IAS Prelims 2014: Gs Paper I: Previous Year History Questions

1. The "dharma" and "rita" depict a central idea of ancient Vedic civilization of India. In this context, consider the following statements: 1. Dharma was a conception of obligations and of the discharge of one's duties to oneself and to others. 2. Rita was the fundamental moral law governing the functioning of the universe and all it contained. Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?

1 only

2 only

Both 1 and 2

Neither 1 nor 2

Both statements 1 and 2 are correct. Dharma in ancient Vedic civilization referred to the concept of fulfilling one's duties and obligations towards oneself and others. It encompassed the moral and ethical responsibilities individuals had in their personal and social lives. On the other hand, Rita represented the fundamental moral law that governed the functioning of the universe and everything within it. It was the cosmic order that ensured harmony and balance in the world. Therefore, both statements accurately describe the central ideas of dharma and rita in ancient Vedic civilization.

Explanation

Both statements 1 and 2 are correct. Dharma in ancient Vedic civilization referred to the concept of fulfilling one's duties and obligations towards oneself and others. It encompassed the moral and ethical responsibilities individuals had in their personal and social lives. On the other hand, Rita represented the fundamental moral law that governed the functioning of the universe and everything within it. It was the cosmic order that ensured harmony and balance in the world. Therefore, both statements accurately describe the central ideas of dharma and rita in ancient Vedic civilization.

2. Some Buddhist rock-cut caves are called Chaityas, while the others are called Viharas. What is the difference between the two?

Vihara is a place of worship, while Chaitya is the dwelling place of the monks

Chaitya is a place of worship, while Vihara is the dwelling place of the monks

Chaitya is the stupa at the far end of the cave, while Vihara is the hall axial to it

There is no material difference between the two

The explanation for the given correct answer is that in Buddhist rock-cut caves, Chaitya refers to a place of worship where religious rituals and ceremonies are conducted. On the other hand, Vihara is the dwelling place of the monks, serving as a residential area and a space for meditation and study. Therefore, the difference between the two is that Chaitya is for religious activities, while Vihara is for the monks' living and spiritual practices.

Explanation

The explanation for the given correct answer is that in Buddhist rock-cut caves, Chaitya refers to a place of worship where religious rituals and ceremonies are conducted. On the other hand, Vihara is the dwelling place of the monks, serving as a residential area and a space for meditation and study. Therefore, the difference between the two is that Chaitya is for religious activities, while Vihara is for the monks' living and spiritual practices.

3. The religion of early Vedic Aryans was primarily of

Bhakti

Image worship and Yajnas

Worship of nature and Yajnas

Worship of nature and Bhakti

The early Vedic Aryans primarily worshipped nature and performed Yajnas. Yajnas were sacrificial rituals performed to appease the gods and maintain harmony with nature. This form of worship involved offering various items such as grains, ghee, and animal sacrifices into a sacred fire. The belief in the power of nature and the importance of maintaining a harmonious relationship with it was central to their religious practices. The concept of Bhakti, which emphasizes devotion and personal connection with a deity, was not as prominent in the early Vedic period.

Explanation

The early Vedic Aryans primarily worshipped nature and performed Yajnas. Yajnas were sacrificial rituals performed to appease the gods and maintain harmony with nature. This form of worship involved offering various items such as grains, ghee, and animal sacrifices into a sacred fire. The belief in the power of nature and the importance of maintaining a harmonious relationship with it was central to their religious practices. The concept of Bhakti, which emphasizes devotion and personal connection with a deity, was not as prominent in the early Vedic period.

4. With reference to the history of philosophical thought in India, consider the following statements regarding Sankhya school: 1. Sankhya does not accept the theory of rebirth or transmigration of soul. 2. Sankhya holds that it is the self-knowledge that leads to liberation and not any exterior influence or agent. Which of the statements given above is /are correct?

