Who founded the Asiatic Society of Bengal?
- ASir William Bentinck
- BSir James Tod
- CSir William Jones
- DMore than one of the above
- ENone of the above
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: (c) Sir William Jones
Explanation
The Asiatic Society of Bengal was founded in 1784 on the initiative of Sir William Jones. The Society’s name underwent several changes over time, such as The Asiatic Society of Bengal (1832–1935), The Royal Asiatic Society of Bengal (1936–1951), and since July 1951 it has been known as the Asiatic Society. Since 1984, the Asiatic Society has been accorded the status of an institution of national importance under an Act of the Indian Parliament.