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Kerala PSC GK Notes

കേരളം ചരിത്രം (Part 1)

കേരള ചരിത്രത്തെക്കുറിച്ച് PSC ബിരുദതല പരീക്ഷകൾക്കായി തയ്യാറാക്കിയ വിശദമായ കുറിപ്പുകൾ താഴെ നൽകുന്നു. പഠനസൗകര്യത്തിനായി ഇവയെ പ്രാചീനകാലം, മധ്യകാലം, ആധുനികകാലം എന്നിങ്ങനെ തിരിച്ചിട്ടുണ്ട്. 1. പ്രാചീന കേരളം (Ancient Kerala) കേരള ചരിത്രത്തിന്റെ തുടക്കം ശിലായുഗങ്ങളിൽ നിന്നാണ്. കേരളത്തിലെ പലയിടങ്ങളിൽ നിന്നും മഹാശിലായുഗ സ്മാരകങ്ങൾ (Megalithic Monuments) കണ്ടെത്തിയിട്ടുണ്ട്. ശിലായുഗ സ്മാരകങ്ങൾ: കുടക്കല്ല്, തൊപ്പിക്കല്ല്, മുനിയറകൾ, നന്നങ്ങാടികൾ എന്നിവ കേരളത്തിന്റെ വിവിധ ഭാഗങ്ങളിൽ കാണപ്പെടുന്നു. ആദ്യകാല കുടിയേറ്റങ്ങൾ: പുരാതന തമിഴകത്തിന്റെ ഭാഗമായിരുന്നു കേരളം. 'പതിറ്റുപ്പത്ത്' എന്ന സംഘകാല കൃതി ചേരരാജാക്കന്മാരെക്കുറിച്ച് പ്രതിപാദിക്കുന്നു. ആദ്യകാല ചേരന്മാർ: വഞ്ചി (കരൂർ) തലസ്ഥാനമാക്കി ഭരിച്ചിരുന്ന ചേരന്മാർ. ഉതിയൻ ചേരലാതൻ ആണ് ഈ വംശത്തിലെ ആദ്യത്തെ പ്രമുഖ രാജാവ്. ചേരൻ ചെങ്കുട്ടുവൻ 'ചിലപ്പതികാര'ത്തിൽ പരാമർശിക്കപ്പെടുന്ന പ്രശസ്തനായ രാജാവാണ്. 2. മധ്യകാല കേരളം (Medieval Kerala) രണ്ടാം ചേരസാമ്രാജ്യത്തിന്റെ ഉദയത്തോടെയാണ് കേരളത്തിന് ഒരു പ്രത്യേക രാഷ്ട്രീയ അസ്തിത്വം കൈവരുന്നത്. രണ്ടാം ചേരസാമ്രാജ്യം (ക്രി.വ. 800 - 1102): കുലശേഖര ആഴ്‌വാർ സ്ഥാപിച്ച ഈ വംശത്തിന്റെ തലസ്ഥാനം മഹോദയപുരം (ഇന്നത്തെ കൊടുങ്ങല്ലൂർ) ആയിരുന്നു. അവസാന രാജാവ് രാമവർമ്മ കുലശേഖരനാണ്. ജൂത ശാസനം (ക്രി.വ. 1000): ഭാസ്കര രവിവർമ്മൻ ഒന്നാമൻ ജൂത വ്യാപാരിയായ ജോസഫ് റബ്ബാന് നൽകിയ അവകാശങ്ങൾ ഇതിൽ രേഖപ്പെടുത്തിയിരിക്കുന്നു. തരിസാപ്പള്ളി ശാസനം (ക്രി.വ. 849): അയ്യനടികൾ തിരുവടികൾ ക്രിസ്ത്യൻ വ്യാപാരികൾക്ക് നൽകിയ ആനുകൂല്യങ്ങളെക്കുറിച്ച് പ്രതിപാദിക്കുന്നു. മാമാങ്കം: ഭാരതപ്പുഴയുടെ തീരത്ത് തിരുനാവായയിൽ 12 വർഷത്തിലൊരിക്കൽ നടന്നിരുന്ന മാമാങ്കത്തിന്റെ രക്ഷാധികാരം 'രക്ഷാപുരുഷൻ' എന്ന പദവിയിൽ സാമൂതിരിയാണ് അലങ്കരിച്ചിരുന്നത്. 3. വിദേശ ആധിപത്യവും ആധുനിക കേരളവും യൂറോപ്യന്മാരുടെ വരവോടെ കേരള ചരിത്രത്തിൽ പുതിയൊരു അധ്യായം ആരംഭിച്ചു. പോർച്ചുഗീസുകാർ: 1498-ൽ വാസ്കോഡഗാമ കാപ്പാട് എത്തിയതോടെ യൂറോപ്യൻ യുഗം തുടങ്ങി. കുഞ്ഞാലി മരക്കാർമാർ: സാമൂതിരിയുടെ നാവികപ്പടയുടെ തലവന്മാരായിരുന്ന ഇവർ പോർച്ചുഗീസുകാർക്കെതിരെ ശക്തമായ പോരാട്ടം നയിച്ചു. ഡച്ചുകാർ: 1741-ലെ കുളച്ചൽ യുദ്ധത്തിൽ മാർത്താണ്ഡവർമ്മ ഡച്ച് സൈന്യത്തെ പരാജയപ്പെടുത്തിയത് ആഗോളതലത്തിൽ തന്നെ ശ്രദ്ധിക്കപ്പെട്ട സംഭവമാണ്. ബ്രിട്ടീഷ് കാലഘട്ടം: മലബാർ, കൊച്ചി, തിരുവിതാംകൂർ എന്നിങ്ങനെ കേരളം മൂന്നായി വിഭജിക്കപ്പെട്ട കാലം. പ്രധാന കലാപങ്ങൾ: കുറിച്ച്യർ ലഹള (1812): രാമൻ നമ്പിയുടെ നേതൃത്വത്തിൽ വയനാട്ടിൽ നടന്ന ഗോത്രവർഗ്ഗ കലാപം. കുണ്ടറ വിളംബരം (1809): വേലുത്തമ്പി ദളവ ബ്രിട്ടീഷുകാർക്കെതിരെ നടത്തിയ ചരിത്രപരമായ ആഹ്വാനം. പഴശ്ശി വിപ്ലവം: കേരളവർമ്മ പഴശ്ശിരാജാ ബ്രിട്ടീഷുകാർക്കെതിരെ നടത്തിയ ഗറില്ലാ യുദ്ധങ്ങൾ. മലബാർ സമരം (1921): ബ്രിട്ടീഷ് വിരുദ്ധ പോരാട്ടത്തിന്റെ ഭാഗമായി നടന്ന വലിയ പ്രക്ഷോഭം. 4. നവോത്ഥാന പ്രസ്ഥാനങ്ങൾ കേരളത്തിലെ സാമൂഹിക പരിഷ്കരണത്തിന് തുടക്കം കുറിച്ച പ്രധാന സംഭവങ്ങൾ. ശ്രീനാരായണ ഗുരു: 1888-ലെ അരുവിപ്പുറം പ്രതിഷ്ഠ കേരള ചരിത്രത്തിലെ നിർണ്ണായക സംഭവമാണ്. വൈക്കം സത്യാഗ്രഹം (1924): അയിത്തത്തിനെതിരെ നടന്ന ഇന്ത്യയിലെ തന്നെ ആദ്യത്തെ സംഘടിത പ്രക്ഷോഭം. ക്ഷേത്രപ്രവേശന വിളംബരം (1936): ശ്രീചിത്തിര തിരുനാൾ ബാലരാമവർമ്മ തിരുവിതാംകൂറിലെ ക്ഷേത്രങ്ങൾ എല്ലാവർക്കുമായി തുറന്നു കൊടുത്തു. 5. കേരള സംസ്ഥാന രൂപീകരണം ഐക്യകേരള പ്രസ്ഥാനം: മലയാളം സംസാരിക്കുന്ന പ്രദേശങ്ങളെ ഏകോപിപ്പിക്കാനുള്ള നീക്കം. സംസ്ഥാന രൂപീകരണം: 1956 നവംബർ 1-ന് ഭാഷാടിസ്ഥാനത്തിൽ കേരള സംസ്ഥാനം രൂപീകൃതമായി. ആദ്യ മുഖ്യമന്ത്രി ഇ.എം.എസ് നമ്പൂതിരിപ്പാട് ആയിരുന്നു.    

