Oxford Solutions for ICSE Class 6 History Civics Chapter 9 The Mauryan Empire

Keywords

1. Indika: was the account of the Mauryan period written by Megasthenes.
This book provides a detailed look at the social and political life of India during that time. It was written by a Greek traveler who visited the court of Chandragupta Maurya.
Teacher's Tip: Remember "Indika" starts with "I" like "India" and was written about our country.
Exam Tip: Always mention Megasthenes as a "Greek Ambassador" for a more complete answer.

2. Arthashastra: The book was written by Chanakya on politics.
It serves as a detailed manual on how to govern a kingdom effectively and manage the economy. The principles inside are still studied today by people interested in ancient law.
Teacher's Tip: Think of "Arth" as "Money/Economics" and "Shastra" as "Knowledge."
Exam Tip: State that Kautilya is another name for Chanakya if the question asks for the author.

3. Dig vijaya: It means conquest of territories.
This term refers to the traditional goal of Indian kings to expand their borders through military might. It was the policy followed by Ashoka before he experienced the horrors of the Kalinga war.
Teacher's Tip: "Dig" refers to directions, so it means winning in every direction.
Exam Tip: Contrast this with "Dhamma Vijaya" to show how Ashoka's policy changed over time.

4. Dhamma: vijaya It means conquest through dharma. Dhamma It is derived from the Sanskrit word dharma, meaning religious duty,
Instead of using weapons, this policy focused on winning people's hearts through kindness and moral teachings. It became the cornerstone of Ashoka's rule after he embraced non-violence.
Teacher's Tip: Think of "Dhamma" as "Doing Good" to remember its meaning.
Exam Tip: Explain that Dhamma is the Prakrit version of the Sanskrit word "Dharma."

5. Dharmamahamatras: They were special officials appointed to spread and enforce the principles of dhamma. Mahamatras They were officials appointed to carry out administrative work.
These officers traveled throughout the empire to ensure that people were living peacefully and following the Emperor's moral code. They also looked after the welfare of the poor, the elderly, and even prisoners.
Teacher's Tip: Think of them as the "Dhamma Police" who promoted peace instead of arrests.
Exam Tip: Distinguish between "Mahamatras" (general admins) and "Dharmamahamatras" (moral admins) for full marks.

EXERCISES

A. Fill in the blanks:

Question 1: The main literary sources of information about the Mauryan period are Indika and Arthashastra.
Answer: Indika and Arthashastra.
These two books are the most reliable written records we have from that era. They help historians understand how the government was run and how people lived in ancient India.
Teacher's Tip: Associate "Indika" with Megasthenes and "Arthashastra" with Chanakya.
Exam Tip: Listing both sources is required when the question asks for "literary sources."

Question 2: Chandragupta’s success in acquiring the throne of Magadha was largely due to the guidance and training of his adviser Chanakya.
Answer: Chanakya.
Chanakya was a brilliant strategist who helped Chandragupta build an army and defeat the Nanda dynasty. He remained a trusted advisor throughout the formation of the empire.
Teacher's Tip: Think of Chanakya as the "Brain" behind Chandragupta's "Brawn."
Exam Tip: You can also use the name "Kautilya" or "Vishnugupta" as they refer to the same person.

Question 3: Chandragupta Mauiya was succeeded by his son Bindusara.
Answer: Bindusara.
Bindusara was the second Mauryan Emperor and he maintained the vast kingdom his father had built. He is often known as the "Slayer of Foes" because he kept the borders secure.
Teacher's Tip: Remember the order: Chandragupta -> Bindusara -> Ashoka.
Exam Tip: Be careful not to confuse "Bindusara" with "Bimbisara," who was a much earlier king.

Question 4: The word dhamma is derived from the Sanskrit word dharma which means religious duty.
Answer: dharma, religious duty.
Ashoka used the word Dhamma to describe his specific set of ethical rules for his subjects. It wasn't just about religion, but about being a good and responsible human being.
Teacher's Tip: Prakrit was the common man's language, which is why Ashoka used "Dhamma."
Exam Tip: Always define Dhamma's meaning as "moral" or "religious duty" to be precise.

Question 5: Ashoka’s dhamma was based on human values and a code of conduct inspired by the teachings of Buddha.
Answer: conduct, Buddha.
The core of his message was non-violence and respecting all living creatures. By following Buddha's path, he changed from a warrior king to a peaceful missionary.
Teacher's Tip: The Kalinga War is what led Ashoka to the teachings of Buddha.
Exam Tip: Mention "human values" if you are asked to describe the nature of Dhamma.

