There are various synonyms to describe the phrase 'was based.' One of the most popular is 'was founded.' This connotes the origin of something, suggesting the starting point where an idea, place or concept became established. Another word that's often used in this context is 'originated.' This supports the notion of something being created or starting in a particular place. Some people may also use the term 'rooted,' which implies that something is deeply established and has links to the past. Other alternatives to 'was based' include 'was established,' 'was situated,' and 'was located.' Each of these synonyms offers a different shade of meaning, helping to enrich our vocabulary and convey our ideas in a more precise way.