Important Questions for CBSE Class 6 Social Science Our Past Chapter 9 - New Empires And Kingdoms

Very Short Answer Questions: 1 Mark

1. Fill in the blanks-

(i) _______ noticed the plight of untouchables. 

Ans: Fa Xian - Fa Xian, a Chinese pilgrim, became aware of the situation of those who were classified as untouchables by the powerful.

(ii) ____ provided a vivid picture of king’s army. 

Ans: Banabhatta - Banabhatta was an Indian poet and prose writer who lived in the 7th century. He was the Asthana Kavi at the court of King Harsha Vardhana, who ruled north India from Sthanvishvara and afterwards Kannauj between 606 and 647 CE.

(iii) _____ was written by Kalidasa. 

Ans: Abhijnana Shakuntalam - Abhijnanashakuntalam, also known as Shakuntala, The Recognition of Shakuntala, The Sign of Shakuntala, and many other names, is a Sanskrit play by the ancient Indian poet Klidsa that dramatises the story of Sakuntala as told in the epic Mahabharata and is considered the best of Kalidasa's works.

(iv) The inscription of ____ mention about local assemblies.

Ans: Pallavas - The Pallava dynasty was an Indian dynasty that ruled a region of southern India from 275 to 897 CE. After the Satavahana dynasty, whom the Pallavas served as feudatories, they rose to power.

2. State True And False. 

(i) A prashasti was composed by Harishena in the praise of Gautamiputra Shri Satakarni. 

Ans: False - Harisena, the famed court poet of Gupta monarch Samudragupta, authored the prashasti in honour of Samudragupta, and his prashasti was the famous Allahabad prashasti, which depicts Samudragupta as a heroic warrior. 

(ii) Samudragupta was given tribute by the rulers of Aryavarta. 

Ans: False - Aryavarta literally means "abode of the Aryas," and the name was used for northern areas of the Indian subcontinent in ancient Hindu scriptures such as the Sutras and Dharmashastras.

(iii) Twelve rulers were ruling in Dakshinapatha. 

Ans: True - In Dakshinapatha, there were twelve rulers.

(iv) Pallavas capital was Aihole

Ans: False – At the height of Pallava supremacy, their realm stretched from northern Andhra Pradesh to the Kaveri River in the south, and they ruled from Kanchipuram.

3. Match The Following :-

Ans: 

i. 1700 years ago - Around 1700 years ago, Samudragupta was a notable monarch of the Gupta dynasty.

ii. 1400 years ago -  Nearly 1400 years ago, Harshavardhana ruled.

iii. Pallavas Capital - Kanchipuram, often known as Kanchi, is an ancient city in the Tamil Nadu state in southern India. Hindus regard it as a holy pilgrimage spot with numerous temples.

iv. Important centre in Gupta period - During the 4th and 5th centuries, Ujjain remained a significant Gupta metropolis. In his epic work Meghadta, Kalidasa, the famous Indian classical poet of the 5th century who lived during the reign of Gupta monarch Vikramaditya, depicts the richness of Ujjain and its people.

4. Choose the correct option 

(i) _______ wrote about Harshavardhan. 

a) Banabhatta

b) Xuan Zang

c) Ravikirti

d) All of the above 

Ans: (d) All of the above - Banabhatta, Xuan Zang, and Ravikirti are three authors who wrote about Harshavardhana.

(ii) Arab was_________

a) Desert 

b) Communication hub 

c) a and b both 

d) None of these

Ans: (c) a and b both - It is important to note that there is no such thing as a "one" Arab culture or society. The Arab world is brimming with rich and diverse cultures. The Arab world resembles a vast desert.

5. Define The Following 

(i) Prophet Muhammad 

Ans: Islam was first introduced to Arabia by Prophet Muhammad.

(ii) Harshavardhana 

Ans: Around 1400 years ago, Harshavardhana was a monarch.

Short Answer Questions 2 Marks 

6. Why Abhijnana Shakuntlam was Famous? 

Ans: Abhijnana Shakuntlam was popular because it was written by Kalidasa and was about a monarch and his marriage to a woodland girl.

7. What is the important teaching of Islam? 

Ans: Everyone is equal before Allah, according to Islam, and Allah is supreme.

8. What is Prashasti? 

Ans: Prashsati, a Sanskrit term that means "in honour of," has a significant connotation.

