GSEB Class 6 Social Science Solutions Chapter 1 Sources of History

1. From Your Village or Town:

Question 1. Which is the oldest tree in your village or town ?
Answer: The oldest tree is a big banyan tree located at the edge of my village, Sitapur. One hundred and five years old Chhaganbha says that his father and uncles used to play on the branches of this banyan tree when they were children. The huge trunk and its many branches show that it is the oldest tree in our village.
In simple words: The oldest tree in my village, Sitapur, is a large banyan tree. An old villager said his family played on its branches when they were young, confirming its age.

Exam Tip: When describing local history, include specific details like names, ages, and geographical features to make your answer more vivid and credible.

Question 2. Which is the oldest building in your village ?
Answer: The five-story big wooden house, owned by the Sarpanch, stands in a large area in the middle of my village, and it is the oldest building there. There are many big structures in the village, but none are larger than this house. The design and creation of this house are unique. There are columns decorated with flowers and plants inside the house in various spots. The small details carved on it draw special interest. There are lovely geometric designs, fancy columns, balconies, and railings on every floor of the house. So, the beautiful design and impressiveness of this house show how old it is.
In simple words: The Sarpanch's five-story wooden house in the center of the village is the oldest building. Its unique design, decorative pillars, and intricate carvings show its great age compared to other village structures.

Exam Tip: When describing historical buildings, focus on unique architectural features and their condition to explain their significance and age.

Question 3. What type of questions will you ask and to whom, to gather information for the above two questions ?
Answer: I gathered details for both questions from 105-year-old Shri Chhaganbha in my village. I also asked Shri Chhaganbha these questions to find out:
1. Respected Shri Chhaganbha, Which is the oldest tree in our village?
2. Why do you say that banyan tree is the oldest?
3. Which is the oldest building in our village?
4. Why do you say this mansion is the oldest?
I thanked Shri Chhaganbha for sharing the details about the village.
In simple words: I would ask an old person, like Shri Chhaganbha, questions about the oldest tree and building in the village, and why they believe those are the oldest.

Exam Tip: For oral history collection, always identify a knowledgeable elder, formulate clear questions about specific landmarks, and remember to express gratitude.

2. Answer the Following Questions:

Question 1. List the sources of history. OR State the main sources of knowing history.
Answer: Items and various pictures found in newspapers, documents, jewelry, playthings, money, stamps, seals, written messages, Bhojapatras, Tadpatras, copper writings, arms, old structures, old holy places, statues, clay pots, instruments, valuable items, old houses, strongholds, water bodies, wells, and more, are the main ways we learn about history.
In simple words: Main sources of history include old things like newspaper articles, documents, jewelry, coins, stamps, inscriptions, Bhojapatras, copper plates, weapons, and ancient buildings such as temples, forts, and step-wells.

Exam Tip: When asked to list sources of history, provide a diverse range of examples covering both written records and archaeological artifacts.

Question 2. What is the purpose of archives ? .
Answer: Long ago, many kings engraved details of their government's successes on metal or stone. Additionally, they etched messages or agreements with other kingdoms onto stones or metal. These types of writings are known as "Inscriptions." Archives were made to keep these inscriptions safe. The National Archives in Delhi is a good example of this.
In simple words: Archives help keep ancient writings called "Inscriptions" safe. These inscriptions, carved by kings on metal or stone, recorded details about their government and agreements, like the National Archives in Delhi.

Exam Tip: Remember that archives preserve historical records like inscriptions to ensure they are available for future study and understanding of past administrations.

Question 3. What do you know about Copper plates and Bhojapatras ?
Answer: Texts engraved on copper sheets are known as Copper plates. Bhojapatras refers to texts written on the bark of a tree named 'Bhauj', found in the Himalayan mountains. Both copper plates and Bhojapatras are key sources for understanding history. These writings are mostly in PANDU script. Many of these and similar scripts have been ruined by different insects. Despite this, examples of such copper plates and Bhojapatras can be found in Temples, Vihars, or government museums. From these materials, we learn about kings of that time and their government, as well as daily life in olden days.
In simple words: Copper plates are writings on copper sheets, and Bhojapatras are writings on the bark of 'Bhauj' trees from the Himalayas. Both are important historical sources, often found in museums, telling us about ancient kings and their way of life.

