The Ahom State: Foundation, Expansion, and Administration
Ahom State: Foundation, Expansion and Administration | Medieval Assam History
Course: History of North-East India: From Early Kingdoms to Modern Integration
Module IV: Late Medieval Period and the Rise of Indigenous States
Timeline / Era Covered: 13th Century CE – 18th Century CE
Lesson: The Ahom State – Foundation, Expansion, and Administration
This lesson is systematically organized into four clearly structured sections, as detailed below:
- Chronologically Structured Study Module
- Short-Answer Type Questions
- Long-Answer Type Questions
- Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) with Answers and Detailed Explanations
Chronologically Structured Study Module
Introduction: Significance of the Ahom State in North-East Indian History
The emergence of the Ahom State marks one of the most enduring and transformative phases in the history of North-East India. Spanning nearly six centuries (c. 1228 CE–1826 CE), the Ahom polity stands out for its remarkable political stability, adaptive governance, military resilience, and cultural synthesis. Unlike many medieval kingdoms that rose and fell rapidly, the Ahom State successfully integrated diverse ethnic groups, ecological systems, and administrative traditions into a durable state structure.
This lesson examines the Ahom State chronologically, focusing on its foundation, territorial expansion, and administrative organization, while situating these developments within the broader context of late medieval transformations in the Brahmaputra Valley.
I. Historical Background: The Brahmaputra Valley before the Ahoms (Before 13th Century CE)
Before the arrival of the Ahoms, the Brahmaputra Valley was home to multiple tribal chiefdoms and early kingdoms. Polities such as the Kamarupa kingdom had declined by the 12th century, leaving behind a fragmented political landscape dominated by:
- Bodo-Kachari chiefs
- Chutiya rulers in eastern Assam
- Bhuyan confederacies
- Hill tribes with shifting cultivation practices
This political fragmentation created conditions conducive to the emergence of a new centralized power. The absence of a strong, unified authority made the region vulnerable but also open to innovative political organization.
II. Foundation of the Ahom State (13th Century CE)
1. Migration and Leadership of Sukaphaa (1228 CE)
The foundation of the Ahom State is traced to the arrival of Sukaphaa, a Tai prince from the region of Mong Mao (present-day Yunnan–Myanmar borderlands). In 1228 CE, Sukaphaa crossed the Patkai Hills with a small band of followers and entered the upper Brahmaputra Valley.
Key features of Sukaphaa’s leadership:
- Strategic alliances with local tribes (Morans, Borahis)
- Policy of conciliation rather than conquest
- Gradual settlement along fertile riverine tracts
Instead of imposing an alien rule, Sukaphaa adopted local customs, intermarried with indigenous communities, and laid the foundation of a syncretic political culture.
2. Early Political Organization
The early Ahom polity was not a territorial empire but a mobile chiefdom that expanded slowly through negotiation and selective warfare. The Tai-Ahom rulers introduced concepts of kingship, land organization, and ritual authority while accommodating local traditions.
Key early institutions included:
- Chao-Pha (King as divine-political authority)
- Council of nobles drawn from Ahom elites
- Collective land ownership under royal supervision
III. Consolidation and Early Expansion (13th–15th Century CE)
1. Territorial Consolidation
Between the 13th and 15th centuries, Ahom rulers consolidated control over eastern Assam by absorbing or defeating neighboring powers such as:
- The Morans and Borahis
- The Chutiya Kingdom (early phase of rivalry)
Expansion during this period was slow but stable, prioritizing administrative control over mere territorial conquest.
2. Adaptation to Geography
The Ahoms skillfully adapted to the floodplains of the Brahmaputra by:
- Developing embankments and irrigation
- Introducing wet rice cultivation (sali kheti)
- Establishing permanent settlements
This ecological adaptation strengthened economic foundations and population growth.
IV. Major Phase of Expansion and State Formation (16th–17th Century CE)
The 16th and 17th centuries represent the classical phase of Ahom power.
1. Conflict with the Chutiya and Kachari Kingdoms
Under rulers like Suhungmung (also known as Dihingia Raja), the Ahom State expanded westward and southward.
- Defeat and annexation of the Chutiya Kingdom
- Incorporation of Kachari territories
- Introduction of Hindu titles alongside Tai traditions
This phase marked the transformation of the Ahom polity into a territorial state.
2. Ahom–Mughal Conflict (17th Century CE)
The westward expansion brought the Ahoms into prolonged conflict with the Mughal Empire.
