General Knowledge MCQs
Topic Notes: General Knowledge
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
51
Which New Seven Wonder statue stands with open arms, symbolizing peace and welcoming visitors to Rio de Janeiro?
Answer:
Christ the Redeemer in Brazil, with its outstretched arms, is an internationally recognized symbol of peace and hospitality, facing the city of Rio de Janeiro.
52
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus was eventually dismantled, and its stone was used to construct which nearby fortification?
Answer:
The stones from the ruined Mausoleum were reused by the Knights of St John during the 15th century to fortify their nearby stronghold, the Castle of St Peter (now Bodrum Castle) in Turkey.
53
Which New Seven Wonder spans several regions of China, protecting against incursions from the north?
Answer:
The Great Wall of China is a series of fortifications generally running east to west across the historical northern borders of China, built to defend against various nomadic groups.
54
The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus was set on fire by a man named Herostratus who sought what as his motive?
Answer:
Herostratus is infamous for destroying the Temple of Artemis in 356 BC purely to achieve lasting fame. The act of arson was considered so heinous that the city temporarily banned any mention of his name.
55
Which of the following landmarks is often cited as a 'Modern Wonder' of engineering and construction?
Answer:
The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) compiled a list of the 'Seven Wonders of the Modern World,' which includes the Hoover Dam, the Panama Canal, and the Channel Tunnel.
56
The Colosseum was primarily used for spectacles such as gladiator contests and public executions. What was its seating capacity?
Answer:
Historical estimates suggest the Colosseum could hold between 50,000 and 80,000 spectators, placing it among the largest entertainment venues of the ancient world.
57
Which New Seven Wonder is a massive white marble mausoleum built in India?
Answer:
The Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum on the south bank of the Yamuna river in the city of Agra. It was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan.
58
The ancient city of Petra was founded by which semi-nomadic people?
Answer:
Petra was the capital city of the Nabataean kingdom, a people known for their mastery of trade and rock-cut architecture, thriving from the 4th century BC until the 1st century AD.
59
Which Ancient Wonder was commissioned by King Nebuchadnezzar II, although its existence is still disputed?
Answer:
Ancient Greek writers largely credited King Nebuchadnezzar II (who ruled from 605 BC) with the construction of the Hanging Gardens for his Median wife, Queen Amytis.
60
The Great Pyramid of Giza is situated near the modern city of:
Answer:
The Great Pyramid complex is located on the Giza Plateau, which is part of the Cairo metropolitan area in Egypt.