1 only

2 only

Both 1 and 2

Neither 1 nor 2

The correct answer is 2 only. The Sankhya school of thought in India does not accept the theory of rebirth or transmigration of the soul. However, it does hold the belief that self-knowledge is what leads to liberation, rather than any external influence or agent.

Explanation

The correct answer is 2 only. The Sankhya school of thought in India does not accept the theory of rebirth or transmigration of the soul. However, it does hold the belief that self-knowledge is what leads to liberation, rather than any external influence or agent.

5. Which of the following characterizes/ characterize the people of Indus Civilization? 1. They possessed great palaces and temples. 2. They worshipped both male and female deities. 3. They employed horse-drawn chariots in warfare. Select the correct statement/ statements using the codes given below.

1 and 2 only

2 only

1, 2 and 3

None of the statements given above is correct

The correct answer is "2 only". This is because the statement "They worshipped both male and female deities" characterizes the people of the Indus Civilization. The other statements, "They possessed great palaces and temples" and "They employed horse-drawn chariots in warfare" are not supported by archaeological evidence and are therefore incorrect.

Explanation

The correct answer is "2 only". This is because the statement "They worshipped both male and female deities" characterizes the people of the Indus Civilization. The other statements, "They possessed great palaces and temples" and "They employed horse-drawn chariots in warfare" are not supported by archaeological evidence and are therefore incorrect.

6. Regarding the Indus Valley Civilization, consider the following statements: 1. It was predominantly a secular civilization and the religious element, though present, did not dominate the scene. 2. During this period, cotton was used for manufacturing textiles in India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1 only

2 only

Both 1 and 2

Neither 1 nor 2

The Indus Valley Civilization was predominantly a secular civilization, meaning that it was not dominated by religious elements. While religion was present, it did not dominate the scene. Additionally, during this period, cotton was indeed used for manufacturing textiles in India. Therefore, both statements 1 and 2 are correct.

Explanation

The Indus Valley Civilization was predominantly a secular civilization, meaning that it was not dominated by religious elements. While religion was present, it did not dominate the scene. Additionally, during this period, cotton was indeed used for manufacturing textiles in India. Therefore, both statements 1 and 2 are correct.

7. India maintained its early cultural contacts and trade links with Southeast Asia across the Bay of Bengal. For this pre-eminence of early maritime history of Bay of Bengal, which of the following could be the most convincing explanation/explanations?

As compared to other countries, India had a better strip-building technology in ancient and medieval times

The rulers of southern India always patronized traders, Brahmin priests and Buddhist monks in this context

Monsoon winds across the Bay of Bengal facilitated the Sea Voyages

Both (a) and (b) are convincing explanations in this context

Both (a) and (b) are convincing explanations in this context. India's superior strip-building technology in ancient and medieval times would have allowed for the construction of more advanced and efficient ships, making maritime trade and cultural exchanges easier. Additionally, the patronage of traders, Brahmin priests, and Buddhist monks by the rulers of southern India would have fostered strong relationships and encouraged the continuation of trade and cultural contacts with Southeast Asia.

Explanation

Both (a) and (b) are convincing explanations in this context. India's superior strip-building technology in ancient and medieval times would have allowed for the construction of more advanced and efficient ships, making maritime trade and cultural exchanges easier. Additionally, the patronage of traders, Brahmin priests, and Buddhist monks by the rulers of southern India would have fostered strong relationships and encouraged the continuation of trade and cultural contacts with Southeast Asia.

8. With reference to the history of ancient India, which of the following was/were common to both Buddhism and Jainism? 1. Avoidance of extremities of penance and enjoyment 2. Indifference to the authority of the Vedas 3. Denial of efficacy of rituals Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

1 only

2 and 3 only

1 and 3 only

1, 2 and 3

Both Buddhism and Jainism share the common belief of indifference to the authority of the Vedas, which refers to the ancient Hindu scriptures. They both deny the efficacy of rituals, emphasizing the importance of personal spiritual development and enlightenment rather than performing rituals for religious merit. However, they do not share the belief of avoidance of extremities of penance and enjoyment. Buddhism promotes the Middle Way, which advocates for avoiding extremes and finding balance, while Jainism emphasizes extreme asceticism and self-denial. Therefore, the correct answer is 2 and 3 only.

