What significant change occurred around 3000 years ago regarding the selection of rajas?

Rajas began to be recognized through the performance of large sacrifices, such as the Ashvamedha or horse sacrifice.

In the Ashvamedha ritual, what role did the horse play?

The horse was let loose to wander freely, and if it entered the territories of other rajas, it determined their acceptance or challenge of the performing raja's power.

Fill in the blank: The Ashvamedha ritual involved the horse wandering freely and being guarded by the raja's ___.

Men

Riddle: I am a ritual where a horse runs free, determining a raja’s might. What am I?

Ashvamedha

Multiple Choice: What did the rajas bring as a sign of respect to the raja who organized the Ashvamedha sacrifice? A) Weapons B) Gifts C) Armies D) Food

B) Gifts

What are the four groups into which the priests divided people, known as Varnas?

Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras.

Fill in the blanks: The Kshatriyas were expected to ___ and protect the people, while the Brahmins were expected to ___ the Vedas.

Fight battles; study and teach

True or False: The Shudras were allowed to perform rituals and study the Vedas.

False; Shudras could not perform rituals and were not allowed to study the Vedas.

What roles were expected of the Vaishyas within the Varna system?

They were expected to be farmers, herders, and traders.

Fill in the blank: Brahmins were expected to perform sacrifices and receive ___ for their work.

Gifts

Which Varna was primarily responsible for fighting battles?

Kshatriyas.

What does the term 'janapada' refer to in ancient Indian history?

It refers to the land where a 'jana' or community set its foot and settled down.

Fill in the blank: The settlements of janapadas were characterized by people living in ___ and raising ___ for sustenance.

Huts; cattle and other animals

True or False: Mahajanapadas were less fortified than janapadas.

False. Mahajanapadas were often fortified with huge walls made of wood, brick, or stone.

Riddle: I am a type of pottery found in ancient settlements, known for my painted surface and grey color. What am I?

Painted Grey Ware

What role did armies play in the maintenance of mahajanapadas?

Armies were maintained by the rajas, with soldiers receiving regular salaries throughout the year.

Short Answer: Name two crops that were commonly grown in the settlements of janapadas.

Rice and wheat.

What was the fixed tax rate on crops during the mahajanapadas period?

The fixed tax rate on crops was 1/6th of what was produced, known as bhaga.