Case Based Questions: New Beginnings: Cities and States | Social Science Class 7 - New NCERT PDF Download

Case Study 1

Ravi and Priya are studying the ancient history of India. They learn that towards the end of the 2nd millennium BCE, smaller janapadas started merging to form larger states called mahajanapadas. Ravi wonders why this change happened. Priya explains that these large states like Magadha and Kosala helped in developing stronger political systems and urban growth, which could manage resources, trade, and defense better. As these states grew, they became important centers for governance, culture, and commerce. Cities like Rajagriha (Magadha) and Kauśhāmbī (Vatsa) became fortified centers of power and wealth.

Q1. Why did the janapadas merge to form mahajanapadas?

Answer:

The janapadas merged to form mahajanapadas to create larger, more powerful states that could manage resources, trade, and defense more effectively.

Q2. How did the formation of mahajanapadas influence trade and economy in ancient India?

Answer:

The formation of mahajanapadas helped in establishing stronger trade networks and economic stability, leading to the development of urban areas and prosperity.

Q3: Which of the following was one of the powerful mahajanapadas in ancient India?

A) Magadha

B) Delhi

C) Kolkata

D) Chandigarh

Answer: A) Magadha

Case Study 2

Arjun and Simran are reading about the governance systems in ancient janapadas and come across the role of the sabha and samiti in decision-making. Arjun, curious about how these assemblies worked, asks Simran to explain further. Simran explains that the sabha was an assembly of respected elders who helped guide the ruler by offering their advice on important matters. These assemblies played a vital role in shaping the decisions of the raja. Simran adds that in some janapadas, the raja was expected to listen to the council's advice, and if the raja made poor or unjust decisions, the council could step in and even remove the ruler from power. She tells Arjun that this form of governance shows the importance of consultation and collective decision-making, where the ruler did not have absolute power, and the sabha ensured that the people’s interests were upheld. Some texts also mention that the samiti, a similar body, sometimes had more power and took decisions through discussions and voting. This practice highlights the early forms of democracy in ancient India.

1. What was the role of the sabha and samiti in ancient janapadas?
Answer: The sabha and samiti advised the raja and helped make decisions. They could even remove an unfit ruler.
2. How is the role of the sabha similar to modern governments?
Answer: Like elected representatives today, the sabha helped the raja make decisions in the best interest of the people.
3. Why was the sabha important in ancient janapadas?
Answer: The sabha made sure the raja ruled fairly and could remove him if he was unfit, making the rule more balanced.
4. Which group could remove an unfit raja?
Answer: The sabha.
5. What was the main job of the sabha?
A) Control the army
B) Advise the raja
C) Collect taxes
D) Make laws

Answer: B) Advise the raja

Case Study 3

Vikram and Anjali are studying the development of iron metallurgy in ancient India for their history project. Vikram is fascinated by how the use of iron helped shape the progress of Indian society. He wonders about the role of iron in improving people's daily lives. Anjali explains that iron tools made farming much easier and more efficient, leading to better harvests. The increased food production supported a growing population. She goes on to explain how iron weapons made defense stronger, which allowed kingdoms to expand and protect their territories. This, in turn, encouraged trade across regions because people felt safer traveling and exchanging goods. The rise of iron metallurgy also led to the creation of new technologies, like the plough and improved tools for construction and craftsmanship. Together, these advancements helped ancient India grow and develop economically and socially.

1. How did iron help ancient Indian societies grow?

Answer:

Iron tools improved farming, while iron weapons strengthened defense and promoted trade, helping societies grow.

2. Why is iron still important today?

Answer:

Iron is used in construction, transportation, and manufacturing, making it essential for modern industries.

3. How did iron lead to more trade in ancient India?

Answer:

Iron tools improved agriculture, creating surplus crops for trade. Iron weapons made defense stronger, allowing safer trade routes.

4. What are some modern uses of iron?

Answer:

Iron is used in building bridges, making vehicles, and manufacturing tools.

5. What was iron mainly used for in ancient India?

A) Coins

B) Weapons and tools

C) Clothing

D) Jewelry

Answer:

B) Weapons and tools