Class 7 Social Science Chapter 5 HOTS Questions - The Rise of Empires

Q1: How did the rise of the Maurya Empire influence trade and the economy in India?
Ans:

• 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.

Maurya Empire

Q2: Compare the governance structures of the Maurya Empire under Chandragupta and Ashoka. How did their approaches differ?
Ans:

• 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.

Q3: How would you apply the governance model of the Mauryas to a modern democratic nation to ensure prosperity and peace?
Ans:I

• 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.

Q4: 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?
Ans:

• 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.

Q5: Why do you think Ashoka’s transition from a warrior to a promoter of peace had a lasting impact on India and beyond?
Ans:

• 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.

Q6: What might have been the consequences for the Maurya Empire if Ashoka had not chosen the path of non-violence after the Kalinga war?
Ans:

• 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.

Q7: Design a historical exhibit to showcase the contributions of the Maurya Empire to Indian culture, governance, and society. What elements would you include?
Ans: 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.