Mauryan Empire MCQ: Set of Objective Questions With Answers
Welcome to our Mauryan Empire MCQ series! These carefully crafted questions will take you on an interactive journey, testing your knowledge about the intriguing history, rulers, significant events, and cultural aspects of the Mauryan dynasty.
These questions are designed to help you explore various aspects of the Mauryan Empire, from its influential rulers to the significant events that shaped its legacy.
Answering these multiple-choice questions will take you through the Mauryan Empire's timeline, teaching you about its ages, notable leaders, key events, and significant contributions to religion and architecture.
But before starting take the help of the table attached below to refresh your memory!
Important key points of the Mauryan Empire:
| Aspect | Importance |
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| People |
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| Era | 321 BCE - 185 BCE- The Mauryan Empire |
| Ages | Represent ancient Indian history, Mauryan dynasty |
| Sites & Places |
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| Books |
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| Religions |
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1. Who founded the Mauryan Empire?
[A] Ashoka
[B] Bindusara
[C] Chandragupta Maurya
[D] Brihadratha
Answer: [C] Chandragupta Maurya
Explanation: The Mauryan Empire was founded by Chandragupta Maurya in 322 BCE. He was a remarkable ruler and strategist who expanded his kingdom across a significant portion of India.
2. Which ancient thinker served as the chief minister to Chandragupta Maurya?
[A] Kautilya
[B] Chanakya
[C] Megasthenes
[D] Fa-Hien
Answer: [B] Chanakya
Explanation: The ancient thinker who served as the chief minister to Chandragupta Maurya was Chanakya, also known as Kautilya or Vishnugupta. Chanakya's teachings and guidance were instrumental in shaping Chandragupta's policies and governance.
3. Which event marked a significant turning point in Emperor Ashoka's reign?
[A] The Kalinga War
[B] The Battle of Taxila
[C] The Battle of Ujjain
[D] The Battle of Pataliputra
Answer: [A] The Kalinga War
Explanation: A significant turning point in Emperor Ashoka's reign was the Kalinga War. This war, fought around 261 BCE, was a pivotal moment for Ashoka.
4. What geographical factors surrounded the Mauryan Empire on three sides?
[A] Mountains and rivers
[B] Deserts and forests
[C] Oceans and seas
[D] Plateaus and valleys
Answer: [A] Mountains and rivers
Explanation: To the north of the Mauryan Empire lay the imposing Himalayan mountain range, acting as a natural barrier that provided protection from invasions and encroachments from regions beyond. To the west Hindu Kush mountain range and the North-Western frontier, and to the south and east- the Indian Ocean and Deccan Plateau.
5. Who was the grandson of Ashoka who succeeded him?
[A] Dasharatha Maurya
[B] Mahinda
[C] Kunala Maurya
[D] Samprati
Answer: [D] Samprati
Explanation: After Ashoka's rule, his grandsons, namely Dasharatha and Samprati, ascended to the throne. Dasharatha followed Ashoka's legacy and ruled the Mauryan Empire after his grandfather's reign.
6. Which ruler was known as the 'killer of enemies'?
[A] Ashoka
[B] Chandragupta Maurya
[C] Bindusara
[D] Brihadratha
Answer: [C] Bindusara
Explanation: Bindusara, the son of Chandragupta Maurya and the father of Ashoka was indeed known as "Ajatasatru" or the "Slayer of Enemies." He was given this title due to his military conquests and his ability to handle internal and external threats to the Mauryan Empire during his reign.
7. What was the primary focus of Ashoka's Dhamma policy?
[A] Aggression and expansionism
[B] Emphasis on non-violence
[C] Promoting war and conquests
[D] Establishing monarchy
Answer: [B] Emphasis on non-violence
Explanation: Ashoka's Dhamma policy was primarily focused on promoting ethical and moral principles, religious tolerance, social welfare, and non-violence (Ahimsa). It aimed to ensure the well-being and happiness of his subjects by advocating principles of righteousness, compassion, and tolerance across his vast empire.
8. Which religion did Chandragupta Maurya adopt towards the end of his life?
[A] Hinduism
[B] Jainism
[C] Buddhism
[D] Brahmanism
Answer: [B] Jainism
Explanation: Chandragupta Maurya renounced his throne and material possessions toward the end of his life, embracing Jainism. He relinquished his royal duties and adopted a life of asceticism, following the teachings of Jainism, a religious path focused on non-violence (Ahimsa), austerity, and spiritual enlightenment. Under the guidance of the Jain monk Bhadrabahu, Chandragupta Maurya lived as a Jain ascetic until his death.
