Brihadratha rule lasted for 1,000 years. Pradyota dynasty: The Brihadrathas were succeeded by the Pradyotas
who, according to the Vayu Purana, ruled for 138 years. Haryanka dynasty: The Haryanka dynasty is believed to have laid the
foundation for the rise of Magadha as a mahajanapada in 684 BC. This
dynasty's rule lasted till 424 BC. Nanda dynasty: The Nanda dynasty was established by the son of
the King Mahanandin of the Shishunaga dynasty, which ruled over Magadha after
the death of Ajatashatru. Maurya dynasty: In 321 BC, Chandragupta Maurya defeated Nanda king
Dhana Nanda to establish the Maurya Empire. Ashoka, a ruler from this
dynasty, has been described as one of the greatest rulers of the world. Shunga dynasty: The Shunga dynasty was established in 185 BC,
about fifty years after Ashoka's death. Gupta dynasty: Chandragupta I of the Gupta dynasty ruled over
Magadha and some parts of Uttar Pradesh around the 4th century AD. His son
Samudragupta is considered the greatest ruler of the Gupta dynasty. |
CASE STUDY: VAJJI - AN EARLY REPUBLIC
Vajji
was an important mahajanapada that rose into prominence in the 6th century BC
along with Magadha. The capital of Vajji was Vaishali in Bihar. Unlike
many other kingdoms of the time, Vajji followed a different form of government,
known as gana or sabha. A gana was a term used to describe a group
comprising many members, while the term sangha was often used to describe an
organisation or association. The Vajji Sangha is believed to have comprised
eight groups (atthakula).
According
to an account contained in Digha Nikaya, a famous Buddhist book, Ajatashatru
wanted to attack Vajjis but Buddha said that Vajjis should not be attacked and
it should continue to rule.
The
people of Vajji were called ashtakulika meaning a family of eight. They were
great lovers of art and played a good host to their guests. They built many
chaityas and viharas. The Buddhist texts tell us that when Buddha visited
Vaishali, he was received by 500 Lichchhavis, who greeted him with their heads
bowed and later worshipped him.
Each
sangha had one head or raja and people were chosen from each of these as
ganamukhyas (representatives) to the Vajji gana parishad (people's council of
Vajji).
The head of the council was called ganamukhya (head of the democracy). The
other executives were mahabaladhrikrit (minister of internal security),
benishchayamatya (chief justice), dandadhikrit (other justices), etc.
In
this form of government, there were many rulers, each of whom was called a
raja. These rajas held regular assemblies where all important decisions
were taken. They arrived at their decisions through discussions and debates.
It is perhaps for these reasons that Vajji is considered an early form of a
republic, where the various rajas probably served as representatives of
different people or even tribes. Evidence suggests the positions of rajas
were not hereditary, i.e., the rajas were not succeeded by their sons.
Such
ganas or sanghas ruled for a very long time till the Guptas conquered the last
of such groups in the northwest about 1500 years ago.
A true republic?
Vajji
was far from the republic or democracy we see today. This is because certain
sections of the society, such as women, slaves, and farm labourers, were not
allowed to take part in the assemblies. This shows Vajji was not a true
democracy as not all people could participate in the government. It also
shows that the power was concentrated in the hands of a few people. This goes
against the idea of a republic, where the real power lies in the hands of
people from all sections of the society.
Exercise
01. What
were the larger, more powerful territorial states in ancient north India
called?
A) Janapadas
B) Mahajanapadas
C) Rajyas
D) Aryavartas
Answer:
B) Mahajanapadas
Explanation:
As Aryan tribes settled permanently, their settlements expanded into
territorial states called janapadas. Over time, some of these janapadas grew
into larger and more powerful states known as mahajanapadas in ancient north
India.
02. Which
of the following best defines a state?
A) tribal group
with temporary settlements
B) A political
organization with complete and independent control over an area
C) A religious
organization spreading cultural practices
D) A social
structure based on family hierarchy
Answer:
B) A political organization with complete and independent control over an area
Explanation:
A state is defined as a political organization that holds complete and
independent authority over a particular area. In ancient India, the transition
from tribes to janapadas and then to mahajanapadas marked the development of
organized states with defined territorial boundaries and governance.
03. What
contributed to the Aryans' ability to produce surplus food as they expanded
into the Ganga and Yamuna valleys?
