The Mauryas Quiz

Who established the first ever empire in the history of India?

• Megasthenes

• Ashoka

• Bindusara

• Chandragupta Maurya

Answer explanation

Chandragupta Maurya established the first ever empire in the history of India.

Which book tells us about the political, social and economic conditions of life during the Mauryan period?

• Ramayana

• Bhagavad Gita

• Indika

• Arthashastra

Answer explanation

The book 'Indika' provides insights into the political, social, and economic conditions of life during the Mauryan period.

Who was the most famous Mauryan king and one of the greatest rulers ever?

• Chandragupta Maurya

• Bindusara

• Ashoka

• Kautilya

Answer explanation

Ashoka was the most famous Mauryan king and one of the greatest rulers ever. His reign was marked by significant achievements and he is known for his conversion to Buddhism and promotion of peace and welfare.

What was the turning point in the life of Ashoka?

• Becoming the king

• Defeating Seleucus Nicator

• Conquering Kalinga

• Building hospitals

Answer explanation

The turning point in Ashoka's life was conquering Kalinga, which led to his transformation and adoption of Buddhism.

What was the policy of Ashoka based on?

• Conquest through war

• Conquest through dharma

• Peace and tolerance

• War

Answer explanation

Ashoka's policy was based on conquest through dharma, which emphasized peace, tolerance, and moral principles.

What did Ashoka want to instil in the people through dhamma?

• Disrespect for elders

• Tolerance and co-existence

• Dishonesty

• Violence and hatred

Answer explanation

Ashoka wanted to instil tolerance and co-existence in the people through dhamma, promoting peace and harmony.

What did Ashoka build for the welfare of the people?

• Schools

• Rest houses, hospitals, and roads

• Temples

• Palaces

Answer explanation

Ashoka built rest houses, hospitals, and roads for the welfare of the people. These facilities provided essential services and infrastructure to improve the lives of the people.

What was the main source of income for the Mauryan Empire?

• Land revenue

• Overseas trade

• Tax from Pataliputra

• Trade

Answer explanation

The main source of income for the Mauryan Empire was land revenue.

What did the first census during the Mauryan reign list?

• People living in the empire and their occupations

• People living in the empire and their languages

• People living in the empire and their castes

• People living in the empire and their wealth

Answer explanation

The first census during the Mauryan reign listed the people living in the empire and their castes.

What was the capital of the Mauryan Empire?

• Taxila

• Ujjain

• Broach

• Pataliputra

Answer explanation

The capital of the Mauryan Empire was Pataliputra. It served as the political and administrative center of the empire.