Relevant Titles
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CBSE Class 12 History MCQs on Role of Ashoka and Mauryan Administration
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Online Practice Test – Mauryan Empire and Administration Class 12 History
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NCERT-Based Class 12 History Quiz: Ashoka’s Dhamma and Governance
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Important MCQs for CBSE Class 12 History – Kings, Farmers and Towns
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CBSE Board Exam Practice: Ashoka and Mauryan Administration MCQ Test
Introduction
The Role of Ashoka and the Mauryan Administration marks a turning point in the political and moral history of ancient India. Under the Mauryan Empire (321–185 BCE), the subcontinent witnessed the emergence of a highly centralized administration, efficient bureaucracy, and a network of governors, officers, and spies ensuring smooth governance. Emperor Ashoka the Great, one of India’s most celebrated rulers, transformed the Mauryan state through his policy of Dhamma, emphasizing non-violence, religious tolerance, and welfare of his subjects.
This CBSE Class 12 History Online Practice Test is based on NCERT Theme 2: Kings, Farmers and Towns – Early States and Economies, and focuses on the administrative structure, welfare policies, and inscriptions of Ashoka. Designed strictly as per the CBSE syllabus, these MCQs help students reinforce their conceptual understanding and prepare effectively for the Class 12 History Board Examination.
Attempt this quiz to strengthen your knowledge of the Mauryan Empire’s governance and Ashoka’s vision of ethical statecraft.
Sample MCQs with Explanations:
Q1. Ashoka belonged to which dynasty?
a) Gupta
b) Maurya
c) Shunga
d) Kushana
Answer: b) Maurya
Explanation: Ashoka was a Mauryan emperor who ruled from c. 268 BCE to 232 BCE and expanded the empire to its greatest extent.
Q2. Which event led to Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism?
a) His coronation
b) The Kalinga War
c) The construction of Sanchi Stupa
d) The invasion of Seleucus
Answer: b) The Kalinga War
Explanation: The devastation of the Kalinga War deeply moved Ashoka, inspiring him to adopt Buddhism and promote peace and Dhamma.
Q3. What was the primary message of Ashoka’s Dhamma?
a) Military conquest
b) Religious intolerance
c) Compassion, non-violence, and respect for all sects
d) Economic prosperity alone
Answer: c) Compassion, non-violence, and respect for all sects
Explanation: Ashoka’s Dhamma emphasized moral values, social harmony, and tolerance among diverse communities.
Q4. The Lion Capital of Ashoka, now India’s National Emblem, was found at —
a) Sanchi
b) Sarnath
c) Taxila
d) Rajgir
Answer: b) Sarnath
Explanation: The Lion Capital of Sarnath represents Ashoka’s imperial authority and Buddhist ideals; it is India’s national emblem today.
Q5. Which officials were appointed by Ashoka to spread Dhamma and welfare?
a) Dhamma Mahamatras
b) Rajukas
c) Amatyas
d) Sarthavahas
Answer: a) Dhamma Mahamatras
Explanation: The Dhamma Mahamatras were special officers appointed by Ashoka to promote moral values, justice, and public welfare.