Which political event has no bearing on the growth of trade in the pre...
B is the correct option. Unlike the age old and pre-Gupta gahapatis, Internecine wars amongst the Cholas, Pandyas and the Cheras, on between the 8th and 15th century which had no bearing,as such, before
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Which political event has no bearing on the growth of trade in the pre...
Introduction:
In the pre-Gupta period, several political events influenced the growth of trade in ancient India. However, one event that had no direct bearing on trade growth was the internecine warfare amongst the Indian kingdoms. This event did not directly impact trade expansion, unlike other events such as the occupation of North-Western India by non-Indian people, the construction of roads and a uniform system of administration by the Mauryas, and the establishment of Indian kingdoms in Southeast Asia.
Explanation:
1. Occupation of North-Western India by non-Indian people:
During the pre-Gupta period, several foreign groups, such as the Greeks under Alexander the Great, the Parthians, and the Kushans, occupied North-Western India. These foreign invasions and settlements brought cultural and economic exchanges, including the introduction of new goods and ideas. This interaction led to increased trade and commerce, benefiting both the local population and the foreign settlers. Therefore, the occupation of North-Western India by non-Indian people had a significant impact on trade growth.
2. Construction of roads and a uniform system of administration by the Mauryas:
The Mauryan Empire, under the rule of Emperor Ashoka, constructed an extensive network of roads and established a uniform system of administration. The construction of roads facilitated the movement of goods and traders across the empire, promoting trade and commerce. Additionally, the establishment of a uniform system of administration ensured stability and security, further encouraging economic activities. Thus, the Mauryan initiatives significantly contributed to the growth of trade in the pre-Gupta period.
3. Establishment of Indian kingdoms in Southeast Asia:
Indian traders and merchants played a crucial role in establishing commercial links with Southeast Asia during the pre-Gupta period. Indian kingdoms, such as the Pallavas, Cholas, and Cheras, had trade relations with Southeast Asian kingdoms, leading to the exchange of goods, technologies, and cultural practices. This trade network resulted in the growth of maritime trade, benefiting both Indian and Southeast Asian economies. Therefore, the establishment of Indian kingdoms in Southeast Asia had a direct impact on trade expansion.
4. Internecine warfare amongst the Indian kingdoms:
Unlike the other events mentioned above, internecine warfare amongst the Indian kingdoms did not directly contribute to the growth of trade in the pre-Gupta period. The constant conflicts and power struggles between Indian kingdoms often disrupted trade routes and hindered economic activities. The focus of the kingdoms was primarily on warfare and territorial expansion rather than fostering trade relations. Consequently, the internecine warfare had no bearing on the growth of trade during this period.
Conclusion:
While several political events influenced the growth of trade in the pre-Gupta period, internecine warfare amongst the Indian kingdoms did not contribute directly to trade expansion. The occupation of North-Western India by non-Indian people, the construction of roads and a uniform system of administration by the Mauryas, and the establishment of Indian kingdoms in Southeast Asia were the key events that significantly impacted trade in ancient India.