Key battles and events:
- Battle of Saraighat (1671 CE)
- Leadership of Lachit Borphukan
- Use of riverine warfare and guerrilla tactics
The Ahom victory at Saraighat symbolized regional resistance to imperial expansion and secured Ahom sovereignty.
V. Administrative Structure of the Ahom State
1. The Paik System: Backbone of Administration
The Ahom administration was based on the Paik system, a unique form of state-controlled labor organization.
Features:
- Every adult male registered as a Paik
- Paiks grouped into units (gots)
- Rotational service to the state (military, agriculture, construction)
This system ensured:
- A standing pool of manpower
- Minimal dependence on cash taxation
- Direct state control over resources
2. Central Administration
The Ahom king ruled with the assistance of powerful officials known as Patra Mantris, including:
- Borgohain
- Burhagohain
- Borpatrogohain
These officials controlled military, judicial, and administrative functions and also acted as a check on royal authority.
3. Provincial Administration
Territories were divided into administrative units governed by officers such as:
- Phukans
- Rajkhowas
Local governance was flexible, allowing indigenous customs to continue under Ahom supervision.
VI. Military Organization and Defense
The Ahom military system was highly organized and adapted to local geography.
Key features:
- Paik-based military service
- Fortifications like Garhs and embankments
- Naval warfare on the Brahmaputra
Weapons included bows, swords, spears, and later firearms acquired through trade.
VII. Religion, Culture, and Social Integration
1. Religious Policy
Initially followers of Tai religious practices, the Ahom rulers gradually adopted Hinduism, particularly Vaishnavism, without abandoning older traditions.
This resulted in:
- Royal patronage to Hindu institutions
- Survival of Tai rituals within court ceremonies
- Cultural synthesis rather than replacement
2. Cultural Achievements
The Ahom period witnessed significant developments in:
- Architecture (Rang Ghar, Talatal Ghar)
- Chronicles (Buranjis)
- Language and script
The Buranjis are invaluable historical records that combine myth, genealogy, and political history.
VIII. Crisis and Decline (18th Century CE)
1. Internal Weaknesses
By the 18th century, the Ahom State faced internal challenges:
- Rigid Paik system under demographic pressure
- Court intrigues and succession disputes
- Growing burden on peasantry
2. Moamoria Rebellion
The Moamoria rebellion severely weakened Ahom authority by:
- Disrupting administration
- Depopulating regions
- Undermining royal legitimacy
This internal collapse paved the way for external intervention.
3. End of Ahom Rule
Though Ahom rule formally ended in 1826 after British annexation, the decline had already set in by the late 18th century.
IX. Historical Significance of the Ahom State
The Ahom State occupies a unique place in Indian history due to:
- Its longevity (nearly 600 years)
- Successful resistance to Mughal expansion
- Integration of tribal and non-tribal societies
- Indigenous administrative innovations
It represents a regional model of state formation distinct from both North Indian Sultanates and South Indian empires.
Conclusion
The Ahom State was not merely a dynasty but a dynamic political system rooted in adaptation, inclusiveness, and administrative efficiency. From the visionary leadership of Sukaphaa to the complex administrative machinery of the mature state, the Ahoms shaped the historical trajectory of Assam and North-East India. Understanding the foundation, expansion, and administration of the Ahom State is essential for grasping the broader patterns of late medieval regional power formation in India.
Examination-Oriented Key Takeaways
- 1228 CE: Foundation of the Ahom State by Sukaphaa
- Paik system as core administrative framework
- Ahom–Mughal conflict as defining military phase
- Cultural synthesis of Tai and Indic traditions
- Decline due to internal revolts and systemic rigidity
Short Answer Type Questions (20–30 Marks Category)
1. Who founded the Ahom State and in which year?
Answer:
The Ahom State was founded by Sukaphaa in 1228 CE after his migration across the Patkai Hills into the Brahmaputra Valley.
2. From where did Sukaphaa migrate to Assam?
Answer:
Sukaphaa migrated from Mong Mao, a Tai region located near the present-day Yunnan–Myanmar border.
3. Why was the Brahmaputra Valley suitable for the establishment of the Ahom State?
Answer:
The Brahmaputra Valley offered fertile alluvial soil, abundant water resources, and a fragmented political landscape, making it suitable for settlement and state formation.