GK Notes

300 Questions from Modern Indian History (upto 1947)

300 Questions from Modern Indian History (upto 1947) Q.1) Which Portuguese explorer was the first European to reach India via the Cape of Good Hope in 1498? Answer: Vasco da Gama Explanation: He landed at Calicut (now Kozhikode) on the Malabar Coast and was received by the local ruler, the Zamorin. Q.2) Where did the Portuguese establish their first factory in India? Answer: Calicut (and later a permanent one at Cochin) Explanation: Cochin (Kochi) served as the early capital of the Portuguese in India before it was shifted to Goa. Q.3) Who was the first Portuguese Viceroy in India who introduced the "Blue Water Policy"? Answer: Francisco de Almeida Explanation: The policy aimed to make the Portuguese the masters of the Indian Ocean by focusing on naval supremacy rather than territorial conquest. Q.4) Which Portuguese Governor is considered the real founder of Portuguese power in India for capturing Goa in 1510? Answer: Alfonso de Albuquerque Explanation: He captured Goa from the Sultan of Bijapur and encouraged Portuguese men to marry Indian women to create a permanent settlement. Q.5) In which year was the English East India Company (EEIC) granted a Royal Charter by Queen Elizabeth I? Answer: 1600 CE Explanation: The charter gave the company a 15-year monopoly on trade with the East Indies (the "Governor and Company of Merchants of London trading into the East Indies"). Q.6) Who was the first English representative to visit the court of Mughal Emperor Jahangir in 1608? Answer: Captain William Hawkins Explanation: He was an envoy of King James I and sought permission to establish a factory at Surat. Q.7) Where did the English East India Company establish its first permanent factory in 1613? Answer: Surat Explanation: This followed the issuance of a 'Farman' (royal decree) by Jahangir after the English defeated the Portuguese in the Battle of Swally. Q.8) Which English diplomat visited Jahangir's court in 1615 and secured significant trade concessions for the Company? Answer: Sir Thomas Roe Explanation: He stayed in the Mughal court for three years and gained permission for the English to trade and establish factories across the empire. Q.9) The French East India Company was formed in 1664 under the patronage of which King? Answer: Louis XIV (by his minister Colbert) Explanation: It was the last of the major European companies to enter the Indian trade market. Q.10) Which city was founded by Job Charnock in 1690 by combining three villages (Sutanuti, Kalikata, and Govindpur)? Answer: Calcutta (Kolkata) Explanation: This became the nucleus of British power in Eastern India, later protected by Fort William. Q.11) The "Golden Farman" issued by the Sultan of Golkonda in 1632 allowed the English to do what? Answer: Trade freely in the ports of Golkonda Explanation: In return, the English paid a fixed annual custom duty of 500 Pagodas. Q.12) The "Carnatic Wars" were fought primarily between which two European powers? Answer: The British and the French Explanation: These wars (1746–1763) were the Indian theatre of global Anglo-French rivalries, resulting in British dominance. Q.13) Who was the brilliant French Governor who almost succeeded in establishing a French empire in India? Answer: Joseph François Dupleix Explanation: He introduced the system of 'subsidiary alliances' by interfering in the internal politics of Indian rulers to gain influence. Q.14) In which battle (1760) did the British decisively defeat the French, ending French dreams of an empire in India? Answer: Battle of Wandiwash Explanation: The British forces led by Sir Eyre Coote defeated the French under Comte de Lally. Q.15) What was the "Black Hole Tragedy" of 1756? Answer: The imprisonment of British soldiers in a small room by Siraj-ud-Daulah. Explanation: This incident served as a primary pretext for the British to launch a military strike against the Nawab of Bengal. Q.16) Which battle in 1757 marked the formal beginning of British political rule in India? Answer: Battle of Plassey Explanation: Robert Clive defeated Siraj-ud-Daulah, the Nawab of Bengal, largely through the treachery of the Nawab’s general, Mir Jafar. Q.17) In which battle (1764) did the British defeat the combined forces of Mir Qasim, Shuja-ud-Daulah, and Shah Alam II? Answer: Battle of Buxar Explanation: This was a more militarily significant victory than Plassey as it defeated the Mughal Emperor himself. Q.18) Which treaty was signed in 1765 after the Battle of Buxar, granting the British 'Diwani Rights'? Answer: Treaty of Allahabad Explanation: The British gained the right to collect revenue in Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha, while the Mughal Emperor became a pensioner. Q.19) Who introduced the "Dual Government" system in Bengal (1765–1772)? Answer: Robert Clive Explanation: Under this, the Company held the 'Diwani' (finance) while the Nawab held the 'Nizamat' (administration), leading to massive corruption and famine. Q.20) Which was the first act passed by the British Parliament to regulate the affairs of the East India Company? Answer: Regulating Act of 1773 Explanation: It created the office of Governor-General of Fort William (Bengal) and established a Supreme Court at Calcutta. Q.21) Who was the first Governor-General of Bengal? Answer: Warren Hastings Explanation: He abolished the Dual Government system and moved the treasury from Murshidabad to Calcutta. Q.22) Which British act established the "Board of Control" to manage the political affairs of the Company? Answer: Pitt’s India Act of 1784 Explanation: It created a system of 'dual control' between the Company and the British Crown that lasted until 1858. Q.23) Who introduced the "Permanent Settlement" of land revenue in Bengal in 1793? Answer: Lord Cornwallis Explanation: Also known as the Zamindari system, it made Zamindars the legal owners of the land with a fixed revenue obligation to the state. Q.24) Who is known as the "Father of Civil Services in India"? Answer: Lord Cornwallis Explanation: He purged the administration of corruption, increased salaries, and separated the judiciary from the executive. Q.25) Which Governor-General introduced the "Subsidiary Alliance" system to bring Indian states under British control? Answer: Lord Wellesley Explanation: Under this, an Indian ruler had to maintain a British force at his expense and station a British Resident in his court. Q.26) Which Indian state was the first to accept the Subsidiary Alliance? Answer: Hyderabad (The Nizam) Explanation: The Nizam of Hyderabad signed the alliance in 1798. Q.27) In which Anglo-Mysore War did Tipu Sultan die fighting at Seringapatam? Answer: Fourth Anglo-Mysore War (1799) Explanation: This ended the resistance of Mysore, and the state was placed under a puppet Wodeyar ruler. Q.28) Who was the first Governor-General of India (under the Charter Act of 1833)? Answer: Lord William Bentinck Explanation: The Charter Act of 1833 renamed the Governor-General of Bengal as the Governor-General of India. Q.29) Which social reform was enacted by Lord William Bentinck in 1829 at the urging of Raja Ram Mohan Roy? Answer: Prohibition of Sati Explanation: The practice of Sati was declared illegal and punishable by law. Q.30) Who introduced the "Doctrine of Lapse" to annex Indian princely states? Answer: Lord Dalhousie Explanation: Under this, if a ruler of a protected state died without a natural heir, his state would 'lapse' to the British. Q.31) Which was the first state to be annexed under the Doctrine of Lapse? Answer: Satara (1848) Explanation: Other annexed states included Sambalpur, Jhansi, and Nagpur. Q.32) On what grounds was the state of Awadh (Oudh) annexed in 1856? Answer: Misgovernment (Maladministration) Explanation: Dalhousie annexed Awadh despite its ruler, Wajid Ali Shah, being a loyal ally. Q.33) In which year was the first railway line in India opened? Answer: 1853 Explanation: It ran between Bombay and Thane, a distance of 34 kilometres. Q.34) Who is known as the "Father of Indian Railways"? Answer: Lord Dalhousie Explanation: He also introduced the electric telegraph and the uniform postage system (Postal Act of 1854). Q.35) What was the immediate cause of the Revolt of 1857? Answer: The introduction of the 'Greased Cartridges' in the Enfield rifle. Explanation: Rumours that the cartridges were greased with cow and pig fat offended both Hindu and Muslim sepoys. Q.36) Who was the sepoy who fired the first shot of the 1857 Revolt at Barrackpore? Answer: Mangal Pandey Explanation: He refused to use the new cartridges and attacked his superior officer on March 29, 1857. Q.37) Who was the symbolic leader of the 1857 Revolt at Delhi? Answer: Bahadur Shah Zafar (the last Mughal) Explanation: The rebel sepoys proclaimed him the 'Shahenshah-i-Hindustan'. Q.38) Who led the 1857 Revolt at Lucknow? Answer: Begum Hazrat Mahal Explanation: She led the revolt on behalf of her minor son, Birjis Qadr. Q.39) Who was the British officer who suppressed the revolt in Jhansi? Answer: Sir Hugh Rose Explanation: He described Rani Lakshmi Bai as "the best and bravest military leader of the rebels." Q.40) Which act ended the rule of the East India Company and transferred power to the British Crown? Answer: Government of India Act 1858 Explanation: This act followed the 1857 Revolt; the Governor-General was given the title of 'Viceroy'. Q.41) Who was the first Viceroy of India? Answer: Lord Canning Explanation: He presided over the transition from Company rule to Crown rule. Q.42) Which commission was appointed to reorganize the Indian Army after the 1857 Revolt? Answer: Peel Commission Explanation: It recommended increasing the ratio of European soldiers to Indian soldiers to prevent future mutinies. Q.43) Who was the founder of the "Brahmo Samaj" in 1828? Answer: Raja Ram Mohan Roy Explanation: He is known as the "Father of Modern India" and the "Prophet of Indian Nationalism." Q.44) Who founded the "Arya Samaj" in 1875 and gave the slogan "Go back to the Vedas"? Answer: Swami Dayananda Saraswati Explanation: He wrote the famous book 'Satyarth Prakash'. Q.45) Which social reformer founded the "Ramakrishna Mission" in 1897? Answer: Swami Vivekananda Explanation: He founded it in memory of his guru, Ramakrishna Paramahansa, to promote social service. Q.46) Who was the primary leader of the "Aligarh Movement"? Answer: Sir Sayyid Ahmad Khan Explanation: He founded the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College (later Aligarh Muslim University) to promote modern education among Muslims. Q.47) Who wrote the book 'Satyashodhak Samaj' and campaigned against untouchability? Answer: Jyotirao Phule (Jyotiba Phule) Explanation: He also wrote the book 'Gulamgiri'. Q.48) Who was the first President of the Indian National Congress (1885)? Answer: Womesh Chandra Bonnerjee Explanation: The first session was held at Gokuldas Tejpal Sanskrit College, Bombay. Q.49) Who is known as the "Grand Old Man of India"? Answer: Dadabhai Naoroji Explanation: He was the first Indian to be elected to the British House of Commons and proposed the 'Drain of Wealth' theory. Q.50) Which Viceroy was responsible for the Partition of Bengal in 1905? Answer: Lord Curzon Explanation: The partition triggered the Swadeshi and Boycott movements.   Q.51) Which British official founded the "Indian National Congress" along with Indian leaders in 1885? Answer: Allan Octavian (A.O.) Hume Explanation: A retired British civil servant, he acted as a facilitator to provide a "safety valve" for the growing political discontent among educated Indians. Q.52) Who was the first Muslim President of the Indian National Congress (1887)? Answer: Badruddin Tyabji Explanation: He presided over the third session of the Congress held in Madras, advocating for the involvement of all communities in the national movement. Q.53) Which British Act introduced the principle of "Election" for the first time, though in an indirect manner? Answer: Indian Councils Act of 1892 Explanation: It increased the number of members in the legislative councils and allowed them to discuss the budget and address questions to the executive. Q.54) Who started the "Shivaji Festival" (1894) and "Ganpati Festival" (1893) to stimulate nationalism? Answer: Bal Gangadhar Tilak Explanation: He used these traditional religious and historical festivals to bypass British restrictions on political gatherings and to mobilize the masses. Q.55) Who was the first Indian to be elected to the British House of Commons in 1892? Answer: Dadabhai Naoroji Explanation: Elected on a Liberal Party ticket, he used his position to highlight Indian grievances and the economic drain caused by British rule. Q.56) In which year did the "Partition of Bengal" come into effect? Answer: October 16, 1905 Explanation: This day was observed as a 'Day of Mourning' across Bengal; the partition aimed to divide the nationalist stronghold along communal lines. Q.57) Who founded the "Servants of India Society" in 1905? Answer: Gopal Krishna Gokhale Explanation: The society aimed to train "national missionaries" for the service of India and promote social and human development through peaceful means. Q.58) The "Swadeshi Movement" was formally proclaimed at a meeting in which city? Answer: Calcutta (Town Hall) Explanation: On August 7, 1905, a resolution to boycott British goods was passed, officially launching the Swadeshi movement in response to the Bengal partition. Q.59) Where was the "All India Muslim League" founded in 1906? Answer: Dhaka Explanation: It was founded under the leadership of Nawab Salimullah, Aga Khan, and Nawab Mohsin-ul-Mulk to protect the political rights of Muslims. Q.60) In which session did the Indian National Congress split into "Moderates" and "Extremists"? Answer: Surat Session (1907) Explanation: Known as the 'Surat Split', disagreements over the methods of agitation and the presidency led to a formal division in the party. Q.61) Who was the first Indian to be appointed to the Viceroy’s Executive Council? Answer: Satyendra Prasanna (S.P.) Sinha Explanation: He was appointed as the Law Member following the Morley-Minto Reforms, marking a significant step in Indian representation in high governance. Q.62) Which Act introduced "Separate Electorates" for Muslims for the first time? Answer: Morley-Minto Reforms (Indian Councils Act 1909) Explanation: This move institutionalized communal representation, a key part of the British 'Divide and Rule' policy. Q.63) Which British King visited India in 1911 during the Delhi Durbar? Answer: King George V Explanation: He announced the annulment of the Partition of Bengal and the shifting of the capital from Calcutta to Delhi. Q.64) In which year was the capital of British India officially shifted from Calcutta to Delhi? Answer: 1911 Explanation: The announcement was made during the Delhi Durbar, though the official move and construction of the new capital (New Delhi) took several years. Q.65) Who founded the "Ghadar Party" in San Francisco in 1913? Answer: Lala Hardayal and Sohan Singh Bhakna Explanation: It was a revolutionary organization of Indians abroad aimed at overthrowing British rule through an armed uprising in India. Q.66) In which year did Mahatma Gandhi return to India from South Africa? Answer: January 9, 1915 Explanation: This day is celebrated as 'Pravasi Bharatiya Divas' to commemorate his return and the contribution of the Indian diaspora. Q.67) Who launched the "Home Rule League" movement in 1916? Answer: Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Annie Besant Explanation: They started two separate leagues to demand 'Home Rule' or self-government for India within the British Empire. Q.68) The "Lucknow Pact" of 1916 was an agreement between which two groups? Answer: Indian National Congress and the Muslim League Explanation: It marked a temporary period of Hindu-Muslim unity where both parties agreed to demand self-government from the British. Q.69) Where was Mahatma Gandhi's first Satyagraha in India (1917) located? Answer: Champaran (Bihar) Explanation: It was launched to support the indigo farmers against the oppressive 'Tinkathia' system enforced by European planters. Q.70) Who was the first woman President of the Indian National Congress (1917)? Answer: Annie Besant Explanation: She presided over the Calcutta session following her leadership in the Home Rule movement and her imprisonment by the British. Q.71) The "Kheda Satyagraha" (1918) was launched by Gandhi in support of whom? Answer: Peasants Explanation: The peasants of Kheda (Gujarat) were unable to pay taxes due to crop failure, and Gandhi led a movement for the remission of revenue. Q.72) What was the "Rowlatt Act" of 1919 popularly known as? Answer: The Black Act Explanation: It allowed the government to imprison people without trial, leading to widespread protests and the slogan "No Dalil, No Vakil, No Appeal." Q.73) Who was the British officer responsible for the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre on April 13, 1919? Answer: General Dyer Explanation: He ordered troops to fire on a peaceful crowd gathered to celebrate Baisakhi and protest the arrest of leaders, killing hundreds. Q.74) Who surrendered his Knighthood as a protest against the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre? Answer: Rabindranath Tagore Explanation: He returned the honour to express his pain and protest against the "enormity of the measures" taken by the British in Punjab. Q.75) The "Khilafat Movement" (1919-1920) was launched to protest against the treatment of which leader? Answer: The Khalifa of Turkey Explanation: Indian Muslims were outraged by the perceived harsh treatment of the Ottoman Sultan (the spiritual head) by the British after WWI. Q.76) In which year was the "Non-Cooperation Movement" launched? Answer: 1920 Explanation: Approved at the Nagpur session, it was the first mass movement led by Gandhi, involving the boycott of foreign goods, schools, and titles. Q.77) Which incident led Mahatma Gandhi to call off the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1922? Answer: Chauri Chaura Incident Explanation: A violent mob set fire to a police station in Uttar Pradesh, killing 22 policemen; Gandhi withdrew the movement as it had turned violent. Q.78) Who founded the "Swaraj Party" in 1923? Answer: Motilal Nehru and C.R. Das Explanation: They wanted to end the "boycott of councils" and enter the legislative assemblies to "wreck the government from within." Q.79) Who was the first Indian woman President of the Indian National Congress (1925)? Answer: Sarojini Naidu Explanation: She presided over the Kanpur session; she was a prominent poet and a key leader in the Civil Disobedience movement. Q.80) Why was the "Simon Commission" (1927) boycotted by Indians? Answer: It had no Indian members Explanation: The commission was sent to review constitutional reforms, but the exclusion of Indians was seen as an insult to India's self-respect. Q.81) Who died due to injuries sustained during a lathi charge while protesting against the Simon Commission in 1928? Answer: Lala Lajpat Rai Explanation: Known as 'Punjab Kesari', he died after being brutally beaten by the police during a peaceful protest in Lahore. Q.82) The "Nehru Report" of 1928 was a response to which challenge? Answer: The challenge to draft a constitution for India Explanation: Lord Birkenhead challenged Indians to produce a constitution acceptable to all parties; the report was the first major Indian attempt at constitution-making. Q.83) In which Congress session was the "Purna Swaraj" (Complete Independence) resolution passed? Answer: Lahore Session (1929) Explanation: Under the presidency of Jawaharlal Nehru, the Congress declared January 26, 1930, as Independence Day. Q.84) Mahatma Gandhi began his "Dandi March" (Salt Satyagraha) from where? Answer: Sabarmati Ashram Explanation: He marched 240 miles to the coastal village of Dandi to manufacture salt and defy the British salt tax on April 6, 1930. Q.85) Which agreement led to the suspension of the Civil Disobedience Movement and Congress's participation in the Second Round Table Conference? Answer: Gandhi-Irwin Pact (1931) Explanation: Signed between Gandhi and Lord Irwin, it involved the release of political prisoners and the permission to make salt for personal use. Q.86) Who was the only Indian leader to attend all three Round Table Conferences (1930-1932)? Answer: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Explanation: He represented the Depressed Classes and argued for separate electorates to ensure their political representation. Q.87) What was the "Poona Pact" of 1932? Answer: An agreement on seat reservation between Gandhi and Ambedkar Explanation: It replaced the 'Communal Award' of separate electorates for the Depressed Classes with reserved seats within the general electorate. Q.88) Which Act serves as the main blueprint for the present Constitution of India? Answer: Government of India Act 1935 Explanation: It introduced provincial autonomy and envisioned a federal structure for India, though many parts were never implemented. Q.89) In which year did the Congress ministries resign from the provinces? Answer: 1939 Explanation: They resigned in protest against the British government's decision to involve India in World War II without consulting Indian leaders. Q.90) Who gave the "August Offer" in 1940 to gain Indian support during World War II? Answer: Lord Linlithgow Explanation: It offered 'Dominion Status' after the war and the expansion of the Viceroy's council, but it was rejected by both the Congress and the League. Q.91) Who was the first "Individual Satyagrahi" selected by Gandhi in 1940? Answer: Vinoba Bhave Explanation: He was followed by Jawaharlal Nehru; the movement was designed to assert the right to free speech against the war. Q.92) Which mission visited India in 1942 and was described by Gandhi as "a post-dated cheque on a crashing bank"? Answer: Cripps Mission Explanation: Led by Stafford Cripps, it offered Dominion status and a constitution-making body after the war, which was seen as inadequate. Q.93) On which date was the "Quit India" resolution passed by the Congress at Wardha? Answer: August 8, 1942 Explanation: Launched at the Gowalia Tank Maidan in Bombay, Gandhi gave the famous call of "Do or Die" (Karo ya Maro).     Q.94) Who was the woman leader famous for hoisting the Indian flag at the Gowalia Tank Maidan during the Quit India Movement? Answer: Aruna Asaf Ali Explanation: Known as the 'Grand Old Lady' of the Independence Movement, she hoisted the tricolour after the British arrested almost all senior Congress leaders in 'Operation Zero Hour'. Q.95) Which secret underground radio station was operated by Usha Mehta during the Quit India Movement? Answer: Congress Radio Explanation: This clandestine station broadcasted news of the movement and patriotic messages from hidden locations in Bombay to bypass British censorship. Q.96) Which British Viceroy was in charge when the Quit India Movement was launched in 1942? Answer: Lord Linlithgow Explanation: He served as Viceroy from 1936 to 1943, the longest tenure in that position, and oversaw the initial heavy suppression of the movement. Q.97) Who was the primary founder of the "Azad Hind Fauj" (Indian National Army) in its first phase in 1942? Answer: Captain Mohan Singh Explanation: It was initially formed in Malaya with the support of the Japanese, primarily consisting of Indian Prisoners of War (POWs) from the British Indian Army. Q.98) In which city did Subhas Chandra Bose formally set up the Provisional Government of Free India (Azad Hind) in 1943? Answer: Singapore Explanation: From Singapore, Bose took command of the INA and declared war on the British and American forces with the famous slogan "Chalo Delhi". Q.99) Which two islands were handed over to the Azad Hind Government by the Japanese and renamed 'Shaheed' and 'Swaraj'? Answer: Andaman and Nicobar Islands Explanation: These islands became the first Indian territories to be liberated from British rule, though they remained under the operational control of the Japanese military. Q.100) Who was the founder of the "Indian National Army" (Azad Hind Fauj) in Singapore? Answer: Rash Behari Bose (later led by Subhas Chandra Bose) Explanation: While initially formed by Mohan Singh, Subhas Chandra Bose took command in 1943 and led the fight against the British from outside India. Q.101) What was the "C.R. Formula" (Rajaji Formula) proposed in 1944? Answer: A proposal to settle the political deadlock between the Congress and the Muslim League. Explanation: Proposed by C. Rajagopalachari, it suggested that the League support the demand for independence and a plebiscite be held in Muslim-majority areas to decide on a separate state. Q.102) Which famous series of talks took place in September 1944 based on the C.R. Formula? Answer: Gandhi-Jinnah Talks Explanation: The talks failed as Muhammad Ali Jinnah insisted on the "Two-Nation Theory" and rejected the idea of any common central authority for defence or commerce. Q.103) What was the "Wavell Plan" presented at the Shimla Conference in 1945? Answer: A proposal to reconstruct the Viceroy’s Executive Council with equal representation for Hindus and Muslims. Explanation: The conference failed because Jinnah demanded that the Muslim League should have the sole right to nominate all Muslim members to the council. Q.104) The "INA Trials" (Red Fort Trials) of 1945 were conducted against which three prominent officers? Answer: P.K. Sahgal, Shah Nawaz Khan, and Gurbaksh Singh Dhillon. Explanation: The trials sparked a massive wave of nationalism across India; they were defended by a legal team including Bhulabhai Desai, Tej Bahadur Sapru, and Jawaharlal Nehru. Q.105) In which year did the "Royal Indian Navy (RIN) Mutiny" break out in Bombay? Answer: 1946 Explanation: Ratings of the HMIS Talwar went on strike against racial discrimination, unpalatable food, and the INA trials; it was the last major blow to British military control in India. Q.106) Which high-level mission was sent to India in March 1946 to negotiate the transfer of power? Answer: Cabinet Mission Explanation: It consisted of Pethick-Lawrence, Stafford Cripps, and A.V. Alexander. It proposed a federal structure and rejected the immediate demand for a separate Pakistan. Q.107) What was the "Direct Action Day" observed by the Muslim League on August 16, 1946? Answer: A call for a separate Pakistan that led to massive communal riots. Explanation: Also known as the "Great Calcutta Killings," it resulted in the deaths of thousands and forced the British to accelerate the partition process. Q.108) Who headed the "Interim Government" of India formed in September 1946? Answer: Jawaharlal Nehru Explanation: He served as the Vice-President of the Executive Council, while the Viceroy remained the President. Q.109) On which date did British PM Clement Attlee declare that the British would leave India by June 1948? Answer: February 20, 1947 Explanation: Known as the 'Attlee Declaration', it signalled the end of British rule regardless of whether Indian parties reached an agreement. Q.110) What was the "Mountbatten Plan" popularly known as? Answer: The June 3rd Plan Explanation: It outlined the procedure for the partition of India into two independent dominions—India and Pakistan—and was accepted by both the Congress and the League. Q.111) Who was the chairman of the two Boundary Commissions appointed to demarcate the borders of Punjab and Bengal? Answer: Sir Cyril Radcliffe Explanation: The borders were drawn based on religious demographics, leading to the creation of the 'Radcliffe Line'. Q.112) On which date was the "Indian Independence Act 1947" passed by the British Parliament? Answer: July 18, 1947 Explanation: This act gave legal effect to the partition and provided for the termination of British suzerainty over the princely states. Q.113) Who was the first Governor-General of independent India? Answer: Lord Mountbatten Explanation: He continued in the post at the request of the Indian government to oversee the transition until June 1948. Q.114) Who was the first and only Indian Governor-General of independent India? Answer: C. Rajagopalachari Explanation: He succeeded Mountbatten in 1948 and served until India became a Republic in 1950. Q.115) Who is known as the "Bismarck of India" for integrating the princely states? Answer: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Explanation: Along with V.P. Menon, he persuaded 562 princely states to join the Indian Union through the 'Instrument of Accession'. Q.116) Through which military operation was the state of Hyderabad integrated into India in 1948? Answer: Operation Polo Explanation: It was a 'police action' launched after the Nizam of Hyderabad refused to join India and his 'Razakars' (militia) caused unrest. Q.117) Who was the chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution? Answer: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Explanation: He is hailed as the 'Modern Manu' and the chief architect of the Indian Constitution. Q.118) On which date did the Constitution of India come into force? Answer: January 26, 1950 Explanation: This date was chosen to honour the 'Purna Swaraj' declaration of 1930. Q.119) Who was the first President of the Republic of India? Answer: Dr. Rajendra Prasad Explanation: He was the President of the Constituent Assembly and was elected as the first President of India on January 24, 1950. Q.120) Which event on January 30, 1948, is marked as Martyrs' Day (Shaheed Diwas) in India? Answer: Assassination of Mahatma Gandhi Explanation: He was shot by Nathuram Godse at Birla House in Delhi during his evening prayer meeting. Q.121) Who founded the "Atmiya Sabha" in 1815? Answer: Raja Ram Mohan Roy Explanation: It was a philosophical discussion circle aimed at promoting monotheistic ideals and social reforms in Bengal. Q.122) Which social reformer is known as "Lokhitwadi"? Answer: Gopal Hari Deshmukh Explanation: He was a social reformer from Maharashtra who advocated for rationalism and social equality through his writings in the weekly 'Prabhakar'. Q.123) Who was the first Indian to pass the Indian Civil Service (ICS) examination in 1863? Answer: Satyendranath Tagore Explanation: He was the elder brother of Rabindranath Tagore and served as a civil servant in the Bombay Presidency. Q.124) Which Viceroy passed the "Vernacular Press Act" of 1878 to restrict the freedom of Indian newspapers? Answer: Lord Lytton Explanation: The act was specifically aimed at newspapers like 'Amrita Bazar Patrika' to prevent the spread of anti-British sentiment. Q.125) Who repealed the Vernacular Press Act in 1882, earning the title "Liberator of the Indian Press"? Answer: Lord Ripon Explanation: He was one of the most popular Viceroys due to his liberal reforms, including the first Factory Act and the Local Self-Government resolution. Q.126) What was the "Ilbert Bill Controversy" (1883) about? Answer: Allowing Indian judges to try European defendants in criminal cases. Explanation: The bill faced fierce opposition from the white community, highlighting the racial discrimination inherent in British law. Q.127) Who founded the "Theosophical Society" in New York in 1875? Answer: Madam Blavatsky and Colonel Olcott Explanation: They moved their headquarters to Adyar (Madras) in 1882; the movement later gained widespread fame under Annie Besant. Q.128) Who founded the "Deccan Education Society" in 1884? Answer: G.G. Agarkar, M.G. Ranade, and B.G. Tilak. Explanation: It was established to provide affordable, nationalist-oriented education to Indian youth, leading to the creation of Fergusson College. Q.129) Which revolutionary secret society was founded by V.D. Savarkar in 1904? Answer: Abhinav Bharat Society Explanation: It grew out of the 'Mitra Mela' and was dedicated to achieving independence through armed revolution. Q.130) Who was the youngest revolutionary to be hanged by the British for the Muzaffarpur bombing in 1908? Answer: Khudiram Bose Explanation: He and Prafulla Chaki attempted to assassinate District Judge Kingsford, but the bomb accidentally killed two British women. Q.131) Who founded the "Anushilan Samiti" in Bengal? Answer: Pramathanath Mitra (P. Mitra) Explanation: It was a prominent revolutionary organisation that played a key role in the early militant nationalist phase in Bengal. Q.132) Which revolutionary assassinated Curzon Wyllie in London in 1909? Answer: Madan Lal Dhingra Explanation: He was a member of the 'India House' in London and was executed for this political assassination. Q.133) Who was the leader of the "Chittagong Armoury Raid" in 1930? Answer: Surya Sen (Masterda) Explanation: A school teacher by profession, he led a group of revolutionaries to seize the British armoury and declared a provisional revolutionary government. Q.134) Who founded the "Hindustan Republican Association" (HRA) in 1924? Answer: Ram Prasad Bismil, Sachindra Sanyal, and Yogesh Chandra Chatterjee. Explanation: The organisation aimed to establish a 'Federal Republic of the United States of India' through armed struggle. Q.135) The "Kakori Train Action" (1925) was a robbery of government funds carried out by which group? Answer: Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) Explanation: Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, and others were later hanged for their involvement in this incident. Q.136) Who renamed HRA to "Hindustan Socialist Republican Association" (HSRA) in 1928? Answer: Chandra Shekhar Azad and Bhagat Singh. Explanation: The addition of the word 'Socialist' reflected the group's shift towards Marxist and egalitarian ideologies at Feroz Shah Kotla, Delhi. Q.137) Why did Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt throw smoke bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly in 1929? Answer: To protest against the 'Public Safety Bill' and the 'Trade Dispute Bill'. Explanation: Their intention was not to kill but to "make the deaf hear" and draw attention to the repressive British laws. Q.138) Who died in Lahore jail after a 63-day hunger strike demanding better rights for political prisoners? Answer: Jatin Das Explanation: His sacrifice created a massive wave of sympathy and anger against the British treatment of Indian revolutionaries. Q.139) Who killed Michael O'Dwyer in London in 1940 to avenge the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre? Answer: Udham Singh Explanation: O'Dwyer was the Lieutenant Governor of Punjab during the 1919 massacre; Udham Singh waited 21 years to take his revenge. Q.140) Who founded the "Forward Bloc" within the Congress in 1939? Answer: Subhas Chandra Bose Explanation: He formed this radical faction after resigning as Congress President due to ideological differences with the right-wing leadership. Q.141) The "Woods Despatch" of 1854 is famously known as the:? Answer: Magna Carta of English Education in India. Explanation: It recommended the creation of universities in Bombay, Calcutta, and Madras and emphasized primary education in local languages. Q.142) Who was the first Indian to be appointed as a member of the Viceroy's Executive Council? Answer: Satyendra Prasanna Sinha (Lord Sinha) Explanation: He was appointed as the Law Member in 1909 following the Morley-Minto reforms. Q.143) Which British act introduced "Diarchy" (Dual Government) in the Provinces? Answer: Government of India Act 1919 (Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms). Explanation: It divided administrative subjects into 'Reserved' (controlled by the Governor) and 'Transferred' (controlled by Indian ministers). Q.144) Who founded the "All India Trade Union Congress" (AITUC) in 1920? Answer: N.M. Joshi (Lala Lajpat Rai was its first President). Explanation: It was the first central organisation to coordinate the activities of labour unions across India. Q.145) Who led the "Bardoli Satyagraha" in 1928 against the hike in land revenue? Answer: Vallabhbhai Patel Explanation: The successful movement earned him the title of "Sardar" from the women of Bardoli. Q.146) What was the "Communal Award" announced by British PM Ramsay MacDonald in 1932? Answer: A provision of