Test: Can You Pass This Indian History Trivia Quiz?
Can you pass this Indian history trivia quiz? India is undoubtedly a country that cannot be forgotten in history books, and this is due to its effect on most of the sectors, be it political, economic, or religious. In the quiz below, you will get to take a journey back in time where you get to test your history knowledge. Do give it a try!
- 1.
The population of India is closest to:
- A.
100 million people
- B.
18 million people
- C.
1 billion people
- D.
600 million people
Correct Answer
C. 1 billion peopleExplanation
India is the second-most populous country in the world, with a population of over 1 billion people. Therefore, the correct answer is "1 billion people."Rate this question:
-
- 2.
Which of the following describes the problems associated with over population?
- A.
Competition for resources
- B.
Competition of religions
- C.
The division of people into castes
- D.
The arrangement of marriages
Correct Answer
A. Competition for resourcesExplanation
Overpopulation refers to a situation where the number of people in a particular area exceeds the available resources to sustain them. This leads to increased competition for resources such as food, water, and land, as there are not enough to meet the needs of everyone. This can result in scarcity, inequality, and conflicts over limited resources, ultimately leading to social, economic, and environmental problems.Rate this question:
-
- 3.
Which of the following is true about languages in India
- A.
There are 21 official languages in India and Hindi is the main language
- B.
English is the primary language of Indians
- C.
There are over 1000 languages and Arabic is the main language
- D.
Hindi is the only language spoken in India
Correct Answer
A. There are 21 official languages in India and Hindi is the main languageExplanation
India is a linguistically diverse country with 21 official languages recognized by the government. Hindi is one of the main languages spoken in India and holds a significant position. However, it is important to note that there are several other languages spoken across different regions of the country. Therefore, the statement that there are 21 official languages in India and Hindi is the main language is true.Rate this question:
-
- 4.
The unit of money used in India is the
- A.
Rupee
- B.
Dollar
- C.
Pound
- D.
Euro
Correct Answer
A. RupeeExplanation
The unit of money used in India is the Rupee. The Rupee is the official currency of India and is widely accepted and used for all financial transactions within the country. It is denoted by the symbol ₹ and is subdivided into 100 paise. The Reserve Bank of India is responsible for issuing and regulating the Rupee currency.Rate this question:
-
- 5.
The two major world religions that began in India are
- A.
Buddhism and Islam
- B.
Buddhism and Hinduism
- C.
Hinduism and Islam
- D.
Christianity and Hinduism
Correct Answer
B. Buddhism and HinduismExplanation
Buddhism and Hinduism are the two major world religions that began in India. Buddhism originated in the 6th century BCE with the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, also known as the Buddha. Hinduism, on the other hand, is one of the oldest religions in the world, dating back to ancient times in the Indian subcontinent. Both religions have had a significant influence on the culture, philosophy, and spirituality of India and have spread to various parts of the world.Rate this question:
-
- 6.
The religion practiced by the majority of Indians is
- A.
Christianity
- B.
Buddhism
- C.
Islam
- D.
Hinduism
Correct Answer
D. HinduismExplanation
The majority of Indians practice Hinduism, which is the oldest religion in the country. Hinduism is deeply rooted in Indian culture and traditions, and it encompasses a wide range of beliefs and practices. It is characterized by the worship of multiple deities, the belief in karma and reincarnation, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Hinduism has had a significant influence on Indian society, shaping its art, architecture, festivals, and social customs.Rate this question:
-
- 7.
The most commonly practiced religion in Pakistan and Bangladesh is
- A.
Christianity
- B.
Buddhism
- C.
Islam
- D.
Hinduism
Correct Answer
C. IslamExplanation
Islam is the most commonly practiced religion in Pakistan and Bangladesh because both countries have a majority Muslim population. Pakistan is an Islamic republic, with Islam being the state religion, and the majority of its population identifying as Muslims. Similarly, Bangladesh is a Muslim-majority country, with Islam being the state religion as well. The historical and cultural influences, as well as the significant Muslim populations in both countries, contribute to Islam being the most commonly practiced religion in Pakistan and Bangladesh.Rate this question:
-
- 8.
A monsoon is best described as
- A.
A hurricane that comes around every once in a while
- B.
A severe shortage of food
- C.
A seasonal wind system that produces wet and dry seasons
- D.
