- 1. The Khmer Empire, established in Southeast Asia during the 9th century and lasting until the 15th century, was a powerful and influential kingdom that dominated much of present-day Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, and southern Vietnam. This empire emerged as a significant political and cultural force in the region, largely attributed to the visionary leadership of Jayavarman II, who is often hailed as the founder of the state in 802 AD. The Khmer Empire is renowned for its architectural marvels, the most iconic being the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex, which was originally built as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu, later transforming into a Buddhist site. The empire's sophisticated irrigation systems, which enhanced agricultural productivity, played a crucial role in supporting its growing population and sustained economic prosperity. Additionally, the Khmer Empire was characterized by a unique blend of religious influences, including Hinduism and Buddhism, which permeated its art, architecture, and daily life. The Khmer people developed a rich cultural identity marked by elaborate rituals, traditional dance, and a unique script derived from Indian writing. Trade networks crisscrossed the empire, linking it to other civilizations in Asia, thus facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural practices. However, the empire eventually faced challenges from internal strife and external pressures, including invasions from neighboring kingdoms and the rise of new political powers, leading to its gradual decline. By the end of the 15th century, the once-mighty Khmer Empire had fragmented, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate and inspire historians and tourists alike.
What was the capital city of the Khmer Empire?
A) Ayutthaya
B) Angkor
C) Jakarta
D) Bagan
- 2. Which king is commonly regarded as the founder of the Khmer Empire?
A) Jayavarman II
B) Indravarman I
C) Suryavarman II
D) Jayavarman VII
- 3. Which famous temple complex was built during the Khmer Empire?
A) Borobudur
B) Taj Mahal
C) Angkor Wat
D) Temple of Heaven
- 4. Who was the king responsible for constructing Angkor Wat?
A) Jayavarman VII
B) Suryavarman II
C) Yasovarman I
D) Indravarman II
- 5. What architectural style is prominent in Khmer temples like Angkor Wat?
A) Byzantine architecture
B) Khmer architecture
C) Baroque architecture
D) Gothic architecture
- 6. Which empire was a major rival of the Khmer Empire in the region?
A) Lan Xang
B) Champa
C) Majapahit
D) Srivijaya
- 7. Who was the last king of the Khmer Empire?
A) Ponhea Yat
B) Jayavarman VII
C) Jayavarman II
D) Suryavarman II
- 8. What was the main export of the Khmer Empire?
A) Spices
B) Gold
C) Silk
D) Rice
- 9. Which neighboring empire eventually absorbed the remains of the Khmer Empire?
A) Ayutthaya Kingdom
B) Lan Xang
C) Majapahit Empire
D) Chola Dynasty
- 10. Who was considered the greatest ruler of the Khmer Empire?
A) Jayavarman II
B) Indravarman II
C) Jayavarman VII
D) Suryavarman I
- 11. What was the social structure of the Khmer Empire primarily based on?
A) Guild system
B) Feudal system
C) Tribe system
D) Caste system
- 12. What role did elephants play in the military of the Khmer Empire?
A) Messenger elephants
B) War elephants
C) Elephant cavalry
D) Elephant trainers
- 13. What modern-day country was at the center of the Khmer Empire?
A) Cambodia
B) Thailand
C) Laos
D) Vietnam
- 14. What natural disaster is believed to have contributed to the decline of the Khmer Empire?
A) Earthquake
B) Tsunami
C) Volcano eruption
D) Drought
- 15. Who was the primary deity worshiped by the Khmer rulers?
A) Shiva
B) Brahma
C) Ganesha
D) Vishnu
- 16. Which empire was a contemporary of the Khmer Empire?
A) Byzantine Empire
B) Maurya Empire
C) Srivijaya
D) Inca Empire
- 17. Which river was crucial for the prosperity of the Khmer Empire?
A) Ganges River
B) Mekong River
C) Danube River
D) Nile River
- 18. Who was the Chinese diplomat that visited the Khmer Empire during the 13th century?
A) Ibn Battuta
B) Marco Polo
C) Xuanzang
D) Zhou Daguan
- 19. What architectural style is Ta Prohm temple known for?
A) Pallava style
B) Gupta style
C) Bayon style
D) Dravidian style
- 20. What was the main form of government in the Khmer Empire?
A) Theocracy
B) Republic
C) Oligarchy
D) Monarchy
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