4. What was the political condition of Assam before the arrival of the Ahoms?
Answer:
Before the Ahoms, Assam was politically fragmented with tribal chiefdoms such as the Morans, Borahis, Chutiyas, Kacharis, and Bhuyan confederacies.
5. What policy did Sukaphaa follow towards local tribes?
Answer:
Sukaphaa followed a policy of conciliation and integration, forming alliances and matrimonial relations instead of pursuing aggressive conquest.
6. What does the term “Chao-Pha” signify?
Answer:
“Chao-Pha” refers to the Ahom king, regarded as both a political ruler and a semi-divine authority in Tai-Ahom tradition.
7. Mention one major achievement of the early Ahom rulers.
Answer:
A major achievement was the gradual consolidation of power in eastern Assam through peaceful assimilation and selective warfare.
8. During which centuries did the Ahom State witness major territorial expansion?
Answer:
The Ahom State experienced major expansion during the 16th and 17th centuries CE.
9. Name one Ahom ruler associated with major state expansion.
Answer:
Suhungmung (also known as Dihingia Raja) is associated with significant territorial expansion and administrative reforms.
10. Which neighboring kingdoms were defeated by the Ahoms in the 16th century?
Answer:
The Ahoms defeated and annexed the Chutiya Kingdom and later subdued the Kachari Kingdom.
11. What was the Paik system?
Answer:
The Paik system was a compulsory labor and service system in which every adult male had to serve the state in rotation.
12. Why is the Paik system considered the backbone of Ahom administration?
Answer:
It ensured a steady supply of manpower for agriculture, military service, and public works without heavy monetary taxation.
13. What were “Gots” under the Paik system?
Answer:
Gots were groups of Paiks organized for rotational service, ensuring continuous availability of labor and soldiers.
14. Name any two high-ranking Ahom officials.
Answer:
Borgohain and Burhagohain were two high-ranking officials who assisted the king in administration and military affairs.
15. How was provincial administration managed in the Ahom State?
Answer:
Provinces were governed by officials like Phukans and Rajkhowas, who maintained law, revenue, and order at the local level.
16. What role did geography play in Ahom military success?
Answer:
The Ahoms effectively used rivers, marshes, and dense forests for defense, particularly in riverine and guerrilla warfare.
17. Which battle is considered the most famous Ahom victory against the Mughals?
Answer:
The Battle of Saraighat (1671 CE) is the most famous Ahom victory against the Mughal forces.
18. Who led the Ahom forces in the Battle of Saraighat?
Answer:
The Ahom forces were led by Lachit Borphukan, a celebrated Ahom general.
19. What were Buranjis?
Answer:
Buranjis were Ahom chronicles that recorded historical events, genealogies, and administrative matters.
20. What religious change occurred among the Ahom rulers over time?
Answer:
The Ahom rulers gradually adopted Hinduism, especially Vaishnavism, while retaining elements of Tai religious traditions.
21. Name two architectural structures built during the Ahom period.
Answer:
Rang Ghar and Talatal Ghar are notable architectural achievements of the Ahom period.
22. What was the Moamoria Rebellion?
Answer:
The Moamoria Rebellion was a major internal uprising in the 18th century that weakened Ahom political authority.
23. Mention one reason for the decline of the Ahom State.
Answer:
One major reason was the rigidity of the Paik system, which became oppressive under demographic pressure.
24. How did the Ahom State finally come to an end?
Answer:
The Ahom State came to an end after British annexation following the Treaty of Yandabo in 1826 CE.
25. State one historical significance of the Ahom State.
Answer:
The Ahom State is significant for its 600-year-long rule and successful resistance to Mughal expansion in North-East India.
Long Answer Type Questions with Answers
1. Discuss the historical background that led to the foundation of the Ahom State in the Brahmaputra Valley.
Answer:
Before the 13th century CE, the Brahmaputra Valley lacked a strong centralized authority. The decline of the ancient Kamarupa kingdom resulted in political fragmentation, with power dispersed among tribal chiefdoms such as the Morans, Borahis, Chutiyas, Kacharis, and Bhuyan confederacies. These groups practiced shifting cultivation and maintained localized authority. This political vacuum, combined with fertile land and strategic geography, created favorable conditions for the emergence of a new state. The arrival of the Ahoms under Sukaphaa transformed this fragmented region into a gradually centralized polity through diplomacy, integration, and administrative innovation.