Explanation

Both Buddhism and Jainism share the common belief of indifference to the authority of the Vedas, which refers to the ancient Hindu scriptures. They both deny the efficacy of rituals, emphasizing the importance of personal spiritual development and enlightenment rather than performing rituals for religious merit. However, they do not share the belief of avoidance of extremities of penance and enjoyment. Buddhism promotes the Middle Way, which advocates for avoiding extremes and finding balance, while Jainism emphasizes extreme asceticism and self-denial. Therefore, the correct answer is 2 and 3 only.

9. With reference to the scientific progress of ancient India, which of the statements given below are correct? 1. Different kinds of specialized surgical instruments were in common use by 1st century AD. 2. Transplant of internal organs in the human body had begun by the beginning of 3rd century AD. 3. The concept of since of an angle was known in 5th century AD. 4. The concept of cyclic quadrilaterals was known in 7th century AD. Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

1 and 2 only

3 and 4 only

1, 3 and 4 only

1, 2, 3 and 4

The statement that different kinds of specialized surgical instruments were in common use by the 1st century AD is correct. This suggests that ancient India had made significant progress in the field of surgery during that time. The statement that the concept of sine of an angle was known in the 5th century AD is also correct, indicating that ancient Indian mathematicians had a good understanding of trigonometry. Lastly, the statement that the concept of cyclic quadrilaterals was known in the 7th century AD is correct, showing that ancient Indian mathematicians had knowledge of geometric shapes. Therefore, the correct answer is 1, 3, and 4 only.

Explanation

The statement that different kinds of specialized surgical instruments were in common use by the 1st century AD is correct. This suggests that ancient India had made significant progress in the field of surgery during that time. The statement that the concept of sine of an angle was known in the 5th century AD is also correct, indicating that ancient Indian mathematicians had a good understanding of trigonometry. Lastly, the statement that the concept of cyclic quadrilaterals was known in the 7th century AD is correct, showing that ancient Indian mathematicians had knowledge of geometric shapes. Therefore, the correct answer is 1, 3, and 4 only.

10. With reference to the guilds (Shreni) of ancient India that played a very important role in the country's economy, which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. Every guild was registered with the central authority of the State and the king was the chief Administrative authority on them. 2. The wages, rules of work, standards and prices were fixed by the guild. 3. The guild had judicial powers over its own members. Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

1 and 2 only

3 only

2 and 3 only

1, 2 and 3

In ancient India, guilds (Shreni) played a significant role in the economy. However, the first statement is incorrect as not every guild was registered with the central authority of the State and the king was not the chief administrative authority on them. The second statement is correct as guilds had the authority to fix wages, rules of work, standards, and prices. The third statement is also correct as guilds had judicial powers over their own members. Therefore, the correct answer is 2 and 3 only.

Explanation

In ancient India, guilds (Shreni) played a significant role in the economy. However, the first statement is incorrect as not every guild was registered with the central authority of the State and the king was not the chief administrative authority on them. The second statement is correct as guilds had the authority to fix wages, rules of work, standards, and prices. The third statement is also correct as guilds had judicial powers over their own members. Therefore, the correct answer is 2 and 3 only.