separate electorates for the Depressed Classes (Dalits). Explanation: Mahatma Gandhi opposed this as a move to divide Hindu society and went on a fast until the Poona Pact was signed. Q.147) Who started the "Self-Respect Movement" in Tamil Nadu in 1925? Answer: E.V. Ramaswamy Naicker (Periyar) Explanation: The movement aimed at achieving a society where backward castes had equal human rights and rejected Brahminical dominance. Q.148) Who was the author of the book "Gulamgiri" (Slavery)? Answer: Jyotirao Phule Explanation: Published in 1873, the book was a scathing critique of the caste system and was dedicated to the American movement to abolish slavery. Q.149) The "Hunter Commission" (1882) was appointed to review the progress of:? Answer: Education in India Explanation: It focused on primary and secondary education, following the guidelines set by the Woods Despatch. Q.150) Who was the first Indian woman to address a session of the Indian National Congress in 1890? Answer: Kadambini Ganguly Explanation: She was one of the first two female graduates from India (and the British Empire) and a pioneering physician. Q.151) Which major tribal revolt took place in 1855-56 in the Rajmahal Hills against the oppression of Zamindars and moneylenders? Answer: Santhal Rebellion (Santhal Hool) Explanation: Led by brothers Sidhu and Kanhu Murmu, it was one of the fiercest tribal insurgencies against the British 'Diku' (outsider) system before 1857. Q.152) Who led the 'Ulgulan' (Great Tumult) or the Munda Rebellion in the Chotanagpur region between 1899 and 1900? Answer: Birsa Munda Explanation: He aimed to establish 'Munda Raj' and is worshipped as 'Dharti Aba' (Father of the Earth). The rebellion led to the passing of the Chota Nagpur Tenancy Act (1908). Q.153) The 'Indigo Revolt' (Nil Vidroha) of 1859-60 started in which village of Bengal? Answer: Govindpur (Nadia district) Explanation: Led by Digambar Biswas and Bishnu Biswas, the peasants refused to grow indigo under the oppressive conditions of European planters. Q.154) Which famous Bengali play, written by Dinabandhu Mitra, depicted the atrocities committed by Indigo planters? Answer: Neel Darpan Explanation: It played a crucial role in awakening the conscience of the intelligentsia and the British government regarding the plight of indigo farmers. Q.155) The 'Pabna Agrarian Leagues' (1873) in East Bengal were formed to protest against what? Answer: Unfair rent hikes and eviction by Zamindars. Explanation: Unlike many other revolts, this was largely a legalistic movement where peasants took the landlords to court, leading to the Bengal Tenancy Act of 1885. Q.156) The 'Deccan Riots' of 1875 in Maharashtra were primarily directed against whom? Answer: Moneylenders (Sahukars) Explanation: Distressed farmers in Pune and Ahmednagar burnt debt bonds and account books, leading to the Deccan Agriculturists' Relief Act (1879). Q.157) Who led the Rampa Rebellion (1922-24) in the Andhra region against the British forest laws? Answer: Alluri Sitarama Raju Explanation: He adopted guerrilla warfare tactics and was inspired by the Non-Cooperation Movement, though he did not strictly follow the principle of non-violence. Q.158) The 'Moplah Rebellion' (1921) took place in which region of India? Answer: Malabar (Kerala) Explanation: It began as a peasant grievance against landlords but later took a communal turn during the Khilafat and Non-Cooperation era. Q.159) Which commission was appointed in 1927 to look into the condition of the Indian States (Princely States) and their relationship with the Paramount Power? Answer: Butler Committee (Indian States Committee) Explanation: It recommended that the British Crown should remain the paramount power but emphasized the protection of the states from interference by British India. Q.160) Who was the founder of the 'All India Kisan Sabha' in 1936? Answer: Sahajanand Saraswati Explanation: It was the first pan-India peasant organization, and its first session was held in Lucknow with N.G. Ranga as the general secretary. Q.161) Which act first introduced 'Open Competitive Examinations' for the Indian Civil Services? Answer: Charter Act of 1853 Explanation: It ended the patronage of the Court of Directors and opened the civil services to Indians in theory, though the exam was held only in London. Q.162) The 'Lee Commission' (1923) was associated with which aspect of administration? Answer: Public Services (Indianization of Civil Services) Explanation: It recommended that 50% of the recruits to the Indian Civil Service should be Indians within 15 years. Q.163) Who was the first Governor-General of Bengal to be impeached by the British Parliament? Answer: Warren Hastings Explanation: He was impeached upon his return to England (led by Edmund Burke) for corruption and high-handedness, though he was eventually acquitted. Q.164) The 'MacDonnell Commission' (1900) was appointed by Lord Curzon to investigate what? Answer: Famine Relief Explanation: It recommended a more proactive approach to famine prevention and the establishment of a Famine Commissioner. Q.165) Which act ended the East India Company's monopoly on tea trade and trade with China? Answer: Charter Act of 1833 Explanation: This made the Company a purely administrative body and removed its commercial character entirely. Q.166) Who was the first Indian woman to become the President of the Indian National Congress at the 1925 Kanpur session? Answer: Sarojini Naidu Explanation: Known as the 'Nightingale of India', she was a prominent poet and the first woman to serve as the Governor of an Indian state (United Provinces). Q.167) Which British official is known as the 'Clemency' Governor-General for his moderate stance after the 1857 Revolt? Answer: Lord Canning Explanation: He refused to carry out large-scale vengeful executions against Indians after the revolt, earning him the nickname 'Clemency Canning'. Q.168) The 'Sadler University Commission' (1917) was appointed to report on the conditions of which university? Answer: Calcutta University Explanation: Its recommendations, however, influenced the development of secondary and university education across the entire country. Q.169) Who founded the 'Bharat Stree Mahamandal' in 1910, the first major women's organization in India? Answer: Sarala Devi Chaudhurani Explanation: It aimed to promote women's education and improve their social status without the direct involvement of men. Q.170) The 'Sarda Act' (1929) was aimed at what social reform? Answer: Discouraging Child Marriage Explanation: Also known as the Child Marriage Restraint Act, it fixed the minimum age of marriage for girls at 14 and boys at 18. Q.171) Which movement in 1924-25 in Travancore sought the right for lower castes to use roads near the Vaikom Temple? Answer: Vaikom Satyagraha Explanation: It was a significant milestone in the anti-untouchability movement and saw the participation of leaders like K. Kelappan and E.V. Ramaswamy. Q.172) Who was the founder of the 'Servants of God' (Khudai Khidmatgar) or 'Red Shirts' movement in the North-West Frontier Province? Answer: Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan (Badshah Khan) Explanation: He was a staunch follower of Gandhi and is also known as the 'Frontier Gandhi'. Q.173) Which act introduced for the first time 'Direct Elections' in India? Answer: Government of India Act 1919 Explanation: It significantly expanded the franchise, though it was still restricted by property, tax, and education qualifications. Q.174) The 'Hartog Committee' (1929) was concerned with the development of which sector? Answer: Education Explanation: It highlighted the "mass of wastage" in primary education and recommended consolidation rather than mere expansion. Q.175) Who was the author of the famous patriotic song 'Sare Jahan Se Achha'? Answer: Muhammad Iqbal Explanation: Though he later became a proponent of the idea of Pakistan, this song remains a symbol of Indian national pride. Q.176) Which Congress session in 1931 endorsed the Gandhi-Irwin Pact and passed a resolution on Fundamental Rights? Answer: Karachi Session Explanation: Presided over by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, this session also adopted the National Economic Programme. Q.177) The 'August Offer' (1940) was given by which Viceroy? Answer: Lord Linlithgow Explanation: It was an attempt to get Indian cooperation in WWII by promising a constitution-making body after the war. Q.178) Who was the first person to use the word 'Pakistan' and outline the concept of a separate Muslim state? Answer: Choudhry Rahmat Ali Explanation: He coined the name in 1933 while studying at Cambridge in a pamphlet titled 'Now or Never'. Q.179) Which plan of 1944 aimed at the economic development of India and was prepared by eight leading industrialists? Answer: Bombay Plan Explanation: It envisioned a significant role for the state in industrialization and social welfare in post-independence India. Q.180) Who was the founder of the 'All India Scheduled Castes Federation' in 1942? Answer: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Explanation: It was a political party aimed at representing the interests of the Dalit community. Q.181) The 'Cunningham Circular' (1930), which prohibited students from participating in politics, was issued in which province? Answer: Assam Explanation: It led to a massive student strike and boycott during the Civil Disobedience Movement. Q.182) Which revolutionary led the 'Chittagong Armoury Raid' in April 1930? Answer: Surya Sen Explanation: He was an inspiration for many, and his group briefly established a revolutionary government in Chittagong. Q.183) Who was the first Indian woman to fly an aircraft and later participated in the freedom struggle? Answer: Sarla Thakral (Note: In the context of the freedom movement, Sarojini Naidu and others were more politically active, but Sarla represents the modern Indian woman of that era). Q.184) The 'National Planning Committee' was set up in 1938 by the Congress under whose initiative? Answer: Subhas Chandra Bose (with Jawaharlal Nehru as Chairman). Explanation: This laid the groundwork for the planned economy of independent India. Q.185) Which British Prime Minister announced the 'Communal Award' in 1932? Answer: Ramsay MacDonald Explanation: It provided separate electorates for minorities and the depressed classes, leading to Gandhi's fast in Yerwada jail. Q.186) Who was the main leader of the 'Tebhaga Movement' (1946-47) in Bengal? Answer: The Bengal Provincial Kisan Sabha (leaders like Kamparam Singh). Explanation: The peasants demanded two-thirds (Tebhaga) of the harvest for themselves instead of the traditional half. Q.187) The 'Peshawar Incident' (1930) involved the refusal of which regiment to fire on peaceful protesters? Answer: Garhwal Rifles Explanation: Under Chandra Singh Garhwali, the soldiers refused to fire on fellow Indians during the Civil Disobedience Movement. Q.188) Who was the founder of the 'Radical Democratic Party' in 1940? Answer: M.N. Roy Explanation: He was a pioneer of the communist movement in India but later shifted to 'Radical Humanism'. Q.189) Which act granted 'Dominion Status' to India and Pakistan? Answer: Indian Independence Act 1947 Explanation: It converted India and Pakistan into two independent dominions within the British Commonwealth. Q.190) Who wrote the book 'Economic History of India' (1901)? Answer: R.C. Dutt Explanation: It was a classic critique of the British colonial economy and its devastating impact on Indian agriculture and industry. Q.191) The 'Pagri Sambhal Jatta' movement (1907) was an agrarian protest in which province? Answer: Punjab Explanation: Led by Ajit Singh (uncle of Bhagat Singh), it protested against the Colonization Bill and water rate hikes. Q.192) Which Viceroy is associated with the 'Policy of Masterly Inactivity' towards Afghanistan? Answer: John Lawrence Explanation: He avoided active interference in Afghan internal affairs, unlike his predecessor Auckland. Q.193) Who founded the 'Mahila Seva Samiti' in 1917? Answer: Annie Besant Explanation: It was one of many organizations she influenced to promote women's involvement in social reform. Q.194) The 'Athenaeum' was a literary society founded by which group of students? Answer: Young Bengal Movement (followers of Derozio). Explanation: They were radical thinkers who questioned traditional customs and religious dogmas. Q.195) Who was the leader of the 'Kuka Movement' (Namdhari) in Punjab? Answer: Baba Ram Singh Explanation: It was both a socio-religious reform movement and a political struggle against British rule. Q.196) The 'Whitley Commission' (1929) was appointed to investigate:? Answer: Labour conditions in industrial establishments. Explanation: Its recommendations led to several labor reforms and the Royal Commission on Labour. Q.197) Which act first provided for a 'High Commissioner for India' in London? Answer: Government of India Act 1919 Explanation: This official took over some of the agency functions previously performed by the Secretary of State for India. Q.198) Who was the first Indian to hold the post of 'Member of the Secretary of State’s Council' in London? Answer: K.G. Gupta and Syed Hussain Bilgrami (1907). Explanation: This was part of the early attempts to include Indians in the highest levels of British imperial administration. Q.199) The 'Linlithgow Commission' (1926) was related to:? Answer: Agriculture Explanation: It led to the establishment of the Imperial Council of Agricultural Research (now ICAR). Q.200) Who was the architect of the 'New Delhi' (Lutyens' Delhi) capital city? Answer: Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker. Explanation: They designed the majestic administrative heart of India, including the Rashtrapati Bhavan and Parliament House. Q.201) Who was the first Governor-General to introduce the 'Portfolio System' in the Executive Council? Answer: Lord Canning Explanation: Introduced in 1859 and formalised by the Indian Councils Act of 1861, this system laid the foundation for modern cabinet-style government in India. Q.202) The 'Strachey Commission' (1880) was the first commission appointed to investigate which issue? Answer: Famine Explanation: It recommended that the government should provide employment to the able-bodied during famines and suggested the creation of a Famine Fund. Q.203) Which British Act first introduced the principle of 'Dyarchy' at the Centre? Answer: Government of India Act 1935 Explanation: While the 1919 Act introduced Dyarchy in the Provinces, the 1935 Act moved it to the Centre, though this part of the act was never implemented. Q.204) Who founded the 'Indian Association' of Calcutta in 1876? Answer: Surendranath Banerjee and Ananda Mohan Bose Explanation: It was the most important of the pre-Congress nationalist organisations and aimed to create a strong public opinion on political questions. Q.205) The 'Aitchison Commission' (1886) was appointed to recommend reforms in which sector? Answer: Civil Services Explanation: It recommended the classification of services into Imperial, Provincial, and Subordinate Civil Services. Q.206) Who was the first Indian to be appointed as a judge of a High Court? Answer: Sambhunath Pandit Explanation: He was appointed to the Calcutta High Court in 1863, marking a significant step in the Indianisation of the judiciary. Q.207) The 'Raleigh Commission' (1902) was appointed by Lord Curzon to look into the condition of: Answer: Universities in India Explanation: Its recommendations led to the Indian Universities Act of 1904, which increased government control over universities. Q.208) Who was the author of the famous book 'The Indian War of Independence, 1857'? Answer: Vinayak Damodar (V.D.) Savarkar Explanation: Written in 1909, this book was the first to describe the 1857 revolt as a planned war for national independence rather than a mere sepoy mutiny. Q.209) The 'Welby Commission' (1895) was appointed to inquire into: Answer: Indian Expenditure Explanation: Dadabhai Naoroji was the first Indian to be a member of this royal commission, using it to highlight the economic drain. Q.210) Which woman leader founded the 'Desh Sevika Sangha' during the Civil Disobedience Movement? Answer: Sarojini Naidu (along with others in Bombay) Explanation: These groups were instrumental in picketing liquor shops and foreign cloth stores during the salt satyagraha. Q.211) Who was the founder of the 'Prarthana Samaj' in Bombay (1867)? Answer: Atmaram Pandurang Explanation: Inspired by the Brahmo Samaj, it focused on social reforms like widow remarriage, women's education, and the abolition of the caste system. Q.212) Which socio-religious movement was started by Mirza Ghulam Ahmad in 1889? Answer: Ahmadiyya Movement Explanation: It was based on liberal principles and aimed at the universal brotherhood of all religions while remaining within the fold of Islam. Q.213) Who founded the 'Rahnumai Mazdayasnan Sabha' (Religious Reform Association) for the Parsis? Answer: Naoroji Furdonji, Dadabhai Naoroji, and S.S. Bengalee Explanation: It aimed at the regeneration of the Parsi social condition and the restoration of the Zoroastrian religion to its pristine purity. Q.214) The 'Satnami Movement' in Central India was founded by whom to improve the social status of leather workers? Answer: Ghasidas (Guru Ghasidas) Explanation: He campaigned against the caste system and preached the worship of one God (Satnam). Q.215) Who was the first Indian to be elected as the President of the UN General Assembly? Answer: Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit (1953) Explanation: (Post-independence context) She was the sister of Jawaharlal Nehru and a prominent diplomat and freedom fighter. Q.216) The 'Butler Committee' (1927) was related to the relationship between the British Crown and: Answer: The Princely States Explanation: It was appointed to investigate the 'Paramountcy' of the British Crown over the Indian rulers. Q.217) Who was the founder of the 'All India Depressed Classes Association' in 1930? Answer: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Explanation: He used this platform to demand separate electorates and social rights for the Dalits at the Round Table Conferences. Q.218) The 'Aravippuram Movement' (1888) in Kerala was led by whom? Answer: Narayana Guru Explanation: He installed a Shiva idol in Aravippuram to challenge the monopoly of Brahmins over temple rituals, giving the slogan "One Caste, One Religion, One God for Man." Q.219) Who was the author of the song 'Vande Mataram'? Answer: Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay Explanation: It was first published in his novel 'Anandamath' (1882) and became the anthem of the Swadeshi movement. Q.220) Which Viceroy is associated with the 'Policy of Equal Federation' (1935-1947)? Answer: Lord Linlithgow Explanation: This policy aimed at bringing the Princely States and British Indian Provinces into a single federal structure. Q.221) The 'Pioneer' newspaper (started in 1865) was originally based in which city? Answer: Allahabad Explanation: It was one of the most influential English-language newspapers in India during the colonial era. Q.222) Who founded the 'National Social Conference' (1887), often called the social reform cell of the Congress? Answer: M.G. Ranade and Raghunath Rao Explanation: It met annually alongside the Congress sessions to discuss social issues like child marriage and dowry. Q.223) Which British official started the first Census in India in 1872? Answer: Lord Mayo Explanation: However, the first synchronous (complete) census was conducted in 1881 under Lord Ripon. Q.224) Who was the only Viceroy of India to be assassinated while in office? Answer: Lord Mayo Explanation: He was killed by Sher Ali Afridi, a convict, during a visit to the Andaman Islands in 1872. Q.225) The 'Hardinge Bomb Case' (1912) involved an attempt on the life of the Viceroy by whom? Answer: Rash Behari Bose and Sachindra Sanyal Explanation: A bomb was thrown at Lord Hardinge during his ceremonial entry into Delhi, the new capital. Q.226) Who was the first woman to be arrested during the Salt Satyagraha in 1930? Answer: Rukmini Lakshmipathi Explanation: She was a prominent leader from Madras who participated in the Vedaranyam Salt March. Q.227) Which revolutionary group was responsible for the 'Asher Case' (assassination of Collector Ash) in 1911? Answer: Bharat Mata Association (led by Vanchinathan) Explanation: This occurred in the Tirunelveli district of Madras Presidency as a protest against the repression of the Swadeshi movement. Q.228) Who founded the 'Radical Democratic Party' in 1940? Answer: M.N. Roy Explanation: He had moved away from orthodox Communism towards a philosophy he called 'New Humanism'. Q.229) The 'Inchecape Committee' (1923) was related to: Answer: Retrenchment (Reduction) of Government Expenditure Explanation: It was appointed to suggest ways to reduce the financial burden on the Indian treasury after WWI. Q.230) Who was the author of the book 'The Discovery of India'? Answer: Jawaharlal Nehru Explanation: He wrote it while imprisoned in Ahmednagar Fort (1942–1945) during the Quit India Movement. Q.231) Which act created the 'Federal Court' of India, which started functioning in 1937? Answer: Government of India Act 1935 Explanation: This court was the predecessor to the Supreme Court of India. Q.232) Who was the founder of the 'Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha' (1924)? Answer: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Explanation: Its objective was to promote education and socio-economic improvement among the Dalits. Q.233) The 'Temple Entry Proclamation' (1936) was issued in which princely state? Answer: Travancore Explanation: It was a historic decree that allowed all Hindus, regardless of caste, to enter temples controlled by the state government. Q.234) Who was the last Governor-General of India before the office was abolished in 1950? Answer: C. Rajagopalachari Explanation: He served from 1948 until the inauguration of the Republic on January 26, 1950. Q.235) The 'Montagu Declaration' of 1917 promised what for India? Answer: Gradual development of self-governing institutions. Explanation: It was a response to the Home Rule movement and aimed at increasing Indian participation in every branch of administration. Q.236) Who was the first Indian to be a member of the 'Imperial Legislative Council' under the Act of 1861? Answer: Raja of Benaras, Maharaja of Patiala, and Sir Dinkar Rao. Explanation: They were nominated by the Viceroy as non-official members. Q.237) Which Act first used the term 'Scheduled Castes'? Answer: Government of India Act 1935 Explanation: It replaced earlier terms like 'Depressed Classes' for administrative and electoral purposes. Q.238) Who was the founder of the 'All India Women's Conference' (AIWC) in 1927? Answer: Margaret Cousins Explanation: It remains one of the oldest and most prominent women's rights organisations in India. Q.239) The 'Simon Commission' report (1930) recommended the abolition of: Answer: Diarchy in the Provinces Explanation: It suggested that provinces should be given full autonomy, though it did not recommend Dominion status. Q.240) Who was the leader of the 'Eka Movement' (1921) in Uttar Pradesh? Answer: Madari Pasi Explanation: It was a peasant movement against the high rents and oppressive practices of the Thikadars (revenue contractors). Q.241) Which revolutionary was known as 'Bagha Jatin'? Answer: Jatindranath Mukherjee Explanation: He died in a heroic gunfight with the British police at Balasore (Odisha) in 1915. Q.242) The 'Komagata Maru' incident (1914) involved a ship carrying Indian immigrants to which country? Answer: Canada Explanation: The Canadian government refused them entry, leading to a tragic clash at Budge Budge (Calcutta) upon their forced return. Q.243) Who was the author of the poem 'Jhansi ki Rani' ("Khoob ladi mardaani...")? Answer: Subhadra Kumari Chauhan Explanation: This iconic poem immortalised Rani Lakshmi Bai in the Indian national memory. Q.244) The 'Swaraj Party' split in 1926 was caused by a group called 'Responsivists'. Who led them? Answer: Lala Lajpat Rai and M.M. Malaviya Explanation: They wanted to cooperate with the government to protect Hindu interests, unlike the original 'No-Changers' or 'Swarajists'. Q.245) Who was the British Prime Minister during the 1857 Revolt? Answer: Lord Palmerston Explanation: He was succeeded by Lord Derby, under whom the Government of India Act 1858 was passed. Q.246) The 'Wood's Despatch' (1854) recommended the setting up of Universities on the model of: Answer: London University Explanation: This led to the creation of the first three modern universities in India in 1857. Q.247) Who was the first Indian to hold the post of 'President of the Central Legislative Assembly' (1925)? Answer: Vithalbhai Patel Explanation: He was a prominent Swarajist leader and the elder brother of Vallabhbhai Patel. Q.248) The 'Bandi Jiwan' was a famous book written by which revolutionary? Answer: Sachindra Nath Sanyal Explanation: It was considered the 'textbook' for Indian revolutionaries in the early 20th century. Q.249) Which Act ended the 'Company's monopoly of trade' with India but preserved it for 'Tea and China'? Answer: Charter Act of 1813 Explanation: This opened the Indian market to other British merchants, reflecting the influence of Adam Smith's free-trade ideas. Q.250) Who was the founder of the 'Indian Home Rule Society' in London (1905)? Answer: Shyamji Krishna Varma Explanation: He also established 'India House' as a hostel for Indian students which became a hub for revolutionary activities. Q.251) The 'Poverty and Un-British Rule in India' (1901) was written by: Answer: Dadabhai Naoroji Explanation: This seminal work provided the statistical basis for the 'Drain of Wealth' theory. Q.252) Which Viceroy is associated with the 'Policy of Masterly Inactivity' towards Afghanistan? Answer: Sir John Lawrence (1864–1869) Explanation: He believed in non-interference in the internal tribal wars of Afghanistan, provided they did not threaten British borders. Q.253) Who founded the 'Atmiya Sabha' in 1815? Answer: Raja Ram Mohan Roy Explanation: It was a philosophical discussion circle aimed at promoting monotheistic ideals and social reforms in Bengal. Q.254) Which social reformer is known as "Lokhitwadi"? Answer: Gopal Hari Deshmukh Explanation: He was a social reformer from Maharashtra who advocated for rationalism and social equality through his writings in the weekly 'Prabhakar'. Q.255) Who was the first Indian to pass the Indian Civil Service (ICS) examination in 1863? Answer: Satyendranath Tagore Explanation: He was the elder brother of Rabindranath Tagore and served as a civil servant in the Bombay Presidency. Q.256) Which Viceroy passed the "Vernacular Press Act" of 1878? Answer: Lord Lytton Explanation: The act was specifically aimed at newspapers like 'Amrita Bazar Patrika' to prevent the spread of anti-British sentiment. Q.257) Who repealed the Vernacular Press Act in 1882? Answer: Lord Ripon Explanation: He was one of the most popular Viceroys due to his liberal reforms, including the Local Self-Government resolution. Q.258) What was the "Ilbert Bill Controversy" (1883) about? Answer: Allowing Indian judges to try European defendants in criminal cases. Explanation: The bill faced fierce opposition from the white community, highlighting the racial discrimination inherent in British law. Q.259) Who founded the "Theosophical Society" in New York in 1875? Answer: Madam Blavatsky and Colonel Olcott Explanation: They moved their headquarters to Adyar (Madras) in 1882; the movement later gained widespread fame under Annie Besant. Q.260) Who founded the "Deccan Education Society" in 1884? Answer: G.G. Agarkar, M.G. Ranade, and B.G. Tilak. Explanation: It was established to provide affordable, nationalist-oriented education, leading to the creation of Fergusson College. Q.261) Which revolutionary secret society was founded by V.D. Savarkar in 1904? Answer: Abhinav Bharat Society Explanation: It grew out of the 'Mitra Mela' and was dedicated to achieving independence through armed revolution. Q.262) Who was the youngest revolutionary to be hanged by the British in 1908? Answer: Khudiram Bose Explanation: He was executed for his role in the Muzaffarpur bombing targeting District Judge Kingsford. Q.263) Who founded the "Anushilan Samiti" in Bengal? Answer: Pramathanath Mitra (P. Mitra) Explanation: It was a prominent revolutionary organisation that played a key role in the early militant nationalist phase in Bengal. Q.264) Which revolutionary assassinated Curzon Wyllie in London in 1909? Answer: Madan Lal Dhingra Explanation: He was a member of the 'India House' in London and was executed for this political assassination. Q.265) Who was the leader of the "Chittagong Armoury Raid" in 1930? Answer: Surya Sen (Masterda) Explanation: A school teacher by profession, he led a group of revolutionaries to seize the British armoury. Q.266) Who founded the "Hindustan Republican Association" (HRA) in 1924? Answer: Ram Prasad Bismil, Sachindra Sanyal, and Yogesh Chandra Chatterjee. Explanation: The organisation aimed to establish a 'Federal Republic' through armed struggle. Q.267) The "Kakori Train Action" (1925) was carried out by which group? Answer: Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) Explanation: Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, and others were later hanged for their involvement. Q.268) Who renamed HRA to "Hindustan Socialist Republican Association" (HSRA) in 1928? Answer: Chandra Shekhar Azad and Bhagat Singh. Explanation: The addition of the word 'Socialist' reflected the group's shift towards Marxist ideologies. Q.269) Why did Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt throw smoke bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly in 1929? Answer: To protest against the 'Public Safety Bill' and the 'Trade Dispute Bill'. Explanation: Their intention was not to kill but to "make the deaf hear." Q.270) Who died in Lahore jail after a 63-day hunger strike? Answer: Jatin Das Explanation: He died demanding better rights and treatment for political prisoners in British jails. Q.271) Who killed Michael O'Dwyer in London in 1940? Answer: Udham Singh Explanation: He sought revenge for the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, as O'Dwyer was the Governor of Punjab at that time. Q.272) Who founded the "Forward Bloc" in 1939? Answer: Subhas Chandra Bose Explanation: He formed this radical faction after resigning as Congress President. Q.273) The "Woods Despatch" of 1854 is famously known as: Answer: Magna Carta of English Education in India. Explanation: It recommended the creation of modern universities and primary education in local languages. Q.274) Who was the first Indian member of the Viceroy's Executive Council? Answer: Satyendra Prasanna Sinha (Lord Sinha) Explanation: He was appointed following the 1909 Morley-Minto reforms. Q.275) Which British act introduced "Diarchy" in the Provinces? Answer: Government of India Act 1919 Explanation: It divided provincial administration into 'Reserved' and 'Transferred' subjects. Q.276) Who founded the "All India Trade Union Congress" (AITUC) in 1920? Answer: N.M. Joshi (Lala Lajpat Rai was its first President). Explanation: It was the first central organisation to coordinate labour union activities. Q.277) Who led the "Bardoli Satyagraha" in 1928? Answer: Vallabhbhai Patel Explanation: The successful movement earned him the title of "Sardar." Q.278) What was the "Communal Award" of 1932? Answer: Separate electorates for the Depressed Classes. Explanation: Announced by Ramsay MacDonald, it led to Gandhi's fast and the subsequent Poona Pact. Q.279) Who started the "Self-Respect Movement" in Tamil Nadu in 1925? Answer: E.V. Ramaswamy Naicker (Periyar) Explanation: It aimed at equality for backward castes and rejection of Brahminical dominance. Q.280) Who was the author of the book "Gulamgiri"? Answer: Jyotirao Phule Explanation: It was a critique of the caste system, published in 1873. Q.281) The "Hunter Commission" (1882) was appointed to review: Answer: Education in India Explanation: It focused on the progress of primary and secondary education. Q.282) Who was the first Indian woman to address a session of the Congress in 1890? Answer: Kadambini Ganguly Explanation: She was one of India's first female graduates and a pioneering physician. Q.283) The 'Vande Mataram' was first sung at a Congress session in which year? Answer: 1896 Explanation: It was sung by Rabindranath Tagore at the Calcutta session of the Indian National Congress. Q.284) Who founded the 'Indian Home Rule Society' in London in 1905? Answer: Shyamji Krishna Varma Explanation: He also established 'India House' as a base for Indian students and revolutionaries. Q.285) The 'Alipore Bomb Case' (1908) was conducted against which prominent leader? Answer: Aurobindo Ghosh Explanation: Although he was acquitted, he subsequently retired from politics and moved to Pondicherry. Q.286) Who founded the 'Bharat Mata Society' in Punjab in 1907? Answer: Ajit Singh and Sufi Ambaprasad Explanation: It was a revolutionary organisation that supported the 'Pagri Sambhal Jatta' agrarian movement. Q.287) Which Act first introduced the concept of 'Portfolio' in the Executive Council? Answer: Indian Councils Act 1861 Explanation: It allowed the Viceroy to assign specific departments to members, creating a cabinet-like structure. Q.288) Who was the author of 'Abhinav Bharat'? Answer: V.D. Savarkar Explanation: (Clarification: This was the name of his organisation; his major literary work on the revolt was 'The Indian War of Independence'). Q.289) The 'Young Bengal Movement' was started by whom? Answer: Henry Vivian Derozio Explanation: A teacher at Hindu College, he inspired his students to think rationally and question traditional customs. Q.290) Who was the founder of 'Deoband Movement' (1866)? Answer: Muhammad Qasim Nanotavi and Rashid Ahmad Gangohi Explanation: It was an orthodox religious revivalist movement aimed at training religious leaders for the Muslim community. Q.291) Which incident led to the death of Prafulla Chaki? Answer: Muzaffarpur Bomb Case (1908) Explanation: He committed suicide to avoid arrest after the attempt on Kingsford's life. Q.292) Who was the British Viceroy when the Indian National Congress was founded? Answer: Lord Dufferin Explanation: He initially welcomed the organisation as a 'safety valve' for political discontent. Q.293) The 'Tebhaga Movement' (1946) was a peasant struggle in which province? Answer: Bengal Explanation: Peasants demanded that they should keep two-thirds (tebhaga) of the harvest instead of half. Q.294) Who was the founder of 'All India Kisan Sabha' (1936)? Answer: Sahajanand Saraswati Explanation: It was the first pan-India peasant organisation, held its first session in Lucknow. Q.295) Which Act is known as the 'Act for the Better Government of India'? Answer: Government of India Act 1858 Explanation: It transferred power from the East India Company to the British Crown. Q.296) Who founded the 'Seva Sadan' in 1885? Answer: Behramji M. Malabari Explanation: It was a social reform organisation dedicated to the welfare of women and the protection of child brides. Q.297) The 'Hindustan Socialist Republican Association' (HSRA) was founded at which location? Answer: Feroz Shah Kotla, Delhi Explanation: This meeting in 1928 marked the formal adoption of socialist goals by the revolutionaries. Q.298) Who was the first Indian to hold the post of 'Governor' of a province under British rule? Answer: Lord Satyendra Prasanna Sinha Explanation: He was appointed as the Governor of Bihar and Orissa in 1920. Q.299) The 'Delhi Manifesto' (1929) was related to: Answer: The demand for a Round Table Conference to discuss Dominion Status. Explanation: It was issued by Indian leaders in response to the 'Irwin Declaration'. Q.300) Who was the British Prime Minister when India achieved Independence in 1947? Answer: Clement Attlee Explanation: He belonged to the Labour Party and had declared earlier that British rule would end by mid-1948.  