A) Use of stone
tools
B) Use of iron
tools and implements
C) Dependence on
hunting and gathering
D) Clearing land
solely through natural means
Answer:
B) Use of iron tools and implements
Explanation:The
Aryans used iron tools and implements, such as axes, which enabled them to
clear large tracts of land for agriculture. This advancement allowed them to
produce surplus food, supporting settled life and the development of arts,
crafts, and trade.
04. Which
of the following areas did the Aryans expand into during the later stages of
their settlement?
A) Western
Rajasthan
B) The Ganga and
Yamuna valleys, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar
C) Coastal Gujarat
and Maharashtra
D) Northern Punjab
and Sindh
Answer:
B) The Ganga and Yamuna valleys, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar
Explanation:
In the later stages of their settlement, the Aryans expanded into areas between
the Ganga and Yamuna valleys, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and even Bihar. The
clearing of land with iron tools like axes helped them establish these regions
for agriculture and permanent settlements.
05. Question:
What does the term "janapada" mean?
A) The land of the
kings
B) A temporary
settlement
C) A place where
the jana (tribe) set foot and stayed on
D) A fortified
village
Answer:
C) A place where the jana (tribe) set foot and stayed on
Explanation:
The word janapada signifies a place where the tribe (jana) set foot and decided
to stay. This term reflects the transition of Aryan tribes from a mobile
lifestyle to settled, permanent territories that later became known as
janapadas.
06. Question:
Which of the following is a literary source that provides information on the
period of Aryan settlement?
A) Painted Grey
Ware
B) Atharva Veda
C) Earthen pots
from Delhi
D) Grey and red
pottery
Answer:
B) Atharva Veda
Explanation:
Atharva Veda is one of the Later Vedic texts that, along with other Vedic
scriptures and epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, provides literary
evidence of Aryan life, culture, and settlement during this period.
07. What
type of pottery is characteristic of Aryan settlements found in janapadas like
Delhi and Meerut?
A) Black and red
ware
B) Painted Grey
Ware
C) Polished
terracotta
D) Enamelled
pottery
Answer:
B) Painted Grey Ware
Explanation:
Painted Grey Ware pottery, which includes plates, bowls, and pots with
geometric designs, is a unique type of pottery discovered in Aryan settlements
within janapadas. It is smooth to the touch and may have been reserved for
special occasions or important individuals.
08. Which
of the following Mahajanapadas was located in the present-day districts of
Patna and Gaya in Bihar?
A)
Anga
B)
Magadha
C)
Kosala
D)Avanti
Answer:
2. Magadha
Explanation:
Magadha was one of the most prominent Mahajanapadas in ancient India, located
in the region of present-day Patna and Gaya in Bihar. Known for its strategic
importance, Magadha later became the center of powerful dynasties, including
the Mauryas and the Guptas.
09.
Which of the following statements best describes the concept of Mahajanapadas?
A) Independent
tribes in the Indian subcontinent with no centralized government.
B) Early
territorial states that emerged in the Indian subcontinent by 500 BC,
eventually forming larger states.
C) Religious
institutions that held significant influence over the Aryan tribes.
D) Ancient cities
known for their unique pottery and tools.
Answer:
B) Early territorial states that emerged in the Indian subcontinent by 500 BC,
eventually forming larger states.
Explanation:
Mahajanapadas were larger and more powerful states that evolved from smaller
janapadas in the Indian subcontinent. By 6th century BC, 16 significant
Mahajanapadas, including Magadha, Kosala, and Gandhara, held political and
territorial influence, marking a shift from tribal systems to organized states.
10. Which
of the following Mahajanapadas followed a republican form of government, where
decisions were made by representatives chosen by the people?
A. Kashi
B. Kosala
C. Vajji
D. Magadha
Answer:
C. Vajji
Explanation:
Vajji was among the few Mahajanapadas that adopted a republican form of
government, unlike most other Mahajanapadas that were monarchies ruled by
kings. In Vajji, decisions were taken by representatives chosen by the people
through discussions and debates.
11. Why
did the rulers of the Mahajanapadas construct massive forts and walls around
their capital cities?
A. To store
surplus food
B. To demonstrate
power and facilitate administration
C. To prevent
citizens from leaving
D. To enhance
trade opportunities
Answer:
B. To demonstrate power and facilitate administration
Explanation:
The rulers of Mahajanapadas built massive forts and walls to protect their
capital cities from external threats and to showcase their strength. These
fortifications also made it easier to manage and govern the area within the
walls.