B. Match the following:

Question : Match the following items from Column A with Column B.
Column A
1. Megasthenes
2. Chanakya
3. Seleucus
4. Sanghamitra
5. Pataliputra
Column B
(a) third Buddhist Council
(b) Greek ambassador
(c) Arthashastra
(d) Alexander’s general
(e) spread of Buddhism

Answer:
1. Megasthenes - (b) Greek ambassador
2. Chanakya - (c) Arthashastra
3. Seleucus - (d) Alexander’s general
4. Sanghamitra - (e) spread of Buddhism
5. Pataliputra - (a) third Buddhist Council
This matching exercise connects the most influential figures and locations of the Mauryan period with their specific roles and contributions. It helps students identify how foreign diplomacy, political literature, and religious missions all contributed to the empire's growth.
Teacher's Tip: Remember that Seleucus was the soldier (General) while Megasthenes was the writer (Ambassador) sent by him.
Exam Tip: To score full marks, always write out the full matching pairs clearly instead of just drawing lines or writing letters.

C. Choose the correct answer:

Question 1: Indika was written by Kautilya/Megasthenes/Seleucus.
Answer: Indika was written by Megasthenes.
Megasthenes lived in India for several years and observed everything from the palace guards to the farmers in the fields. His writings help us visualize the grandeur of the Mauryan capital.
Teacher's Tip: Megasthenes was a "Messenger" (ambassador) who wrote the "Message" (Indika).
Exam Tip: Identify Megasthenes as a foreign source to explain why his perspective is unique.

Question 2: In 305 bce Alexander’s general Megasthenes/Seleucus/ Kautilya invaded India.
Answer: In 305 bce Alexander’s general Seleucus invaded India.
Seleucus Nicator tried to reclaim the Indian territories previously held by Alexander the Great. However, he was defeated by Chandragupta Maurya and had to sign a peace treaty.
Teacher's Tip: Think of "Seleucus" as the soldier and "Megasthenes" as the writer.
Exam Tip: Note the year 305 BCE as the date of this specific conflict.

Question 3: The Kalinga War was a turning point in the life of Dhana Nanda/Bindusara/Ashoka.
Answer: The Kalinga War was a turning point in the life of Ashoka.
After seeing the massive death toll and suffering, Ashoka felt deep regret for his violent actions. This experience led him to give up war forever and adopt the policy of non-violence.
Teacher's Tip: Kalinga is the "Key" to Ashoka's "Kindness."
Exam Tip: Use the word "turning point" to explain why this war is historically significant.

Question 4: Ashoka’s dhamma was based on the principles of Buddhism/Hinduism/Confucianism.
Answer: Ashoka’s dhamma was based on the principles of Buddhism.
He converted to Buddhism and used its teachings to create a moral code that could unite his diverse empire. His Dhamma emphasized ahimsa (non-violence) and respect for all religions.
Teacher's Tip: While inspired by Buddhism, Dhamma was meant for everyone, not just Buddhists.
Exam Tip: If asked for the specific religion Ashoka followed, always choose Buddhism.

Question 5: Ashoka’s son was named Rahul/Chandragupta/ Mahendra.
Answer: Ashoka’s son was named Mahendra.
Mahendra became a Buddhist monk and traveled to Sri Lanka to share the message of Buddhism. This helped the religion spread beyond the borders of the Indian subcontinent.
Teacher's Tip: Mahendra and Sanghamitra were the "Missionary" children of Ashoka.
Exam Tip: Remember that Mahendra went to "Sri Lanka" as this is a common follow-up question.

D. State whether the following are true of false:

Question 1: In 321 bce Dhana Nanda was overthrown by Chandragupta Maurya.
Answer: True.
This victory marked the end of the Nanda dynasty and the beginning of the Mauryan Empire. It was the first step in creating a unified kingdom across northern India.
Teacher's Tip: 321 BCE is the "Birth Year" of the Mauryan Empire.
Exam Tip: Always check the date in these statements; 321 BCE is the standard textbook date.

Question 2: Chanakya was a wise brqhmana who had a personal grudge against Dhana Nanda.
Answer: True.
Dhana Nanda had insulted Chanakya in his court, leading Chanakya to vow that he would destroy the Nanda dynasty. He then found and trained Chandragupta to fulfill this goal.
Teacher's Tip: Chanakya's "Grudge" gave us a "Great" Empire!
Exam Tip: Mention that he was a "Brahmana" to show his social background.

