Samacheer Kalvi Class 6 Social Science Solutions Term 1 Chapter 4 Ancient Cities of Tamil Nadu

I. Choose the correct answer

Question 1. Which of the following region has a city more than 6500 years old?
(a) Iraq
(b) Indus valley
(c) Tamilagam
(d) Thondaimandalam
Answer: (a) Iraq
In simple words: The region of Iraq has a city that is older than 6500 years. This shows how old some of the first cities in the world really are.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember specific facts like ages and regions for historical questions to score full marks.

Question 2. Which one of the following is a Tamil city?
(a) Iraq
(b) Harappa
(c) Mohenjo-Daro
(d) Kancheepuram
Answer: (d) Kancheepuram
In simple words: Kancheepuram is a city located in Tamil Nadu. The other options are not in Tamil Nadu.

🎯 Exam Tip: Familiarize yourself with the major ancient cities of Tamil Nadu and their locations.

Question 3. Which city is not related to the Bay of Bengal?
(a) Poompuhar
(b) Thondi
(c) Korkai
(d) Kancheepuram
Answer: (d) Kancheepuram
In simple words: Poompuhar, Thondi, and Korkai are coastal cities near the Bay of Bengal, important for sea trade. Kancheepuram is inland, not on the coast.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understanding the geography of ancient cities, especially coastal versus inland, helps in answering such questions.

Question 4. The water management system of Tamils are known from
a. Kallanai
b. Tanks in Kancheepuram
c. Prakirama Pandyan Tank
d. River Cauvery
(a) (a) is correct
(b) (b) is correct
(c) (c) is correct
(d) (a) and (b) are correct
Answer: (d) (a) and (b) are correct
In simple words: The ancient Tamil people were good at managing water. We know this from structures like the Kallanai dam and the many tanks (water reservoirs) found in Kancheepuram. These systems helped them store and use water wisely for farming and daily life.

🎯 Exam Tip: When multiple options are correct, choose the answer that includes all correct choices. Focus on historical evidence of water management.

Question 5. Which is not the oldest city among the following ones?
(a) Madurai
(b) Kancheepuram
(c) Poompuhar
(d) Chennai
Answer: (d) Chennai
In simple words: Madurai, Kancheepuram, and Poompuhar are all very old cities from ancient times. Chennai is a more modern city, even though it has a long history, it is not as ancient as the others.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between ancient historical cities and cities that developed more recently for similar multiple-choice questions.

Question 6. Which city is related to Keezhadi excavation?
(a) Madurai
(b) Kancheepuram
(c) Poompuhar
(d) Harappa
Answer: (a) Madurai
In simple words: The Keezhadi excavations, which found many ancient things, are located near the city of Madurai. These finds tell us more about the old civilization there.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect major archaeological sites with their nearest significant ancient cities for easy recall.

II. Tick the appropriate answer. Match the statement with the reason

Question 1. Statement: Goods were imported and exported from the city of Poompuhar. Reason: the Bay of Bengal was suitable for trading with neighbouring countries.
(a) Statement is correct, but the reason is wrong.
(b) Statement and its reason are correct.
(c) Statement is wrong, but the reason is correct.
(d) Both are wrong.
Answer: (b) Statement and its reason are correct.
In simple words: Poompuhar was a port city, so it was true that goods were traded from there. The Bay of Bengal's location made it easy for ships to travel to nearby countries, which is why Poompuhar was a good trading spot.

🎯 Exam Tip: For assertion-reason questions, first check if each part is true on its own, then check if the reason correctly explains the statement.

Question 2.
(a) Thirunavukkarasar said “kalviyil karaiillatha”. This statement refers to the city of Kancheepuram.
(b) Hieun Tsang said, “Kancheepuram is one among the seven sacred places of India".
(c) Kalidasa said, "Kancheepuram is the best city among the cities”
(a) only a is correct (b) the only b is correct
(c) the only c is correct (d) All are correct
Answer: (d) All are correct
In simple words: All three statements are true. Many famous people praised Kancheepuram for its learning, holiness, and beauty, showing its importance in ancient times.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remembering key quotes and who said them about important cities helps confirm multiple correct statements.