Exam Tip: Differentiate between copper plates and Bhojapatras by mentioning their material and origin, and highlight their shared importance as historical records.

Question 4. Is it possible to know the history from sources like pottery and metal vessels ?
Answer: Yes, we can learn about history from clay or metal pots and containers. By studying how people in the past used these clay and metal vessels and the designs painted on them, we can get historical knowledge.
In simple words: Yes, history can be learned from pottery and metal vessels by studying how ancient people used them and the designs on them.

Exam Tip: When discussing archaeological sources, explain how the artifacts (like pottery) reveal insights into daily life, culture, and technology of past societies.

3. How Did the Name of Your Village or Town Come Into Existence ?

Answer: My village is called Vadnagar. It is located in Kheralu Taluka of North Gujarat. It is an old and historic town. People used to call it ‘Vridhhnagar’ because it was from very old times. It looks like ‘Vridhhnagar’ changed to ‘Vadnagar’ in common speech. Years ago, Vadnagar was known as 'Aanartpur'. During that period, Gujarat was split into three regions: Sorath, Laat, and Aanart. The current area of North Gujarat was called “Aanart Pradesh.” Vadnagar is now the capital of Aanart Pradesh.
In simple words: My village, Vadnagar, in North Gujarat, was once known as ‘Vridhhnagar’ due to its age. It was also called 'Aanartpur' when Gujarat was divided into three regions, and it was the capital of "Aanart Pradesh," which is now North Gujarat.

Exam Tip: When explaining the origin of a place name, mention its historical variations, geographical location, and any legends or historical divisions associated with it.

GSEB Class 6 Social Science Sources of History Intext Questions and Answers

Question 1. Based on the information collected, give a brief account of any one personality.
Answer: A Great Person: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Shri Vallabhbhai Patel was from Karamsad, a village in Kheda district. He was born on October 31, 1875, in Nadiad, his mother's hometown. His father was Zaverbhai, and his mother was Laadbai. Hard work, strong resolve, honesty, and country values were a big part of his life. Qualities of leadership to fight untruth and a calm attitude were seen in him since his student days. Vallabhbhai cleared his pleadership exam after Matriculation and began working as a lawyer. He traveled to England and qualified as a barrister. He gave up his successful legal career and joined Gandhiji as a full-time helper in the fight for freedom. He became well-known throughout the nation because of his ‘No-tax’ movement in Kheda, the ‘Flag Movement’ of Nagpur, his stand against the 'Haidia tax,' and the 'Bardoli Satyagraha.' Gandhiji gave him the title of 'Sardar.' Vallabhbhai was jailed many times during the freedom fight. His role in getting independence, even with forced partition, is unmatched. As the first Home Minister of free India, Vallabhbhai used his intelligence and skill to make a united India by bringing together 565 states. This is a special historical success for him. Vallabhbhai died on December 15, 1950.
In simple words: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, born in 1875, was a brave leader known for his hard work and strong will. He became a lawyer, joined Gandhiji's freedom movement, and led key struggles like the 'No-tax' movement. As India's first Home Minister, he united 565 states, a unique historical achievement before his death in 1950.

Exam Tip: When writing a brief account of a personality, include key biographical details, major contributions, significant achievements, and any titles or honors received.

