Relevant Titles
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CBSE Class 12 History MCQs: Early Indian Epigraphy and Inscriptions
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NCERT Class 12 History Quiz – Epigraphy and Inscriptions of Ancient India
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Online Practice Test – Early Indian Scripts and Inscriptions for Class 12
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CBSE Class 12 History Objective Questions – Kings, Farmers and Towns
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Class 12 History MCQs on Ashokan Edicts and Ancient Indian Inscriptions
Introduction
Enhance your preparation for the CBSE Class 12 History Board Exam with this Online Practice Test on Early Indian Epigraphy and Inscriptions, part of Theme 2: Kings, Farmers and Towns – Early States and Economies under Part A: Early Societies and Cultures.
This quiz explores how inscriptions and epigraphic records have helped historians reconstruct India’s early political, social, and economic history. Learn about Ashokan edicts, Brahmi and Kharosthi scripts, and the significance of copper-plate grants that reveal land ownership, administrative orders, and royal patronage. Each question has been carefully designed following the NCERT Class 12 History syllabus, ensuring complete alignment with CBSE exam standards.
Through this quiz, students can test their understanding of key topics such as Ashoka’s Dhamma, the decipherment of ancient scripts, and the role of inscriptions in tracing dynastic history. Every MCQ includes detailed feedback for conceptual clarity.
Start practicing these CBSE Class 12 History MCQs now to boost your accuracy and confidence for the upcoming board examinations.
Sample MCQs with Explanations
Q1. Who successfully deciphered the Brahmi script in the 19th century?
A. Alexander Cunningham
B. James Prinsep
C. John Marshall
D. Mortimer Wheeler
Answer: B. James Prinsep
Explanation: James Prinsep deciphered the Brahmi script in 1837, unlocking the study of Ashokan inscriptions and ancient Indian history.
Q2. The majority of Ashokan inscriptions were written in which script?
A. Kharosthi
B. Brahmi
C. Tamil-Brahmi
D. Devanagari
Answer: B. Brahmi
Explanation: The Brahmi script was widely used in Ashokan edicts across most regions of the Mauryan Empire.
Q3. The Allahabad Pillar Inscription records the achievements of which ruler?
A. Chandragupta Maurya
B. Harshavardhana
C. Samudragupta
D. Kharavela
Answer: C. Samudragupta
Explanation: The Allahabad Pillar Inscription, composed by Harishena, celebrates Samudragupta’s conquests and policies.
Q4. Which inscription provides evidence of Ashoka’s remorse after the Kalinga War?
A. Sarnath Edict
B. Dhauli Rock Edict
C. Junagadh Inscription
D. Aihole Inscription
Answer: B. Dhauli Rock Edict
Explanation: The Dhauli Rock Edict expresses Ashoka’s regret and commitment to Dhamma following the Kalinga War.
Q5. Which language was primarily used in Ashokan inscriptions?
A. Sanskrit
B. Pali
C. Prakrit
D. Tamil
Answer: C. Prakrit
Explanation: Ashoka’s inscriptions were mainly written in Prakrit, the common spoken language of the people during the Mauryan period.