A violent wind tunnel similar to a tornado
Correct Answer
C. A seasonal wind system that produces wet and dry seasonsExplanation
A monsoon is a seasonal wind system that brings about wet and dry seasons. It is characterized by a shift in wind patterns, which results in heavy rainfall during the wet season and a lack of rainfall during the dry season. This phenomenon is commonly observed in regions such as South Asia, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa. Unlike hurricanes or tornadoes, which are characterized by violent winds, a monsoon is primarily associated with changes in precipitation patterns.Rate this question:
-
- 9.
Which of the following is NOT true about monsoons?
- A.
They bring the same amount of rain every year
- B.
Drought can occur if too little rain comes during the summer monsoons
- C.
They are an important part of Indian climate
- D.
Sometimes too much rain causes flooding durign the summer monsoons
Correct Answer
A. They bring the same amount of rain every yearExplanation
Monsoons do not bring the same amount of rain every year. The amount of rainfall during monsoons can vary from year to year.Rate this question:
-
- 10.
Which of the following is TRUE about the Ganges River?
- A.
It is the longest river in the world
- B.
It is located in Northern Africa
- C.
It is considered holy by many Hindus
- D.
It is the location where Christianity began
Correct Answer
C. It is considered holy by many HindusExplanation
The Ganges River is considered holy by many Hindus. This is because it is believed to be a goddess and is considered sacred in Hinduism. It is a popular pilgrimage site and many Hindus believe that bathing in the river can cleanse them of their sins. The river is also used for various religious rituals and ceremonies.Rate this question:
-
- 11.
The caste system is
- A.
A barter system for trading of foods and services
- B.
An economic system for creating a stock market
- C.
A welfare system to supply meidical services and supplies
- D.
A class system that divides people according to jobs and behaviors
Correct Answer
D. A class system that divides people according to jobs and behaviorsExplanation
The correct answer is a class system that divides people according to jobs and behaviors. The caste system is a social structure that categorizes individuals into different groups based on their occupation and social status. It is a hierarchical system where individuals are born into a specific caste and their opportunities and social interactions are determined by their caste membership. This system also dictates the behaviors and roles expected from individuals belonging to each caste.Rate this question:
-
- 12.
The term untouchable referred to
- A.
The Brahmin or Priests of India who were considered too holy to touch
- B.
The lowest members of Indian society who performed jobs no one else would
- C.
People who have been separated because of disease
- D.
British law officers in India in the 1920's
Correct Answer
B. The lowest members of Indian society who performed jobs no one else wouldExplanation
The term "untouchable" referred to the lowest members of Indian society who performed jobs that no one else would. This term was used to describe a social class in India that was considered impure and untouchable by the higher castes. These individuals were often assigned menial and degrading tasks such as cleaning toilets, handling dead animals, and disposing of waste. They faced severe discrimination and were excluded from participating in many aspects of society. This practice of untouchability was prevalent in India for centuries and was officially abolished in 1949.Rate this question:
-
- 13.
Which of the following explains why the castes system remained in place for about 3,000 years?
- A.
Hindus were taught to perform their dharma in order to get good karma and have a better reincarnation
- B.
The Untouchables liked their position and fought hard to keep the Caste system in place so they would not lose their positions
- C.
Gandhi made the Indians stick to this systtem since that is what their ancestors did for thousands of years
- D.
The British threatened them with war if they got rid of the caste system because it helped the British
Correct Answer
A. Hindus were taught to perform their dharma in order to get good karma and have a better reincarnationExplanation
The explanation for the correct answer is that Hindus were taught to perform their dharma in order to get good karma and have a better reincarnation. This belief in the concept of karma and reincarnation was deeply ingrained in Hindu society and served as a strong motivator for individuals to adhere to their assigned caste roles. The caste system was seen as a means to fulfill one's dharma and attain a higher status in future lives, creating a sense of stability and continuity in society for thousands of years.Rate this question:
-
- 14.
The majority of the population of India lives in rural villages though many young Indians are moving to cities, mainly because they are attracted to
- A.
The life with their extended families in the cities
- B.
The easy availability of li ving quarters in the uncrowded cities
- C.
The innovation, technology, and jobs in the cities
- D.
