Question Answers for Chapter 5 The Rise of Empires Class 7 Social Science Exploring Society: India and Beyond
Class 7 Science The Rise of Empires Extra Questions
Very Short Answer Questions
Question 1. Name the king who founded the Nanda dynasty.
Answer
Mahapadma Nanda founded the Nanda dynasty.
Question 2. Who defeated the Nanda Empire?
Answer
Chandragupta Maurya defeated the Nanda Empire.
Question 3. Who was Alexander the Great?
Answer
Alexander was a Greek king who invaded India in 327–325 BCE.
Question 4. Which Indian king did Alexander fight?
Answer
Alexander fought King Porus of the Pauravas in Punjab.
Question 5. Who was Kautilya?
Answer
Kautilya was Chandragupta Maurya’s mentor and advisor.
Question 6. Who helped Chandragupta Maurya in establishing the Maurya Empire?
Answer
Kauṭilya (Chanakya).
Question 7. What was the main contribution of Ashoka’s edicts?
Answer
Promoting Buddhist values and moral duties.
Question 8. Which battle made Ashoka choose non-violence?
Answer
The Kalinga War.
Question 9. What did tributary kingdoms offer to the emperor?
Answer
Tributary kingdoms gave tribute like gold, grain, or goods as a sign of loyalty.
Question 10. What was the role of the capital city in an empire?
Answer
The capital city was the center of administration and economy for the empire.
Question 11. Why did emperors build fortified cities?
Answer
Fortified cities protected borders and served as strong defense points.
Question 12. What kind of armies did emperors use?
Answer
Emperors used trained armies with elephants, horses, and iron weapons.
Question 13. What was the capital of the Magadha kingdom?
Answer
The capital of Magadha was Pataliputra.
Question 14. What is the Arthashastra?
Answer
The Arthashastra is a book by Kauṭilya on governance and economics.
Question 15. What does Saptanga mean?
Answer
Saptanga means “seven parts” of a kingdom according to Kauṭilya.
Question 16. How did emperors maintain control over diverse groups?
Answer
Emperors used fair laws and local governance to manage diverse people.
Question 17. What are guilds also known as?
Answer
Guilds were also known as shrenis.
Question 18. Who led the guilds?
Answer
Guilds were led by elected leaders and officers.
Question 19. What was the main purpose of trade routes?
Answer
Trade routes helped in movement of goods and increased taxes for the empire.
Short Answer Questions
Question 1. How did the Nanda dynasty contribute to the rise of the Maurya Empire?
Answer
The Nanda dynasty helped consolidate the region of Magadha, making it an ideal base for Chandragupta Maurya to rise to power and expand the empire.
Question 2. What was the role of Kauṭilya in the formation of the Maurya Empire?
Answer
Kauṭilya, also known as Chanakya, provided strategic advice, helped overthrow the Nandas, and guided Chandragupta in establishing and expanding the Maurya Empire.
Question 3. How did the Maurya Empire impact trade and administration?
Answer
The Mauryas built a strong administrative system and protected trade routes, facilitating economic growth, especially in trade and cities.
Question 4. What were Ashoka’s views on governance, as seen in his edicts?
Answer
Ashoka promoted moral governance based on dharma, emphasizing non-violence, justice, and the welfare of his people.
Question 5. Why was the Kalinga War significant for Ashoka’s rule?
Answer
The Kalinga War caused massive destruction, leading Ashoka to adopt Buddhism and promote peace, non-violence, and welfare through his edicts.
Question 6. Why was trade important for building and maintaining an empire?
Answer
Trade brought in money through taxes and allowed empires to afford large armies, roads, and ships. It also helped people get goods from faraway places and made cities grow richer.
Question 7. How did guilds (shrenis) support trade and society in ancient India?
Answer
Guilds helped traders and craftsmen work together, share resources, and support each other. They had their own rules and leaders and were often free from king’s control as long as trade flourished.