GK Notes

300 Questions from Medieval Indian History: SSC Practice Set

300 Questions from Medieval Indian History: SSC Practice Set Q.1) Who was the first Arab to lead a successful military expedition to Sindh in 712 CE? Answer: Muhammad bin Qasim Explanation: He was the commander of the Umayyad Caliphate who defeated Raja Dahir, marking the beginning of Islamic influence in the Indian subcontinent. Q.2) Which Hindu Shahi ruler of Punjab committed ritual suicide after being defeated by Mahmud of Ghazni? Answer: Jayapala Explanation: After his defeat in the Battle of Peshawar (1001 CE), Jayapala felt deeply humiliated and immolated himself, succeeded by his son Anandapala. Q.3) How many times did Mahmud of Ghazni invade India between 1000 and 1027 CE? Answer: 17 times Explanation: His primary motive was to plunder the immense wealth of Indian temples to finance his empire-building in Central Asia. Q.4) Which famous temple was destroyed by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1025 CE? Answer: Somnath Temple Explanation: Located in Gujarat, the Somnath temple was one of the wealthiest shrines in India; its destruction remains one of the most significant events of early medieval history. Q.5) Who was the court poet of Mahmud of Ghazni and the author of the 'Shahnameh'? Answer: Firdausi Explanation: Firdausi is known as the "Homer of the East," and his epic poem 'Shahnameh' is the national epic of Greater Iran. Q.6) Al-Biruni, the great scholar, came to India with which invader? Answer: Mahmud of Ghazni Explanation: Al-Biruni studied Sanskrit and Indian sciences and wrote the encyclopaedic work 'Kitab-ul-Hind'. Q.7) In which year was the First Battle of Tarain fought? Answer: 1191 CE Explanation: It was fought between the Rajput confederacy led by Prithviraj Chauhan and the Ghurid forces of Muhammad Ghori, resulting in a Rajput victory. Q.8) Who defeated Muhammad Ghori in the Second Battle of Tarain in 1192 CE? Answer: Muhammad Ghori defeated Prithviraj Chauhan Explanation: The second battle was a decisive turning point that established Muslim rule in Northern India. Q.9) Which general of Muhammad Ghori is responsible for the destruction of the Nalanda and Vikramshila Universities? Answer: Bakhtiyar Khilji Explanation: He led the eastern campaigns of the Ghurids, conquering Bihar and Bengal and destroying great centres of Buddhist learning. Q.10) Who was the founder of the Slave (Mamluk) Dynasty in 1206 CE? Answer: Qutubuddin Aibak Explanation: Originally a slave of Muhammad Ghori, he became the first Sultan of Delhi after Ghori's death. Q.11) Which Sultan of Delhi was known as 'Lakh Baksh' (Giver of Lakhs) for his generosity? Answer: Qutubuddin Aibak Explanation: He was known for his charitable nature, though his reign was short-lived. Q.12) Qutubuddin Aibak died while playing which sport? Answer: Chaugan (Polo) Explanation: He fell from his horse while playing the game in Lahore in 1210 CE. Q.13) Who is considered the "Real Consolidator" of the Delhi Sultanate? Answer: Shamsuddin Iltutmish Explanation: He saved the Sultanate from Mongol invasions, introduced the Iqta system, and shifted the capital to Delhi. Q.14) What were the two types of coins introduced by Iltutmish? Answer: Tanka (Silver) and Jital (Copper) Explanation: These remained the standard currency for much of the Sultanate period. Q.15) Who was the first and only woman to sit on the throne of the Delhi Sultanate? Answer: Razia Sultan Explanation: The daughter of Iltutmish, she ruled from 1236 to 1240 CE despite heavy opposition from the Turkish nobility. Q.16) The "Turkan-i-Chahalgani" (The Forty) was a group of powerful nobles created by whom? Answer: Iltutmish Explanation: This elite corps of 40 Turkish slave officers held immense political power during the early Sultanate. Q.17) Which Sultan of Delhi followed the policy of "Blood and Iron" to crush his enemies? Answer: Ghiyasuddin Balban Explanation: He was a stern ruler who abolished 'The Forty' and introduced Persian customs like 'Sijda' and 'Paibos'. Q.18) Who was the founder of the Khilji Dynasty? Answer: Jalaluddin Khilji Explanation: He overthrew the last of the Slave dynasty rulers but was later murdered by his nephew Alauddin. Q.19) Which Sultan was the first to cross the Vindhyas and invade the Deccan? Answer: Alauddin Khilji Explanation: His general Malik Kafur led successful expeditions against the Yadavas, Kakatiyas, and Hoysalas. Q.20) What was the 'Dag' and 'Chehra' system introduced by Alauddin Khilji? Answer: Branding of horses and descriptive roll of soldiers Explanation: These reforms were aimed at preventing corruption and maintaining a strong standing army. Q.21) Which Sultan introduced market control and price regulation reforms in Delhi? Answer: Alauddin Khilji Explanation: He fixed the prices of all essential commodities to maintain a large army at low cost. Q.22) Who was the founder of the Tughlaq Dynasty? Answer: Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq Explanation: He took the title 'Ghazi' and founded the city of Tughlaqabad. Q.23) Which Sultan is known as the "Wisest Fool" in Indian history? Answer: Muhammad bin Tughlaq Explanation: Despite being a profound scholar, his ambitious projects like the capital shift and token currency ended in disaster. Q.24) Muhammad bin Tughlaq shifted his capital from Delhi to which city? Answer: Daulatabad (Devagiri) Explanation: He wanted a more central location to control the Deccan, but the forced migration of the entire population of Delhi was a failure. Q.25) Who was the Moroccan traveller who visited India during the reign of Muhammad bin Tughlaq? Answer: Ibn Battuta Explanation: He served as the Qazi (Judge) of Delhi for eight years and wrote the travelogue 'Rihla'. Q.26) Which Sultan of Delhi established the department of agriculture called 'Diwan-i-Amirkohi'? Answer: Muhammad bin Tughlaq Explanation: This was an early attempt at state-sponsored agricultural improvement through loans to farmers. Q.27) Who was the founder of the Vijayanagara Empire in 1336 CE? Answer: Harihara and Bukka Explanation: These two brothers established the empire on the banks of the Tungabhadra River during the decline of the Tughlaqs. Q.28) The Bahmani Kingdom (1347 CE) was founded by whom? Answer: Alauddin Hasan Bahman Shah (Zafar Khan) Explanation: It was the first independent Islamic kingdom in the Deccan. Q.29) Which Sultan of Delhi is famous for building a large network of canals for irrigation? Answer: Firoz Shah Tughlaq Explanation: He also founded several cities like Hisar, Fatehabad, and Firozabad (Delhi). Q.30) Who was the last Sultan of the Tughlaq Dynasty during whose reign Timur (Tamerlane) invaded India? Answer: Nasiruddin Mahmud Tughlaq Explanation: Timur’s invasion in 1398 CE dealt a death blow to the Tughlaq dynasty. Q.31) Which dynasty was founded by Khizr Khan in 1414 CE? Answer: Sayyid Dynasty Explanation: Khizr Khan claimed to be a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad and ruled as a deputy of Timur’s son. Q.32) Who was the first Afghan ruler of the Delhi Sultanate? Answer: Bahlul Lodi Explanation: He founded the Lodi Dynasty, the last dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate. Q.33) Which Lodi Sultan founded the city of Agra in 1504 CE? Answer: Sikandar Lodi Explanation: He shifted the capital from Delhi to Agra to better control the warring Rajput chiefs. Q.34) Who was the last Sultan of the Delhi Sultanate? Answer: Ibrahim Lodi Explanation: He was defeated and killed by Babur in the First Battle of Panipat in 1526 CE. Q.35) In which year was the First Battle of Panipat fought? Answer: 1526 CE Explanation: This battle marked the end of the Delhi Sultanate and the beginning of the Mughal Empire. Q.36) Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, belonged to which Central Asian clan? Answer: Timurid (Chaghatai Turk) Explanation: He was a descendant of Timur on his father's side and Genghis Khan on his mother's side. Q.37) What was the main reason for Babur's victory at Panipat? Answer: Use of Artillery and Tulughma (war strategy) Explanation: Babur was the first to use cannons (artillery) on a large scale in Northern India. Q.38) In which battle did Babur defeat the Rajput confederacy led by Rana Sanga? Answer: Battle of Khanwa (1527) Explanation: This victory consolidated Mughal power in North India. Q.39) Who wrote the 'Baburnama', the autobiography of Babur? Answer: Babur (Self-authored) Explanation: Originally written in Chaghatai Turkic, it is considered one of the most honest autobiographies in history. Q.40) Who succeeded Babur as the second Mughal Emperor? Answer: Humayun Explanation: His reign was marked by struggles against Afghan rivals and his own brothers. Q.41) Who founded the Sur Empire and defeated Humayun in the Battle of Chausa? Answer: Sher Shah Suri Explanation: He was a brilliant administrator who ruled for only five years but left a lasting legacy. Q.42) Which Mughal Emperor spent 15 years in exile after being defeated by Sher Shah? Answer: Humayun Explanation: He regained the throne in 1555 CE with the help of the Safavid Shah of Persia. Q.43) What was the original name of Sher Shah Suri? Answer: Farid Explanation: He was given the title 'Sher Khan' after killing a tiger single-handedly. Q.44) Which famous road was rebuilt by Sher Shah Suri, connecting Sonargaon to Attock? Answer: Grand Trunk (GT) Road Explanation: He also introduced the 'Rupia', which is the ancestor of the modern Rupee. Q.45) Where is the tomb of Sher Shah Suri located? Answer: Sasaram (Bihar) Explanation: It is a magnificent example of Indo-Islamic architecture built in the middle of a lake. Q.46) In which year was the Second Battle of Panipat fought? Answer: 1556 CE Explanation: Akbar's forces, led by Bairam Khan, defeated the Hindu general Hemu. Q.47) Who was the regent of Akbar during his early years (1556-1560)? Answer: Bairam Khan Explanation: He played a crucial role in consolidating the Mughal empire for the young Akbar. Q.48) Which system of administration was introduced by Akbar for civil and military services? Answer: Mansabdari System Explanation: It was a grading system where every officer (Mansabdar) was assigned a 'Zat' (rank) and 'Sawar' (number of cavalry). Q.49) Who was the revenue minister of Akbar who introduced the 'Zabti' system? Answer: Raja Todar Mal Explanation: The 'Dahshala' system involved an average of the last ten years' produce and prices to fix land revenue. Q.50) What was the name of the new religion/code of conduct started by Akbar in 1582? Answer: Din-i-Ilahi Explanation: It was a syncretic belief system intended to unite the diverse subjects of the empire. Q.51) Who was the only Hindu to accept Akbar's Din-i-Ilahi? Answer: Birbal Explanation: Birbal was one of the 'Navaratnas' and Akbar's closest companion. Q.52) In which battle did Akbar defeat Maharana Pratap in 1576? Answer: Battle of Haldighati Explanation: Although the Mughals won, Maharana Pratap continued his resistance from the hills of Mewar. Q.53) Which building was constructed by Akbar at Fatehpur Sikri to commemorate his victory over Gujarat? Answer: Buland Darwaza Explanation: It is the highest gateway in the world. Q.54) Who was the author of 'Akbarnama' and 'Ain-i-Akbari'? Answer: Abul Fazl Explanation: He was one of Akbar’s Navaratnas and his official court historian. Q.55) Which Mughal Emperor is known for his "Chain of Justice" (Zanjir-i-Adl)? Answer: Jahangir Explanation: He installed a golden chain with bells outside his palace for any aggrieved person to seek royal justice. Q.56) During whose reign did the British Captain William Hawkins and Sir Thomas Roe visit the Mughal court? Answer: Jahangir Explanation: They came to seek trade concessions for the English East India Company. Q.57) Who was the powerful empress of Jahangir who practically ran the administration? Answer: Nur Jahan (Mehr-un-Nissa) Explanation: She was the only Mughal empress to have coins struck in her name. Q.58) Which Mughal Emperor is known as the "Engineer King" or "Prince of Builders"? Answer: Shah Jahan Explanation: His reign is considered the Golden Age of Mughal architecture. Q.59) In memory of which queen did Shah Jahan build the Taj Mahal? Answer: Mumtaz Mahal Explanation: She died during childbirth, and her tomb (Taj Mahal) took 22 years to complete. Q.60) Who was the eldest son of Shah Jahan who translated the Upanishads into Persian? Answer: Dara Shikoh Explanation: He was a scholar of Sufism and Vedantic philosophy but was killed by his brother Aurangzeb. Q.61) Which Mughal Emperor assumed the title 'Alamgir' (Conqueror of the World)? Answer: Aurangzeb Explanation: He was the last of the "Great Mughals" and ruled for almost 50 years. Q.62) Which Sikh Guru was executed by Aurangzeb in 1675? Answer: Guru Tegh Bahadur Explanation: He was the 9th Sikh Guru and was executed for refusing to convert to Islam. Q.63) Aurangzeb re-introduced which tax on non-Muslims in 1679? Answer: Jizya Explanation: Akbar had abolished it in 1564, but Aurangzeb brought it back as part of his orthodox policies. Q.64) Who was the founder of the Maratha Empire and a major rival of Aurangzeb? Answer: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Explanation: He used guerrilla warfare tactics to challenge Mughal authority in the Deccan. Q.65) Which Mughal Emperor is buried at Khuldabad (near Aurangabad) in a simple grave? Answer: Aurangzeb Explanation: Unlike his predecessors, he requested a simple tomb paid for by his own earnings from sewing caps. Q.66) Who was the last Mughal Emperor to sit on the Peacock Throne? Answer: Muhammad Shah 'Rangeela' Explanation: The throne was carried away by Nadir Shah of Persia during his invasion in 1739. Q.67) Who was the founder of the Bhakti Movement in South India? Answer: Alvars (Vaishnavite) and Nayanars (Shaivite) Explanation: They popularized the path of devotion (Bhakti) among the common people. Q.68) Which Bhakti saint was a contemporary of Sikandar Lodi and emphasized the unity of God? Answer: Kabir Explanation: His verses are found in the 'Bijak' and are also included in the Guru Granth Sahib. Q.69) Who was the female Bhakti saint from Rajasthan dedicated to Lord Krishna? Answer: Meerabai Explanation: She composed many 'Bhajans' in Braj Bhasha and Marwari. Q.70) Who founded the Sikh religion in the 15th century? Answer: Guru Nanak Dev Explanation: He emphasized the concept of 'Ek Onkar' (One God) and social equality. Q.71) The 'Adi Granth' was compiled by which Sikh Guru? Answer: Guru Arjan Dev Explanation: He was the 5th Sikh Guru and also built the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib). Q.72) Who was the founder of the Chishti Silsila (order) in India? Answer: Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti Explanation: His dargah is located in Ajmer and is a major pilgrimage site. Q.73) Which Sufi saint was known as 'Mahbub-i-Ilahi' (Beloved of God)? Answer: Nizamuddin Auliya Explanation: He was the most famous saint of the Chishti order in Delhi. Q.74) Who was the court poet and disciple of Nizamuddin Auliya, known as 'Tuti-e-Hind' (Parrot of India)? Answer: Amir Khusrau Explanation: He is credited with inventing the Sitar and the Tabla. Q.75) Which traveller visited the Vijayanagara Empire during the reign of Deva Raya II? Answer: Abdur Razzaq (Persian) Explanation: He wrote a detailed account of the city’s wealth and architecture. Q.76) Who was the greatest ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire (Tuluva Dynasty)? Answer: Krishnadeva Raya Explanation: His reign is considered the Golden Age of Telugu literature. Q.77) What was the name of the group of eight Telugu poets in the court of Krishnadeva Raya? Answer: Ashtadiggajas Explanation: The most famous among them was Tenali Rama. Q.78) In which battle was the Vijayanagara Empire decisively defeated in 1565? Answer: Battle of Talikota (Rakshasa Tangadi) Explanation: A confederacy of Deccan Sultanates defeated the Vijayanagara forces. Q.79) Who built the 'Gol Gumbaz' at Bijapur, which has one of the largest domes in the world? Answer: Muhammad Adil Shah Explanation: It is famous for its 'Whispering Gallery'. Q.80) The 'Charminar' in Hyderabad was built by which ruler? Answer: Quli Qutub Shah Explanation: It was built in 1591 to commemorate the end of a plague. Q.81) Which Maratha ruler used the 'Ashtapradhan' council of ministers? Answer: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Explanation: The council was led by the 'Peshwa' (Prime Minister). Q.82) What were the two types of taxes collected by the Marathas? Answer: Chauth and Sardeshmukhi Explanation: Chauth was 1/4th of the revenue paid for protection from Maratha raids. Q.83) Who was the first Peshwa to become the real power behind the Maratha throne? Answer: Balaji Vishwanath Explanation: He marked the transition of power from the Chhatrapatis to the Peshwas. Q.84) Which Peshwa is famous for his "Forward Policy" and never losing a battle? Answer: Baji Rao I Explanation: He expanded the Maratha Empire to the gates of Delhi. Q.85) In which year was the Third Battle of Panipat fought? Answer: 1761 CE Explanation: Ahmad Shah Abdali (Afghan) defeated the Marathas, halting their expansion. Q.86) Who was the last Great Maratha Peshwa who tried to restore Maratha power? Answer: Madhav Rao I Explanation: His untimely death in 1772 was a major setback for the Marathas. Q.87) Which Mughal Emperor was known as 'Shah-i-Bekhabar'? Answer: Bahadur Shah I Explanation: He was given this nickname because of his negligence toward state affairs. Q.88) Who were the 'Sayyid Brothers' in the later Mughal period? Answer: Abdullah Khan and Hussain Ali Khan Explanation: They were known as "Kingmakers" who controlled several Mughal emperors. Q.89) Which Persian ruler invaded India in 1739 and sacked Delhi? Answer: Nadir Shah Explanation: He defeated Muhammad Shah at the Battle of Karnal. Q.90) Who founded the autonomous state of Hyderabad in 1724? Answer: Nizam-ul-Mulk (Asaf Jah I) Explanation: He was a prominent noble in the Mughal court who declared independence. Q.91) Who founded the state of Awadh in 1722? Answer: Saadat Khan (Burhan-ul-Mulk) Explanation: He was appointed the Governor of Awadh by the Mughal emperor. Q.92) Who was the founder of the independent state of Bengal? Answer: Murshid Quli Khan Explanation: He shifted the capital from Dacca to Murshidabad. Q.93) Which Battle in 1757 marked the beginning of British rule in India? Answer: Battle of Plassey Explanation: Robert Clive defeated the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah. Q.94) Who was the last Mughal Emperor who was deposed and exiled to Rangoon? Answer: Bahadur Shah Zafar Explanation: He was the symbolic leader of the 1857 Revolt. Q.95) What was the official language of the Mughal court? Answer: Persian Explanation: While the emperors spoke Turkic, Persian was the language of administration and literature. Q.100) The 'Hampi' ruins are associated with which medieval empire? Answer: Vijayanagara Empire Explanation: Hampi was the capital of the empire and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Q.101) Which medieval traveler compared the city of Vijayanagara to Rome in terms of its size and prosperity? Answer: Domingo Paes (Portuguese) Explanation: He visited the court of Krishnadeva Raya and left a vivid description of the city’s markets, military strength, and fortifications. Q.102) The 'Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri' was written in which language? Answer: Persian Explanation: Unlike his great-grandfather Babur, who wrote in Turkic, Jahangir wrote his memoirs in the official court language, Persian. Q.103) Who was the Mughal architect responsible for the design of the Taj Mahal? Answer: Ustad Ahmad Lahori Explanation: He is credited as the chief architect of both the Taj Mahal in Agra and the Red Fort in Delhi. Q.104) Which Sikh Guru was the first to militarise the community by establishing the 'Akal Takht'? Answer: Guru Hargobind Explanation: He was the 6th Guru and introduced the concept of Miri (temporal power) and Piri (spiritual power) after the execution of Guru Arjan Dev. Q.105) Which Mughal Emperor shifted the capital from Agra to Delhi and built the city of Shahjahanabad? Answer: Shah Jahan Explanation: He built the Red Fort and Jama Masjid as the centerpieces of this new imperial capital. Q.106) The 'Shalimar Bagh' in Srinagar was built by which Mughal Emperor? Answer: Jahangir Explanation: Jahangir was a great lover of nature and aesthetics, creating several famous gardens in Kashmir. Q.107) What was the name of the administrative unit under the Mughals that consisted of a group of villages? Answer: Pargana Explanation: The empire was divided into Subas (provinces), Sarkars (districts), and Parganas (sub-districts). Q.108) Who was the Persian painter brought to India by Humayun, who laid the foundation of the Mughal school of painting? Answer: Mir Sayyid Ali (and Abdus Samad) Explanation: These masters were invited from the Safavid court of Persia to train Indian artists. Q.109) Which Mughal Emperor prohibited the use of tobacco in 1617? Answer: Jahangir Explanation: Although tobacco was introduced to India during his reign (by the Portuguese), he banned its consumption due to its addictive nature. Q.110) The 'Golkonda Fort' was the capital of which Deccan Sultanate? Answer: Qutub Shahi Dynasty Explanation: It was world-famous for its diamond trade, including the legendary Koh-i-Noor. Q.111) Which battle in 1658 led to the decisive victory of Aurangzeb over his brother Dara Shikoh? Answer: Battle of Samugarh Explanation: This victory essentially cleared Aurangzeb's path to the Mughal throne. Q.112) Who was the French traveller and physician who served in the court of Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb? Answer: François Bernier Explanation: His work 'Travels in the Mughal Empire' provides a critical European perspective on Indian society. Q.113) Which Rajput ruler of Amber was sent by Aurangzeb to sign the Treaty of Purandar with Shivaji? Answer: Raja Jai Singh I Explanation: He was a brilliant diplomat and general who compelled Shivaji to cede 23 forts to the Mughals in 1665. Q.114) The 'Bibi Ka Maqbara' in Aurangabad was built by whom? Answer: Azam Shah (son of Aurangzeb) Explanation: It was built in memory of his mother, Dilras Banu Begum, and is often called the "Poor Man’s Taj" or "Taj of the Deccan." Q.115) Who was the Maratha queen who led the resistance against Aurangzeb after the death of Rajaram? Answer: Tarabai Explanation: She served as the regent for her son and successfully defended the Maratha state against Mughal onslaughts for years. Q.116) Which Mughal Emperor granted the 'Golden Farman' to the British East India Company in 1717? Answer: Farrukhsiyar Explanation: This farman (royal decree) gave the British valuable duty-free trading rights in Bengal. Q.117) The 'Battle of Karnal' (1739) was fought between Muhammad Shah and which foreign invader? Answer: Nadir Shah Explanation: The Mughal army was easily defeated, leading to the brutal sack of Delhi. Q.118) Which Sikh leader founded the 'Khalsa' in 1699? Answer: Guru Gobind Singh Explanation: He was the 10th and last human Guru, who transformed the Sikhs into a martial community of "Saint-Soldiers." Q.119) Who was the first Sikh leader to issue coins in the name of Guru Nanak and Guru Gobind Singh? Answer: Banda Singh Bahadur Explanation: He led a massive revolt against the Mughals after the death of the 10th Guru. Q.120) The 'Amuktamalyada', a Telugu epic on statecraft, was written by which king? Answer: Krishnadeva Raya Explanation: It is considered one of the five great Telugu kavyas and describes the life of Andal, the Alvar saint. Q.121) Which Bahmani ruler was known as 'Wali' (Saint) because of his association with Sufi saints? Answer: Ahmad Shah Wali Explanation: He shifted the Bahmani capital from Gulbarga to Bidar. Q.122) Who was the celebrated queen of Gondwana who died fighting the Mughal forces of Akbar? Answer: Rani Durgavati Explanation: She was the regent of the Garha-Katanga kingdom and refused to submit to Akbar’s expansionism. Q.123) Which official in the Mughal administration was responsible for the military and payment of salaries? Answer: Mir Bakshi Explanation: He was the head of the military department and also handled the intelligence agency of the empire. Q.124) The 'Ibadat Khana' (House of Worship) at Fatehpur Sikri was built by Akbar for what purpose? Answer: Religious discussions Explanation: Initially intended for Muslims, it was later opened to leaders of all religions (Hinduism, Christianity, Jainism, Zoroastrianism). Q.125) Who was the author of the Persian translation of the Mahabharata, known as 'Razmnama'? Answer: Faizi (and others under Akbar's direction) Explanation: Akbar established a translation bureau to bring Sanskrit classics into Persian. Q.126) Which Mughal Emperor is known for introducing the concept of 'Sulah-i-Kul' (Universal Peace)? Answer: Akbar Explanation: This policy of religious tolerance was a cornerstone of his empire’s stability. Q.127) Who was the last Hindu general to occupy the throne of Delhi before the Mughals consolidated their power? Answer: Hemu (Hem Chandra Vikramaditya) Explanation: He declared himself emperor after capturing Delhi and Agra but was defeated at the Second Battle of Panipat. Q.128) The 'Padmavat', an epic poem about Padmini of Chittor, was written by whom? Answer: Malik Muhammad Jayasi Explanation: It was written in Awadhi during the reign of Sher Shah Suri (1540 CE). Q.129) Which medieval Bhakti saint was a disciple of Ramananda and belonged to the weaver community? Answer: Kabir Explanation: His teachings rejected the caste system and idol worship, influencing both Hindus and Muslims. Q.130) Who founded the 'Pushti Marg' (Path of Grace) and the Shuddhadvaita school of philosophy? Answer: Vallabhacharya Explanation: He was a major figure in the Bhakti movement, focusing on the worship of Krishna. Q.131) Which Sufi order (Silsila) was most popular in India during the Sultanate period? Answer: Chishti Silsila Explanation: It was popularised by saints like Moinuddin Chishti and Nizamuddin Auliya due to its simple and inclusive approach. Q.132) The 'Qutub Minar' was completed by which Sultan? Answer: Iltutmish Explanation: While Aibak started the base, Iltutmish added three more storeys, and Firoz Shah Tughlaq later repaired the top. Q.133) Which Sultan of Delhi was the first to impose 'Ghari' (House tax) and 'Chari' (Pasture tax)? Answer: Alauddin Khilji Explanation: These were part of his rigorous revenue reforms to extract maximum wealth from the peasantry and nobility. Q.134) What was the name of the agricultural department created by Firoz Shah Tughlaq? Answer: Diwan-i-Kohi (Repurposed from Muhammad bin Tughlaq) Explanation: Firoz Shah focused heavily on improving agrarian infrastructure to increase the state's tax base. Q.135) Who was the founder of the Sharqi Dynasty of Jaunpur? Answer: Malik Sarwar (Khwaja-i-Jahan) Explanation: Jaunpur became known as the "Shiraz of the East" due to its patronage of art and literature. Q.136) The 'Atala Masjid', a masterpiece of the Jaunpur style of architecture, was built by whom? Answer: Ibrahim Shah Sharqi Explanation: It features a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural elements. Q.137) Which king of Mewar built the 'Vijay Stambha' (Tower of Victory) at Chittorgarh? Answer: Rana Kumbha Explanation: It was built to commemorate his victory over the combined armies of Malwa and Gujarat in 1448. Q.138) Who was the Bhakti saint of Maharashtra who wrote 'Amrutanubhav' and a commentary on the Bhagavad Gita? Answer: Sant Dnyaneshwar (Jnandeva) Explanation: He is considered the founder of the Varkari sect. Q.139) Which Sikh Guru introduced the 'Gurmukhi' script? Answer: Guru Angad Dev Explanation: He was the 2nd Guru and formalised the script to record the teachings of Guru Nanak. Q.140) The 'Zafar Namah' (Epistle of Victory) was a letter written in Persian by Guru Gobind Singh to which Mughal Emperor? Answer: Aurangzeb Explanation: In this letter, the Guru rebuked Aurangzeb for his broken promises and religious intolerance. Q.141) Who was the founder of the 'Kartar Singh' Misls and the Sikh Empire in the late 18th century? Answer: Maharaja Ranjit Singh Explanation: He unified the various Sikh Misls into a powerful sovereign state with Lahore as its capital. Q.142) What was the 'Chauth' collected by the Marathas? Answer: 25% (one-fourth) of the land revenue Explanation: It was a protection tax levied on non-Maratha territories to save them from Maratha raids. Q.143) Who was the 'Ashtapradhan' member responsible for foreign affairs? Answer: Sumant (Dabir) Explanation: Each of the eight ministers had a specific portfolio in Shivaji's administration. Q.144) Which Maratha ruler was captured and executed by Aurangzeb in 1689? Answer: Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Explanation: The son of Shivaji, his brave death galvanized the Maratha resistance against the Mughals. Q.145) Who was the first Peshwa to make the office hereditary? Answer: Balaji Vishwanath Explanation: He played a vital role in the civil war between Shahu and Tarabai. Q.146) The 'Treaty of Salbai' (1782) ended which war between the British and the Marathas? Answer: First Anglo-Maratha War Explanation: It resulted in a 20-year peace between the two powers. Q.147) Who was the 'Tiger of Mysore' who died fighting the British in 1799? Answer: Tipu Sultan Explanation: He was a pioneer of rocket artillery and a fierce opponent of British colonialism. Q.148) Which Mughal Emperor was known as 'Lumpat Saudagar'? Answer: Jahandar Shah Explanation: He was a weak ruler who was heavily influenced by his mistress, Lal Kunwar. Q.149) Who was the first Governor-General of Bengal under the Regulating Act of 1773? Answer: Warren Hastings Explanation: This marked the transition of the East India Company from a merchant body to a territorial power. Q.150) The 'Battle of Buxar' (1764) was fought between the British and which combined forces? Answer: Mir Qasim (Bengal), Shuja-ud-Daulah (Awadh), and Shah Alam II (Mughal) Explanation: The British victory led to the Treaty of Allahabad and the grant of Diwani rights over Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha. Q.151) Who was the poet-saint of Bengal who popularized 'Kirtans' (devotional songs) in the 16th century? Answer: Chaitanya Mahaprabhu Explanation: He was a major figure in the Gaudiya Vaishnavism movement. Q.152) Which traveller from Italy visited the Vijayanagara Empire in 1420? Answer: Nicolo Conti Explanation: He was one of the earliest Europeans to provide a detailed account of the empire’s culture and customs. Q.153) The 'Hampi' temples are primarily built in which architectural style? Answer: Vijayanagara style (a sub-type of Dravida) Explanation: It is characterized by ornate pillars (Kalyana Mandapa) and the use of hard granite. Q.154) Who was the author of the 'Tabaqat-i-Nasiri', a major source for the history of the early Sultanate? Answer: Minhaj-us-Siraj Explanation: It was dedicated to Sultan Nasiruddin Mahmud of the Slave dynasty. Q.155) Which Sultan of Delhi introduced the 'Sajda' (Prostration) and 'Paibos' (Kissing the feet of the Sultan)? Answer: Ghiyasuddin Balban Explanation: These were Persian court etiquettes designed to establish the absolute authority of the Sultan. Q.156) The 'Hauz Khas' in Delhi was originally built as a water tank