9. Which emperor constructed the Sanchi Stupa?
[A] Ashoka
[B] Bindusara
[C] Chandragupta Maurya
[D] Brihadratha
Answer: [A] Ashoka
Explanation: The Sanchi Stupa was commissioned by Emperor Ashoka during his reign. It is one of the oldest stone structures in India and is a significant Buddhist monument. Ashoka, after embracing Buddhism following the Kalinga War, became a patron of the religion and initiated numerous construction projects, including the Sanchi Stupa, to spread Buddhist teachings and principles.
10. Which script was used for the Mauryan Edicts?
[A] Kharosthi
[B] Devanagari
[C] Brahmi
[D] Sanskrit
Answer: [C] Brahmi
Explanation: The script primarily used for the inscriptions of the Mauryan Edicts was the Brahmi script. This ancient script was employed by Emperor Ashoka to carve his edicts on pillars, rocks, and caves throughout his empire. The Brahmi script played a pivotal role in disseminating Ashoka's messages about moral values, social ethics, and the principles of Dhamma (righteousness) across various regions of ancient India.
11. What was the primary source of income for the Mauryan Empire?
[A] Trade and commerce
[B] Agriculture
[C] Industries and crafts
[D] Taxation on citizens
Answer: [B] Agriculture
Explanation: The Mauryan Empire derived its primary income from various sources, but agriculture was a significant contributor to its economy. The fertile lands across the empire supported extensive agricultural activities, providing revenue through taxes on produce and land. Land revenue, collected in the form of taxes, was a crucial source of income for the Mauryan administration.
12. Which province served as the capital of the Mauryan Empire?
[A] Taxila
[B] Tosali
[C] Ujjain
[D] Pataliputra
Answer: [D] Pataliputra
Explanation: Pataliputra, also known as present-day Patna in Bihar, India, served as the primary capital of the Mauryan Empire. Pataliputra was strategically located along the banks of the Ganges River and was a significant center of administration, trade, and culture during the Mauryan period. It played a crucial role as the political and economic hub of the empire, housing the royal palace and serving as the seat of governance for the Mauryan rulers.
13. Which art form was famous during the Mauryan period for its glossy finish?
[A] Stone sculptures
[B] Pottery
[C] Metal works
[D] Textile
Answer: [B] Pottery
Explanation: The art form known for its glossy finish during the Mauryan period was the Mauryan Polished Stone Sculpture. This particular form of sculpture was crafted using various types of stones, including sandstone and granite, and was notable for its fine, polished surface. Artisans achieved this glossy finish through meticulous polishing techniques, giving the sculptures a smooth and shining appearance. These sculptures depicted a variety of subjects, including figures of humans, animals, and deities, and were prevalent during the Mauryan era, showcasing the artistic excellence of that time.
14. Who presided over the 3rd Buddhist Council during the Mauryan period?
[A] Ashoka
[B] Mogaliputta Tissa
[C] Mahinda
[D] Sanghamitta
Answer: [B] Mogaliputta Tissa
Explanation: The Third Buddhist Council during the Mauryan period was presided over by Moggaliputta Tissa. This council, convened during the reign of Emperor Ashoka, aimed to address doctrinal disputes and to purify the Buddhist monastic community. Moggaliputta Tissa played a significant role in organizing this council and in clarifying Buddhist teachings and practices.
15. Which event led Ashoka to adopt Buddhism?
[A] The Battle of Kalinga
[B] The Battle of Pataliputra
[C] The Battle of Taxila
[D] The Battle of Ujjain
Answer: [A] The Battle of Kalinga
Explanation: Emperor Ashoka's adoption of Buddhism was primarily influenced by the profound impact of the Kalinga War. The brutality and devastation of this conflict deeply affected Ashoka when he witnessed the immense loss of life and suffering caused by the war. Overwhelmed by remorse and a sense of moral responsibility for the suffering inflicted, Ashoka experienced a transformative change in his perspective on life and governance.
16. What economic routes linked different regions of the Mauryan Empire?
[A] Silk routes
[B] Uttarapath and Dakshinapath
[C] Spice routes
[D] Maritime routes
Answer: [B] Uttarapath and Dakshinapath
Explanation:
Uttarapath and Dakshinapath were ancient trade routes within the Indian subcontinent during the Mauryan period:
Uttarapath: Also known as the Uttarapatha, it was a major trade route in ancient India that ran from the northwest to the northeast. The Uttarapath connected Taxila (in present-day Pakistan) to Pataliputra (in present-day Bihar, India), passing through various important cities and regions. This route facilitated trade, cultural exchange, and the movement of people and goods between different parts of the Mauryan Empire.
