Q1. What was the main reason for the expansion of Aryan culture during the Later Vedic period?
- Discovery of copper
- Use of gold
- Use of iron (Krishna Ayas)
- Development of trade routes
Correct Option: 3. Use of iron (Krishna Ayas)
Explanation: The Later Vedic period saw the introduction and use of iron, referred to in texts as Krishna Ayas (black metal) or Shyama Ayas. Iron tools and weapons allowed for faster clearing of forests, enabling the Aryans to expand into the fertile Gangetic plains. This significantly helped in the spread of agriculture, settlement, and cultural expansion. Copper and bronze were known earlier, but iron was stronger and more effective for clearing land and farming.
Q2. What type of pottery is most associated with the Later Vedic period?
- Black and Red Ware
- Northern Black Polished Ware
- Painted Grey Ware
- Harappan Red Ware
Correct Option: 3. Painted Grey Ware
Explanation: The Painted Grey Ware (PGW) culture defines the Later Vedic archaeological phase. These are fine, grey-colored pots often decorated with simple black painted designs. They were primarily found in settlements in western Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and parts of Punjab, where Later Vedic people lived. This pottery indicates a rural but increasingly settled life with advancements in agriculture and tool use.
Q3. What was the chief occupation of the Later Vedic people?
- Trading
- Agriculture
- Metalwork
- Fishing
Correct Option: 2. Agriculture
Explanation: Agriculture became the central economic activity in the Later Vedic period. Earlier, Rig Vedic society relied more on pastoralism, but with the expansion into the fertile plains and the use of iron tools, agriculture took precedence. Crops like rice (Vrihi) and wheat (Godhuma) became staples, and forest clearing for cultivation was common. The Satapatha Brahmana even mentions rulers burning forests for agricultural land.
Q4. What was the term used for the head of a household who owned land?
- Shresthin
- Vish
- Sangrihitri
- Grahpati
Correct Option: 4. Grahpati
Explanation: In the Later Vedic period, though land was largely communally owned by the clan or vish, there was recognition of individual family heads who controlled and managed land. These individuals were called Grahpatis. They acted as heads of the household and held authority over the property, playing a key role in agricultural and ritual activities.
Q5. Which crop began to be widely cultivated and used in rituals during the Later Vedic period?
- Barley
- Rice (Vrihi)
- Maize
- Millets
Correct Option: 2. Rice (Vrihi)
Explanation: Rice (Vrihi) became a major crop in the Later Vedic period, reflecting the agricultural shift from the northwest to the eastern Gangetic plains, which are suitable for rice cultivation. Rice started featuring prominently in rituals and was even offered as cooked food (anna) during yajnas. This shows both an agricultural and cultural evolution from the earlier period.