​___________ deciphered Brahmi and Kharosthi scripts that were used for earlier inscriptions. ​

Correct option is A

Correct Answer: A) James Prinsep

Explanation:
James Prinsep, a British scholar and antiquarian, was the first to decipher the Brahmi and Kharosthi scripts in the 1830s. His work laid the foundation for understanding ancient Indian inscriptions, including those of Emperor Ashoka.

Key Contributions of James Prinsep:

• Deciphered the Brahmi script by studying inscriptions found on Ashokan pillars and rock edicts.
• Deciphered the Kharosthi script, used in the northwestern region of India and Gandhara (modern-day Pakistan and Afghanistan).
• His work helped decode Ashokan edicts, revealing important historical and political information about Mauryan rule.
• Established that the inscriptions belonged to Devanampiya Piyadasi, later identified as Emperor Ashoka.

Information Booster:

• Brahmi Script: An ancient Indian script used for writing Prakrit and Sanskrit, considered the mother of many modern Indian scripts.
  
• Kharosthi Script: A script influenced by the Aramaic script, used mainly in northwestern India and Central Asia.
  
• Ashokan Inscriptions: Provide valuable insights into Ashoka's policies, administration, and Buddhist influence.
  
• Sir Alexander Cunningham: Known as the founder of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
  
• John Marshall: A British archaeologist who led excavations of Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro in the Indus Valley Civilization.