1.
The Kalinga was fought in ?
Correct Answer
C. 261 BC
Explanation
The Kalinga war was fought in 261 BC. This war was a major conflict between the Maurya Empire, led by Emperor Ashoka, and the kingdom of Kalinga, located in present-day Odisha, India. The war resulted in a devastating loss of life and destruction, which deeply impacted Ashoka. It is said that witnessing the horrors of this war led Ashoka to renounce violence and embrace Buddhism, ultimately leading to his transformation into a peaceful and compassionate ruler.
2.
Vande Mataram was first sung at the session of the Indian National Congress in?
Correct Answer
C. 1896
Explanation
Vande Mataram, the national song of India, was first sung at the session of the Indian National Congress in 1896. It was composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and was included in his novel "Anandamath". The song played a significant role in the Indian independence movement and became a symbol of patriotism and national unity. Its powerful lyrics and melody continue to inspire and evoke a sense of pride among Indians.
3.
Which fundamental political idea is expressed in the Declaration of Independence?
Correct Answer
D. If the government denies its people certain basic rights, that government can be overthrown.
Explanation
The correct answer is that if the government denies its people certain basic rights, that government can be overthrown. This is expressed in the Declaration of Independence, which states that when a government becomes destructive to the people's rights, it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it and to institute a new government that will secure their rights. This idea reflects the principle of popular sovereignty, where the power of the government is derived from the consent of the governed and can be revoked if the government fails to protect the people's rights.
4.
Which feature must a nation have to be considered a democracy?
Correct Answer
B. Citizen participation in government
Explanation
A nation must have citizen participation in government to be considered a democracy. This means that the citizens have the right to vote, express their opinions, and participate in the decision-making process of the government. Citizen participation ensures that the government represents the will and interests of the people, and allows for a more inclusive and representative system of governance.
5.
The decline of which last pan-Indian empire in the 18th century AD provided the British to establish a firm foothold in India?
Correct Answer
B. Mughal
Explanation
The decline of the Mughal Empire in the 18th century AD provided the British with an opportunity to establish a firm foothold in India. The Mughal Empire, which had once been a powerful and prosperous empire, began to weaken due to a series of factors including internal conflicts, weak rulers, and invasions by external powers. The British took advantage of this decline and gradually gained control over various regions of India, eventually leading to their colonization of the country.
6.
Which decisive battle between the East India Company led by Robert Clive and Bengal, led by Nawab Siraj-ud-Daula in 1757, helped the British have a say in Indian political affairs?
Correct Answer
B. Battle of Plassey
Explanation
The Battle of Plassey in 1757 was a decisive battle between the East India Company led by Robert Clive and Bengal led by Nawab Siraj-ud-Daula. The British victory in this battle allowed them to establish their dominance and have a significant influence in Indian political affairs. This battle marked the beginning of British colonial rule in India and paved the way for their subsequent control over large parts of the country.
7.
To which country did the Britishers exile Bahadur Shah Zafar, the last ruler of the Mughal Empire, after accusing him of conspiring to overthrow the East India Company rule along with other participating rulers in the 1857 war of Indian Independence?
Correct Answer
D. Rangoon - Currently Burma
Explanation
Bahadur Shah Zafar, the last ruler of the Mughal Empire, was exiled to Rangoon, which is currently known as Burma. He was accused by the Britishers of conspiring to overthrow the East India Company rule along with other participating rulers in the 1857 war of Indian Independence.
8.
Which three Indian leaders, who represented the radical faction of Indian National Congress that demanded 'Purna Swaraj (Complete Freedom) by direct revolution and civil agitation, were popularly known as Lal, Bal and Pal?
Correct Answer
A. Lala Lajpat Rai, Balgangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal
Explanation
Lala Lajpat Rai, Balgangadhar Tilak, and Bipin Chandra Pal were the three Indian leaders who represented the radical faction of the Indian National Congress. They demanded 'Purna Swaraj' or complete freedom through direct revolution and civil agitation. These leaders were popularly known as Lal, Bal, and Pal.
