History MCQ – 2016

In the SmartStudy Pack, under the section for ‘Local Literary Sources’, explicitly states: ‘Mahawamsa Tika (Wansattappakasini): – Annotation of Mahawamsa (~4 centuries later). – Provides additional information.’ This confirms that Vamsattappakasini is the Tika, or commentary, written for the Mahavamsa chronicle.

Based on historical knowledge, lengthy literary and religious works in ancient Sri Lanka, such as the chronicles mentioned in In the SmartStudy Pack (Deepawamsa, Mahawamsa), were traditionally written on prepared palm leaves known as ola leaves. While inscriptions and metal plates were used for official records and grants, ola leaves were the primary medium for manuscripts and extensive texts, making it the most appropriate answer for chronicles and literary information.

In the SmartStudy Pack provides a detailed biography of Robert Knox, stating he was ‘Captured by King Rajasinghe II’ and was a ‘Prisoner for 19 years in Sri Lanka.’ It further notes that he wrote ‘An Historical Relation of the Island of Ceylon’ (published 1681), a book filled with ‘Descriptions & drawings reflecting 17th century Sri Lanka.’ This confirms that his book was based on extensive personal experience within the Kandyan Kingdom.

In the SmartStudy Pack, under the section ‘Law and Tradition,’ provides specific details about the ‘Badulla Inscription (Sorabora Wewa Inscription, 9th Century AD).’ It states that this inscription ‘Provides valuable insights into laws governing trade and commerce’ and lists among its rules a ‘Special Tax: A special tax imposed on trading during “poya” days (Buddhist holy days).’ This directly corresponds to the information in the question.

In the section titled ‘Importance of Learning History,’ In the SmartStudy Pack lists the benefits of studying history. One of the key points is ‘Constructing Future: – Learning from past experiences to build the present.’ This aligns perfectly with option (4), which encapsulates the primary modern purpose of historical study: to use lessons from the past to understand current situations and build a better future.

While all options are valid reasons, the most fundamental purpose for protecting national heritage is that these monuments are the tangible expression of a nation’s unique history, culture, and identity. They connect the present to the past and define a collective sense of self. In the SmartStudy Pack describes how these monuments provide insights into past ‘Creativity, technology, building design, art skills,’ which are all core components of a national identity.

In the SmartStudy Pack under the ‘Time Periods’ section for the Pre-historic Era provides precise dating. It explicitly states: ‘Iranamadu formation Gravel Layer – 125,000 years old (Pathirajawela)’. This directly confirms that the specified geological layer at Pathirajawela is dated to one hundred and twenty-five thousand years old.

In the SmartStudy Pack repeatedly highlights the significance of Pahiyangala. It is listed as a key pre-historic site showing ‘human habitation… ~38,000 years ago.’ More importantly, it is cited as a place where evidence of lifestyle has been found, including ‘Burial Practices’ (‘9 skeletons (different ages)’) and ‘Rituals’ (‘Skeletons painted red’). This concentration of evidence makes it a primary source of information on pre-historic life.

In the SmartStudy Pack defines the Proto-historic era as the transition period between the pre-historic and historic eras. It clearly states that a ‘New Development’ of this period is that ‘Iron use begins, replacing stone tools slowly.’ The text reinforces this by calling the era the ‘Proto-historic Iron Age or Early Iron Age,’ directly linking the first use of iron to this specific period.

Under ‘The Origin of the Proto-historic Era,’ In the SmartStudy Pack lists the ‘Driving Forces’ for cultural change. It specifies ‘Climatic change (7000-4500 BC)’ corresponding to the ‘End of Ice Age: increased temperature,’ which created a ‘Suitable environment for agriculture.’ This directly supports the answer that a climate change from cold to warm was the key environmental factor.

In the SmartStudy Pack, in the section ‘The Settlements in Early Historic Era,’ explicitly states that the ‘Key Indicator of Settlement’ is ‘Small Village Tanks: Expansion indicates settlement locations.’ It further clarifies that ‘Settlements [were] primarily near tanks,’ making the distribution of these tanks the most crucial factor for understanding settlement patterns of that period.

