Prelims 2023

Q21. With reference to the Indian History, Alexander Rea, A. H. Longhurst, Robert Sewell, James Burgess and Walter Elliot were associated with

a. archaeological excavations
b. establishment of English Press in Colonial India
c. establishment of Churches in Princely States
d. construction of railways in Colonial India

Question from UPSC Prelims 2023 GS Paper

Explanation : 

Correct Answer : a. archaeological excavations

Notable Archaeologists and Historians in British Colonial India

Alexander Rea, A. H. Longhurst, Robert Sewell, James Burgess, and Walter Elliot were notable archaeologists and historians associated with archaeological excavations in India during the British colonial period. Their work significantly contributed to the understanding of India’s rich history, culture, and heritage.

Alexander Rea

Alexander Rea (1860-1922) was a British archaeologist who worked as the Superintendent of the Archaeological Survey of India. He was responsible for the excavation and conservation of many ancient sites in South India, including the famous Chalukyan temples at Aihole and the Pallava monuments at Mahabalipuram.

A. H. Longhurst

A. H. Longhurst (1870-1953) was another British archaeologist who served as the Superintendent of the Archaeological Survey of India. He conducted extensive research and excavations in various parts of India, including the Ajanta and Ellora caves, the temples at Madurai, and the ancient city of Vijayanagara.

Robert Sewell

Robert Sewell (1845-1925) was a British civil servant and historian who worked extensively on the history of South India. He is best known for his book “A Forgotten Empire: Vijayanagar,” which provides a detailed account of the Vijayanagara Empire based on the available inscriptions and archaeological evidence.

James Burgess

James Burgess (1832-1916) was a Scottish archaeologist, and he served as the Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India. He is known for his work on the cave temples of Western India, including the Ajanta, Ellora, and Elephanta caves. He also published several books and articles on Indian architecture, history, and archaeology.

Walter Elliot

Walter Elliot (1803-1887) was a Scottish civil servant, ethnologist, and archaeologist who worked in British India. He is known for his collection of ancient artifacts, coins, and inscriptions from various parts of India. He also conducted archaeological excavations at the Amaravati Stupa and other sites in South India.

These individuals played a crucial role in unearthing and documenting India’s rich historical and cultural heritage during the colonial period, which has contributed significantly to our understanding of Indian history.

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