Question 3. Find out the correct statement
(a) Naalangadi – Night shop
(b) Allangdi – Day -time shop
(c) Ancient Roman coin factory was found at Poompuhar.
(d) Pearls were exported from Uvari near Korkai.
Answer: (d) Pearls were exported from Uvari near Korkai.
In simple words: Pearls were sent out (exported) from Uvari, which was a place close to Korkai. This was an important trade item from that region.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to the specific details of trade goods and their origins to distinguish correct from incorrect statements.

Question 4. Find out the wrong statement.
(a) Megasthanese has mentioned Madurai in his account.
(b) Hien Tsang came to the Tamil city of Kancheepuram.
(c) Kovalan and Kannagi lived in Kancheepuram.
(d) Iraq is mentioned in Pattinapalai.
Answer: (c) Kovalan and Kannagi lived in Kancheepuram.
In simple words: Kovalan and Kannagi, characters from a famous Tamil epic, actually lived in the city of Poompuhar, not Kancheepuram. This makes the statement incorrect.

🎯 Exam Tip: Know the main settings of important historical and literary figures to identify factual errors.

Question 5. Find out the correct pair
(a) Koodal Nagar – Poompuhar
(b) Thoonga Nagaram – Harappa
(c) City of Education – Madurai
(d) City of Temples – Kancheepuram
Answer: (d) City of Temples – Kancheepuram
In simple words: Kancheepuram is rightly called the "City of Temples" because it has many beautiful old temples. This name fits it perfectly.

🎯 Exam Tip: Memorize the famous nicknames or associations of ancient cities to easily identify correct pairs.

Question 6. Find out the wrong pair
(a) Vadamalai – Gold
(c) Southern Sea – Pearls
(b) Western Ghats – Sandal
(d) Eastern Sea – Ahil
Answer: (d) Eastern Sea – Ahil
In simple words: The Eastern Sea was not known for Ahil (a type of fragrant wood); this wood was usually found elsewhere. The other pairs correctly link a region to its famous product.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understanding the natural resources and trade goods associated with different geographical areas is crucial for these types of questions.

III. Fill in the blanks

Question 1. Kanchi Kailasanathar temple was built by ............
Answer: Raja Simha
In simple words: The great Kailasanathar temple in Kanchi was constructed by Raja Simha. He was a Pallava king who supported building many temples.

🎯 Exam Tip: Link important historical buildings with the rulers who commissioned them for better recall.

Question 2. ............ is known as the city of temples.
Answer: Kanchi
In simple words: Kanchi is famous for its many temples and is therefore called the city of temples. It has a rich religious history.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize and remember common nicknames or titles given to historical cities.

Question 3. Masathuvan means ............
Answer: A big trader
In simple words: The word 'Masathuvan' refers to a very important or big trader. This shows the importance of merchants in ancient society.

🎯 Exam Tip: Learn key historical terms and their meanings to understand ancient social structures.

IV. State True or False:

Question. State True or False:
1. Cultural relationship with the outside world developed in Poompuhar because of its trade relationship with it.
2. Women also purchased from Allangadi of Madurai without fear.
3. Many rock-cut temples were made during the Pallava period.
4. Bodhi Dharma belonged to Kancheepuram.
Answer:
1. True
2. True
3. False
4. True
In simple words: Poompuhar's trade brought new cultures, so the first statement is true. Women shopped freely in Madurai's markets, so the second is true. While Pallavas built temples, many rock-cut ones were from a slightly different time, making the third false. Bodhi Dharma was indeed from Kancheepuram, so the last is true.

🎯 Exam Tip: Carefully read each statement and evaluate it based on historical facts. Pay close attention to specifics like "many" or "during" which can make a statement true or false.

V. Answer in one word

Question 1. What do you know about the term 'export'?
Answer: Export is when goods and services made in one country are sold to people in another country.
In simple words: Export means selling things that are made in your own country to other countries. It's like sending your products out to be bought by others.