Tourist attractions such as the Taj Majal in the cities
Correct Answer
C. The innovation, technology, and jobs in the citiesExplanation
Young Indians are moving to cities mainly because of the innovation, technology, and job opportunities available there. This suggests that they are seeking better career prospects and a more advanced lifestyle. The cities offer a thriving environment for technological advancements and provide a wide range of job opportunities, which are attractive to the younger generation. This explanation aligns with the trend of urbanization seen in India, where young people are drawn to the cities for better economic prospects and access to modern amenities.Rate this question:
-
- 15.
Imperialism was practiced in India by the British and their empire stretched across the globe. Imperialism can best be described as:
- A.
A policy of dominating a country's government, economy, trade, and culture for economic gain
- B.
Being prideful of one's own country
- C.
Peacefully resisiting one's government
- D.
A trade agreement between two countries for the benefit of both
Correct Answer
A. A policy of dominating a country's government, economy, trade, and culture for economic gainExplanation
Imperialism refers to a policy where a country seeks to dominate and control another country's government, economy, trade, and culture for its own economic gain. In the context of India and the British Empire, the British practiced imperialism by exerting their control and influence over various aspects of Indian society, including governance, economy, trade, and cultural practices. This allowed the British to exploit India's resources and labor for their own benefit, leading to economic gains for the British Empire.Rate this question:
-
- 16.
Which of the following is TRUE about the East India Trading Company?
- A.
They were equal partners with the Indians so both profitted from India's resources
- B.
They allowed the Indians high positions and improved the quality of Indian life
- C.
It was a company run by the Indians for the Indian people's benefit entirely
- D.
It was a British company that imposed high taxes on Indians and kept them from growing food crops
Correct Answer
D. It was a British company that imposed high taxes on Indians and kept them from growing food cropsExplanation
The correct answer is that the East India Trading Company was a British company that imposed high taxes on Indians and kept them from growing food crops. This suggests that the company had a negative impact on the Indian population by exploiting their resources and imposing economic hardships on them.Rate this question:
-
- 17.
Some of the cash crops Indians were forced to grow were
- A.
Wheat, corn, and beans
- B.
Tea, cotton, jute, and indigo
- C.
Grapes, coffee, bananas, and cocoa
- D.
Apples, flowers, cocoa, and silk
Correct Answer
B. Tea, cotton, jute, and indigoExplanation
During the period of British colonial rule in India, the British East India Company forced Indians to grow cash crops for export to Britain. Tea, cotton, jute, and indigo were some of the main cash crops cultivated by Indians under British rule. These crops were in high demand in Britain and played a significant role in the colonial economy.Rate this question:
-
- 18.
What was Gandhi known as later in his life and what did it mean?
- A.
Harijan; leader of the people
- B.
Mohandas; politician
- C.
Satyagraha; peaceful one
- D.
Mahatma; great soul
Correct Answer
D. Mahatma; great soulExplanation
Gandhi was known as Mahatma later in his life. This term means "great soul." It was a title given to him by the Indian people as a sign of respect and admiration for his leadership, principles, and his role in India's struggle for independence. The title Mahatma reflects Gandhi's spiritual and moral greatness, as well as his commitment to nonviolence and his selfless dedication to the welfare of others.Rate this question:
-
- 19.
The Salt March took place because:
- A.
The British forced the Indian to work in salt factories for low wages
- B.
The British blew up salt factories because the Indians refused to work in them
- C.
The Indians refused to buy salt sold only from the British
- D.
The Britsh refused to buy sald sold only by the Indian government
Correct Answer
C. The Indians refused to buy salt sold only from the BritishExplanation
The correct answer is that the Indians refused to buy salt sold only from the British. This led to the Salt March, which was a nonviolent protest against the British monopoly on salt production and sales in India. Mahatma Gandhi and his followers marched to the Arabian Sea to collect their own salt, defying the British salt laws. This act of civil disobedience was a significant event in the Indian independence movement and highlighted the oppressive nature of British colonial rule.Rate this question:
-
- 20.
A famous American who used Gandhi's methods of peaceful resistance to fight unjust laws was:
- A.
Malcolm X
- B.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr
- C.
Dwight D. Eisenhower
- D.
John F. Kennedy
Correct Answer
B. Dr. Martin Luther King JrExplanation
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is the correct answer because he was a prominent American civil rights leader who advocated for nonviolent resistance and peaceful protests to fight against racial segregation and injustice. He was greatly influenced by Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolent resistance and used similar methods to challenge unjust laws and promote equality for African Americans. His leadership and activism played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement and his famous speeches, such as the "I Have a Dream" speech, continue to inspire people around the world.Rate this question:
-
- 21.
