Test: New Empires and Kingdoms - Class 6 MCQ

Harsha made significant contributions to the academic and cultural landscape by fostering institutions like Nalanda University, which became a prominent center for Buddhist learning and attracted scholars from various regions.

Samudragupta is noted for his military prowess, particularly for defeating 12 kings from the south and east, which expanded his influence and authority throughout the region, showcasing his strength as a ruler.

A significant feature of the Gupta administration was the hereditary nature of many official posts, allowing positions to be passed down through families, which helped maintain continuity in governance.

The 'navratnas,' or nine gems, were a group of eminent scholars and poets in Chandragupta II’s court, including the famous poet Kalidasa. They contributed significantly to the cultural and intellectual environment of the Gupta Empire.

The Chalukyas had a more decentralized governance structure compared to the Gupta Empire, which allowed for local assemblies and village governance to play a significant role in administration, facilitating more localized decision-making.

Samudragupta followed Hinduism but was known for his religious tolerance, allowing other faiths to coexist within his empire, including Buddhism, which illustrates the pluralistic nature of Gupta society.

The Chalukyas rose to prominence in South India following the decline of the Gupta Empire, becoming a significant power in the region and contributing to its cultural and political landscape.

The Pallavas implemented a unique system of local governance through village assemblies, such as the sabha and ur, which managed various local affairs, including agriculture and irrigation, showcasing an organized administrative structure.

The primary occupation of most people in the Gupta Empire was agriculture. The agrarian economy formed the backbone of society, with farmers being essential for sustaining the population and generating revenue for the state.

The Ashwamedha yajna was a royal ceremony performed by rulers like Samudragupta to assert their political supremacy. It involved the release of a consecrated horse, symbolizing the king's authority and power over his domain.

The Gupta period is often referred to as a golden age due to the flourishing of art, literature, and scholarly activities. This era saw the creation of significant works in poetry, drama, and advancements in science and mathematics.

Chandragupta II, also known as Vikramaditya, is credited with taking the Gupta Empire to its zenith through military conquests and strategic marriage alliances, enhancing its wealth and cultural prominence.

Chandragupta I was the first significant ruler of the Gupta Empire, coming to power around 320 CE. He is known for reviving the governance principles of the earlier Mauryan Empire and laying the foundation for Gupta rule in northern India.

The decline of the Gupta Empire was significantly influenced by invasions from the Huns, which weakened its military and political structure, leading to fragmentation and the rise of smaller kingdoms in northern India.

The Aihole inscription is significant as it details the accomplishments and lineage of Pulakesin II, showcasing the power and military successes of the Chalukyan dynasty during its peak.

Harsha was notable for unifying the kingdoms of Thanesar and Kanauj, making Kanauj his capital. His reign marked a period of cultural and religious tolerance, and he was a patron of literature and the arts.

The Prayag Prashasti, also known as the Allahabad pillar inscription, is a vital archaeological source that provides insights into the Gupta Empire's history and its rulers, particularly through the writings of the court poet Harisena.

Agriculture served as the main revenue source for the Gupta Empire, supporting the economy and providing sustenance for the population. Taxes from agriculture helped fund the administration and military.

Chandragupta II married a Naga princess to strengthen alliances, which was a common strategy among rulers to cement political ties and enhance their influence over neighboring regions.

Travelers like Fa-Hien described the lifestyle of Gupta-period people as characterized by honesty, simplicity, and prosperity, indicating a relatively peaceful society with fewer restrictions compared to other periods.