Question 2. Give a brief summary of the period's architecture or an event from your scrapbook collection.
Answer: An Architecture: Sun-temple of Modhera. The impressive and artistic Sun-temple is found in Modhera village in Mehsana district, about 90 km from Ahmedabad in Gujarat. King Bhimdev Solanki built this Sun-temple in the 11th century. It is currently in a damaged condition. It is known worldwide for its artistic design and large sculptures. In front of the Sun-temple, there is a big, rectangular sun pool. Small, carved temples are placed in a circle in its center. The main hall of the Sun-temple is located behind this sun pool. Small, artistic arches are found here. After this, a mysterious shelter on eight columns, decorated with carvings, was built. The innermost holy place is situated beyond it. It is thought that the statue of Lord Sun might have been at the entrance. There is a secret room here, containing a carving of seven horses on a stone. This is believed to be the foundation for the Lord Sun idol. The Sun-temple features lovely sculptures and carvings on its columns, ceilings, walls, and balconies. Statues of Lord Sun, Indra, and others are found within the covered walkways above the temple's surrounding walls. These figures show the majesty of the first statue kept inside the inner sacred area. The Modhera Sun-temple highlights the greatness of the sculptures from the Solanki period in Gujarat.
In simple words: The Modhera Sun-temple in Gujarat, built in the 11th century by King Bhimdev Solanki, is a famous example of grand architecture, even in ruins. It features a large sun pool, carved temples, and detailed sculptures on its pillars and walls, reflecting the artistic skill of the Solanki era.

Exam Tip: When describing an architectural marvel, highlight its historical context, key structural features, significant sculptures or carvings, and its cultural importance.

3. Narrate an incident or give information about an honourable person of your village or city.

Answer: An esteemed person from our village was Late Sheth Shri Keshavlal V. Patel. Sheth Shri Keshavlal was born in Kansa village, Visnagar Taluka, Mehsana district, on November 28, 1924. He received his early schooling in our village Kansa and his later schooling in Visnagar. He began his working life as a Principal at a Primary school in Valam village, Visnagar Taluka. After one year, he quit his job and started working at the Isabgul production factory in Chhapi village, Siddhpur, which his father-in-law owned. He opened his own Isabgul production factory in Siddhpur in 1966. His business grew rapidly. He began sending Isabgul to the U.S.A. Besides this business, he also entered the building construction industry. He made a lot of money. In 1970, he became involved in public affairs. He founded many organizations by giving generously. His help in improving our village is very important. Our village will always owe him a great deal. He started several organizations in Siddhpur. He became the President of Shri Umiyamataji Sansthan, Unjha, in 1975. He stayed in this role until he passed away. Sheth Shri Keshavlal had a special character. He was a kind giver. Sheth Shri Keshavlal, a highly respected man, died on April 11, 2011. To show our thanks for all he did for our village, the Gramsabha has placed his statue in the market center.
In simple words: Late Sheth Shri Keshavlal V. Patel, born in 1924, was a respected person from our village. He left his teaching job to start a successful Isabgul factory, even exporting it to the USA. He later became a generous donor, starting many institutions and serving as president of Shri Umiyamataji Sansthan. His significant contributions to our village are honored with a statue.

Exam Tip: When describing a local dignitary, include their birth and death dates, significant professional achievements, contributions to the community, and how they are commemorated.

Question 4. Make a list of the sources from where we can gather information on incidents and events of the present day.
Answer: We can visit our school, village, or city library to find out about important events or happenings of today.
In simple words: To learn about current events, we can use our school, village, or city library.

Exam Tip: For current events, always consider easily accessible and reputable sources like libraries, which house newspapers, magazines, and other contemporary records.

Question 5. How can we extract historical information from the sources available ?
Answer: We can find historical details from sources such as pictures, playthings, money, written messages, Bhojapatras, Tadpatras, copper sheets, weapons, old buildings, ancient temples, statues, containers, tools, jewelry, stamps, seals, strongholds, water bodies, and wells, by observing or studying them. In addition to this, we can get historical details from various pictures and writings gathered in a collection book.
In simple words: We can get historical facts from available sources by looking at old items like pictures, coins, inscriptions, Bhojapatras, copper plates, weapons, and ancient buildings, or by studying collected pictures and articles in books.

Exam Tip: To extract historical information effectively, combine observation of artifacts with careful study of written records and compiled collections.

Question 6. Give reasons how old items from our surroundings can serve as sources of history.
Answer: Historical sources can be identified using old things from our surroundings like ancient statues, money, tools, clay pots and metal pots, written messages, copper sheets, Bhojapatras, images, old structures, strongholds, water bodies, and wells. Also, we gather details about history from different pictures and writings in the collection book.
In simple words: Old items from our surroundings, like ancient statues, coins, tools, pottery, inscriptions, copper plates, and old buildings, act as historical sources because they provide direct evidence and information about past times and cultures.