Question 3: Bindusara was the son of Ashoka.
Answer: False.
Correct: Bindusara was the father of Ashoka.
Bindusara was the second king of the dynasty, and Ashoka was his most famous son. Ashoka inherited the empire from Bindusara and expanded it even further.
Teacher's Tip: Think: Grandpa Chandragupta -> Dad Bindusara -> Son Ashoka.
Exam Tip: When a statement is false, always write the "Correct" version to get full marks.

Question 4: When Ashoka ascended the throne of Magadha, Bengal was the only kingdom outside Mauryan control.
Answer: False.
Correct: When Ashoka ascended the throne of Magadha, Kalinga was the only kingdom outside Mauryan control.
Kalinga (modern-day Odisha) was a powerful kingdom on the coast that controlled important sea routes. Ashoka wanted to conquer it to complete his father's and grandfather's vision.
Teacher's Tip: Remember "K" for Kalinga was the "Kingdom" he had to "Konquer."
Exam Tip: Be sure to mention "Kalinga" as the specific region outside Mauryan control.

Question 5: Ashoka replaced the policy of digvijaya with dhamma vijaya.
Answer: True.
This was a revolutionary change in ancient kingship where a ruler chose peace over war. It showed that he valued the spiritual and moral growth of his people more than territory.
Teacher's Tip: "Dig" = War; "Dhamma" = Peace. He switched from War to Peace.
Exam Tip: Use the terms "digvijaya" and "dhamma vijaya" specifically in your descriptive answers.

E. Answer the following questions in one or two words/ sentences:

Question 1: Mention any one important literary source of information about the Mauryan period.
Answer: The main literary sources of information about the Mauryan period is Indika.
While there are multiple sources, Indika is highly valued because it provides an outsider's view of the kingdom. It gives us clues about things like the municipal administration of Pataliputra.
Teacher's Tip: "Literary" means written books or scripts.
Exam Tip: Mention either "Indika" or "Arthashastra" to answer correctly.

Question 2: Who helped Chandragupta Maurya to become the ruler of Magadha?
Answer: Chanakya helped Chandragupta Maurya to become the ruler of Magadha.
He provided the strategic planning and political wisdom that Chandragupta needed to win. Without Chanakya's guidance, the Mauryan Empire might never have been born.
Teacher's Tip: Chanakya is often called the "Kingmaker" in history.
Exam Tip: Identify him as the "chief advisor" to show his rank.

Question 3: What was the extent of Chandragupta’s empire?
Answer: Chandragupta’s empire was the first great empire in Indian history. By the end of his reign, the Maurya empire stretched from the Hindu Kush in the north-west to Bengal in the east, from the Himaylayas in the North to the Narmada in the South.
This massive area covered almost all of Northern India and parts of modern-day Afghanistan. It was the largest political entity the subcontinent had ever seen up to that time.
Teacher's Tip: Think of it as covering the "North and North-West" of India.
Exam Tip: Mention the "Hindu Kush" and "Bengal" to define the East-West boundaries.

Question 4: Which powerful kingdom was not under Mauryan control when Ashoka ascended the throne?
Answer: Kalinga was the only powerful kingdom that was not under Mauryan control.
Kalinga was strategically important because it was a prosperous coastal state. Its independence was seen as a challenge to the power of the Magadha kings.
Teacher's Tip: Kalinga is the "Odd one out" that Ashoka wanted to bring in.
Exam Tip: One word answer "Kalinga" is sufficient for this question.

Question 5: What was the extent of Ashoka’s empire?
Answer: Ashoka’s empire stretched from the Himalayas in the North to Mysore in the South and from the Hindu Kush in the north-west to Brahmaputra in the east. It also included Kabul, Kandahar, Herat and the parts of Nepal and Kashmir.
He ruled over nearly the entire Indian subcontinent, reaching further south than his grandfather. His empire also extended deep into Central Asia, making him a truly international ruler.
Teacher's Tip: Ashoka's empire reached almost the "Tip of India" in the South.
Exam Tip: Mention "Mysore" and "Kabul" to show the North-South and West reach.

Question 6: What does the term ‘dhamma vijaya’ mean?
Answer: Dhamma vijaya means conquest through dharma.
It describes Ashoka's goal of spreading moral values and winning over people's hearts instead of taking their land. This policy promoted universal peace and religious tolerance throughout his vast kingdom.
Teacher's Tip: "Vijaya" means victory, so it is the "Victory of Truth."
Exam Tip: Define "Dharma" within your answer to provide a full explanation.

