Question 1

Who is considered the 'Father of Indian Prehistory'?

Accepted Answer

Robert Bruce Foote. Robert Bruce Foote was the first to discover a Paleolithic tool in India in 1863. He found this stone hand axe at Pallavaram near Chennai. His discovery laid the foundation for prehistoric studies in India.

Question 2

The Paleolithic Age in India is divided into three phases based on what factor?

Accepted Answer

Nature of stone tools. The Paleolithic Age is divided into Lower, Middle, and Upper phases based on the nature of stone tools. This division also reflects changes in the climate and environment over time. The tools evolved from crude hand axes to finer flakes and blades.

Question 3

What term is used for the small stone tools characteristic of the Mesolithic Age?

Accepted Answer

Microliths. Microliths are tiny stone tools, usually less than 5 cm in length, from the Mesolithic period. These small tools were often hafted onto wood or bone handles to make composite tools. They represent a technological shift towards hunting smaller animals.

Question 4

Which site provides early evidence of animal domestication in the Mesolithic period?

Accepted Answer

Adamgarh. Adamgarh in Madhya Pradesh provides some of the earliest evidence of animal domestication in India. Similar evidence was also found at Bagor in Rajasthan during the Mesolithic phase. This marked the beginning of a shift from hunting to herding.

Question 5

Which major change defines the transition to the Neolithic Age?

Accepted Answer

Beginning of Agriculture. The beginning of agriculture is the primary characteristic that defines the Neolithic Age. This period saw humans settling down to cultivate crops like wheat and barley. It led to the development of village communities.

Prehistoric — Set 1