History: Indian Subcontinent

What were the two most prominent and well-planned cities of the Indus Valley Civilization?

Harappa and Mohenjo-daro.

Which Mauryan Emperor converted to Buddhism and promoted non-violence after the Kalinga War?

Ashoka the Great.

Who was the Mughal Emperor responsible for the construction of the Taj Mahal?

Shah Jahan.

What is the term for Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of non-violent resistance?

Satyagraha.

What are the four hierarchical social classes defined in the Vedic Varna system?

Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras.

In what year did the British Raj end, resulting in the independence of India and Pakistan?

1947.

What unique feature of Indus Valley cities suggests a highly organized central government and focus on hygiene?

Advanced urban planning, including grid patterns and sophisticated drainage systems.

How did the political structure change between the Early Vedic and Late Vedic periods?

It shifted from small tribal chiefdoms (Rajan) to larger territorial kingdoms (Mahajanapadas).

What was the primary purpose of Ashoka's Rock and Pillar Edicts?

To communicate his policies of Dhamma (righteousness) and social welfare to his subjects.

Why is the Gupta Empire often referred to as the 'Golden Age' of India?

Because of massive advancements in mathematics (concept of zero), astronomy, and Sanskrit literature.