Early Medieval — Ancient Indian History

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Early Medieval

2 questions

All (2) Unattempted (2) Skipped (0) Correct (0) Wrong (0)

Q.1

WBCS Prelims 2016

Which King founded the Vikramasila University?

A. Dharmapala

B. Dhruva

C. Devapala

D. Ballal Sen

Explanation

Why Correct: Dharmapala, the Pala emperor who ruled from approximately 770-810 CE, established Vikramasila University in present-day Bihar as a major center for Buddhist learning, rivaling Nalanda.
Distractor Analysis: Dhruva was a Rashtrakuta ruler known for his northern campaigns. Devapala succeeded Dharmapala as Pala emperor and expanded the empire but did not found Vikramasila. Ballal Sen was a Sena dynasty ruler of Bengal who came later, around the 12th century.
Takeaway: Vikramasila University was destroyed by Bakhtiyar Khalji's forces around 1200 CE, marking the decline of organized Buddhist education in India.

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Q.2

WBCS Prelims 2011

Gopal was the founder of

A. Pala dynasty

B. Pallava dynasty

C. Pratihara dynasty

D. Chalukya dynasty

Explanation

Why Correct: Gopala founded the Pala dynasty in 750 CE after being elected to end political chaos in Bengal, establishing a kingdom that lasted until 1174 CE.
Distractor Analysis: The Pallava dynasty ruled in South India from 275 CE to 897 CE, founded by Simhavishnu. The Pratihara (Gurjara-Pratihara) dynasty ruled North India from the 8th to 11th centuries, founded by Nagabhata I. The Chalukya dynasty had multiple branches in South India from the 6th to 12th centuries, founded by Pulakeshin I.
Takeaway: The Pala dynasty reached its peak under Dharmapala and Devapala, controlling much of northern India and patronizing Buddhism at Nalanda and Vikramashila universities.

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