🎯 Exam Tip: Define economic terms clearly and concisely, focusing on the core action involved.

Question 2. Mention the epic and the Sangam poem you read in this lesson.
Answer: The epic mentioned is Silapthikaram (or) Manimegalai, and the Sangam Literature is Pattinappaalai.
In simple words: This lesson talks about two main old writings: the epic stories called Silapthikaram or Manimegalai, and a Sangam poem named Pattinappaalai. These ancient texts give us clues about the past.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the names of key literary works and differentiate between epics and other forms of literature.

Question 3. Which is the oldest city in Thondai Nadu?
Answer: Kanchi is the oldest city in Thondai Nadu.
In simple words: Kanchi is known as the most ancient city in the Thondai Nadu region. It has a very long history.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the oldest or most significant city within a particular region as a key historical fact.

Question 4. Point out anyone difference between a village and a city.
Answer: A village usually has a small number of settlements, while a city has a large group of people and buildings.
In simple words: A village is small with fewer homes and people. A city is much bigger, with many more buildings and a larger population.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on clear, simple distinctions like population size or density when comparing basic geographical terms.

Question 5. Which civilization is associated with the city Lothal?
Answer: The Indus Valley Civilisation is associated with the city Lothal.
In simple words: Lothal was a city that belonged to the Indus Valley Civilisation. It was an important port city for that ancient culture.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect specific ancient sites like Lothal to their broader civilization context, such as the Indus Valley.

Question 6. Name the oldest civilization of the world
Answer: Mesopotamian civilization is the earliest civilization in the world.
In simple words: The Mesopotamian civilization is considered the oldest civilization on Earth. It started a very long time ago in the area between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the key early civilizations and their order of appearance in world history.

VI. Answer the following

Question 1. Write a brief note on ancient cities in India?
Answer: Harappa and Mohenjodaro were very important cities in ancient India. These cities grew up along the banks of the Indus River. They were good examples of early urban life. These cities had excellent town planning, with well-built houses and good drainage systems. People in these cities had a strong sense of community. They also made pottery, ornaments, and used a special writing system that we still cannot understand completely. These cities show us how advanced people were even thousands of years ago. Some of India's earliest innovations in city planning emerged from here.
In simple words: Harappa and Mohenjodaro were big, old cities in India built next to the Indus River. They had planned roads, good houses, and drains. People there made crafts and used a script that we can't read yet.

🎯 Exam Tip: When writing about ancient cities, highlight their key features like location, planning, and cultural aspects.

Question 2. Mention the ancient cities of Tamil Nadu.
Answer: Some of the well-known ancient cities in Tamizhagam (Tamil Nadu) include Madurai, Kanchi, and Poompuhar. Poompuhar stands out as one of the oldest towns in ancient Tamizhagam, known for its busy port. Madurai has always been an old and important city in India, even called "Sangam Valartha Nagaram" for its cultural significance. Kanchi is also a very old town, located in the Thondai Nadu region. Many respected scholars and spiritual leaders, such as Dharmabalar, Jothibalar, Sumathi, and Bodhi Dharma, were born in Kanchi. These cities highlight the rich history and development of the region. Each city has a unique story and legacy.
In simple words: Madurai, Kanchi, and Poompuhar are important old cities in Tamil Nadu. Poompuhar was an old port, Madurai was a very old cultural city, and Kanchi was known for learning and many wise people.

🎯 Exam Tip: List the prominent ancient cities and add one or two key facts about each to provide a comprehensive answer.