2. Examine the role of Sukaphaa in the foundation of the Ahom State.
Answer:
Sukaphaa, a Tai prince from Mong Mao, founded the Ahom State in 1228 CE. His leadership was marked by foresight, adaptability, and inclusiveness. Instead of establishing dominance through force, Sukaphaa formed alliances with local tribes, adopted indigenous customs, and encouraged intermarriage. He selected fertile areas for settlement and introduced wet rice cultivation, strengthening the economic base of the new polity. Sukaphaa’s policy of peaceful integration laid the foundation for a stable and enduring state, distinguishing the Ahom kingdom from many contemporary medieval polities.
3. Analyse the early political organization of the Ahom State during the 13th and 14th centuries.
Answer:
In its early phase, the Ahom State functioned as a semi-nomadic chiefdom rather than a territorial empire. Authority revolved around the king, known as the Chao-Pha, supported by nobles of Tai origin. Political control expanded gradually through negotiation and selective warfare. Land was considered state property, cultivated collectively under royal supervision. This flexible political structure allowed the Ahoms to consolidate power without provoking widespread resistance, ensuring stability during the formative period.
4. Describe the process of territorial consolidation of the Ahom State up to the 15th century.
Answer:
From the 13th to the 15th century, Ahom expansion was cautious and methodical. The Ahoms subdued or absorbed nearby tribes such as the Morans and Borahis, integrating them into the administrative system. Instead of rapid conquest, emphasis was placed on settlement, agricultural expansion, and political accommodation. This approach ensured long-term control over territories and reduced the likelihood of rebellion, enabling the Ahoms to establish firm roots in upper Assam.
5. Explain how geography influenced the growth and stability of the Ahom State.
Answer:
The Brahmaputra Valley’s fertile alluvial plains supported intensive wet rice cultivation, which formed the economic backbone of the Ahom State. Rivers served as communication routes and defensive barriers. Dense forests and marshy terrain protected the kingdom from external invasions. The Ahoms skillfully adapted to this environment by constructing embankments, canals, and fortified settlements, demonstrating a close relationship between geography and state formation.
6. Discuss the expansion of the Ahom State during the 16th century.
Answer:
The 16th century marked a turning point in Ahom history, characterized by aggressive territorial expansion. Under powerful rulers such as Suhungmung, the Ahoms defeated the Chutiya Kingdom and later subdued the Kacharis. These conquests expanded Ahom control over most of the Brahmaputra Valley and transformed the kingdom into a territorial state. The adoption of Hindu titles and administrative practices during this period further strengthened royal authority.
7. Examine the Ahom–Mughal conflict and its historical significance.
Answer:
The westward expansion of the Ahoms brought them into conflict with the Mughal Empire in the 17th century. Several battles were fought for control of western Assam. The conflict culminated in the Battle of Saraighat (1671 CE), where the Ahoms successfully repelled Mughal forces. This victory preserved Ahom sovereignty and demonstrated the effectiveness of regional resistance against imperial expansion. It also reinforced Assamese political identity.
8. Assess the military leadership of Lachit Borphukan.
Answer:
Lachit Borphukan was one of the greatest military commanders of the Ahom State. His leadership during the Battle of Saraighat exemplified discipline, strategic intelligence, and patriotism. He effectively used riverine warfare and motivated his troops despite illness and limited resources. Lachit’s leadership not only secured victory against the Mughals but also became a symbol of resistance and sacrifice in Assamese history.
9. Describe the Paik system and evaluate its importance in Ahom administration.
Answer:
The Paik system was a compulsory service system under which every adult male was registered as a Paik. Paiks were grouped into gots and provided rotational service to the state in agriculture, military duty, and public works. This system ensured a steady supply of manpower without heavy monetary taxation. It strengthened state control over resources and supported military preparedness, making it the backbone of Ahom administration.
10. Analyse the central administrative structure of the Ahom State.
Answer:
The Ahom king governed with the assistance of high officials known as Patra Mantris, including the Borgohain and Burhagohain. These officials managed civil, military, and judicial functions and acted as a balance on royal authority. This collective leadership prevented autocracy and ensured continuity of governance even during periods of weak kingship.
11. Explain the system of provincial administration under the Ahoms.
Answer:
The Ahom territory was divided into administrative units governed by officials such as Phukans and Rajkhowas. These officers were responsible for revenue collection, maintenance of law and order, and implementation of royal directives. Local customs were respected, allowing diverse communities to coexist under Ahom rule while acknowledging central authority.