F. Answer the following questions briefly:

Question 1: What happened to Alexander’s vast empire after his death?
Answer: After Alexander’s death, fighting broke out between his generals for the control of his vast empire. Seleucus, one of Alexander’s generals, became the ruler of the territory stretching from Asia Minor to the Indus.
The empire was split into several smaller kingdoms as his leaders could not agree on a single successor. This fragmentation made it easier for rising powers like Chandragupta Maurya to reclaim Indian lands.
Teacher's Tip: Think of it as a "Pie" that was cut up by his generals.
Exam Tip: Mention "Seleucus" specifically as the general who ruled near India.

Question 2: Why was Seleucus compelled to sign a treaty with Chandragupta Maurya? Mention two important terms of this treaty.
Answer: Seleucus was compelled to sign a treaty with Chandragupta Maurya because Chandragupta Maurya defeated him. According to this treaty he had to give eastern Afghanistan, Baluchistan and areas west of the Indus to Chandragupta. He gave his daughter to Chandragupta in marriage. In return,he received 500 war elephants.
Chandragupta's powerful army was too much for the Greek forces to handle in battle. This treaty was important because it pushed the Mauryan borders far beyond the Indus river.
Teacher's Tip: Elephants for Land - that was the trade between the two kings.
Exam Tip: Be ready to list "500 war elephants" as the specific gift Chandragupta gave.

Question 3: Explain how the Kalinga War became a turning point in Ashoka’s life?
Answer: The Kalinga war became a turning point in Ashoka’s life. Because, the death, destruction and great human suffering in this war filled Ashoka’s heart with sorrow and remorse.
He realized that thousands of innocent people were killed and families were destroyed just for him to win a war. This deep emotional pain changed him from a cruel conqueror to a compassionate protector of all beings.
Teacher's Tip: The "War of Blood" turned into the "Way of Peace."
Exam Tip: Use the words "sorrow" and "remorse" as they are key emotional markers.

Question 4: Mention the main principles of Ashoka’s ‘Dhamma’.
Answer: The Principles of dhamma were as follows.
1. People should live in peace and harmony.
2. Everyone should follow ahimsa.
3. People should be truthful, charitable and kind to all.
These simple rules were meant to make society better for everyone, regardless of their background. Ashoka believed that if people followed these values, there would be no need for wars or harsh laws.
Teacher's Tip: Think of Dhamma as a "Common Sense" guide for being a nice person.
Exam Tip: Mention "ahimsa" (non-violence) as the most important principle.

Question 5: Explain any five steps taken by Ashoka to propagate Dhamma in and outside India.
Answer: To propagate dhamma, following steps were taken by Ashoka:
1. He ordered the construction of Buddhist monasteries.
2. He sent learned Buddhist scholars to distant lands to spread Buddhism.
3. He visited all the places associated with the life of Buddha.
4. Special officers called Dhammamahamatras were appointed to spread and enforce the princples of dhamma throughout the kingdom.
5. The principles of dhamma were engraved in Prakrit on rocks, pillars and caves so that people could read and follow them.
By using multiple methods, Ashoka ensured that his message reached every corner of the world. He used both people (officials and scholars) and permanent monuments (pillars and caves) to spread his ideas.
Teacher's Tip: Remember: Monks, Monasteries, Officers, Travels, and Pillars.
Exam Tip: Name "Dharmamahamatras" as the specific officials in your list of steps.

Question 6: What arc edicts? Why were they composed in Prakrit?
Answer: Edicts are order issued by a ruler. They are also source of valuable information of the Mauryan period. Edicts were composed in Prakrit because it was easy language to understand by the common people.
These edicts were like royal notices carved into stone so they would last for hundreds of years. By using Prakrit instead of Sanskrit, Ashoka made sure that even ordinary citizens could read his laws.
Teacher's Tip: Edicts are like "Ancient Billboards" that gave rules to the public.
Exam Tip: Explain that Prakrit was the "language of the masses" to get full points.

Question 7: What did Ashoka do for the happiness and welfare of his subjects?
Answer: He embraced Buddhism and devoted his life to the moral and material welfare of his subjects.
He built hospitals for both people and animals, dug wells, and planted trees along the roads for shade. His goal was to act as a father to his people, ensuring they were comfortable and happy.
Teacher's Tip: He treated his subjects like his "own children."
Exam Tip: Mention both "moral" (Dhamma) and "material" (hospitals/wells) welfare.

G Picture study.

Question 1: What are edicts?
Answer: The edicts are a source of valuable information of the Mauryan period. Edicts are royal commands or proclamations.
They represent the first time an Indian king communicated directly with his people through writing. These inscriptions tell us about Ashoka's laws, his religious beliefs, and his administrative policies.
Teacher's Tip: Edicts = Official Rules from the King.
Exam Tip: Use the word "proclamations" to show a higher level of vocabulary.