Exam Tip: Emphasize that old items serve as primary sources, offering tangible evidence of past cultures, technologies, and daily lives through their form and context.

Question 7. Which sources will you use to know a hundred " year old history?
Answer: When a hundred years pass, newspapers and magazines release special editions about important events of that century, along with pictures of those happenings. The special events that happened during the century are explained with images in these editions. By reading these special issues, one can understand 100 years of history. Furthermore, to learn about history older than 100 years, old buildings, inscriptions, statues, coins, copper sheets, pictures, old books, strongholds, wells, water bodies, and temples can be utilized.
In simple words: To know 100 years of history, special newspaper and magazine editions with pictures of the century's events are useful. For history older than 100 years, old buildings, inscriptions, statues, coins, copper plates, and ancient books are key sources.

Exam Tip: When asked about sources for a specific time period, consider both recent documented records (like special editions) and older archaeological/epigraphic evidence.

Question 8. How is it possible to get the historical information from people like storytellers, chronologists. and travellers?
Answer: Storytellers, historians, and travelers share stories about historical events of brave individuals from olden times, such as saints and givers. From these accounts, we learn much about the past. Those who write diaries provide a clear picture of the government, community, businesses, schooling, and other aspects of that period, giving us many details from that time. Traveler's journals are considered reliable records for understanding history. From the writings of Hiuen-tsang and I-tsing, travelers from China who visited India during the Gupta Age, we get specific details about the kings and their government, daily life, work, education, and other things from the Gupta period. Much historical data about China and South Asian nations comes from the book 'Travels of Marcopolo'.
In simple words: Storytellers, chronologists, and travelers provide historical information by sharing tales of past heroes, saints, and donors. Diary writers offer insights into society and industries. Travelers' notes, like those from Hiuen-tsang and I-tsing, are authentic documents detailing ancient kingdoms, public life, and trade, while books like 'Travels of Marcopolo' reveal data about other regions.

Exam Tip: Recognize that oral traditions (storytellers), recorded chronicles (chronologists/diaries), and travelogues (travelers) offer valuable, distinct perspectives on historical events and societal conditions.

Activities

• (1) Make a scrapbook of old articles, paintings and photographs gathered from various newspapers and magazines in your school or town / village library.
• (2) Arrange an exhibition of various ancient objects and specimens of historical sources from your house, school, museums and other institutions.
• (3) Visit the places like old buildings, forts, ponds, step-wells, temples, etc. in and around your village or villages nearby. Collect the information about it and record in your notebook.
• (4) If there is a stone-memorial or a memorial at the confines of your village, collect the information about it and make a record of it in your notebook.

GSEB Class 6 Social Science Sources of History Additional Important Questions and Answers

Choose the correct alternative from those given below each question:

Question 1. Sources like pictures, objects or coins give information about which of the following?
(a) Time
(b) History
(c) Country - Foreign Country
(d) Films
Answer: (b) History
In simple words: Pictures, objects, and coins are all forms of evidence that help us learn about the past.

Exam Tip: Remember that physical artifacts are primary sources providing direct insights into historical events, cultures, and daily life.

Question 2. Which script is mainly found on Tadpatras and Bhojapatras ?
(a) Sadhukkadi
(b) Bhojpuri
(c) Avadhi
(d) PANDU
Answer: (d) PANDU
In simple words: The main writing style seen on old Tadpatras and Bhojapatras is PANDU.

Exam Tip: Recall that PANDU script is specifically associated with ancient Indian palm-leaf manuscripts and bark writings, like Tadpatras and Bhojapatras.

Question 3. By which name are the articles carved on metal or stone known as ?
(a) Inscriptions
(b) Metal Writings
(c) Stone Writings
(d) Writings on Bhojapatras
Answer: (a) Inscriptions
In simple words: Writings etched onto metal or stone surfaces are called inscriptions.

Exam Tip: Understand that inscriptions are durable historical records, often detailing royal decrees, religious texts, or significant events, preserved on hard surfaces.