Dakshinapath: This term generally refers to the southern trade routes. While not as explicitly defined or documented as the Uttarapath, Dakshinapath likely encompassed various trade routes connecting southern regions within the Mauryan Empire. These routes facilitated trade between areas in the south, such as Magadha, and the southern regions of the Indian subcontinent.
17. Which empire succeeded the Mauryan Empire after its decline?
[A] Gupta Empire
[B] Shunga Empire
[C] Kushan Empire
[D] Chola Empire
Answer: [B] Shunga Empire
Explanation: After the decline of the Mauryan Empire, various regional powers emerged in different parts of the Indian subcontinent. One of the significant empires that succeeded the Mauryan Empire in northern India was the Shunga Empire. The Shunga dynasty rose to power around 185 BCE, following the decline of the Mauryan rule. Founded by Pushyamitra Shunga, a military general who assassinated the last Mauryan ruler, the Shunga Empire established its control over a considerable part of northern India. They ruled from their capital at Pataliputra (present-day Patna) and played a significant role in the political landscape of post-Mauryan India.
18. Who was responsible for killing Brihadratha Maurya, leading to the decline of the Mauryan Empire?
[A] Ashoka
[B] Chandragupta Maurya
[C] Pushyamitra Shunga
[D] Bindusara
Answer: [C] Pushyamitra Shunga
Explanation: Brihadratha Maurya, the last ruler of the Mauryan Empire, was assassinated by his military general Pushyamitra Shunga. Pushyamitra Shunga subsequently founded the Shunga dynasty and took control after eliminating Brihadratha Maurya, marking the end of the Mauryan Empire and the beginning of the Shunga Empire in northern India.
19. Which religion did Samprati, Ashoka's grandson, support?
[A] Buddhism
[B] Hinduism
[C] Jainism
[D] Brahmanism
Answer: [C] Jainism
Explanation: Samprati, Ashoka's grandson and successor to the Mauryan throne, is believed to have been a follower and patron of Jainism. He is noted in Jain texts and historical accounts for his support and patronage of Jainism, contributing to the growth and development of Jain communities during his rule. Samprati's reign is considered significant for the spread and promotion of Jain teachings and principles.
20. What was the primary source of the Mauryan Empire's decline according to historical theories?
[A] Economic crisis
[B] External invasions
[C] Religious conflicts
[D] Administrative issues
Answer: [A] Economic crisis
Explanation:
The decline of the Mauryan Empire is attributed to various factors proposed by historical theories:
Dynastic Instability: After Ashoka's reign, the empire faced internal struggles related to succession. Weak successors and internal conflicts within the ruling family might have weakened the stability of the empire.
Administrative and Economic Challenges: Maintaining a vast empire required efficient administration and economic stability. Some theories suggest that administrative inefficiencies, corruption, and economic difficulties might have contributed to the decline.
External Invasions and Revolts: The Mauryan Empire faced external threats and revolts from regional powers and tribes on its frontiers. These conflicts, coupled with the strain on the empire's resources to defend its borders, might have weakened its strength.
Social Unrest and Uprisings: Social unrest among the population, possibly due to unequal distribution of wealth, dissatisfaction with the administration, or issues related to taxation, could have led to revolts and challenges to the central authority.
Religious Changes: The shift in rulers' religious preferences and policies might have impacted the empire. Ashoka's turn to Buddhism and subsequent rulers' potential divergence from his principles might have caused social and ideological tensions.
21. Which geographical barriers surrounded the Mauryan Empire?
[A] Deserts and rivers
[B] Oceans and valleys
[C] Mountains and rivers
[D] Plateaus and forests
Answer: [C] Mountains and rivers
Explanation: The Mauryan Empire was bordered by several geographical features that acted as natural barriers: Himalayas: The northern boundaries of the Mauryan Empire were protected by the formidable Himalayan mountain range. These towering peaks served as a natural barrier against invasions from Central Asia and provided some level of protection from northern adversaries. Hindu Kush and Northwestern Frontier: The Hindu Kush mountain range and the northwestern frontier acted as significant barriers to the west of the Mauryan Empire. These geographical features shielded the empire from potential invasions originating from regions in present-day Afghanistan and Central Asia. Indian Ocean: To the south of the Mauryan Empire, the Indian Ocean served as a natural boundary. While it wasn't a direct barrier in the traditional sense, the ocean had strategic importance in maritime trade and was a geographical boundary that limited direct contact with some external powers.
22. Who served as Chandragupta Maurya's chief minister and played a pivotal role in the empire's formation?
[A] Samprati
[B] Ashoka
[C] Chanakya
[D] Bindusara
Answer: [C] Chanakya
Explanation: Chandragupta Maurya's chief minister and a pivotal figure in the formation of the Mauryan Empire was Chanakya, also known as Kautilya or Vishnugupta. He was a renowned scholar, strategist, economist, and philosopher who played a crucial role in Chandragupta's rise to power.