In the SmartStudy Pack, under ‘Growth of Kingship,’ identifies King Dutugemunu as the ‘Pioneer: Centralizing decentralized power.’ It explains his method: he ‘Received their [Parumakas’] support for unifying the country’ and integrated them into the state structure, with former Parumakas becoming ‘Army Generals’ and other ‘officials after centralization.’ This demonstrates how he gave Parumakas high positions to centralize power.

In the SmartStudy Pack mentions several instances of hospitals in ancient Sri Lanka. It notes ‘King Buddhadasa… actively constructed hospitals,’ ‘King Mahinda V… ensured the provisioning of hospitals,’ and importantly, ‘Archaeological excavations in Polonnaruwa in 1982… Unearthed the ruins of a large hospital at the Alahana Pirivena site.’ The discovery of these physical ruins provides major, tangible evidence of a developed medical system. It Further provide information:

Surgical Instruments:

Discovery: The discovery of surgical instruments at the Alahana Pirivena hospital.

Suggestion: Suggests that complex surgical procedures were performed.

Context: In ancient Sri Lanka.

In the SmartStudy Pack details the construction of canals from the Mahaweli River. It mentions the ‘Elahera Ela: An Engineering Feat,’ which ‘was built to divert water from the Amban River,’ a ‘tributary of the Mahaweli River,’ to supply major tanks. It also notes ‘Another significant canal channeled water from the Mahaweli River… to the ancient capital of Polonnaruwa.’ This shows the Mahaweli was used for large-scale, long-distance water diversion via canals.

In the section ‘Representation of Women,’ In the SmartStudy Pack provides a clear answer regarding female rulers. It states, ‘Queen Leelawathi: – Achievement: This remarkable woman ruled the country three times. – Significance: A testament to her political acumen and the people’s faith in her abilities.’ This directly identifies Queen Leelawathi as the ruler who reigned on three separate occasions.

In the SmartStudy Pack, under ‘Concepts of Kingship,’ discusses the ‘Chakravarthi’ concept, meaning ‘Domination of the world’ or ‘Sakvithi’ in Sinhala. It provides a specific example: ‘Kalinga Chakrawarthi Swaminwahanse: Nishshankamalla – Used in inscriptions.’ This directly links King Nissankamalla to the use of the Chakravarthi concept of kingship in his inscriptions.

In the SmartStudy Pack, in its section on ancient metrology, explains units for measuring length. Under ‘Long Distances: Unifying the Kingdom,’ it lists ‘Gawwa, Yoduna, and Usaba measured larger distances.’ It also notes that the ‘Gawwa [was] marked by stone pillars (Gawuthakanu), similar to modern kilometer markers,’ confirming its use for measuring distance.

In the section ‘Ancient Laws, Modern Relevance: Examples from the Past,’ In the SmartStudy Pack lists various types of taxes mentioned in inscriptions. It clearly defines ‘Dakapathi: * Tax for using water from tanks for irrigation.’ This explicitly identifies ‘dakapati’ as a water tax.

In the SmartStudy Pack describes the ‘Second Urbanization’ in contrast to the first (Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa). It notes that these later cities ‘developed more organically,’ ‘did not adhere to strict geometric layouts,’ and were ‘generally smaller in size.’ The cities belonging to this second wave of urbanization include Dambadeniya, Yapahuwa, Kurunegala, and Kotte. Therefore, the pair Dambadeniya and Yapahuva correctly fits this description.

Based on In the SmartStudy Pack: C – The Javaka invasion by Chandrabhanu occurred during the Dambadeniya period under Parakramabahu II (1236-1270 AD). A – The translation of the Jataka stories (‘Pansiya Panas Jataka Potha’) was commissioned during the Kurunegala Period by Parakramabahu IV (1302 AD onwards). D – The Arab traveler Ibn Battuta visited during the Gampola Period in 1344 AD. B – The rebellion by Jothiya Situ was suppressed by King Parakramabahu VI during the Kotte Period (1412-1467 AD). The correct chronological order is C, A, D, B.

In the SmartStudy Pack, under ‘Social Organization’ of the Kandyan Kingdom, states that ‘Social life within villages was structured around the caste system’ and ‘Marriages were typically arranged within the same caste.’ A society structured strictly by caste inherently treats citizens unequally based on their birth, with different rights and duties. Therefore, the statement that ‘All the citizens of the country were regarded equal under the law’ is incorrect.

