Which one of the following was the most important consequence of the a...
Explanation:
The ancient Indian feudal system refers to the social and economic structure that existed in India during the medieval period, which was characterized by a hierarchical system of lords and vassals. The feudal system had several consequences, the most important of which was the extension of the arable land.
Extension of the Arable Land:
Under the feudal system, the king granted land to the lords in return for their loyalty and military service. The lords, in turn, granted land to their vassals, who were responsible for cultivating the land and paying taxes to the lord. This system led to the expansion of arable land, as lords and vassals cleared forests and reclaimed wasteland to increase their agricultural production. As a result, the agricultural output of the country increased, leading to economic growth and prosperity.
Other Consequences:
Apart from the extension of arable land, the feudal system had several other consequences, including:
- Development of rural economy: The feudal system led to the development of a rural economy, as most of the population lived in villages and engaged in agriculture. The exchange of goods and services in the rural areas contributed to the growth of the local economy.
- Self-sufficiency of the village: The feudal system created a self-sufficient village economy, as each village had its own system of governance, economy, and social structure. Villages were able to meet their own needs for food, clothing, and shelter, reducing their dependence on external sources.
- Stability in the social system: The feudal system provided a stable social structure, as each person knew their place in the hierarchy and had clear roles and responsibilities. This stability helped to maintain social order and minimize social unrest.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the most important consequence of the ancient Indian feudal system was the extension of arable land, which led to economic growth and prosperity. However, the feudal system had several other consequences, including the development of rural economy, self-sufficiency of the village, and stability in the social system.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed UPSC study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in UPSC.