[Topic wise IAS Ancient Indian History Question Bank (1979-2015)]: (6) Period of Mahajanapadas

Period of Mahajanapadas: Formation of States (Mahajanapada) : Republics and monarchies; Rise of urban centres; Trade routes; Economic growth; Introduction of coinage; Spread of Jainism and Buddhism; Rise of Magadha and Nandas. Iranian and Macedonian invasions and their impact.
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1.  What were the causes of the origin of the heterodox sects in the sixth century BC? [1984, 20m]

2. Discuss the social & economic factors for the rise of Buddhism. How far was it influenced by Upnisadic thought? [1987, 60m]

3. Write a short essay on: “The intellectual revolution in the Sixth Century B.C.” [1988, 20m]

4. Trace the rise of Magadhan imperialism up to the times of the Nandas with particular reference to its policy towards the non-monarchical state. Discuss the factors that contributed to its success. [1990, 60m]

5. Give an account of the republics in the pre-Maurya period. Discuss the factors which contributed to their decline. [1992, 60m]

6. Write a short essay on:  “Essence of early Jainism” [1995, 20m]

7. Write a short essay on:  “Social and economic conditions of North India during the Pre-Mauryan period (600-325 B.C.).” [1996, 20m]

8. What role did iron play in changing their political and economic life? [1998, 60m]

9. “The Sixth century B.C. was a period of religious and economic unrest in India.” Comment. [2003, 60m]

9. Write what you know of the rise and spread of Buddhism before the first century A.D. [2007, 60m]

10. Trace the development of urbanization from the third millennium B.C.E. to 6th century B.C.E. [2011, 60m]

11. Evaluate the introduction of iron technology in the development of human history of ancient India. [2011, 20m]

12. Assess the importance of Jain tenets and their relevance to humanity. [2011, 30m]

13. Buddha’s  teachings  to  a  large  extent  could  be  helpful  in  understanding  and  resolving the problems of today’s society. Analyse critically. [2014, 15m]

14.  How far is it correct to say that changes in the post-Vedic economy gave birth to new religious movements in India? [2015, 15m]