12. Discuss the role of agriculture in sustaining the Ahom State.
Answer:
Agriculture formed the economic foundation of the Ahom State. The introduction of wet rice cultivation increased productivity and supported population growth. The state supervised land distribution and irrigation through the Paik system. Agricultural surplus sustained the military and administrative machinery, contributing to long-term political stability.
13. Examine the religious policy of the Ahom rulers.
Answer:
Initially followers of Tai religious traditions, the Ahom rulers gradually adopted Hinduism, particularly Vaishnavism. However, they did not abandon their indigenous beliefs. This policy of religious accommodation promoted social harmony and helped integrate diverse communities into the state structure.
14. Describe the cultural achievements of the Ahom period.
Answer:
The Ahom period witnessed significant cultural developments, including monumental architecture such as Rang Ghar and Talatal Ghar. The compilation of Buranjis preserved historical records, while literature and art flourished under royal patronage. These achievements reflect the synthesis of Tai and Indic cultural traditions.
15. What were Buranjis, and why are they important for historians?
Answer:
Buranjis were official Ahom chronicles that recorded political events, genealogies, and administrative decisions. They provide valuable insights into medieval Assamese history and serve as primary sources for reconstructing the Ahom past.
16. Analyse the causes of internal weaknesses in the Ahom State during the 18th century.
Answer:
By the 18th century, the Paik system became rigid and burdensome due to population pressure. Court intrigues, succession disputes, and declining administrative efficiency weakened central authority. These internal weaknesses undermined the stability of the Ahom State.
17. Discuss the Moamoria Rebellion and its impact on the Ahom State.
Answer:
The Moamoria Rebellion was a major uprising by followers of the Moamoria sect against Ahom authority. It caused widespread destruction, depopulation, and administrative collapse. The rebellion severely weakened the state, making it vulnerable to external intervention.
18. Explain the factors responsible for the decline of the Ahom State.
Answer:
The decline of the Ahom State resulted from internal rebellions, administrative rigidity, economic strain, and weakening military strength. These factors eroded the authority of the monarchy and destabilized the political system.
19. How did the Ahom State finally come to an end?
Answer:
The weakened Ahom State eventually fell under British control after the Treaty of Yandabo in 1826 CE. However, the decline had begun much earlier due to internal decay in the late 18th century.
20. Evaluate the historical significance of the Ahom State in Indian history.
Answer:
The Ahom State is historically significant for its remarkable longevity, effective resistance to Mughal expansion, and successful integration of diverse ethnic groups. Its indigenous administrative systems and adaptive governance make it a unique example of regional state formation in medieval India.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with Answers and Explanations
1. Who founded the Ahom State in Assam?
A. Lachit Borphukan
B. Suhungmung
C. Sukaphaa
D. Rudra Singha
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
The Ahom State was founded in 1228 CE by Sukaphaa, a Tai prince who migrated across the Patkai Hills and laid the foundation of a new political system in the Brahmaputra Valley.
2. Sukaphaa belonged to which ethnic group?
A. Indo-Aryan
B. Austroasiatic
C. Tibeto-Burman
D. Tai
Correct Answer: D
Explanation:
Sukaphaa belonged to the Tai ethnic group, which originated in the region of Mong Mao in Southeast Asia.
3. In which year did Sukaphaa enter the Brahmaputra Valley?
A. 1206 CE
B. 1228 CE
C. 1245 CE
D. 1300 CE
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
The traditional date of Sukaphaa’s arrival in Assam is 1228 CE, marking the beginning of Ahom rule.
4. What was the political condition of Assam before the Ahoms?
A. Strong centralized empire
B. Mughal administration
C. Fragmented tribal chiefdoms
D. European colonial rule
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Before the Ahoms, Assam lacked central authority and was divided among tribes like the Morans, Borahis, Chutiyas, Kacharis, and Bhuyans.
5. Which policy helped the Ahoms establish long-term rule?
A. Forced conversion
B. Aggressive conquest
C. Conciliation and assimilation
D. Heavy taxation
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
The Ahoms followed a policy of peaceful integration by forming alliances, intermarrying with locals, and respecting indigenous customs.
6. What was the title of the Ahom king?
A. Maharaja
B. Sultan
C. Chao-Pha
D. Devaraja
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
“Chao-Pha” was the Tai title for the Ahom king, signifying both political authority and divine legitimacy.
