Q1. Which of the following was NOT a reason for the rise of Magadha according to modern historians?
- Fertile agricultural land
- Accessibility to iron mines
- Availability of elephants
- Religious tolerance of rulers
Correct Option: 4. Religious tolerance of rulers
Explanation:Modern historians explain Magadha’s rise through material and geographical advantages:
• Fertile lands for agriculture.
• Iron ore in nearby Jharkhand used for weapons and tools.
• Forests that provided elephants for military use.
• A strong river system for trade and movement.
Religious tolerance, although important in later eras, was not a contributing factor to Magadha’s political rise in this early phase.
Q2. Who is believed to have killed his father to gain the throne of Magadha?
- Bimbisara
- Udayin
- Ajatashatru
- Mahapadma Nanda
Correct Option: 3. Ajatashatru
Explanation: Ajatashatru, son of Bimbisara, is believed to have murdered his father out of political ambition. This parricide is mentioned in several Buddhist sources. Despite this, he became a powerful king and expanded the Magadhan empire through conquests and military innovations.
Q3. What was the capital of Magadha during Bimbisara’s reign?
- Pataliputra
- Vaishali
- Rajgriha
- Ujjain
Correct Option: 3. Rajgriha
Explanation: During Bimbisara’s rule, Rajgriha (Girivraja) was the capital. It was naturally protected by five surrounding hills, and artificial stone walls were constructed to fortify the city. This made Rajgriha a strong and defensible administrative center.
Q4. Which ruler convened the First Buddhist Council?
- Mahapadma Nanda
- Kalasoka
- Bimbisara
- Ajatashatru
Correct Option: 4. Ajatashatru
Explanation: Ajatashatru organized the First Buddhist Council at Rajgriha shortly after the Buddha’s death. It was meant to preserve and compile the Buddha’s teachings (Dhamma) and discipline (Vinaya). This also shows Ajatashatru’s role in supporting religious institutions.
Q5. Who founded the new capital of Pataliputra?
- Ajatashatru
- Udayin
- Shishunaga
- Dhanananda
Correct Option: 2. Udayin
Explanation: Udayin, son of Ajatashatru, moved the capital from Rajgriha to Pataliputra due to its more strategic location. Situated at the confluence of the Ganga and Son rivers, Pataliputra was better suited for controlling a growing empire and for communication and trade.