for which Sultan's fort? Answer: Alauddin Khilji (for the Siri Fort) Explanation: It was later expanded and beautified by Firoz Shah Tughlaq. Q.157) Who was the last ruler of the Bahmani Kingdom before it split into five Sultanates? Answer: Kalimullah Shah Explanation: The five resulting sultanates were Bijapur, Ahmednagar, Golkonda, Berar, and Bidar. Q.158) Which Deccan Sultanate was the first to declare independence from the Bahmani Kingdom? Answer: Bijapur (Adil Shahi Dynasty) Explanation: It was founded by Yusuf Adil Shah in 1489. Q.159) Who was the founder of the 'Nizam Shahi' dynasty of Ahmednagar? Answer: Malik Ahmad Explanation: He founded the city of Ahmednagar in 1494. Q.160) The 'Adina Masjid' in Pandua, Bengal, was built by which ruler? Answer: Sikandar Shah Explanation: At the time of its construction, it was one of the largest mosques in the Indian subcontinent. Q.161) Which medieval king is known as the 'Akbar of Kashmir'? Answer: Zain-ul-Abidin Explanation: He was known for his religious tolerance, abolition of Jizya, and patronage of Sanskrit literature. Q.162) Who was the first person to use gunpowder in a war in the Deccan? Answer: Muhammad Shah I (Bahmani Sultan) Explanation: He used it against the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century. Q.163) The 'Tughlaqabad Fort' was built by whom? Answer: Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq Explanation: It was the third city of Delhi, though it was quickly abandoned due to water shortages. Q.164) Who was the author of 'Futuh-us-Salatin', a history of the Muslim rulers of India up to the mid-14th century? Answer: Isami Explanation: He wrote this work under the patronage of the first Bahmani Sultan. Q.165) Which Sultan of Delhi refused to accept the spiritual authority of the Caliph? Answer: Alauddin Khilji (and later Mubarak Khilji) Explanation: Alauddin believed the Sultan’s authority was supreme and did not need external validation. Q.166) The 'Lodi Gardens' in Delhi contain the tombs of which two Sultans? Answer: Sikandar Lodi and Muhammad Shah (Sayyid) Explanation: The gardens were landscaped during the British era around these medieval tombs. Q.167) Who was the Maratha 'Chhatrapati' who was released from Mughal custody by Bahadur Shah I? Answer: Shahu Maharaj Explanation: He was the grandson of Shivaji and his release triggered a power struggle within the Maratha state. Q.168) Which Maratha official was the 'Sari-i-Naubat'? Answer: Commander-in-Chief (Military) Explanation: He was responsible for recruitment, training, and military discipline. Q.169) The 'Treaty of Bassein' (1802) was signed between the British and which Peshwa? Answer: Baji Rao II Explanation: This treaty made the Peshwa a subsidiary ally of the British, effectively ending Maratha independence. Q.170) Who was the French general who trained the infantry of the Maratha leader Mahadji Scindia? Answer: Benoit de Boigne Explanation: This modernisation allowed Scindia to dominate North Indian politics in the late 18th century. Q.171) Which Mughal Emperor was the first to be born in the Indian subcontinent? Answer: Akbar (born at Umarkot, Sindh) Explanation: All subsequent Mughal emperors were born in India, unlike Babur and Humayun. Q.172) The 'Moti Masjid' inside the Agra Fort was built by whom? Answer: Shah Jahan Explanation: It is made entirely of white marble and is known for its elegant design. Q.173) Which Mughal Emperor wrote a poem on the 'Koh-i-Noor' diamond? Answer: Shah Jahan Explanation: He was deeply fascinated by precious stones and incorporated them into his architecture and the Peacock Throne. Q.174) Who was the author of 'Muntakhab-ut-Tawarikh', a critical account of Akbar's reign? Answer: Abdul Qadir Badauni Explanation: He was an orthodox Muslim who strongly disagreed with Akbar's religious experiments. Q.175) Which English traveler visited the court of Jahangir and provided a detailed account of the 'Navroz' festival? Answer: William Hawkins Explanation: He lived in the Mughal court for several years and was given a title and a salary by Jahangir. Q.176) The 'Ibadat Khana' was located in which city? Answer: Fatehpur Sikri Explanation: It was the short-lived capital of Akbar before he moved back to Agra. Q.177) Which Mughal princess wrote 'Humayun-nama'? Answer: Gulbadan Begum Explanation: She was the sister of Humayun and wrote the biography at the request of her nephew, Akbar. Q.178) What was the 'Zat' and 'Sawar' in the Mansabdari system? Answer: Zat (Personal rank) and Sawar (Cavalry rank) Explanation: The Zat determined the officer's salary and status, while the Sawar determined the number of troops he had to maintain. Q.179) Which Mughal Emperor abolished the 'Jizya' tax for the first time? Answer: Akbar Explanation: He abolished it in 1564 to integrate his Hindu subjects into the imperial fabric. Q.180) Who was the head of the intelligence and postal department during the Mughal era? Answer: Daroga-i-Dak Chauki Explanation: This official managed the flow of information through a network of runners and horses. Q.181) The 'Panch Mahal' at Fatehpur Sikri is inspired by which architectural style? Answer: Buddhist Vihara style Explanation: It is a five-storeyed open pavilion used by the royal women for relaxation. Q.182) Which Mughal Emperor shifted the royal painting atelier from the court to the general public? Answer: Jahangir (partially) and later decline under Aurangzeb. Explanation: While Jahangir focused on nature and individual portraits, Aurangzeb's lack of interest forced artists to seek work elsewhere. Q.183) Who was the poet laureate (Malik-ush-Shu'ara) in the court of Shah Jahan? Answer: Abu Talib Kalim Explanation: He was a famous Persian poet who wrote many panegyrics for the Emperor. Q.184) Which Mughal Emperor was known for his 'Fatawa-e-Alamgiri', a compilation of Islamic laws? Answer: Aurangzeb Explanation: It was one of the most comprehensive legal digests in the Islamic world at the time. Q.185) The 'Jantar Mantar' observatories were built by which Rajput king? Answer: Sawai Jai Singh II Explanation: He built five observatories, including the famous ones in Delhi and Jaipur. Q.186) Who was the founder of the 'Rohilla' state in the mid-18th century? Answer: Ali Muhammad Khan Explanation: The Rohillas were Afghans who settled in the fertile plains of North India. Q.187) Which battle in 1760 between the British and the French effectively ended French power in India? Answer: Battle of Wandiwash Explanation: The British under Eyre Coote defeated the French under Comte de Lally. Q.188) Who was the last independent Nawab of Bengal? Answer: Siraj-ud-Daulah Explanation: His defeat at Plassey opened the floodgates for British imperialism. Q.189) The 'Double Dome' feature in Indian architecture was first introduced in which building? Answer: Tomb of Humayun Explanation: It was a Persian architectural element that gave the dome a more majestic height. Q.190) Which medieval writer authored 'Prithviraj Vijay'? Answer: Jayanaka Explanation: Unlike the better-known 'Prithviraj Raso', this work is considered more historically accurate. Q.191) The 'Kalachuri' style of temple architecture is primarily found in which region? Answer: Central India (Madhya Pradesh) Explanation: The Kalachuris were a major power between the ancient and medieval periods. Q.192) Who was the author of 'Nuskha-i-Dilkusha', a valuable source for the history of the Deccan under Aurangzeb? Answer: Bhimsen Explanation: He was a Hindu officer in the Mughal service and provided a detailed eyewitness account. Q.193) Which Sultan of Delhi was the first to issue coins with a 'Sanskrit' legend on one side? Answer: Mahmud of Ghazni (though not a Sultan of Delhi, his coins circulated in North India). Explanation: Some of his silver coins featured a translation of the Kalima in Sanskrit. Q.194) The 'Siri Fort' in Delhi was built by Alauddin Khilji for what primary reason? Answer: To protect Delhi from Mongol invasions. Explanation: It was the second city of Delhi. Q.195) Who was the Bahmani minister who was a great scholar of Persian and built a famous Madrasa at Bidar? Answer: Mahmud Gawan Explanation: He was a brilliant administrator whose execution led to the decline of the Bahmani kingdom. Q.196) Which medieval state was known for its 'Paik' system of forced labor? Answer: Ahom Kingdom (Assam) Explanation: This system allowed the Ahom kings to mobilize large armies and build massive public works. Q.197) Who was the Ahom general who defeated the Mughals at the Battle of Saraighat in 1671? Answer: Lachit Borphukan Explanation: He is a national hero in Assam for his strategic defense of the Brahmaputra valley. Q.198) The 'Bhakti' saint Narsinh Mehta belonged to which state? Answer: Gujarat Explanation: He wrote the famous hymn 'Vaishnav Jan To', which was a favorite of Mahatma Gandhi. Q.199) Which Sufi order was known for its rigorous asceticism and yoga-like practices? Answer: Shatari Silsila Explanation: They sought to bridge the gap between Islamic mysticism and Indian yogic traditions. Q.200) Who was the first Mughal Emperor to come into contact with the Portuguese? Answer: Akbar Explanation: He invited Portuguese Jesuits from Goa to his court at Fatehpur Sikri for religious discussions. Q.201) In the Mughal administration, what was the function of the 'Mustaufi'? Answer: Auditor General Explanation: He was responsible for inspecting the state accounts and ensuring that the income and expenditure were properly recorded. Q.202) Which medieval ruler introduced the 'Kabuliyat' and 'Patta' as agricultural settlement documents? Answer: Sher Shah Suri Explanation: The 'Patta' was a title deed given to the peasant, and 'Kabuliyat' was the agreement by which the peasant accepted the tax obligation. Q.203) The 'Charbagh' style of gardening was introduced in India by which ruler? Answer: Babur Explanation: This Persian-style layout divides a garden into four parts using walkways or flowing water. The first such garden was the Ram Bagh in Agra. Q.204) Which medieval historian wrote the 'Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi', providing an account of the Tughlaq era? Answer: Ziauddin Barani Explanation: Barani was a contemporary of Muhammad bin Tughlaq and Firoz Shah Tughlaq and provided a critical view of their policies. Q.205) The 'Hauz-i-Alai' (later known as Hauz Khas) was built by which Sultan? Answer: Alauddin Khilji Explanation: It was a massive reservoir built to supply water to the newly established Siri Fort. Q.206) Which Mughal Emperor's reign saw the highest percentage of Hindu Mansabdars in the administration? Answer: Aurangzeb Explanation: Despite his orthodox religious policies, nearly 33% of his Mansabdars were Hindus (mostly Marathas and Rajputs) due to political necessity. Q.207) Who was the head of the royal household and harem under the Mughals? Answer: Khan-i-Saman Explanation: He was responsible for the management of the royal karkhanas (factories), stores, and palace requirements. Q.208) The 'Gital' and 'Sistani' were types of weights and measures used during whose reign? Answer: Alauddin Khilji Explanation: He standardised weights and measures to strictly enforce his market control policy. Q.209) Which Sufi saint of the Naqshbandi order was a strong critic of Akbar's religious policies? Answer: Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi Explanation: Known as 'Mujaddid Alif Sani', he advocated for a return to orthodox Islamic practices. Q.210) The 'Jama Masjid' in Delhi, the largest mosque in India at the time, was completed in which year? Answer: 1656 CE Explanation: It was commissioned by Shah Jahan and built using red sandstone and white marble. Q.211) Who was the Persian traveler who visited India during the 15th century and described the 'Dasara' festival of Vijayanagara? Answer: Abdur Razzaq Explanation: He was the ambassador of Shah Rukh of Persia and was amazed by the grandeur of the Mahanavami Dibba. Q.212) Which Mughal Emperor was the first to formalise the 'Pietra Dura' (inlay of precious stones in marble) technique? Answer: Jahangir (first seen in Itmad-ud-Daula's tomb) Explanation: It reached its perfection later under Shah Jahan in the Taj Mahal. Q.213) The 'Dahshala' system of land revenue was based on the average produce of how many years? Answer: Ten years Explanation: It was implemented by Raja Todar Mal to ensure a stable income for the state and prevent yearly fluctuations for farmers. Q.214) Which Maratha official was responsible for the royal correspondence and draftings? Answer: Shurunavis (Sacheev) Explanation: He checked the royal letters and modified them to ensure they adhered to proper protocol. Q.215) The 'Sultangarhi' tomb in Delhi is considered the first Islamic mausoleum in India. Who built it? Answer: Iltutmish Explanation: He built it for his eldest son, Nasiruddin Mahmud, in 1231 CE. Q.216) Which official in the Sultanate period was the head of the state news agency? Answer: Barid-i-Mumaalik Explanation: He managed the network of spies and news-writers who kept the Sultan informed about the nobles and the public. Q.217) The 'Vithala Temple' at Hampi is famous for which unique architectural feature? Answer: Musical Pillars Explanation: The temple contains 56 musical pillars that emit musical notes when tapped. Q.218) Who was the author of 'Nisab-us-Sibyan', the earliest Persian-Hindustani dictionary? Answer: Amir Khusrau Explanation: He is often considered the 'Father of Urdu literature' for blending Persian with local Hindavi. Q.219) Which Mughal Emperor banned the practice of 'Jharokha Darshan' (appearing at the balcony)? Answer: Aurangzeb Explanation: He considered it a superstitious practice and contrary to Islamic principles. Q.220) The 'Jamat Khana Masjid' in Delhi was built during the reign of which dynasty? Answer: Khilji Dynasty Explanation: It is located in the Nizamuddin Dargah complex and is the earliest mosque in India built according to true Islamic principles. Q.221) What was the term used for the 'land given for charitable purposes' during the Mughal period? Answer: Madad-i-Maash (or Suyurghal) Explanation: These lands were usually tax-free and granted to scholars, saints, and religious institutions. Q.222) Which Mughal official served as the link between the Emperor and the Mansabdars? Answer: Mir Bakshi Explanation: He presented candidates for appointments and promotions to the Emperor. Q.223) The 'Dara Shikoh Library' is located in which city? Answer: Delhi Explanation: It was built by the scholarly prince who was a great patron of the arts and the synthesis of Hindu-Muslim philosophy. Q.224) Which Deccan Sultanate never joined the confederacy against Vijayanagara in the Battle of Talikota? Answer: Berar (Imad Shahi) Explanation: While Bijapur, Ahmednagar, Golkonda, and Bidar joined forces, Berar remained absent due to regional rivalries. Q.225) The 'Amir-i-Akhur' during the Sultanate period was the officer in charge of what? Answer: Royal Stables (Horses) Explanation: This was a highly prestigious position; Razia Sultan famously appointed Yakut to this post. Q.226) Who was the first Mughal to enter the Deccan plateau for conquest? Answer: Akbar Explanation: He conquered Ahmednagar (partially) and Khandesh towards the end of his reign. Q.227) The 'Golgumbaz' features a circular gallery known as the:? Answer: Whispering Gallery Explanation: A sound made at one end can be heard clearly at the other end, 37 metres away, repeated several times. Q.228) Which medieval traveler noted that the Indian farmers were very hardworking but were oppressed by high taxes? Answer: Francisco Pelsaert (Dutch) Explanation: He visited India during Jahangir's reign and wrote 'Remonstrantie', highlighting the gap between the rich and the poor. Q.229) The 'Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daula' is often called the 'Draft of the Taj'. Where is it located? Answer: Agra Explanation: It was built by Nur Jahan for her father and was the first Mughal structure to be built entirely of white marble. Q.230) Who was the Hindu general of the Bijapur Sultanate who was defeated and killed by Shivaji at Pratapgad? Answer: Afzal Khan Explanation: This event in 1659 was a major milestone in the rise of Shivaji's power. Q.231) What was the 'Polaj' land in the Mughal land classification? Answer: Land that was cultivated every year. Explanation: Akbar classified land into Polaj, Parauti, Chachar, and Banjar based on the frequency of cultivation. Q.232) The 'Rauhini' was a type of silver coin used in which medieval Indian state? Answer: Mewar Explanation: Regional kingdoms often maintained their own coinage systems alongside the imperial Sultanate currency. Q.233) Which Sikh Guru started the 'Langar' (community kitchen) system on a permanent basis? Answer: Guru Angad Dev Explanation: While started by Guru Nanak, it was formalised and expanded by Guru Angad to promote social equality. Q.234) The 'Qutub Minar' features inscriptions in which two languages? Answer: Arabic and Nagari (Sanskrit script) Explanation: The Nagari inscriptions record the names of the masons and the repairs carried out by later Hindu and Muslim rulers. Q.235) Who was the author of 'Hamir-Mada-Mardana', a play about the defeat of the Mongols? Answer: Jayasimha Suri Explanation: It is an important source for the history of Gujarat during the medieval period. Q.236) The 'Jagir' system was a form of which system practiced during the Sultanate? Answer: Iqta System Explanation: While the names changed, the concept of assigning land revenue to officers in lieu of cash salary remained the same. Q.237) Which Mughal Emperor was the first to face the 'Revolt of the Satnamis' in 1672? Answer: Aurangzeb Explanation: The Satnamis were a sect of peasants and artisans who rose against the oppressive agrarian policies. Q.238) Who was the Mughal princess who wrote 'Monis-ul-Arwah', a biography of Moinuddin Chishti? Answer: Jahanara Begum Explanation: The daughter of Shah Jahan, she was a highly educated Sufi follower. Q.239) The 'Srinagar' in the Garhwal hills served as a refuge for which Mughal prince fleeing from Aurangzeb? Answer: Suleiman Shikoh (son of Dara Shikoh) Explanation: He was eventually betrayed by the local Raja and handed over to Aurangzeb. Q.240) Which Sufi saint is associated with the 'Naqshbandi' Silsila and was known for his orthodox views? Answer: Khwaja Baqi Billah Explanation: He introduced the Naqshbandi order in India in the late 16th century. Q.241) The 'Adham Khan's Tomb' in Delhi is popularly known as:? Answer: Bhul-bhulaiyan (The Labyrinth) Explanation: It was built by Akbar for his foster-brother; the structure has several confusing corridors inside its thick walls. Q.242) Which medieval battle in 1529 was the first to be fought on both 'Land and Water'? Answer: Battle of Ghagra Explanation: Babur defeated the joint forces of the Afghans and the Sultan of Bengal on the banks of the Ghagra river. Q.243) The 'Hawa Mahal' in Jaipur was built in 1799 by which ruler? Answer: Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh Explanation: (Transition to modern) It was built to allow royal women to observe street festivities without being seen from outside. Q.244) Who was the Persian poet who served in the court of Akbar and wrote 'Nal Daman'? Answer: Faizi Explanation: He was the brother of Abul Fazl and the poet laureate of Akbar's court. Q.245) The 'Zila' (District) was introduced as an administrative unit by which medieval system? Answer: Sarkar (under the Mughals) Explanation: The term Zila became more prominent during the British era, but its roots lie in the Mughal 'Sarkar'. Q.246) Which Mughal Emperor began the practice of 'Tuladan' (weighing the King against gold and silver)? Answer: Akbar Explanation: This was another tradition he adopted from Indian culture to increase royal prestige. Q.247) Who was the founder of the 'Rathore' dynasty of Marwar (Jodhpur)? Answer: Rao Siha Explanation: The Rathores were one of the most powerful Rajput clans throughout the medieval period. Q.248) The 'Khutba' was a sermon read in the name of the ruler during:? Answer: Friday Prayers Explanation: Inclusion of a ruler's name in the Khutba and on coins was the primary sign of sovereignty. Q.249) Which Mughal Emperor was a contemporary of the English Queen Elizabeth I? Answer: Akbar Explanation: Both ruled in the late 16th century and oversaw golden ages in their respective countries. Q.250) The 'Chand Minar' at Daulatabad was built to commemorate the conquest of the fort by which dynasty? Answer: Bahmani Dynasty Explanation: It is one of the tallest towers in India, inspired by the Qutub Minar. Q.251) In the Delhi Sultanate, what was the function of the 'Mustaufi-i-Mamalik'? Answer: Auditor General Explanation: He was responsible for checking the state accounts prepared by the Mushrif-i-Mamalik (Accountant General). Q.252) Which traveler provided the earliest description of the 'Sati' system in medieval India? Answer: Ibn Battuta Explanation: He witnessed the practice in the 14th century and recorded the societal and religious pressure involved. Q.253) Who founded the city of 'Jaunpur' in memory of Muhammad bin Tughlaq? Answer: Firoz Shah Tughlaq Explanation: He named it Jaunpur because Muhammad bin Tughlaq's original name was Jauna Khan. Q.254) The 'Lodi' style of architecture is best known for the introduction of which structural feature? Answer: Double Dome Explanation: It was designed to give a majestic height to the exterior while keeping the interior ceiling at a lower, more aesthetic level. Q.255) Which Mughal Emperor discontinued the 'Mansabdari' system in its original form and shifted to 'Ijara' (farming of revenue)? Answer: Farrukhsiyar (and the Later Mughals) Explanation: The decline of central authority forced the state to auction off revenue collection rights, leading to peasant exploitation. Q.256) Who was the author of 'Niamat-khana-i-Nasirshahi', a medieval Indian cookbook? Answer: Ghiyas Shah (Sultan of Malwa) Explanation: It provides a rare glimpse into the culinary habits and luxury of the medieval provincial courts. Q.257) The 'Dahshala' system was also known by which other name? Answer: Bandobast System Explanation: It provided a fixed settlement for ten years, giving farmers predictability in their tax payments. Q.258) Which Sikh Guru established the town of 'Amritsar' after receiving land from Akbar? Answer: Guru Ram Das Explanation: He was the 4th Guru, and the land was originally a gift to his wife, Bibi Bhani. Q.259) The 'Gaj-i-Ilahi' was a unit of length measurement introduced by whom? Answer: Akbar Explanation: It replaced the 'Gaj-i-Sikandari' and remained the standard unit of measurement for centuries. Q.260) Who was the Mughal general who conquered 'Assam' and 'Chittagong' during the early reign of Aurangzeb? Answer: Mir Jumla Explanation: He was the Governor of Bengal and secured the northeastern frontiers of the empire. Q.261) The 'Panch-Hazari' Mansab was usually reserved for whom? Answer: Princes of the Royal Blood (and very high nobles) Explanation: Over time, the number of high-rank Mansabdars increased, leading to the "Jagirdari crisis". Q.262) Which medieval saint's verses are known as 'Abhangs'? Answer: Tukaram (and other Varkari saints) Explanation: Abhangs are a form of Marathi devotional poetry dedicated to Lord Vitthal. Q.263) The 'Tomb of Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq' is unique because of its:? Answer: Sloping Walls (Battered walls) Explanation: This feature, borrowed from military architecture, gave the building a massive and sturdy appearance. Q.264) Who was the head of the town administration (Police) under the Mughals? Answer: Kotwal Explanation: He was responsible for maintaining law and order, checking weights and measures, and monitoring the city's gates. Q.265) Which Sultan of Delhi was the first to use 'Gopurams' in his architecture in the South? Answer: Alauddin Khilji (influenced by the Pandyas) Explanation: While he was a destroyer, his later influence combined Indo-Islamic and local Dravidian elements. Q.266) The 'Varkari' sect of Maharashtra was centered around the worship of which deity? Answer: Vitthal (Vithoba) at Pandharpur Explanation: It was a non-ritualistic, egalitarian movement that involved an annual pilgrimage (Wari). Q.267) Who was the Persian scholar who translated the 'Atharvaveda' into Persian during Akbar's reign? Answer: Haji Ibrahim Sarhindi Explanation: This was part of Akbar's grand project to understand the core philosophies of different religions. Q.268) The 'Bada Imambara' at Lucknow was built for what purpose? Answer: Famine Relief Explanation: Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula commissioned it to provide employment to the people during the great famine of 1784. Q.269) Which Mughal Emperor was the first to allow the English to build a factory at 'Surat'? Answer: Jahangir Explanation: He issued the farman in 1613 after Captain Thomas Best defeated the Portuguese. Q.270) The 'Suri' architecture is considered a transition between which two styles? Answer: Lodi and Mughal Explanation: It combined the sturdiness of the Lodis with the decorative elegance later seen in Mughal buildings. Q.271) Who was the author of 'Tarikh-i-Alai', which describes the conquests of Alauddin Khilji? Answer: Amir Khusrau Explanation: He accompanied Alauddin on several campaigns and wrote about them in poetic prose. Q.272) The 'Tomb of Salim Chishti' is located inside the complex of which building? Answer: Jama Masjid of Fatehpur Sikri Explanation: It is a delicate white marble structure with exquisite jaali (lattice) work. Q.273) Which official in the Mughal court was responsible for the 'Ceremonies and Protocol'? Answer: Mir-i-Tuzuk Explanation: He ensured that the nobles maintained proper decorum in the presence of the Emperor. Q.274) The 'Battle of Samugarh' (1658) was fought between which two brothers? Answer: Aurangzeb and Dara Shikoh Explanation: It was the decisive battle in the War of Succession that led to the imprisonment of Shah Jahan. Q.275) Who was the Maratha 'Peshwa' who signed the 'Treaty of Palkhed' with the Nizam of Hyderabad? Answer: Baji Rao I Explanation: This victory established the Maratha supremacy in the Deccan over the Nizam. Q.276) The 'Kanch Mahal' near Akbar's tomb was used as:? Answer: A Hunting Lodge (Shikargah) for Jahangir. Explanation: It is famous for its beautiful tile work and carvings. Q.277) Which medieval traveller described India as a 'Country of Gold and Silver' because of its export surplus? Answer: François Bernier Explanation: He noted that while the world sent its gold and silver to India for spices and textiles, the wealth remained locked in the treasury. Q.278) Who was the Sufi saint who said 'Hanoz Dilli Door Ast' (Delhi is still far away)? Answer: Nizamuddin Auliya Explanation: He said this to Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, who was returning from Bengal and had threatened the saint. Q.279) The 'Red Fort' of Delhi was completed in which year? Answer: 1648 CE Explanation: It served as the residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. Q.280) Which Mughal Emperor was known as the 'Zinda Pir' (Living Saint)? Answer: Aurangzeb Explanation: He was given this title because of his simple lifestyle and strict adherence to Islamic law. Q.281) The 'Ashtapradhan' member responsible for the religious grants and charities was:? Answer: Panditrao Explanation: He looked after the welfare of scholars and managed the state's religious expenditures. Q.282) Who was the founder of the 'Khalsa' and the initiator of the 'Five Ks'? Answer: Guru Gobind Singh Explanation: (Kesh, Kangha, Kara, Kachera, Kirpan) these were the physical symbols of the Khalsa identity. Q.283) The 'Battle of Colachel' (1741) was a rare defeat of a European power (Dutch) by which Indian state? Answer: Travancore (under Marthanda Varma) Explanation: It checked the Dutch expansion in India and established Travancore as a major power. Q.284) Who was the author of 'Chahar Gulshan', a geographical and historical account of the Mughal empire? Answer: Chatarman Rai Explanation: It provides valuable statistics about the Subas during the 18th century. Q.285) The 'Buland Darwaza' was built to commemorate the conquest of:? Answer: Gujarat Explanation: It stands 54 metres high and is the main entrance to the Jama Masjid at Fatehpur Sikri. Q.286) Which Mughal Emperor's name was 'Muazzam'? Answer: Bahadur Shah I Explanation: He took the title Bahadur Shah I after winning the war of succession against his brothers. Q.287) The 'Dharmashastra' were translated into Persian under the title 'Ayar-i-Danish' by whom? Answer: Abul Fazl Explanation: (Clarification: Ayar-i-Danish was actually a translation of the Panchatantra/Kalila wa Dimna). Q.288) Who was the first Mughal Emperor to issue coins in 'Zodiac' signs? Answer: Jahangir Explanation: He issued a series of gold and silver coins featuring different astrological signs. Q.289) The 'Nayak' system of administration was prevalent in which medieval kingdom? Answer: Vijayanagara Empire Explanation: Nayakas were military chiefs who were given land (Amaram) in return for military service. Q.290) Who was the Maratha leader who escaped from the 'Siege of Panhala' using a body double? Answer: Shivaji Maharaj Explanation: Shiva Kashid, a barber who looked like him, sacrificed his life to allow the king to escape. Q.291) The 'Sufi' term 'Zikir' refers to:? Answer: Chanting or remembrance of God. Explanation: It is a core practice in Sufi meditation to achieve spiritual closeness to the Divine. Q.292) Which medieval king is known for building the 'Purana Qila' in Delhi? Answer: Sher Shah Suri (built on the site of Humayun's Dinpanah). Explanation: It is one of the oldest forts in Delhi. Q.293) Who was the Mughal Governor of the Deccan who founded the 'Asaf Jahi' dynasty? Answer: Nizam-ul-Mulk Explanation: He served as the Wazir of the empire before moving to the Deccan to establish an independent state. Q.294) The 'Kandariya Mahadeva Temple' at Khajuraho was built by which dynasty? Answer: Chandela Dynasty Explanation: (Chronological note: Built around 1030 CE, during the transition into the medieval era). Q.295) Which Mughal Emperor's mother was a Rajput princess named Hamida Banu Begum? Answer: Akbar Explanation: (Correction: Hamida Banu was a Persian-origin noble; Akbar's wife Harkha Bai was the Rajput princess who was mother to Jahangir). Q.296) The 'Tobacco' plant was brought to India from the New World by which European power? Answer: Portuguese Explanation: They introduced it to the Mughal court during the late 16th century. Q.297) Who was the author of 'Padshah Nama', the official history of the reign of Shah Jahan? Answer: Abdul Hamid Lahori Explanation: It contains detailed descriptions and magnificent illustrations of the court ceremonies. Q.298) The 'Mughal-Ahom' war of 1662-1663 was settled by which treaty? Answer: Treaty of Ghilajharighat Explanation: The Ahoms had to cede territory and pay a heavy indemnity to the Mughals. Q.299) Which medieval Bhakti saint was a contemporary of Chaitanya and wrote 'Sur Sagar'? Answer: Surdas Explanation: He was a blind poet dedicated to the worship of Lord Krishna (Shrinathji). Q.300) The 'Battle of Buxar' (1764) effectively made which European power the masters of North India? Answer: The British East India Company Explanation: It ended any remaining independent challenge from the Mughals and the Nawabs of Bengal and Awadh.  

