UPSC Prelims 2003 Q70: Ancient History – Post - Mauryan & Foreign Invasions
Consider the following statements:
1. The last Mauryan ruler, Brihadratha was assassinated by his commander - in - chief, Pushyamitra
Sunga.
2. The last Sunga king, Devabhuti was assassinated by his Brahmana minister Vasudeva Kanva
who usurped the throne.
3. The last ruler of the Kanva dynasty was deposed by the Andhra’s.
Which of these statements is/are correct?
- (a) 1 and 2
- (b) Only 2
- (c) Only 3
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
End of the Mauryan, Sunga and Kanva dynasties
| Statement | Verdict |
|---|---|
| 1. Brihadratha was assassinated by his commander-in-chief Pushyamitra Sunga | True |
| 2. Devabhuti was assassinated by his minister Vasudeva Kanva | True |
| 3. The last Kanva ruler was deposed by the Andhras | True — Susarman was defeated by the Satavahanas |
All three statements are correct.
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Statement 3 is also correct.
- (b) Incorrect. Statements 1 and 3 are also correct.
- (c) Incorrect. Statements 1 and 2 are also correct.
- (d) CORRECT. All three statements are correct.
Key point
Mauryas (322-185 BC), Sungas (185-73), Kanvas (73-28), Satavahanas (from 28 BC).
Remember
Pushyamitra Sunga killed Brihadratha, the last Maurya.
Common mistakes
- Forgetting that the Kanvas were deposed by the Andhras.
- Mixing up Vasudeva with Pushyamitra.
- Thinking that Devabhuti died in a battle.
Exam tip
Order: Maurya, Sunga, Kanva, Satavahana.
Sources
- R. S. Sharma — Ancient India (NCERT textbook for Class XI)
- Romila Thapar — A History of India, Volume 1 (Penguin)