The Portuguese first arrived in Sri Lanka in 1505. Based on historical records, the ruler of the Jaffna Kingdom at that time was Pararajasekaram VII (also known as Cankili I’s predecessor or father), who ruled from 1478 to 1519. In the SmartStudy Pack mentions King Sankili ascending the throne in 1519, which is after the Portuguese arrival, confirming that Pararajasekaram was the ruler during the initial contact.

The Battle of Randeniwala (1630) was a major victory for the Kandyan Kingdom. In the SmartStudy Pack notes that the battle was led by Prince Maha Astana (the future King Rajasinghe II), during the reign of his father, King Senarath. The Portuguese leader was Captain General Constantino de Sá de Noronha. The provided table links Rājasimha II (C) to the battle, and the Portuguese leader Constantine de Sa (H). Therefore, the correct pairing is C and H.

In the SmartStudy Pack, under ‘The Battle of Danture (1594),’ states that ‘In October 1594, the Kandyan army, under the command of King Vimaladharmasuriya I, met the Portuguese forces at Danture.’ It also identifies the Portuguese leader as ‘Captain General Pero Lopes de Sousa.’ In the provided table, Vimaladharmasūriya I is (A), the place of battle Danture is (E), and the Portuguese leader Pero Lopes de Sousa is (J). Therefore, the correct place and leader pairing is E and J.

In the SmartStudy Pack explains this succession practice under the reign of King Sri Veera Parakrama Narendrasinghe. It notes that he followed ‘South Indian customs for succession,’ where ‘in the absence of a direct heir, the throne could pass to the brother of the queen.’ This led to his wife’s brother, Sri Vijaya Rajasinghe, ascending the throne, marking the ‘beginning of the Nayakkar dynasty.’ This confirms the Nayakkar dynasty followed this tradition.

In the SmartStudy Pack, in the section ‘The Dutch Policy Towards Kandy: A Balancing Act,’ clearly states the primary motivation for the Dutch. Under the heading ‘Peace for Profit,’ it says: ‘The Dutch prioritized maintaining peace with Kandy to safeguard their lucrative trade, primarily in cinnamon.’ This directly supports the reason that avoiding conflict was essential to protect their trade activities.

In the SmartStudy Pack details the features of these constitutions. For the Donoughmore Constitution (1931), a key feature was the introduction of ‘Universal Franchise’ (A) for all adults. For the Soulbury Constitution (1948-1972), a key institution was the bicameral Parliament, which included a ‘Senate’ (D). Therefore, the correct respective features are Universal Franchise (A) and the Senate (D).

In the SmartStudy Pack outlines the key features of the 1978 Constitution. It states that it introduced ‘Proportional Representation’ (E) for all elections. It also introduced the concept of a ‘Referendum’ (C) for seeking public opinion on certain matters. Therefore, the constitution of 1978 contains the Referendum (C) and Proportional Representative System (E).

In the SmartStudy Pack highlights John D’Oyly’s crucial role in the British takeover of Kandy. He is described as a ‘Mastermind’ who understood local culture, gained the trust of aristocrats, and used spies to gather internal secrets. His tactical approach and intelligence gathering were instrumental in the successful 1815 invasion, making him the key contributor.

In the section ‘Political Party System in Sri Lanka,’ In the SmartStudy Pack provides the founding dates of major parties. It states the Lanka Sama Samaja Party (LSSP) was ‘Founded in 1935,’ the United National Party (UNP) was ‘Founded in 1946,’ and the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) was ‘Founded in 1951.’ As 1935 is the earliest date, the LSSP is the oldest political party listed.

In the SmartStudy Pack, in the ‘Agriculture Development’ section, lists farming settlements. Under ‘Pre-Independence,’ it includes ‘Minneriya’ (B). Historical records also place the Minipe scheme (D) as a pre-independence project started by D.S. Senanayake. The text lists ‘Gal Oya’ (A), ‘Kantale’ (C), and ‘Giritale’ (E) under ‘Post-1948’ settlements. Therefore, Minneriya (B) and Minipe (D) were established before independence.

In the SmartStudy Pack details the contributions of these figures. Anagarika Dharmapala and Henry Steel Olcott led the ‘Buddhist Renaissance.’ Arumuga Navalar led the ‘Hindu Religious Renaissance.’ M.C. Siddi Lebbe led the ‘Islamic Renaissance.’ A common thread in all their activities was the revival and protection of their respective religions and the establishment of educational institutions (e.g., Ananda College, Zahira College) to support this revival. This is best described as leading a religious and educational renaissance.