9.
Which Indian academician, activist, and social reformer was Mahatma Gandhi’s mentor?
Correct Answer
D. Gopal Krishan Gokhale
Explanation
Gopal Krishan Gokhale was an Indian academician, activist, and social reformer who served as Mahatma Gandhi's mentor. He played a crucial role in guiding and influencing Gandhi's ideologies and principles. Gokhale was known for his advocacy of social and political reforms, his commitment to education, and his efforts to bridge the gap between the British government and the Indian National Congress. He mentored and groomed Gandhi, shaping his political philosophy and inspiring him to become a leader in the Indian independence movement.
10.
Just before midnight 14th August 1947, Jawaharlal Nehru rose in the Constituent Assembly to deliver the most famous speech ever made by an Indian. Which of the following were the opening lines of the speech?
Correct Answer
A. “Long years ago we made a tryst with destiny…"
Explanation
The opening lines of Jawaharlal Nehru's speech were "Long years ago we made a tryst with destiny…". This statement suggests that the speech is going to reflect on the journey of the Indian people towards their destiny and the significance of the moment they were about to witness. It sets the tone for the rest of the speech and emphasizes the historical context of India's independence.
11.
At the time of independence which portfolio in the central government was being taken care of by Mrs. Indira Gandhi?
Correct Answer
D. None
Explanation
Mrs. Indira Gandhi did not hold any portfolio in the central government at the time of independence.
12.
What was Gandhi holding on March 12th, 1930 when he announced to a crowd, "With this _____ I am shaking the foundations of the British Empire"?
Correct Answer
C. A handful of salt
Explanation
On March 12th, 1930, Gandhi was holding a handful of salt when he announced to a crowd, "With this I am shaking the foundations of the British Empire." This action was part of the Salt March, a nonviolent protest against the British salt monopoly in India. Gandhi's act of making salt was a symbolic gesture of defiance and resistance against British colonial rule. By producing salt without paying the imposed tax, Gandhi and his followers challenged the unjust laws and asserted their right to self-governance.
13.
Before Independence, there were approximately 568 Princely states in India. Which was the largest Princely State to join the Indian Union?
Correct Answer
C. Hyderabad
Explanation
Hyderabad was the largest Princely State to join the Indian Union before Independence. It covered a vast area and had a significant population. The state's ruler, the Nizam of Hyderabad, initially wanted independence or accession to Pakistan but eventually agreed to join India after negotiations. This decision was influenced by various factors, including the military intervention by the Indian government and the popular movement for integration with India in Hyderabad.
14.
Until when India remained a domain of the Crown?
Correct Answer
D. Jan 1950
Explanation
India remained a domain of the Crown until Jan 1950. This refers to the period when India was under British colonial rule and was considered a part of the British Empire. In Jan 1950, India adopted a new constitution and became a republic, gaining independence from British rule. This marked the end of India's status as a dominion of the British Crown.
15.
When did the partition of Bengal happen?
Correct Answer
B. 1905
Explanation
The partition of Bengal occurred in 1905. This decision was made by Lord Curzon, the then Viceroy of India, in order to weaken the growing nationalist movement in Bengal. The partition divided the province of Bengal into two separate entities, East Bengal and West Bengal. This move was highly controversial and led to widespread protests and boycotts by the Indian population. The partition was eventually annulled in 1911, but it had a lasting impact on the political and social landscape of India.
16.
Identify this person
Correct Answer
B. Chandrasekar Azad
Explanation
Chandrasekhar Azad was a revolutionary freedom fighter in India who played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement against British rule. He was known for his fearless and rebellious nature, and his commitment to the cause of freedom. Azad was a prominent member of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) and was involved in various acts of resistance, including the Kakori train robbery and the shooting of British police officer J.P. Saunders. He became an iconic figure in the struggle for independence and is remembered for his bravery and sacrifice.