Question

Which of the following are important sources of the history of Medieval Kerala?

• A. Inscriptions on copper plates (Epigraphy)
• B. Coins (Numismatics)
• C. Archaeological evidences
• D. Accounts of foreign travelers

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Inscriptions on copper plates (Epigraphy)

The purpose of history is to throw light on the past. This is done through discovery and study of historical sources. There are different sources from which history is drawn. They are divided into two parts.

• Literary Sources

1. Religious Literature
2. Secular Literature

• Non-Literary Sources

1. Inscriptions (Epigraphy)
   
2. Coins (Numismatics)
3. Archaeology
4. Account of Foreign Travelers

Inscriptions on copper plates (Epigraphy) are the most important source of history of Medieval Kerala. Copper plates with inscriptions were used as documents. The official documents given by chieftains to temples and tradesmen were mainly on copper plates.