GK Notes

300 Questions from Ancient Indian History: SSC Practice Set

300 Questions from Ancient Indian History: SSC Practice Set Q.1) Which of the following is the earliest period of human history in the Indian subcontinent? Answer: Palaeolithic Period Explanation: The Palaeolithic or Old Stone Age (c. 2 million BCE – 10,000 BCE) is the earliest prehistoric period where humans used rough stone tools. Q.2) In which prehistoric period did humans first discover fire? Answer: Palaeolithic Period Explanation: Evidence of the use of fire has been found in Palaeolithic sites like the Kurnool caves in India. Q.3) The famous rock shelters of Bhimbetka are located in which Indian state? Answer: Madhya Pradesh Explanation: Bhimbetka is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Madhya Pradesh featuring prehistoric cave paintings from the Palaeolithic to Mesolithic ages. Q.4) Which era is characterised by the use of 'Microliths' (small stone tools)? Answer: Mesolithic Period Explanation: The Mesolithic period (c. 10,000 – 8,000 BCE) is known for the transition to smaller, more refined stone tools called microliths. Q.5) At which Neolithic site was the earliest evidence of agriculture in the subcontinent found? Answer: Mehrgarh Explanation: Mehrgarh (located in present-day Pakistan) shows evidence of farming and animal domestication dating back to c. 7000 BCE. Q.6) Which Neolithic site in Kashmir is famous for its 'pit-dwellings'? Answer: Burzahom Explanation: Burzahom is unique for its underground pits used for habitation and unique burial practices involving domestic dogs. Q.7) The Indus Valley Civilisation belonged to which age? Answer: Bronze Age Explanation: The Harappan civilisation is considered a Bronze Age civilisation because of its advanced use of copper-tin alloys. Q.8) Who was the first person to use the term 'Indus Civilisation'? Answer: John Marshall Explanation: John Marshall, the Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) at the time of the major excavations, coined the term. Q.9) Which was the first Harappan site to be excavated? Answer: Harappa Explanation: Harappa was excavated in 1921 by Daya Ram Sahni, followed by Mohenjo-daro in 1922 by R.D. Banerji. Q.10) Which Harappan city is famous for its Great Bath? Answer: Mohenjo-daro Explanation: The Great Bath, a large rectangular tank used for ritual bathing, is the most significant structure in Mohenjo-daro. Q.11) Which Harappan site is located on the banks of the Ravi River? Answer: Harappa Explanation: Harappa is situated in the Punjab province of Pakistan on the banks of the river Ravi. Q.12) Which was the only Indus city without a citadel? Answer: Chanhudaro Explanation: Chanhudaro is the only Harappan city that lacked a raised citadel or fortified upper town. Q.13) In which state is the Harappan site 'Lothal' located? Answer: Gujarat Explanation: Lothal was a major port city of the Indus Valley Civilisation located in modern-day Gujarat. Q.14) Which Indus site provided evidence of a 'dockyard'? Answer: Lothal Explanation: Lothal features a brick basin that served as the world's earliest known dock, connecting the city to the Sabarmati river. Q.15) Which Harappan site is divided into three parts instead of the usual two? Answer: Dholavira Explanation: Dholavira in Gujarat is unique as it is divided into three sections: a Citadel, a Middle Town, and a Lower Town. Q.16) Black bangles and fire altars were found at which site? Answer: Kalibangan Explanation: Kalibangan (Rajasthan) literally means 'Black Bangles'; it also yielded evidence of furrowed land and fire altars. Q.17) The 'Dancing Girl' statue found in Mohenjo-daro was made of which material? Answer: Bronze Explanation: It is a masterpiece of the 'Lost Wax' casting technique made of bronze. Q.18) What was the main script used by the Harappans? Answer: Boustrophedon (Pictographic) Explanation: The Harappan script was pictographic and written in a Boustrophedon style (alternating directions), and remains undeciphered. Q.19) Which animal was NOT known to the Indus Valley people? Answer: Lion Explanation: While they were familiar with bulls, elephants, and rhinoceroses, there is no evidence of lions in their seals or art. Q.20) What was the primary reason for the decline of the Indus Valley Civilisation according to modern historians? Answer: Climate change/Ecological factors Explanation: Most historians agree that shifting river courses, floods, or the drying up of the Saraswati river led to its gradual decline. Q.21) Which is the oldest Veda? Answer: Rigveda Explanation: The Rigveda, composed around 1500–1000 BCE, is the oldest religious text in the world. Q.22) The Gayatri Mantra is found in which Veda? Answer: Rigveda Explanation: The Gayatri Mantra is contained in the 3rd Mandala of the Rigveda, dedicated to the solar deity Savitr. Q.23) Which Veda is known as the 'Book of Chants' or music? Answer: Samaveda Explanation: Samaveda is a collection of melodies and chants derived largely from the Rigveda. Q.24) Which Veda deals with magical spells and charms? Answer: Atharvaveda Explanation: The Atharvaveda contains hymns related to medicine, spells to ward off evil, and daily life rituals. Q.25) In the Early Vedic period, what was the most valued form of property? Answer: Cattle (Cow) Explanation: Wealth was measured in cows; the term for war was 'Gavishti,' meaning 'search for cows.' Q.26) Which river was considered the most sacred in the Rigveda? Answer: Saraswati Explanation: While the Indus (Sindhu) was most mentioned, the Saraswati was hailed as 'Naditarna' (the best of rivers). Q.27) What was the main occupation of the Later Vedic people? Answer: Agriculture Explanation: During the Later Vedic period, people transitioned from a semi-nomadic life to settled agriculture. Q.28) The 'Battle of Ten Kings' (Dasrajan) was fought on the banks of which river? Answer: Parushni (Ravi) Explanation: This famous battle mentioned in the Rigveda was fought between Sudas and a confederacy of ten tribes. Q.29) Which metal was called 'Shyama Ayas' in the Later Vedic texts? Answer: Iron Explanation: The discovery and use of iron (Shyama Ayas) revolutionised agriculture and warfare after 1000 BCE. Q.30) The concept of 'Varna' (caste system) is first mentioned in which part of the Rigveda? Answer: Purusha Sukta Explanation: The Purusha Sukta hymn in the 10th Mandala of the Rigveda describes the four Varnas originating from the primeval being. Q.31) How many Mahajanapadas existed in the 6th Century BCE? Answer: 16 Explanation: Ancient Buddhist and Jain texts mention 16 'Great Kingdoms' or Mahajanapadas that existed in North India. Q.32) Which was the most powerful Mahajanapada? Answer: Magadha Explanation: Due to its strategic location, fertile soil, and access to iron mines, Magadha became the dominant power. Q.33) What was the capital of Magadha during the Haryanka dynasty? Answer: Rajgir (Girivraja) Explanation: Rajgir was the initial capital before it was shifted to Pataliputra by Udayin. Q.34) Who was the founder of the Haryanka Dynasty? Answer: Bimbisara Explanation: Bimbisara was the first major king of Magadha who expanded the kingdom through marriages and conquests. Q.35) Which king of Magadha was a contemporary of both Buddha and Mahavira? Answer: Bimbisara Explanation: Bimbisara ruled during the time both great teachers were active in Magadha. Q.36) Who founded the city of Pataliputra? Answer: Udayin Explanation: Udayin, the son of Ajatashatru, shifted the capital from Rajgir to the strategic confluence of the Ganga and Son rivers. Q.37) Which dynasty ruled Magadha before the Mauryas? Answer: Nanda Dynasty Explanation: The Nandas, founded by Mahapadma Nanda, were the last dynasty before Chandragupta Maurya took over. Q.38) In which year did Alexander the Great invade India? Answer: 326 BCE Explanation: Alexander crossed the Indus and fought the Battle of Hydaspes against King Porus in 326 BCE. Q.39) The Battle of Hydaspes was fought on the banks of which river? Answer: Jhelum Explanation: 'Hydaspes' is the Greek name for the river Jhelum. Q.40) Where did Gautama Buddha attain Enlightenment? Answer: Bodh Gaya Explanation: Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment under a Pipal tree (Bodhi Tree) on the banks of the Niranjana river. Q.41) What was the first sermon of Buddha called? Answer: Dharmachakrapravartana Explanation: It means 'Turning of the Wheel of Law,' delivered at Sarnath (Varanasi). Q.42) Where did Buddha die (Mahaparinirvana)? Answer: Kushinagar Explanation: Buddha passed away in Kushinagar (UP) at the age of 80. Q.43) The First Buddhist Council was held at which place? Answer: Rajgir Explanation: It was held shortly after Buddha's death under the patronage of King Ajatashatru. Q.44) Which Mauryan Emperor presided over the Third Buddhist Council? Answer: Ashoka Explanation: Ashoka convened the third council at Pataliputra to purify the Buddhist Sangha. Q.45) Who was the founder of Jainism according to tradition? Answer: Rishabhadeva Explanation: Rishabhadeva was the first Tirthankara; Vardhamana Mahavira was the 24th and most famous. Q.46) Where was Lord Mahavira born? Answer: Kundagrama (Vaishali) Explanation: Mahavira was born in the 6th Century BCE in a royal family in Vaishali. Q.47) Which Jain Tirthankara is associated with the symbol of a Snake? Answer: Parshvanatha Explanation: Parshvanatha was the 23rd Tirthankara and is often depicted with a serpent hood. Q.48) Who was the founder of the Mauryan Empire? Answer: Chandragupta Maurya Explanation: He overthrew the Nanda king Dhanananda with the help of Chanakya in 322 BCE. Q.49) Which Greek ambassador visited the court of Chandragupta Maurya? Answer: Megasthenes Explanation: Megasthenes was sent by Seleucus Nicator and wrote the book 'Indica.' Q.50) Who wrote the famous political treatise 'Arthashastra'? Answer: Chanakya (Kautilya) Explanation: Chanakya, the mentor of Chandragupta, wrote this book on statecraft and economics. Q.51) Chandragupta Maurya spent his last days at which place? Answer: Shravanabelagola Explanation: He converted to Jainism and fasted to death (Sallekhana) in Karnataka. Q.52) Which Mauryan king was known as 'Amitraghata' (Slayer of foes)? Answer: Bindusara Explanation: Bindusara, the son of Chandragupta, was given this title by Greek writers. Q.53) In which year was the Kalinga War fought? Answer: 261 BCE Explanation: This war changed Ashoka’s life, leading him to renounce violence and adopt Buddhism. Q.54) Which Ashokan edict mentions the victory over Kalinga? Answer: Major Rock Edict XIII Explanation: It describes the horrors of the war and Ashoka's remorse. Q.55) Who was the last Mauryan ruler? Answer: Brihadratha Explanation: He was assassinated by his commander-in-chief, Pushyamitra Shunga, in 185 BCE. Q.56) The Sanchi Stupa was originally built by which ruler? Answer: Ashoka Explanation: Ashoka built the Great Stupa at Sanchi as a tribute to Buddha’s relics. Q.57) Who founded the Shunga Dynasty? Answer: Pushyamitra Shunga Explanation: He was a Brahmin general who overthrew the Mauryas and established a pro-Brahminical rule. Q.58) The famous Greek king Menander (Milinda) was converted to Buddhism by whom? Answer: Nagasena Explanation: Their dialogue is recorded in the famous Pali book 'Milindapanho.' Q.59) Who was the most famous ruler of the Kushan Dynasty? Answer: Kanishka Explanation: He started the Shaka Era (78 CE) and was a great patron of Buddhism. Q.60) In which year did the Shaka Era begin? Answer: 78 CE Explanation: This era, started by Kanishka, is now the official calendar of the Government of India. Q.61) Where was the Fourth Buddhist Council held? Answer: Kundalvana (Kashmir) Explanation: It was held under Kanishka's patronage and presided over by Vasumitra. Q.62) Who was the court physician of Kanishka? Answer: Charaka Explanation: Charaka is known as the 'Father of Indian Medicine' and wrote the 'Charaka Samhita.' Q.63) Which dynasty issued the first gold coins in India on a large scale? Answer: Kushans Explanation: The Kushans, especially Vima Kadphises, issued pure gold coins. Q.64) The Gandhara school of art flourished during whose reign? Answer: Kushans Explanation: It was a blend of Indo-Greek styles, primarily depicting Buddhist themes. Q.65) Who founded the Satavahana Dynasty? Answer: Simuka Explanation: The Satavahanas ruled Central and South India after the decline of the Mauryas. Q.66) Which Satavahana king is described as 'Ekabrahmana'? Answer: Gautamiputra Satakarni Explanation: He was the greatest ruler of the dynasty and revived Satavahana power. Q.67) The Sangam literature was composed in which language? Answer: Tamil Explanation: The Sangam assemblies were held in Madurai under the patronage of the Pandya kings. Q.68) Who was the founder of the Gupta Empire? Answer: Sri Gupta Explanation: While Sri Gupta founded it, Chandragupta I is considered the first 'Maharajadhiraja.' Q.69) Which Gupta king started the Gupta Era in 319-320 CE? Answer: Chandragupta I Explanation: He marked his accession to the throne by starting a new era. Q.70) Who is known as the 'Napoleon of India'? Answer: Samudragupta Explanation: Historian V.A. Smith called him so because of his brilliant military conquests. Q.71) The Prayag Prashasti (Allahabad Pillar Inscription) was composed by whom? Answer: Harisena Explanation: Harisena was the court poet of Samudragupta and described his master’s victories. Q.72) Which Gupta ruler assumed the title of 'Vikramaditya'? Answer: Chandragupta II Explanation: He defeated the Shakas and made Ujjain his second capital. Q.73) Which Chinese traveller visited India during the reign of Chandragupta II? Answer: Fa-Hien Explanation: He came to visit Buddhist holy places and record the state of Buddhism in India. Q.74) The famous Sanskrit poet Kalidasa lived in whose court? Answer: Chandragupta II Explanation: Kalidasa was one of the 'Navaratnas' (Nine Gems) in the court of Vikramaditya. Q.75) Who founded the Nalanda University? Answer: Kumaragupta I Explanation: He was the successor of Chandragupta II and a patron of learning. Q.76) Which Gupta king defeated the Hunas (Huns)? Answer: Skandagupta Explanation: He saved North India from the devastating Huna invasion in the 5th century CE. Q.77) Who wrote 'Aryabhatiya' and 'Surya Siddhanta'? Answer: Aryabhata Explanation: Aryabhata was a great mathematician and astronomer of the Gupta period. Q.78) The 'Panchatantra' stories were composed during which period? Answer: Gupta Period Explanation: Attributed to Vishnu Sharma, these fables were written to teach moral values. Q.79) Who wrote the famous play 'Abhijnana Shakuntalam'? Answer: Kalidasa Explanation: It is considered one of the greatest literary works of ancient India. Q.80) The concept of 'Zero' was invented by whom? Answer: Indians (Gupta era mathematicians) Explanation: Aryabhata and later Brahmagupta played key roles in developing the decimal system and zero. Q.81) After the decline of the Guptas, which king unified North India in the 7th century? Answer: Harshavardhana Explanation: Harsha of the Pushyabhuti dynasty ruled from Kannauj. Q.82) Who was the court poet of Harshavardhana? Answer: Banabhatta Explanation: He wrote 'Harshacharita' (biography of Harsha) and 'Kadambari.' Q.83) Which Chinese traveller visited India during Harsha's reign? Answer: Hiuen Tsang (Xuanzang) Explanation: He is known as the 'Prince of Pilgrims' and stayed in India for 15 years. Q.84) Harsha was defeated on the banks of the Narmada by which king? Answer: Pulakeshin II Explanation: Pulakeshin II was a powerful Chalukya king of Badami. Q.85) The Aihole Inscription was composed by whom? Answer: Ravikirti Explanation: Ravikirti was the court poet of Pulakeshin II and recorded the victory over Harsha. Q.86) Who founded the Pallava Dynasty of Kanchi? Answer: Simhavishnu Explanation: The Pallavas were famous for their rock-cut architecture in South India. Q.87) The Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram was built by which Pallava king? Answer: Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha) Explanation: He was a great patron of Dravidian architecture. Q.88) Who built the Kailasanatha Temple at Ellora? Answer: Krishna I (Rashtrakuta) Explanation: It is a monolithic structure carved out of a single rock. Q.89) Which dynasty built the famous Sun Temple at Konark? Answer: Eastern Ganga Dynasty Explanation: It was built by King Narasimhadeva I in the 13th century. Q.90) Who wrote the 'Rajatarangini' (History of Kashmir)? Answer: Kalhana Explanation: It is the first authentic historical book written in India (12th Century). Q.91) Which Chola king is known for his naval conquests and crossing the Ganga? Answer: Rajendra Chola I Explanation: He assumed the title 'Gangaikonda' and built the city Gangaikondacholapuram. Q.92) The local self-government (Village Assemblies) was a unique feature of which dynasty? Answer: Cholas Explanation: The Uttaramerur inscription provides detailed info on Chola village administration. Q.93) Who founded the Pala Dynasty of Bengal? Answer: Gopala Explanation: He was elected by the people to end the state of anarchy (Matsyanyaya). Q.94) Vikramshila University was founded by which ruler? Answer: Dharmapala Explanation: He was a great Pala king and patron of Buddhism. Q.95) The 'Tripartite Struggle' was fought for the control of which city? Answer: Kannauj Explanation: Palas, Pratiharas, and Rashtrakutas fought for nearly two centuries for control of Kannauj. Q.96) Who wrote the book 'Kitab-ul-Hind'? Answer: Al-Biruni Explanation: He accompanied Mahmud of Ghazni and wrote a detailed account of Indian culture. Q.97) Which site is famous for the 'Iron Pillar' that does not rust? Answer: Mehrauli (Delhi) Explanation: Built by Chandragupta II, it shows the advanced metallurgical skills of the Gupta era. Q.98) The Dashavatara Temple (Deogarh) is a famous example of which architecture? Answer: Gupta Architecture Explanation: It is one of the earliest standalone Hindu temples. Q.99) Which ancient university was destroyed by Bakhtiyar Khilji? Answer: Nalanda University Explanation: It was destroyed in 1193 CE, marking the end of the ancient educational system. Q.100) The first Arab invasion of India took place in 712 CE under whom? Answer: Muhammad bin Qasim Explanation: He conquered Sindh, marking the transition from the Ancient to the Medieval period. To provide a truly comprehensive and chronological question set for Ancient Indian History for SSC aspirants, we need to expand the series significantly. Q.101) Which Neolithic site in Bihar is famous for the discovery of a large number of bone tools made of deer antlers? Answer: Chirand Explanation: Chirand is a significant Neolithic site where polished stone tools were found alongside unique bone implements, indicating a specialized hunting-gathering and farming community. Q.102) Which was the largest Harappan site discovered within the current political boundaries of India? Answer: Rakhigarhi Explanation: Rakhigarhi, located in Haryana, has overtaken Dholavira as the largest site of the Indus Valley Civilisation in India after recent excavations. Q.103) In the Indus Valley Civilisation, which town was famous for making bead ornaments and shell-cutting? Answer: Chanhudaro Explanation: Chanhudaro was an industrial hub focused on craft production, including bead-making, seal-making, and shell-working. Q.104) Evidence of a "burial of a dog with a human" has been found in which Harappan site? Answer: Ropar Explanation: Ropar (modern Rupnagar in Punjab) is the first Harappan site excavated in independent India, notable for this unique burial practice. Q.105) Which specific Harappan site yielded evidence of a "Wooden Plough"? Answer: Kalibangan Explanation: Kalibangan in Rajasthan provides the earliest evidence of a ploughed field, showing traces of furrowing in two directions. Q.106) The Harappan people were the earliest producers of which crop in the world? Answer: Cotton Explanation: Known as "Sindon" by the Greeks (derived from Sindh), cotton was a major export and a primary crop of the Indus people. Q.107) Which Harappan city lacked a grid-iron pattern of streets, showing a more haphazard layout? Answer: Banawali Explanation: Unlike the planned layouts of Mohenjo-daro and Harappa, Banawali in Haryana lacked the strict rectangular grid pattern. Q.108) Which Vedic river is identified as the modern-day Ravi River? Answer: Parushni Explanation: The Rigveda mentions many rivers with ancient names; Parushni is the Ravi, while Asikni is the Chenab and Vitasta is the Jhelum. Q.109) The term "Visha" in the Rigvedic period referred to which unit of society? Answer: People/Tribe Explanation: The Rigvedic society was divided into Kula (family), Grama (village), Vis (clan/people), and Jana (tribe). Q.110) Which Brahmana text provides information about the agriculture rituals and the "ploughing" ceremony? Answer: Shatapatha Brahmana Explanation: The Shatapatha Brahmana is the most detailed and important of all Brahmanas, attached to the White Yajurveda. Q.111) The phrase "Satyameva Jayate" (Truth alone triumphs) is taken from which Upanishad? Answer: Mundaka Upanishad Explanation: This famous motto of the Indian State is inscribed in Devanagari script at the base of the Lion Capital of Ashoka. Q.112) Who was the King of the Kuru kingdom during the peak of the Later Vedic period, known for his patronage of learning? Answer: Parikshit Explanation: King Parikshit and his successor Janamejaya were key figures in the Kuru dynasty, marking the transition into the Later Vedic culture. Q.113) In the 6th Century BCE, which Mahajanapada was a confederacy of eight clans, including the Videhas and Lichchhavis? Answer: Vajji Explanation: Unlike the monarchies like Magadha, Vajji was a Gana-Sangha (Republic) with its capital at Vaishali. Q.114) Which ancient city was the capital of the Gandhara Mahajanapada? Answer: Taxila (Takshashila) Explanation: Taxila was a world-renowned centre of learning and commerce, located in modern-day Pakistan. Q.115) Who was the physician sent by King Bimbisara to treat King Pradyota of Avanti? Answer: Jivaka Explanation: Jivaka was the most famous royal physician of the time and also served Gautama Buddha. Q.116) Which Nanda king was ruling Magadha when Alexander invaded India? Answer: Dhanananda Explanation: Dhanananda’s vast army is often cited as the reason why Alexander’s soldiers refused to march further into the Gangetic plains. Q.117) The Buddhist text 'Anguttara Nikaya' is significant for providing the list of which entities? Answer: 16 Mahajanapadas Explanation: This Sutta Pitaka text is the primary source for identifying the sixteen great kingdoms of the 6th century BCE. Q.118) What was the original name of Gautama Buddha? Answer: Siddhartha Explanation: Siddhartha was born into the Shakya clan of Kapilavastu; he became the "Buddha" (The Enlightened One) after his realization at Bodh Gaya. Q.119) Which symbol represents the 'Birth' of Gautama Buddha in Buddhist art? Answer: Lotus and Bull Explanation: Different symbols represent key events: Lotus (Birth), Horse (Great Departure), Wheel (First Sermon), and Stupa (Death). Q.120) In which language were the original Buddhist scriptures (Tripitakas) written? Answer: Pali Explanation: Pali was the common language of the people in the Magadha region, making Buddha's teachings accessible to all. Q.121) Who was the first woman to be ordained as a nun (Bhikkhuni) in the Buddhist Sangha? Answer: Mahapajapati Gotami Explanation: She was the foster mother of Buddha and was admitted to the Sangha at the request of Ananda. Q.122) The Jain philosophy of "Anekantavada" (theory of manifoldness) is also known as what? Answer: Syadvada Explanation: It is the principle that truth and reality are perceived differently from diverse points of view. Q.123) Who was the 22nd Tirthankara of Jainism, believed to be a cousin of Lord Krishna? Answer: Arishtanemi (Neminatha) Explanation: Traditional Jain literature often links Arishtanemi to the Yadav family and Krishna. Q.124) The "Lion Capital" at Sarnath, the National Emblem of India, was built by which ruler? Answer: Ashoka Explanation: It was built to mark the spot where Buddha first preached; it features four lions back-to-back, representing power and courage. Q.125) Who was the Greek governor left by Alexander in India who was later defeated by Chandragupta Maurya? Answer: Seleucus Nicator Explanation: After his defeat, Seleucus signed a treaty, gave his daughter in marriage to Chandragupta, and sent Megasthenes as an ambassador. Q.126) What was the main source of state income in the Mauryan Empire? Answer: Land Revenue (Bhaga) Explanation: Land revenue, usually 1/6th of the produce, was the backbone of the Mauryan economy. Q.127) Which Mauryan official was in charge of weight and measures? Answer: Pautavadhyaksha Explanation: Mauryan administration was highly bureaucratic, with specific 'Adhyakshas' for various departments. Q.128) The 'Bhabru Inscription' is significant because in it, Ashoka declares his faith in what? Answer: The Buddhist Trinity (Buddha, Dhamma, Sangha) Explanation: This inscription clearly links Ashoka's personal faith to the Buddhist religion. Q.129) What was the name of the daughter of Ashoka who was sent to Sri Lanka to spread Buddhism? Answer: Sanghamitra Explanation: Along with her brother Mahendra, she took a sapling of the original Bodhi Tree to Anuradhapura. Q.130) Which dynasty ruled the Magadha region immediately after the fall of the Mauryas? Answer: Shunga Dynasty Explanation: Pushyamitra Shunga established this dynasty in 185 BCE after killing the last Mauryan king. Q.131) Who wrote the 'Mahabhashya', a commentary on Panini's grammar, during the Shunga period? Answer: Patanjali Explanation: Patanjali was the court priest of Pushyamitra Shunga and is also famous for compiling the Yoga Sutras. Q.132) Which Greek king is famous for the 'Besnagar Pillar Inscription' dedicated to Lord Vishnu? Answer: Heliodorus Explanation: Heliodorus was an ambassador of the Indo-Greek king Antialcidas and described himself as a 'Bhagavata'. Q.133) The "Junagarh Rock Inscription" of Rudradaman is famous for being the first long inscription in which language? Answer: Sanskrit Explanation: Before this, most inscriptions were in Prakrit. Rudradaman was a powerful Shaka (Scythian) ruler. Q.134) Which Kushan ruler is credited with the introduction of the first Gold Coins with Buddhist images? Answer: Kanishka Explanation: Kanishka’s coins reflect his patronage of Buddhism and his vast empire's wealth. Q.135) The famous 'Silk Route' was controlled and protected in India by which dynasty? Answer: Kushan Dynasty Explanation: Controlling Central Asian trade routes allowed the Kushans to prosper immensely from the transit of silk and spices. Q.136) Who was the author of 'Buddhacharita', the biography of Buddha in Sanskrit? Answer: Ashvaghosha Explanation: Ashvaghosha was a contemporary of Kanishka and a great philosopher and poet. Q.137) Which South Indian dynasty used the 'Tiger' as its royal emblem? Answer: Chola Dynasty Explanation: During the Sangam age, the Cholas (Tiger), Cheras (Bow and Arrow), and Pandyas (Fish) were the three main powers. Q.138) Who was the author of the Tamil epic 'Silappadikaram'? Answer: Ilango Adigal Explanation: This "Epic of the Anklet" is one of the Five Great Epics of Tamil literature from the Sangam period. Q.139) Which Satavahana ruler is known for starting the tradition of 'Land Grants' to Brahmins and Buddhist monks? Answer: Gautamiputra Satakarni Explanation: These land grants eventually led to the rise of feudalism in India. Q.140) The 'Nanaghat Inscription' provides details about the achievements of which Satavahana king? Answer: Satakarni I Explanation: It was issued by his queen, Nayanika, and describes his Vedic sacrifices and conquests. Q.141) Who was the first Gupta ruler to adopt the title of 'Maharajadhiraja'? Answer: Chandragupta I Explanation: This title signified his status as a "King of Kings" and the true founder of Gupta imperial power. Q.142) Which Gupta king was an expert Vina (Lute) player, as seen on his coins? Answer: Samudragupta Explanation: Samudragupta was not just a warrior but also a poet and musician (Kaviraja). Q.143) The 'Mehrauli Iron Pillar' was originally established as a 'Vishnudhvaja' in honour of which king? Answer: Chandragupta II (Chandra) Explanation: It stands today near the Qutub Minar in Delhi and is famous for its rust-resistant properties. Q.144) Who was the author of 'Amarakosha', the famous Sanskrit lexicon/dictionary? Answer: Amarasimha Explanation: He was one of the 'Nine Gems' (Navaratnas) in the court of Chandragupta II. Q.145) During the Gupta period, which port handled the trade with Southeast Asia and China on the East Coast? Answer: Tamralipti Explanation: Located in modern-day West Bengal, Tamralipti was the primary gateway for maritime trade in the east. Q.146) Who was the author of 'Sushruta Samhita', the ancient text on surgery? Answer: Sushruta Explanation: Known as the 'Father of Surgery,' he described plastic surgery and cataract operations centuries before the West. Q.147) Which Gupta king faced the first major invasion of the White Huns (Hunas)? Answer: Kumaragupta I Explanation: While the invasion started during his reign, it was his son Skandagupta who decisively defeated them. Q.148) The 'Eran Inscription' of 510 CE is famous for being the first epigraphic evidence of which practice? Answer: Sati Explanation: It records the death of a general named Goparaja and his wife performing Sati. Q.149) Who wrote the 'Mudrarakshasa', a play about the rise of Chandragupta Maurya? Answer: Vishakhadatta Explanation: Although it deals with the Mauryas, the play was written during the Gupta period. Q.150) Which foreign traveller described the Gupta administration as mild and the people as prosperous and law-abiding? Answer: Fa-Hien Explanation: Fa-Hien noted that the government did not interfere much in the lives of the people and capital punishment was rare. Q.151) Which astronomer of the Gupta era proved that the Earth is spherical and rotates on its own axis? Answer: Aryabhata Explanation: In his work 'Aryabhatiya', he provided a scientific explanation for solar and lunar eclipses and calculated the value of Pi. Q.152) The famous 'Bhitargaon Temple' in Kanpur is notable for being built entirely of which material? Answer: Brick Explanation: It is one of the oldest surviving brick temples in India, representing the Nagara style of architecture during the Gupta period. Q.153) Which Vakataka queen served as the regent for her minor sons and was the daughter of Chandragupta II? Answer: Prabhavatigupta Explanation: She was married to Rudrasena II and played a crucial role in maintaining the alliance between the Guptas and the Vakatakas. Q.154) Who was the founder of the Pushyabhuti Dynasty, also known as the Vardhana Dynasty? Answer: Pushyabhuti (or Prabhakarvardhana as the first notable king) Explanation: This dynasty rose to power in Thanesar (modern Haryana) after the decline of the Gupta Empire. Q.155) Which city did Harshavardhana make his capital after moving it from Thanesar? Answer: Kannauj Explanation: Kannauj became the political and cultural hub of Northern India under Harsha's rule. Q.156) What was the name of the assembly organized by Harshavardhana at Kannauj in honour of