Question 2: How are Ashokan edicts useful?
Answer: The edicts are a source of valuable information of the Mauryan period.
They help historians reconstruct the history of India, especially the boundaries of Ashoka's empire. Because they are carved in stone, they have survived for over 2,000 years to tell us the story of ancient times.
Teacher's Tip: They are like a "History Book" carved into rocks.
Exam Tip: Mention that they provide "valuable information" about the government and society.

Question 3: Where were these edicts inscribed?
Answer: They were inscribed on rocks, polished stone pillars and caves.
Ashoka chose busy marketplaces and religious sites for these edicts so that the maximum number of people would see them. The pillars are especially famous for their beautiful polish and animal carvings on top.
Teacher's Tip: Ashoka used "Nature's Walls" (caves and rocks) as his writing pads.
Exam Tip: List "rocks, pillars, and caves" to cover all locations mentioned in the text.

Question 4: In which language were they composed and in which script w ere they written?
Answer: They were composed in Prakrit, the language of the people and written in Brahmi script. In the north-west they were written in Greek, Kharoshthi and Aramaic.
By using different scripts in different regions, Ashoka ensured that everyone, even foreigners, could understand his message. This shows how vast and diverse the Mauryan Empire really was.
Teacher's Tip: Prakrit = Language; Brahmi = Script (the way the letters look).
Exam Tip: Name the "Brahmi" script specifically as it is the ancestor of many modern Indian scripts.

OTHER IMPORTANT QUESTIONS

Question 1: Write the main sources of Information about Mauryan empire ?
Answer: Indika by Megasthenes, Arthashastra by Chanakya, and the rock and pillar edicts of Ashoka are valuable sources of Information about Mauryan Empire.
These sources combined give us a full picture: Indika gives the traveler's view, Arthashastra gives the political rules, and the Edicts give the King's own words. Together, they make the Mauryan period one of the best-documented eras in ancient India.
Teacher's Tip: Sources = Books (Indika/Arthashastra) + Stones (Edicts).
Exam Tip: List all three main sources for a perfect answer.

Question 2: Who was Chandragupta Maurya ?
Answer: Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Maurya Empire was the greatest known ruler in the ancient history of India.
He was the first king to unite almost the entire Indian subcontinent under one rule. His military bravery and political alliances paved the way for India's golden age.
Teacher's Tip: He was the "Founder" and the "First Great King."
Exam Tip: Always identify him as the "founder" of the dynasty.

Question 3: Who was Chanakaya ?
Answer: Chanakaya was the chief advisor of Chandragupta. He was also known as Kautilya. He wrote book ‘Arthashastra’ on politics.
He was a teacher at Taxila university and is famous for his sharp mind and deep understanding of government. Many of his ideas about management and law are still used by leaders today.
Teacher's Tip: Chanakya = Advisor = Author of Arthashastra.
Exam Tip: Use both names (Chanakya and Kautilya) to show your depth of knowledge.

Question 4: Who was Seleucus ?
Answer: Seleucus was one of Alexander’s generals.
He took over the eastern part of Alexander's empire after the great conqueror died. He eventually became a friend and father-in-law to Chandragupta Maurya after a short war.
Teacher's Tip: Think of him as the "Greek General" who stayed behind.
Exam Tip: Clarify that he was a "general of Alexander" to get full marks.

Question 5: Why is Ashoka called as ‘Ashoka the Great’ ?
Answer: Ashoka’s occupies an important place in history. He is regarded as one of the greatest rulers of India. He gave the best type of administration to his subject, Hospitals, schools were opened, wells were dug, trees were grown in large number, that is why he is called a ‘Ashoka the Great’.
He is considered great because he put the happiness of his people before his own power or wealth. His transformation from a violent warrior to a peaceful servant of the people is unique in all of world history.
Teacher's Tip: Greatness comes from "Service" to the people, not just "Winning" wars.
Exam Tip: List his welfare works (hospitals, schools, wells) as evidence of his greatness.

Question 6: What did Ashoka do to spread Buddhism outside India?
Answer: Ashoka sent learned Buddhist scholars, his son Mahendra and daughter Sanghamitra to outside India to spread message of Buddhism.
By sending his own family members, he showed how much he truly believed in the message of peace and kindness. This helped Buddhism become one of the world's most popular religions, reaching all the way to Southeast Asia.
Teacher's Tip: Family members were his "Spiritual Ambassadors."
Exam Tip: Specifically mention his son "Mahendra" and daughter "Sanghamitra" to show complete study.