ReCall – Evolution of Political Power in Sri Lanka – Important Facts

 

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#1. At the beginning of Sri Lanka’s political evolution, power was _________ and held by provincial chieftains.

Explanation: The text explicitly states that early political power was “Decentralized at the beginning,” with “Provincial chieftains” holding authority in their local areas.

#2. In the early local administrative structure, the rulers of individual villages were known as _________.

Explanation: The source text clearly defines the roles of local rulers, stating that “Gamikas: Ruled villages.” Parumakas ruled multiple villages, and Gahapathi were householders.

#3. The _________ were powerful chieftains who held authority over many villages, representing a step above the village-level rulers.

Explanation: The text outlines a hierarchy of local power, noting that “Parumakas: Ruled many villages.” This placed them in a position of regional authority over the Gamikas.

#4. The emergence of political power and ruling structures was a response to social needs, life competition, and the need to control _________ as settlements developed.

Explanation: The text states that a “Need for Political Power” arose “To control conflicts in society.” This indicates that governance was necessary to maintain social order.

#5. According to the text, the process of centralizing power under a single ruler was initiated by King _________.

Explanation: The text credits a specific king with beginning this crucial process: “Dutugemunu started process” of centralization. While others were involved, he is identified as the initiator.

#6. The process of centralization that began with King Dutugemunu was effectively completed by King _________, the founder of the Lambhakarna dynasty.

Explanation: The source text identifies the king who finished the process: “Vasabha (Lambhakarna) completed it.” His reign marked the consolidation of a unified state administration.

#7. The text defines a _________ as a political entity made up of a king, officers, rules, and institutions.

Explanation: The text provides a specific definition: “State Defined – King, officers, rules, institutions.” This is the formal term for the complete political structure.

#8. To enhance their status and authority, ancient rulers often tried to appear as _________ to their subjects.

Explanation: The text notes a key strategy used by rulers to build legitimacy: “Rulers’ Concepts – Rulers tried to appear as gods.” This concept of divine kingship was a powerful tool.

#9. The _________ were a set of five auspicious items, including a sword and a parasol, used in royal coronations to symbolize prosperity.

Explanation: The text identifies this specific set of regalia: “Pancha Kakudha Bhanda: Used in coronations.” It then lists the five items that are part of this set.

#10. The ‘Pancha Kakudha Bhanda’ includes a forehead strap (‘Nalal Patiya’), a parasol (‘Sesatha’), slippers (‘Mirivedi Sangala’), a special fan (‘Walvidunava’), and a _________.

Explanation: The text lists the five items for prosperity, and the missing item from the options is the “Magul Kaduva (sword).”

#11. The title ‘Devanapiya’, meaning “Adorable to God,” was first used by the Mauryan Emperor _________ before being adopted by Sri Lankan kings.

Explanation: The source text provides the origin of this important royal title: “Ashoka used the title first.” King Devanampiyatissa of Sri Lanka adopted it later, influenced by Ashoka.

#12. In mythology, Alakamandava is known as the city of the gods and the dwelling place of _________, the god of wealth.

Explanation: The text gives a clear definition: “Alakamandava – Dwelling of Kuvera (god of wealth).” King Kashyapa used this association for his palace at Sigiriya.

#13. The ‘Pancha Kakudha Bhanda’ were famously used in the second coronation of King _________, an event that symbolized his elevated status and connection to Indian royalty.

Explanation: The text explicitly links these royal items to a specific event: “Devanampiyatissa’s second coronation using them.” This coronation, using insignia sent by Emperor Ashoka, was a pivotal moment.

#14. In the local hierarchy of power, the individual in charge of a single house or family unit was known as the _________.

Explanation: The text defines the most basic level of leadership: “Gahapathi: Householders in charge of houses.” They were the heads of the primary social unit.

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