Test: New Beginnings: Cities and States - Class 7 MCQ

Magadha was renowned for its fortified capital, Rajagriha. This city was strategically designed for defence and included:

• Moats that provided additional protection.
• Narrow gateways that limited access and enhanced security.

Rajagriha played a significant role in the political and cultural developments of its time.

Chanakya, also known as Kautilya or Vishnugupta, was:

• A teacher at Takshashila, a renowned center of learning.

• The author of Arthashastra, an ancient Indian treatise on politics, economics, and statecraft.

• The chief advisor to Chandragupta Maurya, helping him overthrow the Nandas and establish the Maurya Empire in Magadha.

His contributions had a lasting impact on Indian political thought and administration.

Janapada refers to a territory settled by a clan or group, typically governed by a rājā. This concept is crucial for understanding the early political organisation in India. It marks the transition from tribal communities to more structured societies, laying the groundwork for larger states.

• A janapada is often associated with specific geographical boundaries.
• It highlights the importance of kinship and leadership in early Indian societies.
• This term is foundational in studying the evolution of governance in ancient India.

Iron metallurgy significantly transformed ancient Indian society by enabling the production of:

• Superior tools for agriculture
• Advanced weapons for warfare

This technological advancement led to:

• Improved agricultural efficiency
• Enhanced military capabilities
• The establishment of powerful states
• Increased ability to engage in conflicts

Overall, iron metallurgy played a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of ancient Indian societies.

The Second Urbanisation signifies a major shift in Indian society, characterised by:

• The emergence of new cities in the Ganga plains and other areas.
• A transition from a long period of rural life to urban development.
• The foundation for more complex societal and economic structures.

This transformation was pivotal in shaping the future of India, influencing various aspects of culture and economy.

Mahajanapadas refers to larger states formed by merging janapadas and is not one of the four varṇas. The varṇas categorise society into:

• Brahmins - priests and scholars
• Kshatriyas - warriors and rulers
• Vaishyas - merchants and landowners
• Shudras - labourers and service providers

Each varṇa has distinct roles and responsibilities within Vedic society.

Over time, the varṇa-jāti system became increasingly rigid, leading to pronounced social inequalities and unfair treatment of lower jātis.

Initially, there was some flexibility in job roles, but this diminished over time. Key points include:

• The system created strict social hierarchies.
• Lower jātis faced systematic discrimination.
• Opportunities for mobility among different classes became limited.
• This contributed to a lasting impact on social structure.

Early republics, such as Vajji and Malla, showcased governance systems where councils were instrumental in decision-making and selecting leaders. This reflects an early instance of democratic governance in ancient India.

• Councils, like the sabhā, were central to the governance process.
• Leadership was often elected rather than inherited.
• These structures allowed for greater participation from the community.

The rise of trade led to significant innovations in ancient India, particularly the creation of the punch-marked coin. This coinage was among the earliest forms of currency used in the region.

This innovation had several important effects:

• Facilitated easier commerce by providing a standard medium of exchange.
• Enhanced economic interactions both within India and with foreign traders.
• Promoted the growth of trade networks, allowing for the exchange of goods and ideas.

The sabhā or samiti functioned as a council of elders in a janapada. Its key roles included:

• Advising the rājā on significant decisions.
• Discussing matters related to the clan.
• Reflecting early democratic traditions by ensuring rulers considered the council's advice.

This structure highlights the importance of communal decision-making in governance.

In monarchies within the mahajanapadas, the rājā held significant authority as the main ruler, often inheriting his position. His responsibilities included:

• Taxation: Collecting taxes to fund state activities.
• Law enforcement: Maintaining order and justice within the realm.
• Military leadership: Leading the army in times of conflict.

This role underscores the structured governance of these ancient states.

The Ganga plains offered fertile land, essential for agricultural growth. This abundance of crops:

• Supported the local population.
• Facilitated trade.

As a result, the region became an appealing location for the formation of mahajanapadas.

Early democratic traditions in some mahajanapadas were characterised by the role of the assembly in governance. Key features include:

• The assembly, comprising local leaders and elders, held significant influence.
• Councils such as the sabhā and samiti advised the rājā.
• In certain instances, the assembly had the power to elect or remove the rājā.

This structure illustrates a notable level of democratic engagement within these early societies.

The varṇa-jāti system categorised society mainly by occupations and hereditary roles. This classification divided people into groups:

• Brahmins: priests and scholars.
• Kshatriyas: warriors and rulers.
• Vaishyas: merchants and landowners.
• Shudras: service providers and labourers.

Each group had specific duties and responsibilities, illustrating the organisation and complexity of ancient Indian society.

• The major development that helped the growth of urban centers during the 1st millennium BCE was (c) Iron metallurgy and use of iron tools.
• Iron tools, like plows, significantly improved agricultural efficiency, leading to increased food production which supported larger populations in urban areas. Additionally, stronger iron weapons facilitated military expansion and control, further contributing to the growth of urban centers.