The correct answer is: **A) Chandragupta I**
Chandragupta I was the founder of the Gupta dynasty, which ruled over much of northern India from the 4th to the 6th centuries CE. The Gupta Empire is considered a golden age in Indian history, and Chandragupta I is credited with laying the foundations for its success.
Chandragupta I was born into a family of nobles in the kingdom of Magadha. He came to power in the early 4th century CE, and quickly expanded his kingdom through conquest. He also married Kumaradevi, the daughter of the king of the Licchavis, a powerful clan in northern India. This marriage helped to cement Chandragupta I's position as a major power in the region.
Chandragupta I was a wise and capable ruler. He promoted trade and agriculture, and built a strong military. He also patronized the arts and sciences, and his reign saw a flowering of Indian culture.
Chandragupta I died in the late 4th century CE, and was succeeded by his son, Samudragupta. Samudragupta continued his father's expansionist policies, and the Gupta Empire reached its peak under his rule.
The Gupta Empire declined in the 6th century CE, but Chandragupta I's legacy as the founder of a golden age in Indian history lives on.
Option B, Samudragupta, was the son of Chandragupta I and Kumaradevi. He was a powerful and successful ruler who expanded the Gupta Empire to its greatest extent. He is also known for his patronage of the arts and sciences.
Option C, Chandragupta II, was the grandson of Chandragupta I. He is known as "Vikramaditya" or "the Victorious Sun". He was a successful ruler who expanded the Gupta Empire even further than his father, Samudragupta. He is also known for his patronage of the arts and sciences.
Option D, Skandagupta, was the great-grandson of Chandragupta I. He was the last great ruler of the Gupta Empire. He faced many challenges, including a Hun invasion, but he was able to successfully defend the empire. He died in 467 CE, and the Gupta Empire began to decline soon after.