Question 3. Discuss the sources available to know about Tamil cities?
Answer: We learn about the ancient towns of Tamizhagam from several sources like Tamil literature, writings by foreign travelers, and things found through archaeology. Sangam Tamil Literature, especially works like Pattinappaalai and the Tamil epics Silappathikaram and Manimegalai, give us details about Poompuhar. Madurai is known for its connection with three Sangams, which were groups of poets and scholars. The fame of Madurai is also mentioned in the writings of the Greek historian Megasthenes. Chanakya, a famous Indian advisor, wrote about Madurai in his book Arthashastra. The Chinese traveler Hieun Tsang also wrote about the greatness of Kanchi. The poet Kalidasa even called Kanchi the best of all towns. These historical records provide valuable insights into these ancient cities.
In simple words: We know about old Tamil cities from books, what foreign visitors wrote, and digging up old sites. Tamil poems, stories like Silappathikaram, and writings by people like Megasthenes and Hieun Tsang all tell us about places like Poompuhar, Madurai, and Kanchi.

🎯 Exam Tip: Categorize sources (literature, foreign accounts, archaeology) and provide specific examples for each to make your answer structured and detailed.

Question 4. Write about the kings who ruled Madurai.
Answer: In ancient times, the Pandyas, the Cholas, and later the Kalabras ruled Madurai. During the medieval period, the city saw rule by later Cholas and Pandyas, and after them, the Nayaks took charge of this historic town. Madurai has a long and complex history of changing rulers, each leaving their mark on the city's culture and architecture. This succession of rulers highlights its continuous importance.
In simple words: Many kings ruled Madurai over time. First came the Pandyas, Cholas, and Kalabras. Later, other Chola and Pandya kings ruled, followed by the Nayaks.

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing rulers, try to arrange them chronologically or by dynasty to show a clear historical progression.

Question 5. Mention the other names of Madurai?
Answer: Madurai is also known by other names: 1. Sangam Valartha Nagaram 2. Thoonga Nagaram (meaning the city that never sleeps) 3. Koodal Nagar. These names reflect different aspects of the city, such as its cultural importance and its lively atmosphere. The name 'Thoonga Nagaram' is especially fitting, given its vibrant night markets.
In simple words: Madurai has other names like Sangam Valartha Nagaram, Thoonga Nagaram (city that never sleeps), and Koodal Nagar.

🎯 Exam Tip: Memorize all alternative names for important cities as they are often tested in exams.

Question 6. What is the difference between Naalaugadi and Allangadi?
Answer: Naalangadi was a market that operated during the daytime, while Allangadi was a market that was open in the evening. This means that trade and activity continued in Madurai from morning till night. The existence of both day and evening markets shows the city's economic vitality and its role as a major trading hub.
In simple words: Naalangadi was a market open during the day. Allangadi was a market open in the evening. They were different because of the time they operated.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly state the distinguishing feature (time of operation) when comparing two related terms.

Question 7. Name the scholars who were born at Kancheepuram
Answer: Scholars like Dharmabalar, Jothibalar, Sumathi, and Bodhi Dharma were born in Kanchi. These individuals contributed greatly to philosophy and religion, making Kanchi a significant center for learning. Their presence highlights the city's rich intellectual tradition.
In simple words: Famous scholars such as Dharmabalar, Jothibalar, Sumathi, and Bodhi Dharma were all born in Kanchi.

🎯 Exam Tip: List prominent figures associated with a place when asked to name people from that location.

Question 8. Which is known as the city of lakes? Why?
Answer: Kanchi is known as the city of lakes. Water management was very important in the farming society of those times. Many lakes were created around Kanchi to store water, and these lakes were all connected by canals. Because of these efforts in later times, Kanchi became known as the district of lakes. This system helped ensure water supply for agriculture and daily needs.
In simple words: Kanchi is called the city of lakes. This is because people built many lakes there to store water for farming, and these lakes were linked by canals.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining why a place has a certain name, provide specific reasons and historical context.

VII. HOTS

Question 1. Write a short note on Iraq.
Answer: Modern Iraq was known as Mesopotamia in ancient times. It was the birthplace of the Sumerian civilization, one of the first civilizations in the world. Iraq is watered by two important rivers, the Euphrates and the Tigris. It was also a crucial trading center, making it a hub for economic activities. The ancient Tamil text Pattinappaalai even talks about the trade relationships Iraq had with other countries. The fertile land between its two rivers made it ideal for early settlements.
In simple words: Iraq was called Mesopotamia long ago and was where the Sumerian civilization began. It has two rivers, Euphrates and Tigris, and was a big trading spot. Ancient Tamil books also mention trade with Iraq.