23. Which ruler of the Mauryan Dynasty was referred to as "Amitraghata," meaning killer of enemies?
[A] Ashoka
[B] Bindusara
[C] Chandragupta Maurya
[D] Brihadratha
Answer: [B] Bindusara
Explanation: The Mauryan ruler referred to as "Amitraghata," meaning "destroyer of foes" or "killer of enemies," was Bindusara, the son of Chandragupta Maurya and the father of Emperor Ashoka. Bindusara gained this title due to his military conquests and his success in suppressing internal revolts and external threats during his reign. His prowess in subduing enemies and expanding the Mauryan Empire earned him the epithet "Amitraghata."
24. Which religion did Chandragupta Maurya adopt towards the end of his life, renouncing his throne?
[A] Buddhism
[B] Hinduism
[C] Jainism
[D] Brahmanism
Answer: [C] Jainism
Explanation: Chandragupta Maurya, toward the end of his life, renounced his throne and embraced Jainism. He abdicated the throne and chose a life of asceticism, following the teachings of Jainism under the guidance of the Jain monk Bhadrabahu. Chandragupta Maurya's conversion to Jainism led him to relinquish his worldly possessions and pursue a path of spiritual enlightenment as a Jain ascetic.
25. Who succeeded Ashoka as the ruler of the Mauryan Empire?
[A] Brihadratha
[B] Samprati
[C] Dasharatha Maurya
[D] Kunala Maurya
Answer: [B] Samprati
Explanation: After Ashoka, the ruler of the Mauryan Empire was his son, Dasaratha Maurya. Dasaratha succeeded Ashoka to the throne and ruled the Mauryan Empire after his father's reign. However, the subsequent rulers after Dasaratha couldn't maintain the same level of stability and power, contributing to the eventual decline of the Mauryan Empire. If you have the doubt that Samprati was the right answer- Samprati was not the immediate successor to Ashoka. Samprati was, indeed, Ashoka's grandson and was noted for his support of Jainism. However, he did not directly succeed Ashoka as the ruler of the Mauryan Empire. There might have been a lineage gap between Ashoka and Samprati in terms of ruling the empire, and other rulers might have occupied the throne in between. The specific details and rulers in the direct line of succession after Ashoka are not as definitively documented.
26. Which empire rose to power after overthrowing the last Mauryan ruler, Brihadratha?
[A] Gupta Empire
[B] Shunga Empire
[C] Kushan Empire
[D] Chola Empire
Answer: [B] Shunga Empire
Explanation: The Shunga Empire rose to power after overthrowing the last Mauryan ruler, Brihadratha. Pushyamitra Shunga, a general in the Mauryan army, assassinated Brihadratha and established the Shunga dynasty around 185 BCE. This event marked the end of the Mauryan Empire and the beginning of the Shunga dynasty's rule in northern India.
27. Where was the capital city of the Mauryan Empire situated?
[A] Pataliputra
[B] Ujjain
[C] Taxila
[D] Magadha
Answer: [A] Pataliputra
Explanation: The capital city of the Mauryan Empire was Pataliputra (modern-day Patna in Bihar, India). Pataliputra was strategically located along the banks of the Ganges River and served as the primary administrative, political, and economic center of the Mauryan Empire. It was a thriving city and a significant hub for trade, governance, and culture during the Mauryan period.
28. Which ancient text contains significant details about the Mauryan Dynasty by the author Megasthenes?
[A] Arthashastra
[B] Mahabharata
[C] Indica
[D] Ramayana
Answer: [C] Indica
Explanation: The ancient text that contains significant details about the Mauryan Dynasty and its administration by the author Megasthenes is known as the "Indika." Megasthenes, a Greek ambassador to the Mauryan court, wrote this work, providing valuable insights into the Mauryan Empire's governance, society, and culture. Unfortunately, the original work has been lost, and what remains are references and citations found in later works by other authors like Arrian and Diodorus Siculus. These references, however, provide crucial information about the Mauryan Empire during the time of Chandragupta Maurya and his successors.
29. Who served as Chandragupta Maurya's chief minister and made a substantial contribution to the Mauryan Empire?
[A] Samudragupta
[B] Ashoka
[C] Chanakya
[D] Pushyamitra Shunga
Answer: [C] Chanakya
Explanation: Chandragupta Maurya's chief minister and a significant figure in the formation and administration of the Mauryan Empire was Chanakya, also known as Kautilya or Vishnugupta. Chanakya was a scholar, strategist, economist, and political thinker who played a pivotal role in Chandragupta's rise to power.
