The Invasion of Alexander, often referred to as Alexander the Great, is a pivotal event in ancient history that transformed the political and cultural landscape of the known world. This conquest led by Alexander of Macedon saw the spread of Hellenistic culture across vast territories, influencing subsequent civilizations for centuries to come. For aspirants preparing for government job comparative exams, understanding the nuances of this invasion and its implications is crucial. Presented below are 10 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with answers and detailed explanations, designed to enhance your knowledge and test your understanding of this historic event.
MCQs with Answers and Explanations:
1. In which year did Alexander invade India?
- 326 BC
- 316 BC
- 346 BC
- 256 BC
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Correct Answer: 326 BC
In 326 BC, the Battle of Hydaspes occurred between Alexander the Great and King Porus along the banks of the Hydaspes River (modern-day Jhelum River) in Punjab. King Porus ruled the region between the Hydaspes and Acesines (Chenab) rivers. Although Porus was defeated, Alexander was impressed by his valor and allowed him to continue ruling under his name.
2. Which dynasty was ruling over Magadha when Alexander invaded India?
- Shishunagas
- Nandas
- Mauryas
- Kosalas
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Correct Answer: Nandas
During Alexander’s invasion of India, he encountered the Nanda Dynasty, with Dhanananda as the ruler. The Nanda Dynasty held power over the Magadha region during this period, and Dhanananda was a contemporary of Alexander when he invaded India.
3. Which region was called “Gedrosia” during the time of Alexander the Great?
- Gujarat
- Rajasthan
- Punjab
- Balochistan
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Correct Answer: Balochistan
Gedrosia, which corresponds to the modern-day region of Makran, is located in Baluchistan. As Alexander marched through this challenging region, known as the Gedrosian desert, he and his army suffered significant losses.
4. Who was the first king to surrender to Alexander?
- King Ambhi
- King Porus
- Bimbisara
- Chandragupta Maurya
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Correct Answer: Ambhi
When Alexander invaded India, many local rulers surrendered to him. King Ambhi of Taxila was the first to do so, aligning with Alexander during his campaign.
5. With whom did Alexander have military encounters while returning back to Macedonia?
- Porus
- Malloi
- Musicanus
- Ambhi
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Correct Answer: Malloi
During his return to Macedonia, Alexander faced military encounters with various Gana-Sanghas, including the Malloi (Malavas), as he made his way through the Indian subcontinent.
6. The Battle of Hydaspes was fought between Alexander and King Porus in 326 BC. Hydaspes refers to which river?
- Jhelum
- Beas
- Ravi
- Indus
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Correct Answer: Jhelum
The Battle of Hydaspes was indeed fought along the banks of the Hydaspes River, which is the modern-day Jhelum River in Punjab. This significant battle pitted Alexander the Great against King Porus, who ruled the region between the Hydaspes and Acesines (Chenab) rivers.
7. In which year did Alexander invade India?
- 324 BCE
- 348 BCE
- 326 BCE
- 325 BCE
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Correct Answer: 326 BCE
In 326 BCE, Alexander invaded India after defeating the Persians led by King Darius. He continued his march through the Indian subcontinent after conquering the Achaemenid Empire of Persia.
8. The famous Battle of Hydaspes was fought between Alexander and which Indian ruler?
- King Ambhi
- Chandragupta Maurya
- King Porus
- Bimbisara
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Correct Answer: King Porus
The Battle of Hydaspes was fought between King Porus and Alexander. Alexander entered India through the Khyber Pass after conquering the Achaemenid Empire of Persia.
9. Until which river did Alexander reach in the Indian subcontinent?
- Sutlej
- Indus
- Beas
- Jhelum
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Correct Answer: Beas
As Alexander advanced further into India, he reached the Beas River. However, his soldiers, suffering from homesickness and diseases, refused to go any farther, leading to his retreat.
10. In which year did Alexander the Great die?
- 323 BCE
- 360 BCE
- 326 BCE
- 330 BCE
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Correct Answer: 323 BCE
Alexander the Great passed away in 323 BCE while on his way back to Babylon. His troops were exhausted and war-weary, and his death was due to natural causes.
Invasion of Alexander Notes for UPSC Exam
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