11. Which one of the following describes best the concept of Nirvana in Buddhism?

The extinction of the flame of desire

The complete annihilation of self

A state of bliss and rest

A mental stage beyond all comprehension

Nirvana in Buddhism is often described as a state of bliss and rest. It represents the ultimate goal of liberation from suffering and the cycle of rebirth. It is a state of enlightenment and peace, where one is free from attachments, desires, and the illusion of a separate self. This state is achieved through the practice of meditation, mindfulness, and the cultivation of wisdom and compassion. In Nirvana, one experiences a profound sense of peace, tranquility, and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Explanation

Nirvana in Buddhism is often described as a state of bliss and rest. It represents the ultimate goal of liberation from suffering and the cycle of rebirth. It is a state of enlightenment and peace, where one is free from attachments, desires, and the illusion of a separate self. This state is achieved through the practice of meditation, mindfulness, and the cultivation of wisdom and compassion. In Nirvana, one experiences a profound sense of peace, tranquility, and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

12. Which of the following statements is/are applicable to Jain doctrine? 1. The surest way of annihilating Karma is to practice penance. 2. Every object, even the smallest particle has a soul. 3. Karma is the bane of the soul and must be ended. Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

1 only

2 and 3 only

1 and 3 only

1, 2 and 3

The Jain doctrine believes in the practice of penance as the surest way to annihilate Karma. This means that by practicing self-discipline and self-control, one can free themselves from the consequences of their actions. Additionally, the doctrine views Karma as the bane of the soul that must be ended. This suggests that Karma is seen as a negative force that hinders spiritual progress and liberation. Therefore, the correct statements applicable to Jain doctrine are 1 and 3 only.

Explanation

The Jain doctrine believes in the practice of penance as the surest way to annihilate Karma. This means that by practicing self-discipline and self-control, one can free themselves from the consequences of their actions. Additionally, the doctrine views Karma as the bane of the soul that must be ended. This suggests that Karma is seen as a negative force that hinders spiritual progress and liberation. Therefore, the correct statements applicable to Jain doctrine are 1 and 3 only.

13. Lord Buddha's image is sometimes shown with the hand gesture called' Bhumisparsha Mudra'. It symbolizes

Buddha's calling of the Earth to watch over Mara and to prevent Mara from disturbing his meditation

Buddha's calling of the Earth to witness his purity and chastity despite the temptations of Mara

Both the statement (a) and (b) are correct in this context

The hand gesture called 'Bhumisparsha Mudra' is shown in Lord Buddha's image to symbolize his calling of the Earth to witness his purity and chastity despite the temptations of Mara. This gesture represents Buddha's ability to resist worldly desires and maintain his spiritual purity. By calling upon the Earth as a witness, Buddha emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's spiritual path and remaining steadfast in the face of temptation. This gesture serves as a reminder to his followers to strive for purity and resist the distractions of worldly existence.

Explanation

The hand gesture called 'Bhumisparsha Mudra' is shown in Lord Buddha's image to symbolize his calling of the Earth to witness his purity and chastity despite the temptations of Mara. This gesture represents Buddha's ability to resist worldly desires and maintain his spiritual purity. By calling upon the Earth as a witness, Buddha emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's spiritual path and remaining steadfast in the face of temptation. This gesture serves as a reminder to his followers to strive for purity and resist the distractions of worldly existence.

14. The Jain philosophy holds that the world is 'created 'and maintained by

Universal Law

Universal Truth

Universal Faith

Universal Soul

The Jain philosophy believes that the world is created and maintained by Universal Law. This suggests that there are certain fundamental principles or rules that govern the functioning of the universe. These laws are believed to be eternal and unchanging, and they guide the actions and behaviors of all living beings. By following these laws, individuals can attain spiritual liberation and live in harmony with the universe. Universal Law is considered essential in understanding the nature of existence and the path to enlightenment in Jainism.

Explanation

The Jain philosophy believes that the world is created and maintained by Universal Law. This suggests that there are certain fundamental principles or rules that govern the functioning of the universe. These laws are believed to be eternal and unchanging, and they guide the actions and behaviors of all living beings. By following these laws, individuals can attain spiritual liberation and live in harmony with the universe. Universal Law is considered essential in understanding the nature of existence and the path to enlightenment in Jainism.