30. Which religion did Chandragupta Maurya adopt towards the end of his life and renounced his throne?
[A] Buddhism
[B] Jainism
[C] Hinduism
[D] Zoroastrianism
Answer: [B] Jainism
Explanation: Chandragupta Maurya renounced his throne and adopted Jainism towards the end of his life. He relinquished his position as the emperor and chose to live as a Jain ascetic, following the teachings of Jainism under the guidance of the Jain monk Bhadrabahu. Chandragupta Maurya's conversion to Jainism led him to embrace a life of austerity and spiritual pursuits, renouncing worldly possessions and the responsibilities of rulership.
31. Which of these pillars and edicts were cut out of rock, showcasing the skills of the carver?
[A] Achaemenian pillars
[B] Ashokan pillars
[C] Indo-Greek pillars
[D] Gupta pillars
Answer: [B] Ashokan pillars
Explanation: Among the various pillars and edicts associated with the Mauryan Empire, the Rock Edicts are the ones that were cut out of natural rock surfaces. These inscriptions were directly carved onto rock surfaces, showcasing the remarkable skills of the craftsmen and carvers of that time. Emperor Ashoka had these edicts inscribed on natural rock formations and caves across different regions of his empire, spreading his messages and principles of Dhamma (righteousness), non-violence, and social welfare.
32. Which ruler of the Mauryan Empire is linked to the policy of Dhamma Vijay, emphasizing non-violence and ethical conduct?
[A] Chandragupta Maurya
[B] Bindusara
[C] Ashoka
[D] Brihadratha
Answer: [C] Ashoka
Explanation: The Mauryan ruler associated with the policy of Dhamma Vijay, emphasizing non-violence and ethical conduct, is Emperor Ashoka. After witnessing the suffering caused by the Kalinga War, Ashoka adopted a policy centered around Dhamma (righteousness), promoting peace, non-violence (Ahimsa), compassion, and moral conduct. The concept of Dhamma Vijay was a fundamental aspect of Ashoka's rule, focusing on moral conquest or victory achieved through righteous behavior rather than through military might. Ashoka's inscriptions, known as the Rock Edicts, conveyed these principles across his empire.
33. What was the primary source of income for the Mauryan Empire, based on land-related dues?
[A] Trade tariffs
[B] Taxation on industries
[C] Agricultural taxes
[D] Income from temples
Answer: [C] Agricultural taxes
Explanation: The primary source of income for the Mauryan Empire was land revenue. It was collected based on land-related dues and taxes imposed on agricultural produce. The Mauryan administration had a well-organized taxation system where land revenue played a crucial role in generating income for the empire. Taxes were levied on cultivated land, and a portion of agricultural produce was collected as revenue, contributing significantly to the empire's treasury and the maintenance of its administration and infrastructure.
34. Which ruler succeeded Ashoka but faced challenges leading to the decline of the Mauryan Empire?
[A] Samprati
[B] Brihadratha
[C] Bindusara
[D] Pushyamitra Shunga
Answer: [B] Brihadratha
Explanation: The immediate successor to Ashoka was his son, Dasaratha. However, after Dasaratha's rule, the Mauryan Empire faced challenges and subsequent rulers who couldn't maintain the same level of stability and power as their predecessors. This period saw internal conflicts, weak successors, and regional unrest that contributed to the gradual decline of the Mauryan Empire. The decline of central authority and the inability to effectively address internal and external threats led to the fragmentation and eventual disintegration of the empire.
35. Who initiated a mission to Sri Lanka that resulted in the propagation of Buddhism in that region?
[A] Ashoka
[B] Bindusara
[C] Chandragupta Maurya
[D] Brihadratha
Answer: [A] Ashoka
Explanation: The mission to Sri Lanka that led to the propagation of Buddhism in the region was initiated by Emperor Ashoka. He dispatched his son, Mahinda, and daughter, Sanghamitta, to Sri Lanka as missionaries to spread Buddhism. This mission played a pivotal role in the establishment and flourishing of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, influencing its culture, society, and religious practices.
36. Which river served as the eastern boundary of the Mauryan Empire?
[A] Ganges
[B] Yamuna
[C] Brahmaputra
[D] Bay of Bengal
Answer: [C] Brahmaputra
Explanation: The eastern boundary of the Mauryan Empire was delineated by the Brahmaputra River. This river, located in the eastern part of the Indian subcontinent, served as the natural boundary marking the eastern extent of the Mauryan Empire during its peak under Emperor Ashoka and his predecessors.
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