Question 4. By which name will you know the person knowing the ancient history?
(a) Linguist
(b) Sociologist
(c) Archaeologist
(d) Historian
Answer: (c) Archaeologist
In simple words: A person who studies ancient history through old objects and sites is called an archaeologist.

Exam Tip: Distinguish between related terms: a historian studies written records, while an archaeologist primarily studies physical remains to understand the past.

Question 5. In which city is Shri Hemchandracharya Library situated ?
(a) Ahmedabad
(b) Rajkot
(c) Baroda
(d) Patan
Answer: (d) Patan
In simple words: The Shri Hemchandracharya Library is located in the city of Patan.

Exam Tip: When asked about the location of specific institutions, remember the precise city or town associated with them.

Fill in the blanks with proper words in the following statements:

Question 1. To understand the present, information of ............ is necessary.
Answer: the past
In simple words: Knowing about past events helps us understand what is happening now.

Exam Tip: Emphasize the interconnectedness of past and present; understanding history provides context for current situations.

Question 2. Information related to history is available from ............ made from different pictures and articles.
Answer: collection book
In simple words: Historical details can be found in a collection book, which contains various pictures and written items.

Exam Tip: Recognize that compiled sources like collection books serve as valuable resources for historical research, bringing together diverse information.

Question 3. The information and pictures of events of 20th century published in December, 2000 by most of the newspapers is named as '................'.
Answer: Millennium Gallery
In simple words: The collection of information and pictures about 20th-century events, published by newspapers in December 2000, was called the 'Millennium Gallery'.

Exam Tip: Remember specific historical terms like 'Millennium Gallery' and their associated events or publications.

Question 4. The special trees named 'Bhauj' are found on the .................... mountains.
Answer: Himalayan
In simple words: The unique 'Bhauj' trees, from which Bhojapatras are made, grow in the Himalayan mountains.

Exam Tip: Connect specific historical materials (like Bhojapatras) with their natural sources and geographical locations.

Question 5. The samples of Bhojapatras and Tadpatras are available in Government ............
Answer: museums
In simple words: Examples of Bhojapatras and Tadpatras can be found in government museums.

Exam Tip: Understand that museums are key institutions for preserving and displaying historical artifacts like Bhojapatras and Tadpatras.

Question 6. The place where inscriptions are preserved is known as '................'.
Answer: Archives
In simple words: The place where written historical records, like inscriptions, are kept safe is called an 'Archive'.

Exam Tip: Remember that archives are specialized repositories for the long-term preservation of historical documents and records.

Question 7. The ............ museum is located at Gujarat Vidyapeeth, Ahmedabad.
Answer: Tribal
In simple words: The Tribal museum is located at Gujarat Vidyapeeth in Ahmedabad.

Exam Tip: Note the specific names and locations of cultural institutions, as these are often tested knowledge points.

Question 8. The institution named L. D. Institute of Indology is in ............ city.
Answer: Ahmedabad
In simple words: The L. D. Institute of Indology is situated in the city of Ahmedabad.

Exam Tip: Remember the locations of prominent research institutes, especially those focusing on specific fields like Indology.

State whether the following statements are true or false:

Question 1. After passage of time, the events which occurred in the past, become the incidents of the present.
Answer: False
In simple words: Events from the past remain historical events; they do not transform into current incidents.

Exam Tip: Understand the distinction between past and present; past events influence the present but do not become the present themselves.

Question 2. It is necessary to have the knowledge of present to understand the past.
Answer: False
In simple words: To understand the past, it's actually important to study the past itself, not the present.

Exam Tip: Remember that historical understanding primarily relies on studying historical sources, although modern perspectives can inform interpretation.

Question 3. Some people have the habit of preparing collection book of different pictures and articles.
Answer: True
In simple words: Many individuals like to create collection books containing various pictures and articles.

Exam Tip: Acknowledge that collecting and compiling materials (like in scrapbooks) is a common way to preserve information and personal history.

Question 4. The information about the past can be obtained from the script written on Tadpatras and Bhojapatras.
Answer: True
In simple words: We can learn about old times from the writings found on Tadpatras and Bhojapatras.

