Small states ruled by the tribals were called Janapadas.

Explanation:
Janapadas were small republics or kingdoms that emerged in ancient India during the Vedic period (1500-600 BCE). These Janapadas were ruled by tribal chiefs or kings who exercised political power over their subjects. They were mainly located in the northern part of India and covered areas of present-day Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh.

Features of Janapadas:
• The Janapadas were small territorial units ruled by a king or tribal chief.
• They were characterized by their own dialects, cultures, and customs.
• Agriculture was the main occupation, and trade and commerce were also prevalent.
• The Janapadas had their own army, and warfare was common among the neighboring Janapadas.
• The Janapadas were organized into clans, and the people were divided into four Varnas or castes.

Significance of Janapadas:
• The Janapadas were the precursors of the later kingdoms and empires that emerged in ancient India.
• They paved the way for the development of an organized political system and administration.
• The Janapadas also contributed to the growth of trade and commerce, which led to the emergence of urban centers.

Conclusion:
Thus, the Janapadas were small states ruled by tribal chiefs or kings, which emerged in ancient India during the Vedic period. They were the precursors of the later kingdoms and empires that emerged in India and contributed to the growth of trade and commerce and the development of an organized political system.

Janapadas