In the SmartStudy Pack describes Leonardo da Vinci as a ‘Painter, Scientist, Inventor.’ It specifically highlights his fame as an artist by stating, ‘His “Mona Lisa” is perhaps the most famous portrait ever painted, while “The Last Supper” revolutionized religious art with its realism and emotional depth.’ This confirms his primary fame was in the field of painting.

In the SmartStudy Pack under ‘Expansion of the Industrial Revolution’ lists several inventions. It mentions the ‘Telegraph service (Samuel Morse, 1844)’ and ‘Radio (Marconi, 1895)’ as key developments in communication. Both Samuel Morse (A) and Guglielmo Marconi (D) are therefore inventors in the field of communication.

In the SmartStudy Pack, under ‘Results of the Industrial Revolution: Social Changes,’ clearly identifies urbanization as a major social effect. It states: ‘New cities: Rapidly growing, industrialized centers’ and ‘Urbanization: Migration from villages.’ This directly corresponds to the speedy growth of urbanization.

In essence, the “total war” efforts of World War I and World War II treated the environment as both a weapon and collateral damage, leaving a devastating and lasting toxic legacy.

Key points of pollution include:

• Chemical and Soil Contamination: WWI’s chemical warfare saturated battlefields with poisons like mustard gas and heavy metals. Areas like France’s “Zone Rouge” remain uninhabitable today due to unexploded ordnance and toxic soil.

• Landscape Destruction: Massive artillery bombardments in WWI and carpet bombing in WWII destroyed ecosystems, turning forests and fields into barren “moonscapes.” This obliterated topsoil and left behind millions of tons of metal shrapnel.

• Water Pollution: Thousands of sunken warships and cargo ships continuously leak fuel and toxic materials into the oceans, acting as “ticking environmental time bombs.” Additionally, munitions factories dumped untreated chemical waste directly into rivers.

• Air Pollution: The immense industrial production, powered by coal, and the firebombing of cities released vast quantities of smoke, soot, and toxic fumes into the atmosphere.

• Radiation Contamination: Unique to WWII, the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki introduced widespread radioactive fallout, causing long-term contamination of soil and water and leading to generations of health problems.

In the SmartStudy Pack, under ‘Results of World War II,’ mentions the ‘Martial Plan {After the state secretary of USA, John Martial}.’ This was a massive post-war economic aid program funded by the United States to rebuild Western Europe. The ability to launch such an enormous and costly plan was a clear demonstration of the immense economic and political powerfulness of the United States of America after the war.

Here is the relevant information from the SmartStudy Pack that connects Nazism and Hitler: More Weight is on this option when selecting the answer.

• Hitler’s Rise & Conduct (Germany)

  • Hitler’s book: “Mein Kampf” {Nazism, Racism}.

  • Nazism: {pure Aryans}.

  • Political system based on party dictatorship.

  • Allied forces fought Hitler for 6 years to wipe out Nazism.

In the SmartStudy Pack states that after World War I, the ‘League of Nations Union’ was established. The ‘United Nations Organization’ was established after World War II, as mentioned in the section on the UNO: ‘Official Start: October 24, 1945’. Therefore, there is no direct relationship where World War I led to the formation of the United Nations Organization; it led to the League of Nations.

In the SmartStudy Pack, under the section ‘End of World War II,’ provides specific details about events in Sri Lanka. It states: ‘Japan Surrenders… Colombo bombing on 05th April 1942 and Trincomalee on 07th April.’ This event, known as the Easter Sunday Raid, was conducted by the Imperial Japanese Navy, confirming that Japan was the country responsible for the air attacks.

In the SmartStudy Pack, under ‘Results of World War II,’ lists the key figures of the ‘Non-Aligned Movement: {Jawaharlal Nehru, Marshal Tito, Abdul Gamal Nasser… Established in 1961}.’ Jawaharlal Nehru was the first Prime Minister of India, a major South Asian nation. Marshal Tito was from Yugoslavia (Europe) and Abdul Gamal Nasser was from Egypt (Africa/Middle East). Therefore, Jawaharlal Nehru is the correct South Asian leader.