Why was India divided up into two countries after gaining its independence from the Great Britain in 1947?
- A.
Because of religious differences between different regions of the country
- B.
Because of racial differences between different regions of the country
- C.
Because the area was too large to be governed as one nation
- D.
Because of political differences between different regions of the country
Correct Answer
A. Because of religious differences between different regions of the countryExplanation
After gaining independence from Great Britain in 1947, India was divided into two countries, India and Pakistan, due to religious differences between different regions of the country. The Indian subcontinent had a significant population of both Hindus and Muslims, and tensions between the two communities had been growing for years. The demand for a separate Muslim-majority nation led to the creation of Pakistan. This division was based on religious identity and aimed to provide a separate homeland for Muslims, resulting in the partition of the country and the displacement of millions of people.Rate this question:
-
- 22.
Which best describes India's government today?
- A.
Monarchy
- B.
Democracy
- C.
Theocracy
- D.
Dictatorship
Correct Answer
B. DemocracyExplanation
India's government today is best described as a democracy. This means that the power is vested in the hands of the people, who exercise it through elected representatives. In a democracy, the citizens have the right to participate in decision-making, elect their leaders, and enjoy certain fundamental rights and freedoms. India follows a parliamentary system of democracy, where the President is the head of state and the Prime Minister is the head of government. Regular elections are held to ensure a fair and democratic process of selecting the government.Rate this question:
-
- 23.
The head of India's government and its law-making body are called:
- A.
President and Parliament
- B.
Prime Minister and Parliament
- C.
President and House of Representatives
- D.
Prime Minister adn Republic
Correct Answer
B. Prime Minister and ParliamentExplanation
The head of India's government is known as the Prime Minister, and the law-making body is called the Parliament. The Prime Minister is responsible for leading the government and implementing policies, while the Parliament is responsible for making laws and representing the interests of the people. This system is similar to many other democratic countries where the head of government is the Prime Minister and the legislative body is the Parliament.Rate this question:
-
- 24.
Read the following excerpt from a speech by Jawaharial Nehru when India became independent of British rule and answer the two questions that follow. It is a fateful moment for us in India, for all Asia and for the world. A new star rises, the star of freedom in the East...Freedom brings responsibilities and burdens and we have to face them in the spirit of free and disciplined people... Whither do we go and what shall be our endeavor {task}? To bring freedom and opportunity to the common man, to peasants and workers of India; to fight and end poverty and ignorance and disease; to build up a prosperous, democratic, and progressive nation. How did Nehru feel about gaining independence?
- A.
He felt that now that independence was gained, everything would be easy with no difficulties
- B.
He felt that independence gave them opportunity to make an improved India, but came with responsibilities as well
- C.
He longed for the days when the Britsh ruled India and the Indians only had to do as they were told
- D.
He thought that India was incapable of ruling herself and that many difficult days were ahead
Correct Answer
B. He felt that independence gave them opportunity to make an improved India, but came with responsibilities as wellExplanation
Nehru felt that gaining independence provided an opportunity for India to make improvements, but he also recognized that it came with responsibilities. He acknowledged that freedom brings burdens and that the Indian people would need to face them with a spirit of freedom and discipline. He expressed a vision of bringing freedom and opportunity to the common man, fighting poverty, ignorance, and disease, and building a prosperous, democratic, and progressive nation. This indicates that he understood the challenges and complexities that came with independence and was determined to work towards a better India.Rate this question:
-
- 25.
Read the following excerpt from a speech by Jawaharial Nehru when India became independent of British rule and answer the two questions that follow. It is a fateful moment for us in India, for all Asia and for the world. A new star rises, the star of freedom in the East...Freedom brings responsibilities and burdens and we have to face them in the spirit of free and disciplined people... Whither do we go and what shall be our endeavor {task}? To bring freedom and opportunity to the common man, to peasants and workers of India; to fight and end poverty and ignorance and disease; to build up a prosperous, democratic, and progressive nation. How did Nehru want Indians to use their new freedom?
- A.
To improve the situation for all Indians, including the poor and uneducated
- B.
To keep the caste system in place so that the Brahmin maintain their high position
- C.
To be sure that India became a major world power
- D.