9. What are the names of different rulers described in Prashasti by Harishena? 

Ans: Prashasti discusses the rulers of Aryavarta, Dakshinpatha, and all other monarchs who govern within or outside of Aryavarta and Dakshinapatha's territories.

10. Who was the Indian astronomer and mathematician of 5th century AD. 

Ans: Chandrguupta 2 was the Indian astronomer and mathematician of 5th century AD.

Short Answer Question                                                                                    3 Marks 

11. Write a very short note on Harsha that was the ruler of Kannauj. 

Ans: Harshvardhana is abbreviated as Harsha. Around 1400 years ago, Haarshga ruled. Banabhatta was a well-known poet who served in his court. Harsha's biography was written by Banabhatta. Harshacharitra was the title of the biography. Historians learned about Harsha via a biography written during the Gupta dynasty.

12. Tell something about Chandragupta I. 

Ans: In the year 305 A.D., Chandragupta-I was born. Kumaradevi was the name of a Lichchhavi princess he married. He gained considerable authority and exploited it for his great influence as a result of this nuptial relationship. He began a series of military campaigns aimed at pushing the kingdom's borders westward. He declared himself Maharaj-adhiraja about 320 A.D. Many historians believe the Gupta dynasty began in the year 320 A.D. 

13. Tell something about Chandragupta-II. 

Ans: Chandragupta-II is generally connected with the year 58 BCE. This is due to Chandragupta-victory II's over the Shakas, which earned him the title of Vikramaditya. Chandragupta II was a fifth-century A.D. Indian astronomer and mathematician. Kusumapura was his home and workplace. Kushumapura is located in Bihar, near the present-day city of Patna. In the year 476 A.D., Chandragupta II was born in Kerala. He was a brilliant mathematician as well. Aryabhatyam was his monograph.

14. What was the political scenario after the fall of the Gupta Dynasty? 

Ans: The kingdom was divided into many tiny kingdoms as the Gupta dynasty fell apart. The collapse of the Gupta Empire was marked by massive upheaval that lasted for a long time. Following the demise of the Gupta Dynasty, minor kingdoms fought each other to expand their kingdoms and become rich and powerful. They were finally conquered by King Harshavardhana. Harshavardhana went on to build a great and powerful empire.

15. Why Harshavardhana could not expand his empire beyond the Deccan? 

Ans: Harshavardhana attempted to cross the Narmada River to conquer Deccan after conquering Magadha and Bengal. But he was halted by Pulakeshin-II, the Chalukya emperor. During this time, the Chalukyas were the most powerful monarchs in the south. The Chalukyas were affluent and strong. They possessed a large dynasty that spanned the Raichur Doad, which ran between the Krishna and Tungabhadra rivers. Harshavardhana was beaten by Pulakeshin-II.

Long Answer Questions                                                                                5 Marks 

16. Describe the assemblies that took place in southern kingdoms. 

Ans: The Pallavas' inscriptions mention a number of municipal assemblies. Rich and powerful landowners and merchants, it appears, were in charge of these gatherings. Sabha was a Brahmin landowners' assembly. It served a variety of functions and was organised into subcommittees that handled irrigation, agricultural development, road construction, and local temples, among other things. In locations where the landowners were not Brahmins, there was a village assembly. The Nagaram was a mercantile organisation.

17. What does the Prayag Prashasti lists about Samudragupta? 

Ans: Many of the prashastis written mention the ruler's ancestors. The Prayag Prashasti focuses on Samudragupta's military victories and achievements. Apart from that, it establishes Samudragupta's genealogy. This is the precise information we have at our disposal. These inscriptions also provide information about his state policy, which can be deduced from accounts of his conquered territories' practises. They also reveal details about his court and the individuals who attended. Samudrgupta is also equal to God in this prashasti. This Prashasti had a lot of big sentences in it. 

18. What were the administrative arrangements after the fall of Gupta Dynasty? 

Ans: Following the fall of the Gupta Dynasty, new administrative systems were implemented, including making administrative jobs hereditary. After the father, the mail was delivered to his son, and so on. Many offices could be held by one person. Harishena, who was also Mahadandanayaka and Kumar-Amatya, was the minister for war and peace. The key guys in the local administration had a say. The main banker or merchant of the city, NagaraShreshthi, the Sarthavaha or commercial caravan leader, chief craftsman, and head of the scribes were among the notable men. This administrative process indicates that a single person may have held multiple positions. The rules were relatively effective, but these great administrators grew in power and established their own kingdoms sooner or later. 

