The Rise of Empires — Practice

Question 1

Who was Kanishka and why is he considered a great ruler?

Accepted Answer

Kanishka (c. 127-150 CE) was the greatest Kushana ruler, governing from Central Asia to Varanasi. He patronised Buddhism, convened the Fourth Buddhist Council (leading to the Hinayana-Mahayana split), supported the Gandhara school that produced the first Buddha images, and controlled key sections of the Silk Road that brought immense trade and wealth.

Question 2

What was the Silk Road and why was it important for India?

Accepted Answer

The Silk Road was a network of trade routes (over 6,000 km) linking China, Central Asia, India, Persia, and Rome. For India it meant huge wealth from exporting spices, textiles, and gems; the spread of Buddhism to Central Asia, China, and beyond; and the export of Indian mathematics and astronomy to the wider world.

Question 3

What was the Gandhara school of art and what was its key contribution?

Accepted Answer

The Gandhara school (Kushana period) blended Indian Buddhist themes with Greek and Roman styles. Its key contribution was producing the FIRST images of the Buddha in human form (earlier the Buddha was shown only by symbols).

Question 4

What was the Indo-Roman trade?

Accepted Answer

It was the large-scale trade between India and the Roman Empire. India exported pepper ('black gold'), textiles, pearls, and ivory; Rome sent gold, silver, wine, and glassware. So much Roman gold flowed to India that Pliny complained Rome was being drained of its wealth.

Practice — The Rise of Empires

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