Exam Tip: Recognize Tadpatras and Bhojapatras as crucial ancient written sources for understanding historical periods.

Question 5. Scripts written before many years have been destroyed due to earthquakes.
Answer: False
In simple words: While some old writings might be lost, earthquakes are not the primary reason for their destruction; insects and time are more common causes.

Exam Tip: Remember that natural factors like insects and environmental decay are more common causes of destruction for ancient scripts than specific seismic events.

Question 6. The samples of Bhojapatras and Tadpatras are available in the Government museums.
Answer: True
In simple words: Examples of Bhojapatras and Tadpatras are indeed kept in government museums.

Exam Tip: Always recall that government museums are primary institutions for preserving and displaying historical artifacts like ancient manuscripts.

Question 7. The National Archives is situated in Delhi.
Answer: True
In simple words: The National Archives of India is located in Delhi.

Exam Tip: Know the location of important national institutions, especially those related to historical preservation.

Question 8. The ancient vessels of clay, weapons of stone and ornaments found out during excavation are very useful in knowing the eating habits of people of that period.
Answer: False
In simple words: Ancient vessels, weapons, and ornaments mainly tell us about tools, art, and daily life, not necessarily specific eating habits, which require different evidence.

Exam Tip: Understand that while artifacts provide clues about culture and technology, specific details like "eating habits" often require specialized archaeological evidence like food remains or kitchen tools.

Match the pairs correctly:

Answer: (1 – 3), (2 – 1), (3 – 6 - *Note: The source has 6 as an option but only 5 in the table. Assuming a match to Bhojapatras which come from 'Bhauj' trees, the correct match should be the definition related to them from previous questions.*), (4 – 2), (5 – 4).
In simple words: This match means:
1. Day-to-day Events are recorded in Daily newspapers.
2. Pictures, objects, or coins help in the Knowledge of history.
3. Trees named 'Bhauj' are associated with Bhojapatras.
4. Writings carved on metal or stone are Inscriptions.
5. The National Archives are located in Delhi.

Exam Tip: When matching pairs, carefully link each item from Section 'A' to its corresponding concept, definition, or location in Section 'B'.

Answer the following questions in one or two sentences:

Question 1. By seeing or knowing about which things, the history of thousands of years can be known ?
Answer: We can learn about thousands of years of history by looking at or understanding old structures, strongholds, water bodies, holy places, step-wells, and other locations.
In simple words: The history of many centuries can be learned by studying old buildings, forts, ponds, temples, step-wells, and other ancient sites.

Exam Tip: For short answers, focus on listing diverse categories of archaeological and architectural remains that serve as historical sources.

Question 2. How will you prepare the collection book ?
Answer: I will make the collection book by gathering various pictures and writings from history books, different newspapers, and magazines found in the school library.
In simple words: I will prepare the collection book by collecting various pictures and articles from historical books, newspapers, and magazines available in the school library.

Exam Tip: When describing how to create a collection, specify the types of materials and the sources where they can be found.

Question 3. What do you mean by the 'Millennium Gallery' ? OR What is the 'Millennium Gallery' ?
Answer: The details, with images, about the happenings and events of the 20th century were printed in December 2000 by most newspapers. This then got the name “Millennium Gallery”.
In simple words: The 'Millennium Gallery' refers to the collection of information and pictures about 20th-century events that most newspapers published in December 2000.

Exam Tip: Define specific terms clearly, providing context about when and how they were established or named.

Question 4. What is meant by 'Tadpatra' ?
Answer: In olden times, books or writings were made on the bark of palm trees. This type of text is known as 'Tadpatra'.
In simple words: 'Tadpatra' refers to ancient writings or volumes created on the bark of palm trees.

Exam Tip: Clearly state the material and purpose of 'Tadpatra' to distinguish it from other historical writing surfaces.

Question 5. What is meant by 'Bhojapatra' ?
Answer: A particular type of tree called 'Bhauj' grows in the Himalayan Mountains. In olden days, books or documents were written on its bark. This form of writing is called 'Bhojapatra'.
In simple words: 'Bhojapatra' means old writings or books made on the bark of the 'Bhauj' tree, which is found in the Himalayan Mountains.

