48th to 52nd B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2008

Historiography of India

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Who recognized Sandrokottos as Chandra Gupta Maurya?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept The synchronization of Greek and Indian historical records was the first step in establishing a scientific chronology for India.

Explanation In 1793, Sir William Jones, founder of the Asiatic Society, correctly identified 'Sandrokottos' (from the works of Megasthenes and Justin) as the Mauryan King Chandragupta.

Logical Breakup
William Jones (A): The pioneer orientalist who solved the riddle of Greek naming conventions for Indian kings.
Logic: This identification provided a fixed date (322 BCE) from which the rest of ancient Indian history could be calculated.

Active Recall

Question

What was the significance of this identification?

Answer

It served as the 'anchor-sheet' for Indian history, allowing historians to sync Indian events with the reliable timelines of the Greek world.

Core Insight

Before William Jones, ancient Indian history lacked a chronological skeleton; this discovery turned legends into verifiable history.