To try to find a new country to colonize them
Correct Answer
A. To improve the situation for all Indians, including the poor and uneducatedExplanation
Nehru wanted Indians to use their new freedom to improve the situation for all Indians, including the poor and uneducated. He emphasized the need to fight poverty, ignorance, and disease and to build a prosperous, democratic, and progressive nation. This suggests that Nehru's goal was to uplift the marginalized sections of society and ensure equal opportunities for all, rather than maintaining existing social hierarchies or seeking to colonize other countries.Rate this question:
-
- 26.
What is the name of this famous building in India and why was it built?
- A.
White Palace; It was a presidential palace for the Gupta Empire
- B.
The Taj Mahal ; It was a tomb for Gandhi
- C.
The Gardens of Babylon; It was the home of the first ruler of the Babylonians
- D.
The Taj Mahal; It was a tomb for Shah Jahan's wife from the Mugal Empire
Correct Answer
D. The Taj Mahal; It was a tomb for Shah Jahan's wife from the Mugal EmpireExplanation
The correct answer is The Taj Mahal; It was a tomb for Shah Jahan's wife from the Mugal Empire. The Taj Mahal is a famous building in India that was built as a mausoleum for Mumtaz Mahal, the wife of Emperor Shah Jahan. It is considered a symbol of love and is renowned for its grand architecture and intricate marble work.Rate this question:
-
- 27.
Which statement is true about Bollywood?
- A.
It is India's premier amusement park with the world's tallest roller coaster
- B.
It is India's motion picture industry which is responsible for making only nonfiction movies about India.
- C.
The cross between Dollywood and Hollywood which makes fun rides out of Hollywood movies.
- D.
India's largest motion picture industry; the movies often have song and dance numbers in them
Correct Answer
D. India's largest motion picture industry; the movies often have song and dance numbers in themExplanation
Bollywood is known as India's largest motion picture industry, producing a significant number of films each year. These movies are often characterized by their inclusion of song and dance numbers, which are an integral part of Indian culture and entertainment. This industry has gained international recognition and has a significant impact on the global film industry.Rate this question:
-
- 28.
Bollywood, India's largest movie industry, is known for making movies with what qualities?
- A.
Sad and tragic with unhappy endings.
- B.
Bright and colorful with lots of song and dance.
- C.
Grim and serious dramas with lots of social criticisms.
- D.
Funny and lighthearted with lots of comedy.
Correct Answer
B. Bright and colorful with lots of song and dance.Explanation
Bollywood, India's largest movie industry, is known for making movies that are bright and colorful with lots of song and dance. Bollywood films are often characterized by their vibrant visuals, extravagant costumes, and elaborate musical numbers. These movies are typically upbeat and provide a form of escapism for the audience, offering a break from reality. The inclusion of song and dance sequences is a distinctive feature of Bollywood films, adding entertainment value and creating a unique cinematic experience.Rate this question:
-
- 29.
In India today, Dabbawalas run one of the most complex ________________ systems in the world.
- A.
Banking.
- B.
Cooking.
- C.
News reporting.
- D.
Food delivering.
Correct Answer
D. Food delivering.Explanation
The correct answer is "Food delivering." The statement mentions that in India, Dabbawalas run one of the most complex systems in the world. Since the options provided are banking, cooking, news reporting, and food delivering, it can be inferred that the Dabbawalas are involved in delivering food. This is further supported by the term "Dabbawalas," which refers to a group of people in Mumbai who specialize in delivering homemade lunches to office workers.Rate this question:
-
- 30.
What is the Kashmir conflict about?
- A.
India and Pakistan fighting over who gets a region of fertile land around the Indus River Basin.
- B.
Pakistan Muslims are trying to convert Hindus in a region controlled by India.
- C.
India is trying to regain some of the land it lost to Pakistan after becoming independent.
- D.
All of the above.
Correct Answer
A. India and Pakistan fighting over who gets a region of fertile land around the Indus River Basin.Explanation
The correct answer is that the Kashmir conflict is about India and Pakistan fighting over who gets a region of fertile land around the Indus River Basin. This explanation accurately summarizes the main issue at the heart of the Kashmir conflict, which is the territorial dispute between India and Pakistan over the Kashmir region. Both countries claim ownership of the region, which is strategically important and has valuable resources, including fertile land. This conflict has led to ongoing tensions, political disputes, and occasional military clashes between the two nations.Rate this question:
-
Quiz Review Timeline +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
-
Current Version
-
Mar 20, 2023Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
Apr 04, 2011Quiz Created by
Vcubero
Back to top