🎯 Exam Tip: Include geographical features, historical significance, and any notable connections when writing a short note on a country or region.

Question 2. Write a paragraph about the city of Poompuhar with special reference to trade.
Answer: Poompuhar was a very important port city. Many big traders and sea traders settled there, as it was a prime location for maritime commerce. Numerous merchants from other countries, such as Greece and Rome, also came to Poompuhar to trade. A lot of active sea trade happened in Puhar. Foreign traders often stayed there for long periods. There is proof that foreign settlements existed in the town, showing its international character. Poompuhar's bustling port made it a vibrant cultural and economic melting pot. This vibrant trade made it a key city in ancient Tamil Nadu.
In simple words: Poompuhar was a major port city. Many local and foreign traders came there, including from Greece and Rome. There was a lot of sea trade, and foreign merchants even settled in the town.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the aspects of trade: who traded, what was traded, and the impact of trade on the city's development and demographics.

Question 3. Write about the accounts given by scholars about Kanchi.
Answer: Many scholars have spoken highly of Kanchi. The poet Kalidasa called Kanchi "the best of the towns." Poet Thirunavukarasar praised Kanchi as "Kalviyil Karaiillatha Kanchi," meaning Kanchi is boundless in education. Hieun Tsang, a Chinese traveler, also stated that Kanchi is one of the seven sacred places in India, much like Budh Gaya and Sanchi. These statements show Kanchi was not just a city, but a significant center for learning and spirituality. Its reputation spread far and wide, attracting learners and pilgrims alike.
In simple words: Poet Kalidasa said Kanchi was the best city. Poet Thirunavukarasar said Kanchi had endless education. Chinese traveler Hieun Tsang called Kanchi one of India's seven holy places.

🎯 Exam Tip: Quote or paraphrase the exact praises from different scholars to demonstrate knowledge of historical texts.

Question 4. City of temple Gives short notes.
Answer: Kanchi is famously known as the Temple City. The famous Kailasanathar temple is located in Kanchi. The city also has a large number of cave temples. Because of this abundance of temples, Kanchi gained the title "Temple City." These temples show the rich religious and architectural heritage of the region. They are still important sites for pilgrims and tourists today.
In simple words: Kanchi is called the Temple City. It has the famous Kailasanathar temple and many cave temples. Because of all these temples, it got its special name.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing a city's nickname, explain the reason behind it and give examples of relevant landmarks.

Question 5. Kancheepuram was famous for education. Prove this statement
Answer: Kancheepuram was indeed a renowned center for education. Many schools were set up there. The city also had Jainpallis (Jain monasteries) and Viharas (Buddhist monasteries), which served as educational institutions. Hieun Tsang, a Chinese traveler, even visited Kanchi Kadigai to continue his studies, showing its importance as a learning hub. Furthermore, the Tamil poet-saint Thirunavukarasar praised Kanchi by calling it 'Kalviyil karaiillatha Kanchi', which means Kanchi is boundless in education. All these facts confirm Kanchi's high reputation as a place of learning. The city's focus on knowledge contributed to its overall prestige.
In simple words: Kancheepuram was big for education. Many schools were there, along with Jain and Buddhist learning centers. Even the Chinese traveler Hieun Tsang studied in Kanchi. A Tamil poet also said Kanchi had endless education.

🎯 Exam Tip: To prove a statement, provide multiple pieces of evidence or examples, such as the establishment of institutions, visits by famous scholars, and relevant quotes.

VIII. Student Activity

IX. Answer Grid

Question 1. Poompuhar was located on which riverbank?
Answer: Cauvery
In simple words: Poompuhar was situated on the bank of the Cauvery River. Its location on this river was important for trade and transport.

🎯 Exam Tip: Associate major ancient cities with their geographical features, especially rivers, as this helps in understanding their development.