12. What
was one of the main reasons why the rulers of Mahajanapadas required a steady
revenue from taxes?
A. To support
religious institutions
B. To pay salaries
of soldiers and maintain a regular army
C. To fund
educational programs
D. To reduce the
power of local merchants
Answer:
B. To pay salaries of soldiers and maintain a regular army
Explanation:
Rulers in the Mahajanapadas period kept regular armies, which required
continuous financial resources for salaries and maintenance. This steady
revenue was primarily obtained through taxes imposed on the people.
13. In
monarchies among the Mahajanapadas, how was the succession to the throne
typically determined?
A. By election
among the nobles
B. By selection
based on the ruler's merit
C. By hereditary
succession
D. By a council of
ministers
Answer:
C. By hereditary succession
Explanation:
In monarchical Mahajanapadas, the throne was usually passed down through
hereditary succession, meaning that kings were succeeded by their sons or close
family members, reinforcing the king's absolute authority.
14.
What was the geographical advantage of Magadha’s first capital, Rajgriha?
A. It was located
on fertile plains ideal for farming
B. It was
surrounded by rivers for easy trade
C. It was
surrounded by hills that provided natural defense
D. It had direct
access to the sea for trade
Answer:
C. It was surrounded by hills that provided natural defense
Explanation:
Rajgriha, the first capital of Magadha, was naturally fortified by surrounding
hills, which made it difficult for other kingdoms to conquer. This strategic
advantage contributed to Magadha's rise.
15.
Which two important rivers flowed through Magadha, aiding in its agriculture
and trade?
A. Yamuna and
Saraswati
B. Ganga and Son
C. Narmada and
Tapti
D. Brahmaputra and
Godavari
Answer:
B. Ganga and Son
Explanation:
Magadha was situated on fertile plains between the Ganga and Son rivers, which
not only supported agriculture but also facilitated trade and transport.
16. Who
was the first significant ruler of Magadha, known for establishing alliances
with neighboring kingdoms?
A. Ajatashatru
B. Mahapadma Nanda
C. Bimbisara
D. Dhana Nanda
Answer:
C. Bimbisara
Explanation:
Bimbisara was Magadha's first major ruler, who strengthened his kingdom by
forming matrimonial alliances and expanding his influence through diplomacy and
conquest.
17. During
whose reign did Pataliputra become the capital of Magadha?
A. Mahapadma Nanda
B. Bimbisara
C. Ajatashatru
D. Chandragupta
Maurya
Answer:
C. Ajatashatru
Explanation:
Ajatashatru, Bimbisara's son, made Pataliputra the capital of Magadha, further
enhancing the kingdom's strategic position with its location at the confluence
of important rivers.
18. Which
resource did the forests of Magadha provide that was significant for the army?
A. Timber and
elephants
B. Silk and spices
C. Copper and gems
D. Horses and
camels
Answer:
A. Timber and elephants
Explanation:
Magadha's forests were rich in timber, which was used for construction, and
they also provided elephants, which were valuable assets for Magadha's military
strength.
19. What
major military advantage helped Mahapadma Nanda expand Magadha's borders to the
northwest?
A. His strategic
alliances with other kingdoms
B. His skilled
fleet of ships
C. His large army,
including foot soldiers, chariots, and elephants
D. His use of
advanced iron weapons
Answer:
C. His large army, including foot soldiers, chariots, and elephants
Explanation:
Mahapadma Nanda’s vast and diverse army, equipped with foot soldiers, chariots,
and war elephants, allowed him to expand Magadha’s influence into the northwest
regions of the subcontinent.
20. What
was the primary role of the king in the administration of Magadha?
A. To collect
taxes from crafts persons
B. To build forts
and manage trade
C. To command a
large army and expand territory
D. To teach
agricultural techniques to farmers
Answer:
C. To command a large army and expand territory
Explanation:
The king in Magadha held significant power, managing a regular army to both
expand his kingdom and protect the people, while also overseeing administration
with the help of ministers.
21.
Which of the following was NOT a tax type collected in Magadha?
A. Tax on farmers
B. Tax on crafts
persons
C. Tax on
education
D. Tax on
hunters-gatherers
Answer:
C. Tax on education
Explanation:
Magadha’s taxation system included taxes on farmers, crafts persons, herders,
hunters-gatherers, and trade, but there was no specific tax on education during
this period.