Question 8. What made Magadha a powerful kingdom before becoming an empire?
Answer
Magadha had fertile land, forests, rivers, and iron resources. These helped it grow crops, build weapons, and transport goods easily, making it a strong base for empire-building.
Question 9. How did the use of iron help in the growth of empires like Magadha?
Answer
Iron tools increased food production, and iron weapons made armies stronger. This allowed rulers to conquer more land and support growing populations.
Question 10. What happened when Alexander the Great invaded India?
Answer
Alexander fought and defeated King Porus but faced strong resistance. His soldiers refused to go further, and many died on the way back through deserts.
Question 11. How did the meeting between Alexander and Indian sages show cultural exchange?
Answer
Alexander met Indian sages called Gymnosophists, who impressed him with their wisdom. This meeting showed that ideas and philosophies were shared between cultures.
Question 12. What role did Megasthenes play in documenting the Mauryan Empire?
Answer
Megasthenes was a Greek ambassador in Chandragupta’s court. He wrote about India in his book Indika, describing cities, trade, and administration.
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| Megasthenes in the court of Chandragupta Maurya |
Question 13. Why did Chandragupta Maurya choose Pataliputra as his capital?
Answer
Pataliputra was located near rivers and trade routes. It had rich land, strong defenses, and was ideal for administration and expansion.
Question 14. What kind of government system did the Mauryas have?
Answer
The Mauryas had a centralized government with strict laws and a strong administration. Officials collected taxes, maintained order, and ensured people’s welfare.
Question 14. How did Aśhoka spread Buddhism beyond India?
Answer
After the Kalinga War, Aśhoka sent messengers to Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia. He promoted Buddhist values of peace and kindness across Asia.
Question 15. What were Aśhoka’s contributions to public welfare?
Answer
Aśhoka built rest houses, planted trees, and provided medical care. He banned hunting and sent officials to check on people’s well-being.
Long Answer Questions
Question 1. What was the importance of the Saptanga concept in governance according to Kauṭilya?
Answer
- The Saptanga concept, described by Kautilya in his Arthashastra, divides the state into seven parts: the king, ministers, territory, cities, army, treasury, and allies.
- These components worked together to ensure the kingdom’s prosperity and stability.
- The king’s leadership, supported by efficient administration and a strong army, was crucial for the protection and growth of the empire.
- The system helped in managing resources and dealing with external threats.
Question 2. Match the Column A with the correct option in Column B)
|
Column A |
Column B |
|
1. Maurya Empire |
(a) Kalinga War |
|
2. Ashoka’s Edicts |
(b) Chanakya’s political treatise |
|
3. Kautilya |
(c) Spread Buddhism |
|
4. Chandragupta Maurya |
(d) Pataliputra |
|
5. Ashoka |
(e) Administrative reforms |
Answer
|
Column A |
Column B |
|
1. Maurya Empire |
(d) Pataliputra |
|
2. Ashoka’s Edicts |
(c) Spread Buddhism |
|
3. Kautilya |
(b) Chanakya’s political treatise |
|
4. Chandragupta Maurya |
(e) Administrative reforms |
|
5. Ashoka |
(a) Kalinga War |
Explanations:
- 1 → d: The Maurya Empire had its capital in Pataliputra, from where governance was centralized)
- 2 → c: Ashoka’s edicts promoted the spread of Buddhism and moral values across the empire.
- 3 → b: Kauṭilya wrote the Arthashastra, a book on governance and strategy.
- 4 → e: Chandragupta Maurya introduced administrative reforms that helped manage the empire.
- 5 → a: Ashoka’s reign was marked by the Kalinga War, which led to his conversion to Buddhism and promotion of peace.
Question 3. What were the main challenges faced by empires like the Mauryas after the death of strong rulers like Aśhoka?
Answer
- After Aśhoka’s death, the Maurya Empire faced internal conflicts, weak rulers, and loss of control over distant regions.
- The lack of strong leadership and central authority led to revolts and the gradual fragmentation of the empire.