Exam Tip: When defining 'Bhojapatra', mention the specific tree and region associated with it, as well as its use as an ancient writing material.

Question 6. What is meant by 'Archives'?
Answer: The location where written messages (copper sheets and stone carvings) made by old Indian kings are kept safe is called 'Archives'.
In simple words: 'Archives' are places where historical writings like copper plates and stone carvings made by ancient kings are preserved.

Exam Tip: Define 'Archives' by explaining their purpose (preservation) and the types of historical records they typically house.

Question 7. Give the name of one Government Archives.
Answer: The 'National Archives', located in Delhi, India's capital, serves as the Government Archives.
In simple words: The National Archives of India, located in Delhi, is an example of a Government Archives.

Exam Tip: Provide a well-known example and its location when asked to name a specific institution.

Question 8. Which things are used by archaeologists for knowing history?
Answer: Historians who study old things use ancient clay and metal pots, stone weapons, jewelry, statues, images, seals, tools, coins, stamps, written messages, copper sheets, Bhojapatras, old structures, strongholds, water bodies, holy places, step-wells, and more, to learn about history.
In simple words: Archaeologists use ancient artifacts like clay and metal vessels, stone tools, ornaments, statues, coins, inscriptions, copper plates, Bhojapatras, and old monuments to understand history.

Exam Tip: When listing tools for archaeologists, include a wide range of material remains from different categories (e.g., pottery, tools, art, documents).

Question 9. What is an 'Inscription'?
Answer: Texts etched on stone or metal are known as 'inscription'.
In simple words: An 'inscription' is writing that has been carved onto stone or metal surfaces.

Exam Tip: A concise definition of 'inscription' should specify the material (stone or metal) and the action (carved or etched).

Question 10. What is 'Tamrapatra'?
Answer: Texts etched on copper sheets are known as 'Tamrapatra'.
In simple words: 'Tamrapatra' refers to writings that are carved onto copper plates.

Exam Tip: When defining 'Tamrapatra', clearly state it refers to writings on copper plates.

Question 11. How can we know the exact period of archaeological remainders ?
Answer: We can find out the precise age of old archaeological findings using the Carbon Dating System.
In simple words: The exact age of archaeological remains can be determined using the Carbon Dating System.

Exam Tip: Remember that Carbon Dating is a scientific method specifically used to determine the age of organic archaeological remains.

Explain the terminology of the following words:

Question 1. Millennium Gallery
Answer: The details, along with images, about the happenings and events of the 20th century were printed in December 2000 by most newspapers. This then became known as the “Millennium Gallery”.
In simple words: The 'Millennium Gallery' was a collection of information and pictures about 20th-century events published by newspapers in December 2000.

Exam Tip: Define specific historical terms by explaining their context, content, and the period they represent.

Question 2. Tadpatra
Answer: In olden times, books or writings were made on the bark of palm trees. This kind of text is called 'Tadpatra'.
In simple words: 'Tadpatra' refers to ancient writings or volumes created on the bark of palm trees.

Exam Tip: When defining ancient writing materials, specify the source material and the form of writing.

Question 3. Bhojapatra
Answer: In ancient times, books or articles were written on the bark of the 'Bhauj' tree. This kind of writing is called 'Bhojapatra'.
In simple words: 'Bhojapatra' refers to old writings or books made on the bark of the 'Bhauj' tree.

Exam Tip: When defining 'Bhojapatra', mention the specific tree (Bhauj) from which the bark was used for writing.

Question 4. Archives
Answer: The location where written messages (copper sheets and stone carvings) made by old Indian kings are kept safe is called 'Archives'.
In simple words: 'Archives' are places where historical writings like copper plates and stone carvings made by ancient kings are preserved.

Exam Tip: Define 'Archives' by explaining their purpose (preservation) and the types of historical records they typically house.

Question 5. Inscription
Answer: Texts etched on stone or metal are known as 'inscription'.
In simple words: An 'inscription' is writing that has been carved onto stone or metal surfaces.

