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Indian History

Asked 4 times in UPSC Prelims · first asked 1995 · last asked 2017

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Newest first — expand for options, answers, and explanations

Which one of the following was a very important seaport in the Kakatiya kingdom?

2017History
AKakinada
BMotupalli
CMachilipatnam (Masulipatnam)
DNelluru

Explanation

In medieval history books, it is noted that Ganapati was the most influential ruler of the Kakatiya dynasty. Motupalli, located in the current Krishna district, served as a significant seaport in his kingdom, attracting foreign traders. Therefore, the correct answer is 'b'.

With reference to the invaders in ancient India, which one of the following is the correct chronological order?

2006History
AGreeks-Sakas-Kushanas
BGreeks-Kushanas-Sakas
CSakas-Greeks-Kushanas
DSakas-Kushanas-Greeks

Explanation

In ancient India, the invaders followed a specific chronological order. The correct sequence is Greeks, Sakas, and then Kushanas. Alexander the Great, a Greek, invaded in 326 B.C.E., followed by the Sakas in 90 B.C.E., and finally the Kushanas in 45 C.E.

What is the correct chronological order in which the following appeared in India? 1. Gold coins 2. Punch marked silver coins 3. Iron plough 4. Urban culture

1998History
A3, 4, 1, 2
B3, 4, 2, 1
C4, 3, 1, 2
D4, 3, 2, 1

Explanation

In ancient India, urban culture first emerged during the Indus Valley Civilization between 2500 and 2000 BCE. The earliest iron ploughshare was found in Ganwaria, Uttar Pradesh, dating back to around 700 BC. The use of coins began with 'Punch Marked' silver coins between the 7th-6th century BC and 1st century AD.

Examine the map given below: The places marked 1, 2, 3 and 4 were respectively the seats of powers of the:

1995History
AScindias, Holkars, Gaekwads and Bhonsles
BHolkars, Scindias, Gaekwads and Bhonsles
CGaekwads, Bhonsles, Scindias and Holkars
DScindias, Holkars, Bhonsles and Gaekwads

Explanation

The locations marked 1, 2, 3, and 4 on the map corresponded to the historical power centers of the Scindias in Gwalior, Holkars in Indore, Gaekwads in Baroda, and Bhonsles in Nagpur. The correct order of these ruling families in terms of the map markings is Scindias, Holkars, Gaekwads, and Bhonsles, which matches option (a).