- Smaller kingdoms gained independence, and the empire’s unity weakened.
- The vast size of the empire also made it difficult to control, leading to a breakdown in the administration and defense, which contributed to its decline.
Question 3. Explain the role of warfare in the expansion of empires.
Answer
- Warfare was a primary tool for expansion in ancient empires.
- Empires like the Mauryas used their armies, including elephants and iron weapons, to conquer smaller kingdoms.
- Conquering new lands provided more resources, including wealth, land, and manpower.
- However, the desire for control over trade routes and strategic locations also motivated warfare, often resulting in the incorporation of diverse cultures and territories.
Question 4. How did Aśhoka’s policies reflect his commitment to peace and governance?
Answer
- Aśhoka’s policies after the Kalinga War showed his transformation into a proponent of peace and non-violence.
- He embraced Buddhism and promoted moral governance through his edicts, encouraging kindness, tolerance, and welfare for all.
- His edicts called for respect toward all religions and the fair treatment of citizens.
- Aśhoka’s reforms, such as healthcare for people and animals, planted trees along roads, and promoted education, reflected his deep concern for the well-being of his empire.
Question 5. How did the rise of the Maurya Empire influence trade and the economy in India?
Answer
- The rise of the Maurya Empire facilitated the growth of trade and the economy by securing important trade routes and establishing cities as economic hubs.
- The Mauryas controlled vast regions, including key river systems like the Ganga and the trade routes to the northwest and south, making it easier to transport goods like spices, textiles, and gems.
- The empire’s centralized administration and use of coins further standardized trade.
- Additionally, the Mauryas’ focus on infrastructure like roads and marketplaces boosted trade, making the empire wealthy and economically influential.
Question 6. Discuss the impact of Alexander’s invasion on India.
Answer
- Alexander’s invasion in 327-325 BCE had a limited long-term political impact but led to significant cultural exchanges.
- While Alexander defeated King Porus, he was unable to move further into India due to his soldiers' reluctance.
- Greek influence spread, especially in art, philosophy, and governance.
- His brief rule left satraps (governors) in control of northwest India, which later contributed to Indo-Greek cultural interactions and the spread of Hellenistic ideas.
Question 7. How did the Maurya Empire ensure social and economic welfare?
Answer
- The Maurya Empire focused on both social welfare and economic stability.
- Farmers were protected during wars, ensuring food production continued.
- The Mauryas also introduced a strong taxation system to fund public works, maintain the army, and promote trade.
- Artisans and merchants played a key role in the economy, and cities had markets, public buildings, and services like fire protection and water supply.
- The empire's governance model ensured the stability of both the economy and society.
Question 8. How did the development of art and architecture during the Mauryan period influence later Indian culture?
Answer
- Mauryan art and architecture laid the foundation for later cultural developments.
- The construction of stūpas, pillars, and edicts under Aśhoka’s rule set standards for architectural design and Buddhist symbolism.
- The Sarnath pillar, with its four lions, became India’s national emblem.
- These artistic traditions continued to influence Indian architecture in subsequent empires.
- The Mauryan period’s cultural achievements remain a lasting legacy in India’s art history.
Question 9. How would you apply the governance model of the Mauryas to a modern democratic nation to ensure prosperity and peace?
Answer
- In a modern democratic nation, the Maurya model of governance could be adapted by emphasizing a strong central government that ensures law and order while promoting economic prosperity.
- The Mauryas used a well-organized administrative system and fair taxation to fund essential infrastructure like roads and cities.
- Similarly, a modern government could invest in infrastructure development, support trade and agriculture, and use technology for efficient governance.
- Additionally, Ashoka's emphasis on social welfare and non-violence could inspire modern policies that prioritize the well-being of citizens, religious tolerance, and environmental sustainability.
Question 10. Design a historical exhibit to showcase the contributions of the Maurya Empire to Indian culture, governance, and society. What elements would you include?