7. Which agricultural practice strengthened the Ahom economy?
A. Shifting cultivation
B. Plantation farming
C. Wet rice cultivation
D. Pastoralism
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
The Ahoms introduced wet rice (sali) cultivation, which increased productivity and ensured food security.
8. The Paik system was mainly a system of:
A. Land revenue
B. Religious control
C. Military taxation
D. Compulsory state service
Correct Answer: D
Explanation:
Under the Paik system, every adult male provided compulsory service to the state in rotation.
9. Which unit was used to organize Paiks?
A. Khel
B. Got
C. Paragana
D. Sarkar
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Paiks were grouped into gots, ensuring rotational service without disrupting agriculture.
10. Which Ahom ruler expanded the kingdom significantly in the 16th century?
A. Sukaphaa
B. Suhungmung
C. Gadadhar Singha
D. Purandar Singha
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Suhungmung (Dihingia Raja) expanded Ahom territory and introduced major administrative reforms.
11. Which kingdom was annexed by the Ahoms in eastern Assam?
A. Koch
B. Chutiya
C. Mughal
D. Tripura
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
The Chutiya Kingdom was defeated and annexed, strengthening Ahom territorial control.
12. The Ahom–Mughal conflict mainly occurred during which century?
A. 15th century
B. 16th century
C. 17th century
D. 18th century
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Major Ahom–Mughal conflicts took place in the 17th century due to westward Ahom expansion.
13. The Battle of Saraighat was fought in:
A. 1605 CE
B. 1648 CE
C. 1671 CE
D. 1707 CE
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
The Battle of Saraighat (1671 CE) was a decisive Ahom victory against the Mughals.
14. Who led the Ahom forces at the Battle of Saraighat?
A. Rudra Singha
B. Sukaphaa
C. Lachit Borphukan
D. Pratap Singha
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Lachit Borphukan is remembered as a heroic military commander who defended Assam from Mughal invasion.
15. Which geographical feature aided Ahom military success?
A. Deserts
B. Plateaus
C. Riverine terrain
D. Coastal plains
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
The Brahmaputra River and marshy terrain enabled effective river warfare and defensive strategies.
16. Who were the Borgohain and Burhagohain?
A. Religious leaders
B. Village heads
C. High-ranking Ahom officials
D. Mughal governors
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
They were senior officials who assisted the king and acted as checks on royal power.
17. Which officials governed provinces in the Ahom State?
A. Amils and Jagirdars
B. Phukans and Rajkhowas
C. Mansabdars
D. Subedars
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Phukans and Rajkhowas were responsible for local administration, justice, and revenue.
18. What were Buranjis?
A. Tax records
B. Religious texts
C. Trade manuals
D. Historical chronicles
Correct Answer: D
Explanation:
Buranjis were official Ahom chronicles documenting political, military, and administrative events.
19. Which religion did Ahom rulers gradually adopt?
A. Buddhism
B. Islam
C. Hinduism
D. Christianity
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Over time, Ahom rulers adopted Hinduism, especially Vaishnavism, while retaining Tai traditions.
20. Which Ahom structure is considered an early example of an amphitheatre?
A. Talatal Ghar
B. Kareng Ghar
C. Rang Ghar
D. Namdang Stone Bridge
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Rang Ghar was used for royal sports and ceremonies and reflects Ahom architectural skill.
21. The Moamoria Rebellion occurred during which century?
A. 16th
B. 17th
C. 18th
D. 19th
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
The Moamoria Rebellion in the 18th century severely weakened Ahom political authority.
22. The Moamoria Rebellion primarily weakened which aspect of the Ahom State?
A. Foreign trade
B. Administrative stability
C. Architecture
D. Religious harmony
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
The rebellion caused administrative collapse, population loss, and internal instability.
23. One major cause of Ahom decline was:
A. Excessive foreign invasions
B. Collapse of trade routes
C. Rigidity of the Paik system
D. Climatic changes
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Over time, the Paik system became burdensome and inefficient, leading to discontent.
24. In which year did Ahom rule formally end?
A. 1757 CE
B. 1765 CE
C. 1826 CE
D. 1858 CE
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Ahom rule ended in 1826 CE after the Treaty of Yandabo, following British annexation.
25. The Ahom State is historically significant because it:
A. Introduced European administration
B. Ruled for nearly 600 years
C. Spread Islam in Assam
D. Established a maritime empire
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
The Ahom State ruled Assam for nearly six centuries, making it one of the longest-lasting indigenous states in Indian history.