Exam Tip: A concise definition of 'inscription' should specify the material (stone or metal) and the action (carved or etched).

Question 6. Tamrapatra
Answer: Texts etched on copper sheets are known as 'Tamrapatra'.
In simple words: 'Tamrapatra' refers to writings that are carved onto copper plates.

Exam Tip: When defining 'Tamrapatra', clearly state it refers to writings on copper plates.

Answer The Following Questions In Short:

Question 1. In which script are the Tadpatras and Bhojapatras of ancient time mainly seen? Who destroyed these scripts?
Answer: The old Tadpatras and Bhojapatras are mostly seen in the PANDU script. Most of these writings were destroyed by insects.
In simple words: Ancient Tadpatras and Bhojapatras typically use the PANDU script, but many have been ruined by insects.

Exam Tip: Remember the specific script name "PANDU" for Tadpatras and Bhojapatras, and the primary cause of their destruction (insects).

Question 2. Where are the samples of Tadpatras and Bhojapatras seen? Which information do we get from them?
Answer: Samples of Tadpatras and Bhojapatras can be found in temples, vihars, and both private and government museums. These sources give us details about the kings of that time, their state management, and daily life in old periods.
In simple words: You can find Tadpatras and Bhojapatras in temples, vihars, and museums, which show us about old kings, how their states were run, and how people lived back then.

Exam Tip: List the places where these artifacts are found and then specify the two main types of historical information they provide: governance and social life.

Question 3. What is meant by 'Inscriptions'?
Answer: In earlier times, many kings etched information about their state's rule and accomplishments onto metal plates or stone. They also engraved their official commands or agreements with other kingdoms on these surfaces. Such types of written records are named 'Inscriptions'.
In simple words: Inscriptions are words or pictures carved by kings onto metal or stone to record their rules, victories, or agreements.

Exam Tip: Define inscriptions by mentioning the material (metal/stone) and their purpose (recording achievements, orders, treaties).

Question 4. Give the names of four private institutions preserving Bhojapatras and Tadpatras.
Answer: The four private institutions that keep Bhojapatras and Tadpatras safe are:
1. Shri Hemchandracharya Library, Patan (North Gujarat).
2. L. D. Institute of Indology, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad.
3. Tribal Museum, Gujarat Vidyapeeth, Ahmedabad and
4. Mahavira Jain Aradhana Kendra, Koba, Gandhinagar.
In simple words: Some places that hold old Bhojapatras and Tadpatras include the Shri Hemchandracharya Library in Patan, L. D. Institute of Indology in Ahmedabad, Tribal Museum in Ahmedabad, and Mahavira Jain Aradhana Kendra in Gandhinagar.

Exam Tip: Memorize at least two or three names of these institutions, along with their locations, as this is a factual recall question.

Sources Of History Class 6 GSEB Notes

• The details about history can be found from past events and their pictures printed in newspapers.
• We can learn about the history of thousands of years by either studying or visiting old monuments, forts, step-wells, ponds, temples, and other places.
• In December 2000, as the 20th century concluded, nearly all newspapers published various articles with pictures about the events and happenings of that century, which they called the 'Millennium Gallery'.
• History sources include: Paintings, Documents, Ornaments, Clay and Metal Utensils, Stone Tools, Idols, Seals, Toys, Coins, Inscriptions, Bhojapatras, Copper plates, Weapons, Ruins, Old Temples, Forts, Ponds, Step-wells, Travel-diaries, and more.
• Bhojapatra: This is a unique type of tree called 'Bhauj' that grows on the Himalayan mountains. Ancient texts were written on its bark.
• The texts on Tadpatras and Bhojapatras can be found at: Shri Hemchandracharya Library, Patan (North Gujarat); L. D. Institute of Indology, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad; Tribal Museum, Gujarat Vidyapeeth, Ahmedabad; and Mahavira Jain Aradhana Kendra, Koba, Gandhinagar.
• Inscription: This is a writing carved onto stones or metal plates.
• Copper Plate: This refers to writing carved onto a copper plate.
• We can determine the precise age of old remains using the Carbon Dating System.