Hiuen Tsang? Answer: The Kannauj Assembly Explanation: This grand assembly was held to popularize Mahayana Buddhism and was attended by 20 kings and thousands of monks. Q.157) Every five years, Harshavardhana celebrated a great religious festival called 'Maha Moksha Parishad' at which place? Answer: Prayag (Allahabad) Explanation: At this confluence of rivers, Harsha used to distribute all his accumulated wealth as charity to the poor and religious men. Q.158) Which three plays are traditionally attributed to King Harshavardhana? Answer: Ratnavali, Priyadarshika, and Nagananda Explanation: Despite being a powerful ruler, Harsha was also a celebrated Sanskrit scholar and playwright. Q.159) Who was the sister of Harshavardhana, whose life he saved from performing Sati? Answer: Rajyashri Explanation: After the death of her husband (King of Kannauj), she fled to the Vindhya forests, where Harsha rescued her with the help of Buddhist monks. Q.160) Which dynasty ruled the Deccan with its capital at Badami (Vatapi)? Answer: The Chalukyas of Badami Explanation: Founded by Pulakeshin I, they were the dominant power in the Deccan from the 6th to the 8th centuries. Q.161) Which Chalukyan king performed the 'Ashvamedha' sacrifice to celebrate his independence? Answer: Pulakeshin I Explanation: He established the fort of Vatapi and laid the foundation of the Chalukya Empire. Q.162) The famous 'Virupaksha Temple' at Pattadakal was built by which queen? Answer: Lokamahadevi Explanation: She was the queen of Vikramaditya II, and the temple was built to commemorate her husband's victory over the Pallavas. Q.163) Which South Indian dynasty's capital was Kanchipuram? Answer: The Pallavas Explanation: The Pallavas were pioneers of Dravidian architecture, transitioning from rock-cut caves to structural temples. Q.164) Who was the Pallava king known as 'Mamalla' (the Great Wrestler)? Answer: Narasimhavarman I Explanation: The city of Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram) is named after him, and he built the famous Rathas (Monolithic Temples). Q.165) Which Pallava king was defeated and killed by the Chalukyan king Pulakeshin II? Answer: Mahendravarman I Explanation: This defeat started a long-standing rivalry between the Pallavas and the Chalukyas. Q.166) The 'Seven Pagodas' of Mahabalipuram are associated with which architectural style? Answer: Pallava Style Explanation: These comprise the five Rathas, the Shore Temple, and several other structures representing early Dravidian art. Q.167) Which Chinese traveller visited the Pallava kingdom during the reign of Narasimhavarman I? Answer: Hiuen Tsang Explanation: He described Kanchi as a great centre of learning for both Hindus and Buddhists. Q.168) Who was the founder of the Rashtrakuta Dynasty? Answer: Dantidurga Explanation: He overthrew the last Chalukya king, Kirtivarman II, in 753 CE. Q.169) Which Rashtrakuta king wrote the famous Kannada work 'Kavirajamarga'? Answer: Amoghavarsha I Explanation: He was a great patron of literature and is often compared to Ashoka for his peaceful reign. Q.170) The famous monolithic 'Kailasa Temple' at Ellora was commissioned by which king? Answer: Krishna I Explanation: It is a marvel of engineering, carved top-down from a single volcanic basalt rock. Q.171) The 'Elephanta Caves' near Mumbai were primarily constructed during the reign of which dynasty? Answer: Rashtrakutas Explanation: These caves are famous for the 'Trimurti' (three-headed) sculpture of Lord Shiva. Q.172) Who was the founder of the Gurjara-Pratihara Dynasty in the 8th century? Answer: Nagabhata I Explanation: He is credited with resisting the Arab invasions from Sindh into Western India. Q.173) Which Pratihara king is considered the greatest of the dynasty and took the title 'Adivaraha'? Answer: Mihira Bhoja Explanation: He was a devotee of Vishnu and established a vast empire across Northern India. Q.174) The 'Sun Temple' at Modhera was built during the reign of which dynasty? Answer: Solanki Dynasty (Chaulukyas of Gujarat) Explanation: Built in 1026 CE, it is a masterpiece of temple architecture in Gujarat. Q.175) Who was the founder of the Chola Empire in the medieval period (9th Century)? Answer: Vijayalaya Explanation: He captured Thanjavur from the Muttaraiyars and laid the foundation for the Imperial Cholas. Q.176) Which Chola king built the 'Brihadisvara Temple' at Thanjavur? Answer: Rajaraja Chola I Explanation: Also known as the Big Temple, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a pinnacle of South Indian architecture. Q.177) Which Chola king conquered Sri Lanka and the Maldives and sent a naval expedition to Southeast Asia? Answer: Rajendra Chola I Explanation: Under him, the Chola navy was the most powerful in the Indian Ocean, making it a "Chola Lake". Q.178) What was the unique administrative unit of the Cholas responsible for village affairs? Answer: Ur and Sabha Explanation: The 'Ur' was a general assembly of the village, while the 'Sabha' was an assembly of learned Brahmins. Q.179) The famous bronze statue of 'Nataraja' (Shiva as the Cosmic Dancer) reached its artistic peak under which dynasty? Answer: Chola Dynasty Explanation: These bronzes were made using the 'Cire Perdue' or Lost Wax process. Q.180) Who was the author of 'Kamba Ramayanam', the Tamil version of the Ramayana? Answer: Kamban Explanation: He lived during the Chola period and is considered one of the greatest Tamil poets. Q.181) The 'Somnath Temple' in Gujarat was famously plundered by Mahmud of Ghazni during the reign of which king? Answer: Bhima I (Solanki Dynasty) Explanation: This raid took place in 1025-26 CE, leading to the destruction of the temple's wealth. Q.182) Who was the founder of the Chandela Dynasty of Jejakabhukti? Answer: Nannuka Explanation: The Chandelas are world-famous for building the Khajuraho group of temples. Q.183) Most of the Khajuraho temples were built during the reign of which dynasty? Answer: Chandela Dynasty Explanation: These temples (like Kandariya Mahadeva) are known for their intricate carvings and Nagara-style shikhara. Q.184) Who founded the Sena Dynasty in Bengal after the decline of the Palas? Answer: Vijayasena Explanation: The Senas were instrumental in the revival of Brahminical Hinduism in Bengal. Q.185) The 'Gita Govinda', a famous poem about the love of Krishna and Radha, was written by whom? Answer: Jayadeva Explanation: Jayadeva was the court poet of Lakshmana Sena, the last great Sena king. Q.186) Which Pala king founded the Odantapuri Monastery in Bihar? Answer: Gopala Explanation: Apart from being the founder of the dynasty, he was a staunch patron of Buddhist learning. Q.187) Which university became the primary centre of 'Vajrayana Buddhism' under the Palas? Answer: Vikramshila University Explanation: It was founded by Dharmapala and later destroyed by Bakhtiyar Khilji. Q.188) Who was the founder of the Chauhan (Chahamana) Dynasty of Ajmer? Answer: Vasudeva Explanation: The dynasty later reached its zenith under Prithviraj Chauhan III. Q.189) What was the first battle in Indian history where gunpowder was used (even if in a limited way) against a Delhi ruler? Answer: Battle of Panipat (1526) – Note: Transition question Explanation: (Historical context for the end of the timeline) While gunpowder was introduced earlier, Babur used it decisively to end the medieval Sultanate era. Q.190) Who wrote the 'Prithviraj Raso', an epic poem on the life of Prithviraj Chauhan? Answer: Chand Bardai Explanation: He was the court poet and friend of Prithviraj III. Q.191) The 'Lingaraja Temple' at Bhubaneswar was built by which dynasty? Answer: Somavamshi Dynasty (Kalinga architecture) Explanation: It is the largest temple in Bhubaneswar and represents the mature phase of the Kalinga style. Q.192) Which Pala king sent a mission under Atisa Dipankara to Tibet to spread Buddhism? Answer: Nayapala Explanation: Atisa was a great scholar of Vikramshila who reformed Buddhism in Tibet. Q.193) Who was the last Hindu ruler of North India who successfully defended his territory against the Arabs for a long time? Answer: Nagabhata II Explanation: He revived the Pratihara power and made Kannauj his capital. Q.194) The 'Dilwara Temples' at Mount Abu are famous for being built with which material? Answer: White Marble Explanation: These are world-famous Jain temples known for their extraordinary marble carvings. Q.195) Who founded the Gahadavala Dynasty of Kannauj? Answer: Chandradeva Explanation: Jaichand, who was defeated by Muhammad Ghori, belonged to this dynasty. Q.196) The term 'Mandapika' in ancient Indian trade referred to what? Answer: A Market or Custom House Explanation: It was the place where goods were brought for sale and taxes were collected. Q.197) Which ancient text mentions the '74 Arts' (Kalas) including painting, dancing, and magic? Answer: Kamasutra Explanation: Written by Vatsyayana during the Gupta period, it provides a vivid picture of the social life of the urban elite. Q.198) The 'Alai Darwaza' was built as an entrance to which ancient mosque? Answer: Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque Explanation: (Transition) It was built by Alauddin Khilji using the remains of Hindu and Jain temples, marking the shift to Indo-Islamic architecture. Q.199) Who was the first person to translate the 'Bhagavad Gita' into English in 1785? Answer: Charles Wilkins Explanation: This was part of the Orientalist movement to study ancient Indian texts during British rule. Q.200) Which 12th-century king of Sri Lanka was a contemporary of the Cholas and maintained close ties with them? Answer: Vijayabahu I Explanation: He ended Chola rule in Sri Lanka but continued to respect their cultural influence. Q.201) In the Mauryan administration, what was the specific role of the 'Sitadhyaksha'? Answer: Superintendent of Agriculture Explanation: He was responsible for the cultivation of crown lands (Sita) and managed the state-run agricultural farms. Q.202) Which ancient Indian text is considered the earliest work on grammar (Vyakarana)? Answer: Ashtadhyayi Explanation: Written by Panini around the 4th century BCE, it consists of eight chapters and laid the foundation for Sanskrit linguistics. Q.203) The term 'Dharmasthiya' in the Mauryan period referred to which type of court? Answer: Civil Court Explanation: Civil matters were handled by Dharmasthiya, while criminal cases were dealt with by 'Kantakashodhana' courts. Q.204) Which Greek ruler sent the ambassador Deimachus to the court of Bindusara? Answer: Antiochus I (Sura of Syria) Explanation: This highlights the continued diplomatic relations between the Mauryas and the Hellenistic kingdoms after Chandragupta. Q.205) In Ashokan inscriptions, which script was primarily used for the edicts found in the North-Western part of the subcontinent (Mansehra and Shahbazgarhi)? Answer: Kharosthi Explanation: While most edicts were in Brahmi, the North-Western ones used Kharosthi, which was written from right to left. Q.206) The 'Rummindei Pillar Inscription' of Ashoka is famous for marking the birthplace of whom? Answer: Gautama Buddha Explanation: Ashoka visited Lumbini (Rummindei) and exempted the village from the religious tax (Bali) and reduced the land revenue. Q.207) Which Buddhist school was patronised by the Kushan king Kanishka, leading to the use of Sanskrit for scriptures? Answer: Mahayana Explanation: Mahayana Buddhism introduced the worship of Buddha as a deity and the concept of Bodhisattvas. Q.208) Who was the founder of the 'Shunyavada' (Doctrine of the Void) school of Buddhist philosophy? Answer: Nagarjuna Explanation: Often called the 'Einstein of India', he was a contemporary of Kanishka and wrote the 'Madhyamika Karika'. Q.209) In ancient Indian trade, what did the term 'Sarthavaha' signify? Answer: Caravan Leader Explanation: These leaders managed the long-distance trade guilds and were highly influential in the urban social hierarchy. Q.210) The 'Gathasaptashati', a collection of Prakrit poems, is attributed to which Satavahana king? Answer: Hala Explanation: King Hala was a great patron of literature and himself a poet of the Maharashtri Prakrit. Q.211) Which dynasty added the highly ornate 'Toranas' (gateways) to the Sanchi Stupa? Answer: Satavahanas Explanation: While the core stupa was built by Ashoka, the elaborate gateways were commissioned during the Satavahana period. Q.212) The 'Milindapanho' is a philosophical dialogue between King Menander and which monk? Answer: Nagasena Explanation: The text is a key source for understanding the Indo-Greek influence on Indian culture and the spread of Buddhism. Q.213) Who was the founder of the 'Nyaya' school of Indian philosophy? Answer: Gautama (Akshapada Gautama) Explanation: Nyaya focuses on logic and epistemology as the means to attain liberation. Q.214) The concept of 'Saptanga' (seven limbs of the state) was first detailed in which work? Answer: Arthashastra Explanation: The limbs are Swami (King), Amatya (Minister), Janapada (Territory/People), Durga (Fort), Kosha (Treasury), Danda (Army), and Mitra (Ally). Q.215) Which Gupta era mathematician wrote the 'Pancha-siddhantika', a summary of five ancient astronomical systems? Answer: Varahamihira Explanation: He was a great polymath who also wrote the 'Brihat Samhita', an encyclopaedia of various subjects. Q.216) In the Gupta administration, what was the province (division) called? Answer: Bhukti Explanation: Provinces were called Bhuktis and were governed by officials known as 'Uparikas'. Q.217) The 'Vishnu Purana' provides a genealogical list primarily of which dynasty? Answer: Mauryan Dynasty Explanation: Puranas are important secondary sources for reconstructing the chronologies of ancient Indian dynasties. Q.218) Which ancient port on the Malabar coast was a major centre for Roman trade, as mentioned in the 'Periplus of the Erythraean Sea'? Answer: Muziris Explanation: Muziris (modern Kodungallur) was the gateway for the export of pepper, known as 'Yavanapriya' (dear to the Greeks/Romans). Q.219) Who was the author of the famous Sanskrit play 'Mrichchhakatika' (The Little Clay Cart)? Answer: Shudraka Explanation: This play is unique for its social realism, depicting the love story of a Brahmin merchant and a courtesan. Q.220) The 'Aihole' temple complex in Karnataka is often referred to as what? Answer: The Cradle of Indian Architecture Explanation: It features some of the earliest experiments in Hindu temple styles, including the Lad Khan and Durga temples. Q.221) Which king of the Varman dynasty of Kamarupa (Assam) was a contemporary and close ally of Harshavardhana? Answer: Bhaskaravarman Explanation: He helped Harsha in his campaigns and invited Hiuen Tsang to visit his kingdom. Q.222) The 'Tolkappiyam' is the earliest surviving work of which language's grammar? Answer: Tamil Explanation: It is the foundation of Sangam literature and deals with grammar, phonology, and social life. Q.223) Which Pallava king was known for his love for art and assumed titles like 'Chitrakarapuli' (Tiger among Painters)? Answer: Mahendravarman I Explanation: He was a multi-faceted ruler who also wrote the satirical play 'Mattavilasa Prahasana'. Q.224) The 'Vaikuntha Perumal Temple' at Kanchipuram was built by which Pallava ruler? Answer: Nandivarman II Explanation: This temple is famous for its historical relief sculptures depicting the history of the Pallava dynasty. Q.225) Who founded the Western Gangas, a dynasty that ruled over southern Karnataka? Answer: Konganivarman Explanation: They are best known for the massive statue of Bahubali (Gommateshwara) at Shravanabelagola. Q.226) The 'Kailasa' temple at Kanchi (not to be confused with Ellora) was built by whom? Answer: Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha) Explanation: It is a structural temple and one of the finest examples of Pallava architecture. Q.227) Which Chola king is credited with the creation of the 'Uttaramallur Inscription' regarding local self-governance? Answer: Parantaka Chola I Explanation: This inscription describes the meticulous democratic process of electing village committee members. Q.228) What was the royal emblem of the Chalukyas of Badami? Answer: Varaha (Boar) Explanation: This represented the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, signifying the king's duty to protect the earth. Q.229) The 'Vikramshila' monastery, a rival to Nalanda, was located in which modern Indian state? Answer: Bihar Explanation: It was located on the banks of the Ganges in Bhagalpur district. Q.230) Which Pala ruler is known as 'Uttarapathasvamin' (Lord of Northern India) in the inscriptions of the Chalukyas? Answer: Dharmapala Explanation: This reflects his dominance over Northern India after capturing Kannauj. Q.231) The 'Shore Temple' at Mahabalipuram is unique because it contains shrines for which two deities? Answer: Shiva and Vishnu Explanation: It is one of the earliest structural temples in South India, designed to face the sea. Q.232) Who was the author of 'Kavyadarsha', a major work on Sanskrit poetics during the Pallava period? Answer: Dandin Explanation: Dandin lived in the Pallava court and influenced the development of Sanskrit literature in the South. Q.233) The 'Haldighati' of South India, where the Cholas were defeated by the Rashtrakutas in 949 CE, is known as which battle? Answer: Battle of Takkolam Explanation: This battle temporarily checked the expansion of the Chola empire under Parantaka I. Q.234) Which Rashtrakuta king made the city of 'Manyakheta' his capital? Answer: Amoghavarsha I Explanation: Manyakheta (modern Malkhed) remained the capital of the Rashtrakutas for over two centuries. Q.235) The 'Dravida' style of architecture is characterised primarily by which feature? Answer: Vimana (Pyramidal Tower) Explanation: Unlike the curved Shikharas of the North (Nagara), the Dravida style features stepped towers and massive Gopurams (gateways). Q.236) Who was the court poet of the Western Chalukya king Vikramaditya VI, who wrote 'Vikramankadevacharita'? Answer: Bilhana Explanation: Bilhana’s work is a semi-historical biography of his patron. Q.237) The 'Gommateshwara' statue at Shravanabelagola was commissioned by which minister of the Ganga dynasty? Answer: Chamundaraya Explanation: Completed in 981 CE, it is one of the tallest free-standing monolithic statues in the world. Q.238) Which Arab traveller visited the Rashtrakuta empire and called the 'Vallabharaja' one of the four greatest kings of the world? Answer: Sulaiman Explanation: He visited India in the 9th century and left a detailed account of the Rashtrakuta power. Q.239) The term 'Brahmadeya' in the context of land grants referred to what? Answer: Tax-free land given to Brahmins Explanation: These grants were intended to settle learned Brahmins in new areas to promote Vedic culture and agriculture. Q.240) Which dynasty built the 'Lad Khan' temple at Aihole? Answer: Chalukyas of Badami Explanation: Despite its name, it is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva, noted for its unusual flat-roofed design. Q.241) The 'Kudumiyanmalai Inscription' in Tamil Nadu is famous for its information on which subject? Answer: Music Explanation: It contains notations of various musical notes (Swaras) from the Pallava period. Q.242) Who founded the Kadamba Dynasty of Banavasi? Answer: Mayurasharman Explanation: Legend says he was a Brahmin who turned into a warrior after being insulted by Pallava guards. Q.243) The 'Vatapi Kondan' title was assumed by which Pallava king after capturing the Chalukyan capital? Answer: Narasimhavarman I Explanation: He avenged his father's defeat by destroying Badami (Vatapi). Q.244) Which Chola king introduced the system of 'Revenue Survey' and settlement for the first time? Answer: Rajaraja Chola I Explanation: This allowed for a more organised and fair collection of taxes based on land quality. Q.245) The 'Chola-Ganga' lake, a massive artificial reservoir, was built by which king? Answer: Rajendra Chola I Explanation: He built it in his new capital, Gangaikondacholapuram, to symbolise his conquest of the Ganges. Q.246) Who was the author of the 'Mitakshara', a famous commentary on legal inheritance? Answer: Vijnaneshwara Explanation: He lived in the court of the Western Chalukyas, and his work became the basis for Hindu law in much of India. Q.247) The 'Lomas Rishi Cave' in the Barabar Hills (Bihar) was built during whose reign? Answer: Ashoka (Mauryan) Explanation: It is the earliest example of rock-cut architecture in India, with an entrance that mimics wooden architecture. Q.248) In the Later Vedic period, what was the 'Ratnins' assembly? Answer: Twelve high-ranking officials/functionaries Explanation: They played a crucial role during the coronation (Rajasuya) of the king. Q.249) Which ancient Buddhist site is known for having the tallest stone statue of Buddha in the world (before its destruction)? Answer: Bamiyan (Afghanistan) Explanation: While not in modern India, it was a major centre of Gandhara art during the Kushan and Gupta periods. Q.250) The 'Yajnavalkya Smriti' is a major work on which subject? Answer: Law and Ethics (Dharmashastra) Explanation: It is one of the most influential Smritis, providing guidelines for personal and social conduct. Q.251) Which Mauryan ruler is believed to have conquered the Deccan and reached as far south as Mysore? Answer: Bindusara Explanation: While Chandragupta founded the empire and Ashoka conquered Kalinga, historians believe Bindusara extended Mauryan control to the South. Q.252) The term 'Agrahara' in Ancient India referred to what? Answer: A village or land granted to Brahmins for their sustenance. Explanation: These villages were centers of education and were exempt from state taxes. Q.253) Which Gupta king is credited with the "Sudarshana Lake" repair for the second time? Answer: Skandagupta Explanation: The lake was originally built by the Mauryas, repaired by Rudradaman (Shaka), and finally by Skandagupta through his governor Parnadatta. Q.254) Who was the author of 'Dashakumaracharita' (Tales of Ten Princes)? Answer: Dandin Explanation: Dandin was a master of Sanskrit prose and flourished in the 7th-8th century. Q.255) In the ancient Indian social system, what was 'Anuloma' marriage? Answer: Marriage of a man of a higher caste with a woman of a lower caste. Explanation: This was generally accepted, whereas 'Pratiloma' (the reverse) was discouraged. Q.256) The 'Karnatakabhashabhushana', a grammar of the Kannada language written in Sanskrit, was authored by whom? Answer: Nagavarma II Explanation: He was a celebrated scholar under the Western Chalukyas. Q.257) Which ancient philosopher founded the 'Vaisheshika' school, which deals with the atomic theory of the universe? Answer: Kanada (Kashyapa) Explanation: He proposed that all physical objects are made of indivisible particles called 'Anu'. Q.258) The 'Boghazkoi Inscription' (1400 BCE) from Turkey is significant for Indian history because it mentions which deities? Answer: Indra, Varuna, Mitra, and Nasatyas Explanation: These are Rigvedic deities, suggesting a common linguistic and cultural ancestry between Indo-Aryans and Middle Eastern tribes. Q.259) Who was the first Gupta king to issue Silver Coins? Answer: Chandragupta II Explanation: He issued these coins following his victory over the Shakas in Western India. Q.260) The term 'Vishti' in the Gupta period referred to what? Answer: Forced Labour Explanation: It was a form of tax paid in the form of labor to the state or local lords. Q.261) Which ancient university was known as the 'Oxford of Mahayana Buddhism'? Answer: Nalanda University Explanation: It attracted students from all over Asia and had a massive library known as 'Dharmaganja'. Q.262) Who was the author of 'Natyashastra', the foundational text for Indian performing arts? Answer: Bharata Muni Explanation: It deals with dance, music, drama, and the theory of 'Rasa' (emotion). Q.263) The 'Kharavela's Hathigumpha Inscription' is located in which state? Answer: Odisha Explanation: It is located in the Udayagiri caves near Bhubaneswar and records the exploits of the Jain king Kharavela. Q.264) Which ancient Indian king is associated with the 'Vikrama Era' starting in 57 BCE? Answer: King Vikramaditya (of Ujjain) Explanation: Though historically debated, the era commemorates the defeat of the Shakas by this legendary king. Q.265) The 'Prabhasa' pilgrimage site is associated with the death of which mythological/historical figure? Answer: Lord Krishna Explanation: It is located near Somnath in Gujarat. Q.266) In the Chola kingdom, the term 'Nadu' referred to which unit? Answer: A District Explanation: A group of villages (Kurrams) formed a Nadu, which was the primary unit of administration. Q.267) The 'Gomati' river in the Rigveda is identified as which modern river? Answer: Gomal Explanation: Located in modern-day Afghanistan/Pakistan, it shows the geographical extent of the early Vedic tribes. Q.268) Who was the founder of the 'Mukhari' dynasty of Kannauj? Answer: Ishanavarman Explanation: The Mukharis were rivals of the Later Guptas before the rise of Harshavardhana. Q.269) The 'Charvaka' school of philosophy is also known by which name? Answer: Lokayata Explanation: It is a materialistic and atheistic school that rejects the authority of the Vedas and life after death. Q.270) Which Chola king built the city of 'Gangaikondacholapuram'? Answer: Rajendra Chola I Explanation: It served as the capital of the Cholas for over 250 years. Q.271) The 'Upnishads' are primarily books on which subject? Answer: Philosophy Explanation: They mark the shift from ritualism to the search for ultimate reality (Brahman). Q.272) Who was the Jain monk who accompanied Chandragupta Maurya to the South? Answer: Bhadrabahu Explanation: He led the group of monks to Shravanabelagola during a famine in Magadha. Q.273) The 'Stupa' architecture is believed to have originated from which practice? Answer: Burial Mounds Explanation: They were originally built to house the relics (ashes/bones) of the Buddha or other great teachers. Q.274) Which Mauryan pillar features a 'Bull Capital' and is currently in the Rashtrapati Bhavan? Answer: Rampurva Pillar Explanation: It is a masterpiece of Mauryan animal sculpture. Q.275) Who was the author of the 'Kiratarjuniya', a Sanskrit epic about Arjuna and Shiva? Answer: Bharavi Explanation: He was a court poet of the Pallavas and is famous for his brevity of expression. Q.276) In the Vedic period, the term 'Gomat' referred to what? Answer: A wealthy person Explanation: Since wealth was measured in cattle (Go), 'Gomat' literally meant a person possessing many cows. Q.277) The 'Yupa' inscriptions found in Borneo (Indonesia) show the spread of which culture in the 4th century? Answer: Sanskrit/Vedic Culture Explanation: These inscriptions were issued by King Mulavarman using the Pallava script. Q.278) Which ancient text mentions the existence of 'Republics' (Gana-Sanghas) in North India? Answer: Ashtadhyayi and Buddhist Pali Canon Explanation: These texts describe non-monarchical states where power was shared by an assembly of chiefs. Q.279) Who was the author of 'Kathasaritsagara', a famous collection of Indian legends and folk tales? Answer: Somadeva Explanation: Written in the 11th century, it is based on the lost 'Brihatkatha' of Gunadhya. Q.280) The 'Heliodorus Pillar' at Vidisha is dedicated to which deity? Answer: Vasudeva (Vishnu) Explanation: It proves the adoption of Bhagavatism by foreigners in the 2nd century BCE. Q.281) Which Chola queen was the mother of Rajaraja I and is known for her temple donations? Answer: Sembiyan Mahadevi Explanation: She was one of the most powerful and pious women in Chola history. Q.282) The 'Tirumurai' is a collection of hymns dedicated to which deity? Answer: Lord Shiva Explanation: It is often called the 'Tamil Veda' and was compiled during the Chola period. Q.283) Who was the founder of the 'Advaita Vedanta' school of philosophy? Answer: Adi Shankaracharya Explanation: He lived in the 8th-9th century and established four 'Mathas' in the four corners of India. Q.284) The 'Sun Temple' at Martand (Kashmir) was built by which king? Answer: Lalitaditya Muktapida Explanation: He was the most powerful ruler of the Karkota dynasty of Kashmir. Q.285) In ancient Indian commerce, what was the 'Nagaram'? Answer: A merchant assembly in a town. Explanation: They were especially active in South Indian administration, managing markets and trade taxes. Q.286) The 'Manasollasa', an encyclopaedic work in Sanskrit covering subjects from statecraft to cookery, was written by which king? Answer: Someshvara III (Western Chalukya) Explanation: It is a valuable source for the cultural history of the 12th century. Q.287) Which ancient medical text is called the 'Ashtanga Hridaya'? Answer: Vagbhata's text Explanation: It is one of the "Great Three" of Ayurveda, along with Charaka and Sushruta. Q.288) The 'Panchatantra' was translated into Arabic during the 8th century under what title? Answer: Kalila wa Dimna Explanation: It became one of the most translated and read secular books in world literature. Q.289) Who was the author of 'Malavikagnimitram', a play about a Shunga prince? Answer: Kalidasa Explanation: The play tells the love story of Agnimitra (son of Pushyamitra Shunga) and Malavika. Q.290) The 'Varna' system in the Later Vedic period became based on what? Answer: Birth Explanation: It shifted from being based on occupation (Rigvedic) to a hereditary system. Q.291) Which ancient Indian city was known as the 'City of One Thousand Temples'? Answer: Kanchipuram Explanation: It was the capital of the Pallavas and remains a major pilgrimage site. Q.292) The 'Shishupala Vadha', a classic Sanskrit epic, was written by whom? Answer: Magha Explanation: Magha is often compared to Kalidasa and Bharavi for his poetic skill. Q.293) In the early medieval period, the term 'Samanta' referred to what? Answer: A feudatory chief or vassal. Explanation: The Samanta system led to the decentralisation of political power in India. Q.294) Who was the first person to read/decipher the Brahmi script in 1837? Answer: James Prinsep Explanation: This discovery unlocked the history of Ashoka and the Mauryan empire. Q.295) The 'Alberuni's India' (Kitab-ul-Hind) was written in which language? Answer: Arabic Explanation: Al-Biruni was a scholar who stayed in India for many years to study its sciences and religions. Q.296) Which dynasty built the 'Jain Temple' at Lakkundi (Karnataka)? Answer: Later Western Chalukyas Explanation: Lakkundi was a major centre of art and architecture in the 11th century. Q.297) The 'Dasa-rupaka' is a major ancient Indian work on which subject? Answer: Dramaturgy (Theory of Drama) Explanation: It was written by Dhananjaya in the court of King Munja (Paramara dynasty). Q.298) Who was the author of the Tamil work 'Periya Puranam'? Answer: Sekkizhar Explanation: It tells the lives of the 63 Nayanmars (Shiva saints) and was written under the Cholas. Q.299) The 'Khajuraho' temples are dedicated to which two religions? Answer: Hinduism and Jainism Explanation: This reflects the religious tolerance of the Chandela rulers. Q.300) The 'Arab conquest of Sindh' was narrated in which Persian translation of an earlier Arabic work? Answer: Chachnama Explanation: It provides the history of the Chach dynasty and the subsequent Arab invasion.  