Answer
The exhibit would be divided into three sections: Culture, Governance, and Society.
- In the Culture section, I would include sculptures, coins, and artifacts like the Sanchi Stupa and Ashoka’s Edicts. Interactive displays would show how Mauryan art and architecture influenced later Indian empires.
- In the Governance section, I would highlight the organizational structure of the Maurya Empire, using models of Patliputra, Ashoka’s edicts, and Kauṭilya’s Arthashastra. Visitors could learn about the empire's administrative system, military strategies, and policies of law and order.
- In the Society section, I would display items representing everyday life in the Maurya Empire, like tools, textiles, and pottery. A section on the spread of Buddhism and Ashoka’s role in promoting peace would also be featured.
The exhibit would have audio-visual elements like videos and VR tours of the ancient capital to bring the history to life.
Question 11. If you were tasked with preserving the Mauryan legacy in India, what steps would you take to protect its art, architecture, and culture for future generations?
Answer
- To preserve the Mauryan legacy, I would focus on the protection and restoration of important Mauryan monuments, like the Sanchi Stupa and the Pillars of Ashoka, which represent the empire's art and architecture.
- I would also promote educational programs that teach about the history of the Mauryas and their contributions to governance, economics, and culture.
- Additionally, I would encourage archaeological excavations to uncover more historical artifacts and ensure their protection in museums.
- Collaborating with local communities to maintain these sites as cultural heritage centers would help keep the Mauryan culture alive.
Question 12. How did trade routes contribute to the growth of empires like the Mauryas?
Answer
- Trade routes connected distant regions, allowing goods, ideas, and culture to move freely.
- The Maurya Empire controlled key trade routes like Uttarapatha and Dakṣiṇapatha, increasing wealth through taxes on trade.
- This economic prosperity helped fund the army and infrastructure, enabling the empire to grow and maintain power.
- Trade also fostered cultural exchange, enriching the empire’s society.
Question 13. Why do you think Ashoka’s transition from a warrior to a promoter of peace had a lasting impact on India and beyond?
Answer
- Ashoka’s transition from a warrior to a promoter of peace had a profound impact on India and beyond because it represented a shift in how power was exercised.
- After witnessing the destruction caused by the Kalinga war, Ashoka embraced Buddhism and focused on non-violence, moral leadership, and social welfare.
- His edicts promoted religious tolerance, welfare, and ethical governance, which influenced not just India but also countries like Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Central Asia, where Buddhism spread.
- His reign demonstrated that a ruler could prioritize the well-being of people over territorial expansion, leaving a lasting legacy of peace and ethical governance.
 |
| Edicts of Ashoka |
Question 14. What might have been the consequences for the Maurya Empire if Ashoka had not chosen the path of non-violence after the Kalinga war?
Answer
- If Ashoka had not chosen the path of non-violence after the Kalinga war, the Maurya Empire might have continued to expand through military conquests, but it could have led to further instability and resentment among the conquered peoples.
- The empire might have faced increased resistance, internal unrest, and the breakdown of the social order.
- Moreover, Ashoka’s loss of support from religious and cultural groups who valued peace could have weakened his rule.
- By embracing non-violence, Ashoka not only ensured stability within the empire but also left a lasting legacy of peace and tolerance that helped the empire last longer.
 |
| Trade Route in India |
Question 15. Compare the governance structures of the Maurya Empire under Chandragupta and Ashoka. How did their approaches differ?
Answer
- Chandragupta Maurya established a strong centralized monarchy with a large army and a focus on military conquests, expanding the empire significantly.
- His rule was characterized by a powerful state apparatus that controlled local rulers through tribute.
- Ashoka, on the other hand, shifted his focus to governance through peace and moral governance after the Kalinga war.
- He emphasized dharma (moral duties) and implemented laws to ensure the welfare of the people, promoting religious tolerance and non-violence.
Ashoka's governance was more inclusive and focused on the welfare of citizens, whereas Chandragupta's was more militaristic.