Case Based Questions: The Age of Reorganisation | Social Science Class 7 - New NCERT PDF Download

Case Study 1

Neha and Ayaan are learning about the Age of Reorganisation after the fall of the Maurya Empire. They discover that several new kingdoms emerged during this period, marking the beginning of India’s 'Second Urbanisation.' Neha is curious about the significance of these new kingdoms, so Ayaan explains that the breakup of the Maurya Empire led to the formation of smaller kingdoms that competed for power. This time also saw the rise of art, literature, and trade. Ayaan also mentions that foreign invaders, such as the Indo-Greeks and Shakas, entered through the weakened northwest region. Neha adds that these invaders brought new cultural influences and styles that blended with local traditions, leaving a lasting impact on Indian society.

1. What caused the rise of new kingdoms in the Age of Reorganisation?

Answer:
The collapse of the Maurya Empire led to the formation of new kingdoms, which competed for power and control over land. This period also saw cultural blending and advancements in art, literature, and trade.

2. How did the invasion of foreign groups like the Indo-Greeks and Shakas influence Indian culture?

Answer:
The invasions brought new cultural influences, such as Greek art and governance, which merged with Indian traditions, leading to a rich blend of styles, especially in art and coinage.
3. Which of the following groups invaded India during the Age of Reorganisation?
A) Mauryas
B) Shakas
C) Guptas
D) Rajputs

Answer:
B) Shakas

Case Study 2

Anika and Sam are studying the Kushana Empire, which ruled over northern India in the 2nd century CE. Sam is curious about how the Kushanas promoted art and culture during their rule. Anika explains that the Kushanas, especially under King Kanishka, supported both Buddhist and Hindu art, leading to the development of the Gandhara and Mathura art styles. Sam wonders how the Kushanas managed such a large empire. Anika explains that their control over the Silk Route boosted trade with Central Asia and the West, bringing wealth to the empire and supporting the development of both culture and infrastructure.

1. How did the Kushana Empire contribute to the development of art and culture?

The Kushana Empire, under King Kanishka, supported art and culture, leading to the development of the Gandhara and Mathura art styles, which blended Indian and Greek influences.

2. How did the Kushanas' control over the Silk Route benefit their empire?

Control over the Silk Route enabled the Kushanas to facilitate trade between India, Central Asia, and the West, bringing wealth and promoting cultural exchange.

3. Which art styles were developed during the Kushana Empire?

A) Gandhara and Mathura

B) Gupta and Mauryan

C) Shunga and Satavahana

D) Indus and Harappan

Answer:

A) Gandhara and Mathura

Case Study 3

Raghav and Neha are learning about the Chola dynasty's contributions to architecture and engineering. Neha is impressed by the Kallanai (Grand Anicut), an ancient irrigation system built by King Karikala. Raghav wonders how this engineering feat helped the Chola Kingdom. Neha explains that the Kallanai diverted water from the Kaveri River, making the region the “rice bowl of the South” by supporting farming. Raghav adds that this system is still in use today, showing the long-lasting impact of the Chola dynasty’s engineering.

1. What was the significance of the Kallanai (Grand Anicut) for the Chola Kingdom?

The Kallanai diverted water from the Kaveri River to irrigate the delta, supporting agriculture and making the region the “rice bowl of the South.”

2. How do modern irrigation systems compare to the ancient Kallanai system?

Modern irrigation systems are more advanced, using pumps and canals, but the Kallanai’s simple yet effective design shows how ancient engineering supported agriculture for centuries.

3. What is the Kallanai (Grand Anicut) used for?

A) Religious ceremonies

B) Irrigation and farming

C) Transportation

D) Trade routes

Answer:

B) Irrigation and farming