Question 2. Name the ancient city which had Tamil Sangam.
Answer: Madurai
In simple words: Madurai was the ancient city famous for hosting the Tamil Sangams. These were gatherings of poets and scholars.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the historical city famously associated with the Tamil Sangams, a key part of Tamil literary history.

Question 3. Name a Sangam literary work.
Answer: Pattinappaalai
In simple words: Pattinappaalai is a well-known work from Sangam literature. It tells us about life and trade in ancient times.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be able to name at least one example of major literary works from historical periods like the Sangam Age.

Question 4. Which Greek historian gave accounts about the Pandya kingdom?
Answer: Megasthanese
In simple words: The Greek historian Megasthanese wrote about the Pandya kingdom. His writings are a valuable source of information about that time.

🎯 Exam Tip: Link foreign travelers and historians to the specific Indian kingdoms or regions they described in their accounts.

Question 5. To which the Tamil Kingdom did the southern districts of Tamil Nadu belong to during the Sangam Age?
Answer: Pandyas.
In simple words: During the Sangam Age, the southern parts of Tamil Nadu were ruled by the Pandya kingdom. They were powerful rulers in that region.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the territorial divisions and ruling dynasties of the major Tamil kingdoms during different historical periods.

Question 6. Name the Chinese traveller who stayed and studied in Nalanda University.
Answer: Hieun Tsang
In simple words: The Chinese traveler Hieun Tsang spent time studying at the famous Nalanda University. He wrote much about India.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember important foreign visitors to ancient India and their key contributions or experiences, like studying at famous universities.

Question 7. Thirunavukarasar mentioned Kanchi as ............
Answer: Kalviyil karaiillatha Kanchi
In simple words: Thirunavukarasar, a saint-poet, described Kanchi as "Kalviyil karaiillatha Kanchi," meaning it had endless knowledge. This shows Kanchi was a great center for learning.

🎯 Exam Tip: Learn specific titles or phrases used by famous personalities to describe important historical places.

Question 8. What is the name of the evening market during the Sangam Age?
Answer: Allangadi
In simple words: During the Sangam Age, the evening market was called Allangadi. It was a busy place after sunset.

🎯 Exam Tip: Differentiate between day and evening markets in ancient times by remembering their distinct names.

Question 9. Name the temple built by Pallava king Rajasimha at Kanchi.
Answer: Kailasanathar Temple.
In simple words: The Kailasanathar Temple in Kanchi was built by the Pallava king Rajasimha. It is a famous and beautiful ancient temple.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect specific temples or monuments with the kings who built them, especially in regions like Pallava territory.

Question 10. Which district is known as the district of lakes?
Answer: Kanchi
In simple words: Kanchi is known as the district of lakes because it had many lakes and water management systems.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember specific nicknames or titles given to places based on their unique geographical or historical features.

Question 11. What is trade?
Answer: Trade is the activity of buying and selling goods and services. This helps people get what they need and allows countries to exchange products. It has been an important part of human society since ancient times.
In simple words: Trade is when people buy and sell things, like goods and services.

🎯 Exam Tip: Provide a clear, simple definition for basic economic terms like 'trade'.

I. Choose the Correct Answer

Question 1. The earliest civilization in the world is
(a) Egyptian Civilization
(b) Chinese civilization
(c) Indus valley civilization
(d) Mesopotamian civilization
Answer: (d) Mesopotamian civilization
In simple words: The Mesopotamian civilization is known as the very first civilization that appeared on Earth. It started a long time ago in the area that is now Iraq.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember key civilizations and their chronological order to answer questions about the earliest or specific periods of history.

Question 2. Name the place related to the export of Sandal.
(a) the Western Ghats
(b) Southern Sea
(c) Eastern Sea
(d) Elam
Answer: (a) the Western Ghats
In simple words: Sandalwood was mainly exported from the Western Ghats region. This area was famous for its rich forest products.

🎯 Exam Tip: Link specific regions with their natural resources or trade specialities, as this helps in understanding historical trade routes.

