Question

Who was the founder of the 'Asiatic Society of Bengal'?
1. Jonathan Duncan
2. Sir William Jones
3. warren Hastings
4. William Bentinck

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 2 : Sir William Jones

The correct answer is Sir William Jones. 

• The Asiatic Society of Bengal was founded by Sir William Jones.
• It was established in 1784.
• The Society was founded to inquire into the history, civil and natural, the antiquities, laws, arts, sciences and literature of Asia.
• The Asiatic Society is the oldest centre of learning and research in the whole continent of Asia.
• The name of the society underwent several changes during the last two centuries such as the Asiatick Society of Bengal (1832-1935), the Royal Asiatick Society of Bengal (1936-1951) and in July 1952 it came to be known as the Asiatic Society.
• Since 1984 the Asiatic Society has been declared as an Institution of National Importance by an Act of Parliament of India.