GK Notes

Comprehensive Timeline of Modern Indian History: From British Expansion to Indian Independence (1757–1947)

Comprehensive Timeline of Modern Indian History: From British Expansion to Indian Independence (1757–1947) 1. Expansion of British Rule (1757 – 1856) This phase covers the transition from a trading company (East India Company) to a political power. 1757: Battle of Plassey – Robert Clive defeats Siraj-ud-Daulah; marks the start of British political rule. 1764: Battle of Buxar – British defeat the combined forces of Mir Qasim, Shuja-ud-Daulah, and Shah Alam II. 1765: Treaty of Allahabad – The Company gets 'Diwani' rights (tax collection) for Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha. 1773: Regulating Act – First step by the British Parliament to control the Company's affairs. 1793: Permanent Settlement introduced in Bengal by Lord Cornwallis. 1829: Prohibition of Sati by Lord William Bentinck. 1853: First Railway line opened between Bombay and Thane; first Telegraph line in Calcutta.   2. The First War of Independence & Crown Rule (1857 – 1885) 1857: The Revolt of 1857 begins at Meerut (led by Mangal Pandey at Barrackpore earlier). 1858: Government of India Act 1858 – Company rule ends; India comes under the direct control of the British Crown. 1878: Vernacular Press Act passed by Lord Lytton to restrict Indian languages newspapers. 1885: Formation of the Indian National Congress (INC) by A.O. Hume. First session held in Bombay (President: W.C. Bonnerjee).   3. Moderate & Extremist Phases (1885 – 1915) 1905: Partition of Bengal by Lord Curzon; start of the Swadeshi Movement. 1906: Formation of the All India Muslim League at Dhaka. 1907: Surat Split – INC divides into Moderates and Extremists. 1909: Morley-Minto Reforms – Introduction of separate electorates for Muslims. 1911: Delhi Durbar – Partition of Bengal cancelled; Capital shifted from Calcutta to Delhi.   4. The Gandhian Era (1915 – 1947) 1915: Mahatma Gandhi returns to India from South Africa (9th January - Pravasi Bharatiya Divas). 1917: Champaran Satyagraha – Gandhi’s first civil disobedience in India. 1919: Rowlatt Act, Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (13th April), and Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms. 1920 – 1922: Non-Cooperation Movement and Khilafat Movement. Ends due to Chauri Chaura incident. 1927: Simon Commission arrives (boycotted by Indians). 1929: Lahore Session of INC – "Purna Swaraj" (Complete Independence) resolution passed. 1930: Civil Disobedience Movement begins with the Dandi March (Salt Satyagraha). 1931: Gandhi-Irwin Pact and Second Round Table Conference. 1935: Government of India Act 1935 – Basis for the future Indian Constitution. 1940: August Offer and the Lahore Resolution (Demand for Pakistan). 1942: Quit India Movement launched (8th August) with the slogan "Do or Die". 1946: Cabinet Mission Plan and formation of the Interim Government. 1947: Mountbatten Plan (June 3 Plan) and Indian Independence Act. 15 August 1947: India achieves Independence.  

GK Notes

Comprehensive Timeline of Medieval Indian History: From Early Invasions to the Mughal Decline

Comprehensive Timeline of Medieval Indian History: From Early Invasions to the Mughal Decline 1. Early Medieval Period (c. 700 – 1206 CE) This era is defined by the struggle for supremacy between regional powers and the first waves of Islamic invasions. 712 CE: Muhammad bin Qasim (Arab) invades Sindh; first Muslim invasion of India. 750 – 1150 CE: Reign of the Palas in Eastern India (Founder: Gopala). Known for patronising Buddhism (Vikramshila University). 752 – 973 CE: Rashtrakutas of Manyakheta (Founder: Dantidurga). Famous for the Kailasa Temple at Ellora. 8th – 10th Century: Tripartite Struggle between the Palas, Pratiharas, and Rashtrakutas for control over Kannauj. 850 – 1279 CE: Rise of the Imperial Cholas (Founder: Vijayalaya). Peak under Rajaraja I and Rajendra I. 1000 – 1027 CE: Mahmud of Ghazni conducts 17 raids into India; destroys the Somnath Temple (1025 CE). 1191 CE: First Battle of Tarain – Prithviraj Chauhan defeats Muhammad Ghori. 1192 CE: Second Battle of Tarain – Muhammad Ghori defeats Prithviraj Chauhan, laying the foundation of Muslim rule. 2. The Delhi Sultanate (1206 – 1526 CE) Five successive dynasties ruled from Delhi during this period. Dynasty Period Key Highlights Slave (Mamluk) 1206–1290 Founded by Qutubuddin Aibak; consolidated by Iltutmish; Razia Sultan (first female ruler). Khilji 1290–1320 Founded by Jalaluddin; peak under Alauddin Khilji (Market reforms, southern expeditions). Tughlaq 1320–1414 Founded by Ghiyasuddin; Muhammad bin Tughlaq (Token currency, capital shift); Firoz Shah Tughlaq (Canals). Sayyid 1414–1451 Founded by Khizr Khan. Lodi 1451–1526 Founded by Bahlul Lodi; Sikandar Lodi founded Agra; Ibrahim Lodi (last Sultan). 1336 & 1347 CE: Rise of the Vijayanagara Empire (Harihara & Bukka) and Bahmani Kingdom in the South. 1398 CE: Invasion of Timur (Tamerlane) during the reign of Nasiruddin Mahmud Tughlaq. 3. The Mughal Empire (1526 – 1707 CE) The peak of centralised imperial power and Indo-Islamic architecture. 1526 CE: First Battle of Panipat – Babur defeats Ibrahim Lodi; foundation of the Mughal Empire. 1539 & 1540 CE: Battles of Chausa and Bilgram – Sher Shah Suri defeats Humayun; establishment of the Sur Empire (1540–1555). 1556 CE: Second Battle of Panipat – Akbar (under Bairam Khan) defeats Hemu. 1576 CE: Battle of Haldighati – Mughals defeat Maharana Pratap. 1605 – 1627 CE: Reign of Jahangir; arrival of British Captain William Hawkins and Sir Thomas Roe. 1628 – 1658 CE: Reign of Shah Jahan; "Golden Age" of Mughal architecture (Taj Mahal). 1658 – 1707 CE: Reign of Aurangzeb; empire reaches maximum extent; rise of the Marathas under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. 4. Later Mughals & The Transition (1707 – 1857 CE) 1707 CE: Death of Aurangzeb; beginning of the decline of Mughals. 1739 CE: Invasion of Nadir Shah; takes away the Peacock Throne and Koh-i-Noor diamond. 1757 CE: Battle of Plassey – British East India Company defeats Siraj-ud-Daulah; start of British political influence. 1761 CE: Third Battle of Panipat – Ahmad Shah Abdali defeats the Marathas. 1857 CE: The Great Revolt; Bahadur Shah Zafar (the last Mughal) is deposed, ending the medieval period.  

GK Notes

Comprehensive Timeline of Ancient Indian History: Pre-Harappan to the Post-Gupta Era

Comprehensive Timeline of Ancient Indian History: Pre-Harappan to the Post-Gupta Era 1. Prehistoric Era (c. 2 Million BCE – 3300 BCE) This period marks the evolution of early humans and the transition from hunting-gathering to settled farming. Palaeolithic Period (c. 2 Million – 10,000 BCE): Use of rough stone tools; discovery of fire. Key sites include Bhimbetka (rock shelters) and the Narmada Valley. Mesolithic Period (c. 10,000 – 8,000 BCE): Use of microliths (small stone tools); beginning of animal domestication. Neolithic Period (c. 8,000 – 3,300 BCE): Introduction of agriculture, polished stone tools, and pottery. Mehrgarh (in modern-day Pakistan) is one of the earliest farming villages. 2. Proto-History: The Indus Valley Civilisation (c. 3300 – 1300 BCE) Known as the Bronze Age of India, this was the first urbanisation of the subcontinent. Early Harappan Phase (3300 – 2600 BCE): Initial transition to urban life; early scripts and trade networks. Mature Harappan Phase (2600 – 1900 BCE): The peak of the civilisation with planned cities like Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, Lothal, and Dholavira. Known for advanced drainage and metallurgy. Late Harappan Phase (1900 – 1300 BCE): Gradual decline, possibly due to climate change or shifting river courses. 3. The Vedic Period (c. 1500 – 600 BCE) The arrival/emergence of Indo-Aryan cultures and the composition of the foundational texts of Hinduism. Early Vedic Period (1500 – 1000 BCE): Composition of the Rigveda. Society was semi-nomadic and tribal (Janas). Later Vedic Period (1000 – 600 BCE): Transition to settled agriculture; use of iron tools. Emergence of the caste system (Varna) and kingdoms like Kuru and Panchala. 4. The Second Urbanisation & Mahajanapadas (c. 600 – 322 BCE) A period of intense intellectual and political ferment. 600 BCE: Emergence of the 16 Mahajanapadas (Great Kingdoms). Rise of Religions: Life of Vardhamana Mahavira (Jainism) and Gautama Buddha (Buddhism). Magadha Supremacy: Rise of the Haryanka, Shishunaga, and Nanda dynasties. 326 BCE: Invasion of India by Alexander the Great. 5. The Mauryan Empire (c. 322 – 185 BCE) The first empire to unify most of the Indian subcontinent. 322 BCE: Chandragupta Maurya founds the empire with the help of Chanakya (Kautilya). 268 – 232 BCE: Reign of Ashoka the Great. After the Kalinga War, he converted to Buddhism and spread its message through rock and pillar edicts. 185 BCE: The last Mauryan king, Brihadratha, is assassinated by Pushyamitra Shunga. 6. Post-Mauryan Period & Middle Kingdoms (c. 185 BCE – 320 CE) A period of regional kingdoms and foreign incursions. North/Central India: Shunga (185–73 BCE) and Kanva (73–28 BCE) dynasties. South India: Rise of the Satavahana Empire and the Sangam Age (Cholas, Cheras, and Pandyas). Foreign Invasions: Arrival of the Indo-Greeks, Shakas (Scythians), and Parthians. Kushan Empire (c. 30 – 375 CE): Reached its peak under Kanishka, who patronised Buddhism and the Gandhara school of art. 7. The Gupta Empire: The Golden Age (c. 320 – 550 CE) Characterised by immense progress in science, mathematics, and Sanskrit literature. 320 CE: Chandragupta I founds the Gupta era. Samudragupta: Known as the "Indian Napoleon" for his extensive conquests. Chandragupta II (Vikramaditya): A patron of the "Nine Gems" (including Kalidasa). Innovations: Development of the decimal system, the concept of zero, and the Aryabhatiya. 8. Post-Gupta & Early Medieval Transition (c. 550 – 750 CE) The decentralisation of power and the rise of powerful regional dynasties. Vardhana Dynasty: Harshavardhana (606–647 CE) briefly unified Northern India. Deccan & South: Rise of the Chalukyas of Badami and the Pallavas of Kanchi. 712 CE: The Arab conquest of Sindh by Muhammad bin Qasim, marking the beginning of the end of the "Ancient" era.  

Edutips Daily CA Bullet Points (20 December 2025)

🗞️Edutips Daily CA Bullet Points (20 December 2025) 1) 🇮🇳National SHANTI Bill Progress: Following the passage of the Atomic Energy (SHANTI) Bill, 2025, the government has initiated talks with major Indian private conglomerates to discuss framework agreements for small modular reactors (SMRs). Viksit Bharat-Gramin Mission: The Ministry of Rural Development has released the preliminary guidelines for the new 'VB-G RAM G' framework, which focuses on skill-linked wage employment to replace the older MGNREGA model. Delhi AQI: Despite slight improvements, the Air Quality Index in Delhi-NCR remains in the 'Very Poor' category, keeping the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) III measures in place. 2) 🌍International India-Oman Strategic Partnership: Following the CEPA signing, India and Oman have agreed to a new maritime security roadmap, focusing on anti-piracy and joint patrolling in the Western Indian Ocean. WHO Traditional Medicine Summit: The summit concluded in New Delhi with a global commitment to integrate traditional medicine into mainstream public health systems using evidence-based data. UN Resolution on AI: The UN General Assembly has adopted a new consensus-driven resolution on the "Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence" for sustainable development. 3) 💰Economy Rupee Update: The Indian Rupee (INR) showed minor recovery but remains weak at Rs.90.75 against the US Dollar due to continued selling by Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs). FDI in Insurance: Following the landmark Bill allowing 100% FDI, the IRDAI (Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India) has started reviewing applications from global firms looking to increase their equity in Indian ventures. Exports Data: India's service exports grew by 12% in the last quarter, helping to mitigate the widening merchandise trade deficit. 4) 🗓️Date’s Importance: 20 December International Human Solidarity Day: Proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 2005, this day celebrates unity in diversity and raises awareness about the importance of solidarity in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 5) 👱‍♂️👩‍🦳Person of the Day Maria Corina Machado: The Venezuelan opposition leader remains a central figure in global news following her Nobel Peace Prize ceremony, symbolising the struggle for democratic restoration in South America. 6) 🏅Sports National Finswimming Championship: The 5th edition continues in Mangaluru with West Bengal leading the medal tally in the senior categories. IPL 2026 Auction: Analysts are highlighting the record-breaking valuations of Indian all-rounders as teams finalise their core squads for the upcoming season. 7) 🏆Awards Order of Oman: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with the highest civilian honour of Oman during his visit to Muscat. Sahitya Akademi Awards: (Recap) Discussion continues on the recent winners in various Indian languages, a key topic for static GK in exams. 8) ⭐️Other Important Significance Winter Solstice Eve: Today is the day before the Winter Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, the shortest day of the year, marked by various cultural observances across India. 📚Word of the Day: RESILIENT Meaning: Able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions. • • Usage in Exams: "The Indian economy has proved to be resilient amidst global inflationary pressures and supply chain disruptions."

ഓണാശംസകൾ

Wishing all my dear students a very Happy Onam! May this festival fill your hearts with joy, unity, and hope, reminding you that every new beginning is an opportunity to grow and shine. Stay committed to your dreams, face every challenge with determination, and let your efforts this year bring you success and happiness. Have a wonderful Onam, and may you always find inspiration and strength on your learning journey.

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