19. How Guptas administered their kingdom? Explain briefly. 

Ans: The administration had been greatly dispersed. With his council of ministers, the monarch governed at the top of the hierarchy. Provinces were established inside the kingdom. These were known as Bhuktis, and they were ruled by governors with the help of their officers. The Ayuktas administered these provinces, which were further divided into districts or Visayas. The villages, which were administered by the village elders, were at the bottom of the hierarchy. People were empowered enough at each level to make decisions that would make administration easier and more efficient.

20. What were the Prashatis and how did these help? 

Ans: Prashastis was a type of inscription that meant "in praise of." They were composed in honour of the rulers. A "Prashasti of Samudragupta" is a good example. It's a Sanskrit poetry written around 1700 years ago by his court poet Harisena. The Ashokan pillar in Allahabad bears this inscription. The poet has lavished adulation on the king. He is described as being on par with God. It details his conquests. The ruler's ancestors are also mentioned in most Prashastis. Harisena mentions Samudragupta's great grandpa, grandfather, father, and mother in the prashasti.

Chapter Summary - New Empires And Kingdoms

In Chapter 9 - 'New Empires and Kingdoms,' Class 6 students embark on a captivating journey through history. This chapter unfolds the tales of ancient empires and kingdoms, revealing the stories of remarkable rulers and diverse cultures. From the Mauryas in India to the Byzantines in Europe, young learners will discover the growth and influence of these mighty civilizations. Exploring the significance of trade, religion, and governance, students will gain valuable insights into the foundations of these powerful societies. As we delve into the past, the chapter provides an engaging exploration of the historical tapestry that has shaped our world.

10 Useful Mnemonics for Class 6 Chapter 9 - New Empires and Kingdoms

Unlock the secrets of history with these mnemonics for Chapter 9 - 'New Empires and Kingdoms.' From the mighty Mauryas to Byzantine brilliance, these memory aids will guide Class 6 students through the captivating tales of rulers, cultures, trade triumphs, and the rise of ancient realms.

1. Mighty Mauryas:

Mnemonic: Many Magnificent Monarchs Mastered Mauryan Majesty.

2. Byzantine Brilliance:

Mnemonic: Byzantium's Bright Buildings Bring Byzantine Beauty.

3. Cultural Connections:

Mnemonic: Connecting Cultures Creates Colorful Communities.

4. Trade Triumphs:

Mnemonic: Trade Tales Tell of Treasures and Triumphs.

5. Governance Guide:

Mnemonic: Good Governance Guarantees Growth.

6. Rise of Rome:

Mnemonic: Rome's Rise Resulted in Remarkable Realms.

7. Kingdom Keys:

Mnemonic: Kings Keep Kingdoms, Controlling Crowns.

8. Religion's Role:

Mnemonic: Religious Roots Reflect Rulers' Reverence.

9. Ancient Achievements:

Mnemonic: Amazing Ancients Achieved Astounding Accomplishments.

10. Historical Harmony:

Mnemonic: Harmonizing Histories Help Humanity Understand.

What are the Benefits of Important Questions from Vedantu for Class 6 Social Chapter 9 - New Empires and Kingdoms

Explore the benefits of Vedantu's Important Questions for Class 6 Social Chapter 9 - 'New Empires and Kingdoms,' designed to enhance your learning journey.

1. Focused Studying: Concentrate on vital topics within the chapter, ensuring efficient and targeted preparation for a clearer understanding.

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3. Concept Reinforcement: Strengthen your grasp on fundamental concepts as you work through questions that reinforce the historical narratives and cultural aspects covered in the chapter.

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6. Strategic Approach for Higher Scores: Adopt a strategic approach to your studies by focusing on essential questions, paving the way for improved performance and higher scores in examinations.

7.  Comprehensive Understanding: Cover a wide range of topics within 'New Empires and Kingdoms,' promoting a comprehensive understanding of the historical events, rulers, and cultures discussed in the chapter.

8. Confidence Boost: Utilize these questions as a supportive tool for exam preparation, ultimately boosting your confidence in tackling the challenges presented by the chapter's content.

Conclusion

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