Question 3. Kailasanathar temple was built by
(a) Mahendra varman
(b) Narasimha Varman
(c) Raja Simha
(d) Aparajitha
Answer: (c) Raja Simha
In simple words: The famous Kailasanathar temple was built by a Pallava king named Raja Simha. This temple is a key example of ancient architecture.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always remember the names of important rulers and the significant monuments or works they commissioned.

Question 4. Ahil was a
(a) Port
(b) Fragrant wood
(c) Educated centre
(d) Ornament
Answer: (b) Fragrant wood
In simple words: Ahil refers to a type of wood that smells very nice. It was a valuable item in ancient times, often used for its aroma.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify and define ancient terms for goods or places, as they often appear in questions about trade and resources.

Question 5. Puhar served as the port of
(a) Chera kingdom
(b) Chola kingdom
(c) Pandya kingdom
(d) Kalabras
Answer: (b) Chola kingdom
In simple words: Puhar was a very important port city for the Chola kingdom. It was a busy place where goods were bought and sold.

🎯 Exam Tip: Associate major ancient cities and ports with the kingdoms they belonged to, as this helps in understanding historical geography.

II. Fill in the Blanks

Question 1. Sea traders are known by the name ................
Answer: Maanaigan
In simple words: In olden times, people who traded across the sea were called Maanaigan. They brought goods from far-off lands.

🎯 Exam Tip: Learn the specific terms used for different professions or groups in ancient societies.

Question 2. Chanakya was Chandragupta's ................
Answer: Minister
In simple words: Chanakya was a very smart person who worked as a minister for King Chandragupta Maurya. He gave good advice to the king.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify important historical figures and their roles or relationships with key rulers.

Question 3. The Buddhist monk Manimegalai spent the last part of her life at ................
Answer: Kanchi
In simple words: The Buddhist monk Manimegalai spent her final years in Kanchi. This city was known as an important center for learning.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the cities associated with famous religious figures or centers of learning.

III. State True or False

Question 1. The female character of Silappathikaram is Manimegalai.
Answer: False
In simple words: This statement is not true. The main female character of the epic Silappathikaram is Kannagi, not Manimegalai.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be careful with details about literary works, especially the names of main characters and their respective stories.

Question 2. The present-day Thanjavur was once part of Chera Nadu.
Answer: False
In simple words: This statement is false. Thanjavur was historically a significant city of the Chola kingdom, not the Chera kingdom.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the historical territories and major cities associated with different ancient kingdoms.

Question 3. Poompuhar served as the port of the early Chola kingdom.
Answer: True
In simple words: This statement is correct. Poompuhar was a very important seaport for the early Chola rulers, used for active trade.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the main ports and their ruling kingdoms, as these were crucial for ancient trade and economy.

Question 4. Silappathikaram speaks about the greatness of Poompuhar.
Answer: True
In simple words: This statement is true. The epic poem Silappathikaram talks a lot about how great and important the city of Poompuhar was.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect major literary works with the cities or themes they describe, as literature often provides historical insights.

Question 5. Many cave temples were built during the Pallava period.
Answer: True
In simple words: This statement is correct. Many rock-cut cave temples were indeed built during the rule of the Pallava kings, showing their architectural skill.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the characteristic architectural styles or types of monuments associated with different dynasties.

IV. Answer the Following

Question 1. How was Poompuhar different from other towns?
Answer: Poompuhar stood out from other towns in several ways. Different social groups had their own separate areas for living. The city also featured wide and straight streets, lined with carefully designed houses. An important difference was the presence of a large dockyard, showing its role as a key port for maritime trade. This dockyard helped the city become a major trading hub.
In simple words: Poompuhar was special because it had separate living areas for different people, wide streets, well-made houses, and a big dockyard for ships.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing unique features of a historical city, focus on its administration, town planning, and economic activities.

V. Mind Map

🎯 Exam Tip: Visual tools like mind maps help organize and remember key facts about multiple related topics, such as different cities and their unique characteristics.