22. What
agricultural advancement involved using iron to enhance productivity in
Magadha?
A. Use of iron
ploughshares
B. Transplantation
of seeds
C. Irrigation
canals
D. Crop rotation
Answer:
A. Use of iron ploughshares
Explanation:
Farmers in Magadha began using iron ploughshares, which were more efficient
than wooden ones and helped in preparing the soil for better crop yields.
23.
Which term describes the process of growing and planting saplings in fields,
used in Magadha to increase crop yields?
A. Sowing
B. Rotation
C. Transplantation
D. Harvesting
Answer:
C. Transplantation
Explanation:
Transplantation involved growing saplings and then planting them in fields, a
technique that increased crop survival and productivity, especially for paddy.
24.
What were the associations formed by crafts persons in Magadha called?
A. Janapadas
B. Shrenis
C. Bhagas
D. Kammakaras
Answer:
B. Shrenis
Explanation:
Crafts persons in Magadha organized themselves into associations known as
shrenis, which provided training, materials, and helped with trade and
transportation of goods.
25. What
type of coins were used in Magadha for trade during this period?
A. Barter coins
B. Stamped coins
C. Punch-marked
coins
D. Guild coins
Answer:
C. Punch-marked coins
Explanation:
Trade in Magadha flourished with the use of punch-marked coins, often made of
silver or copper, where designs were stamped onto the coins, representing a
shift from barter trade.
26. In
addition to providing training and resources, what other function did the
shrenis of merchants and traders serve in Magadha?
A. They acted as
administrative councils
B. They served as
local courts
C. They served as
banks, investing deposits
D. They organized
festivals
Answer:
C. They served as banks, investing deposits
Explanation:
The shrenis of merchants and traders in Magadha also functioned as banks, using
deposited funds for investments, thereby playing a key role in the economic
structure of the society.
27. Which
two leaders emerged in Magadha to spread messages of non-violence and equality
in response to rigid societal structures?
A. Chandragupta
Maurya and Ashoka
B. Bimbisara and
Ajatashatru
C. Gautama Buddha
and Vardhaman Mahavira
D. Mahapadma Nanda
and Dhana Nanda
Answer:
C. Gautama Buddha and Vardhaman Mahavira
Explanation:
In reaction to the rigid varna system and elaborate rituals by the Brahmanas,
Gautama Buddha and Vardhaman Mahavira promoted the ideas of ahimsa
(non-violence) and equality, which gained popularity in society.
28. Which
dynasty is traditionally credited with establishing the Magadha Empire
according to the Puranas?
A. Nanda dynasty
B. Maurya dynasty
C. Brihadratha
dynasty
D. Gupta dynasty
Answer:
C. Brihadratha dynasty
Explanation:
According to the Puranas, the Brihadratha dynasty is considered to have
established the Magadha Empire, with texts like the Vayu Purana stating that
their rule lasted for 1,000 years.
29. Which
Magadhan dynasty is known for laying the foundation of the Magadha mahajanapada
in 684 BC?
A. Pradyota
dynasty
B. Haryanka
dynasty
C. Nanda dynasty
D. Shunga dynasty
Answer:
B. Haryanka dynasty
Explanation:
The Haryanka dynasty, which began its rule in 684 BC, is believed to have been
instrumental in establishing Magadha as a powerful mahajanapada, marking the
beginning of its expansion and prominence.
30. Who
established the Maurya dynasty by defeating the Nanda ruler, Dhana Nanda, in
321 BC?
A. Ashoka
B. Bimbisara
C. Ajatashatru
D. Chandragupta
Maurya
Answer:
D. Chandragupta Maurya
Explanation:
Chandragupta Maurya founded the Maurya dynasty in 321 BC after defeating Dhana
Nanda, the last ruler of the Nanda dynasty, marking the start of a new era in
Magadha's history.
31. Which
dynasty ruled Magadha about fifty years after the death of Ashoka?
A. Gupta dynasty
B. Pradyota
dynasty
C. Shunga dynasty
D. Haryanka
dynasty
Answer:
C. Shunga dynasty
Explanation:
The Shunga dynasty rose to power in Magadha around 185 BC, approximately fifty
years after the death of Ashoka, the renowned ruler of the Maurya dynasty.
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