Ashoka, The Emperor Who Gave Up War Class 6 Extra Questions and Answers Free PDF Download
FAQs on CBSE Important Questions for Class 6 Social Science Ashoka, The Emperor Who Gave Up War - 2025-26
1. What types of important questions can be expected in the exam from CBSE Class 6 Social Science Chapter 7, Ashoka, The Emperor Who Gave Up War?
For the CBSE Class 6 Social Science exam, you can expect a variety of questions from this chapter, including:
- One-mark questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) or very short answers on key terms like 'dhamma' or important locations like Kalinga and Pataliputra.
- Three-mark questions: Short answer questions asking you to explain concepts like the principles of Ashoka's 'dhamma' or the reasons for the Kalinga war.
- Five-mark questions: Long answer questions requiring detailed explanations, such as describing the Mauryan administration or explaining why Ashoka is considered a unique ruler.
2. Which event led Ashoka to give up war, and why is this a frequently asked question?
The event that led Emperor Ashoka to give up war was the Kalinga War. This is a frequently asked question because it marks the central turning point in his reign and the history of the Mauryan Empire. After witnessing the immense violence and loss of life in the war, Ashoka was filled with remorse and decided to abandon the policy of physical conquest in favour of a policy of 'dhamma', or righteous conduct.
3. What was Ashoka's 'dhamma', and how can I write a good 3-mark answer on this topic?
Ashoka's 'dhamma' was a code of moral conduct and not a specific religion. It was inspired by the teachings of the Buddha. To write a good 3-mark answer, you should include these key points:
- It emphasised non-violence (ahimsa), respect for elders, and kindness towards slaves and servants.
- It promoted religious tolerance, urging people to respect all faiths.
- Ashoka appointed special officials called Dhamma Mahamattas to travel and spread the teachings of dhamma among the people.
4. What were the key features of Mauryan administration under Ashoka that are important for exams?
Key features of Mauryan administration that are important for exams include:
- Centralised Control: The emperor had direct control over the area around the capital, Pataliputra.
- Provincial Capitals: The empire was divided into provinces, each with its own capital like Taxila and Ujjain, which were governed by royal princes.
- Vast Official System: A large number of officials were appointed to collect taxes from farmers, herders, and traders.
- Communication Network: A system of roads and communication channels was established to connect different parts of the vast empire.
5. Why is Ashoka often considered a unique ruler in world history? How should I structure a high-scoring answer for this question?
Ashoka is considered unique primarily because he is the only king in history who gave up conquest after winning a war. To structure a high-scoring answer, focus on these points:
- Abandonment of Warfare: Highlight his decision to renounce war after the Kalinga victory.
- Concept of Dhamma: Explain his policy of 'dhamma' as a means to rule, focusing on moral principles rather than force.
- Use of Inscriptions: Mention his innovative method of communicating directly with his subjects through inscriptions on rocks and pillars, which were written in local languages like Prakrit.
6. Did Ashoka's adoption of 'dhamma' mean he disbanded his army? How can I address this common misconception in an exam?
This is an excellent question that addresses a common misconception. While Ashoka renounced war and conquest (digvijaya), he did not disband his army. The army was necessary to maintain peace, order, and security within the vast empire and to protect it from external threats. In your answer, you should clarify that his policy shifted from aggressive expansion to maintaining internal stability and ruling through righteousness (dhammavijaya), but the military was retained for defensive purposes.
7. How can practising these important questions help in solving the NCERT exercises for Chapter 7?
Practising these important questions helps you master the core concepts of the chapter from an examination perspective. This deeper understanding will enable you to tackle the NCERT textbook questions more effectively, as you will already be familiar with the key events, terminologies, and underlying themes. For step-by-step guidance on textbook questions, you can always check the NCERT Solutions for Class 6 History Chapter 7, which are aligned with the 2025-26 syllabus.











