Class 7 History Notes - Towns, Traders And Craftspersons

Introduction

• The period between the 12th and 18th centuries was prosperous in medieval Indian history.
• Towns played a vital role during this time, each serving specific functions and developing under unique circumstances.

Types of Towns in the Medieval Period

1. Administrative Centres

• Main seat of administrative machinery and capital city.
• Examples: Delhi, Agra, Kannauj, Tanjore, Vijayanagara (Hampi), Devagiri.
• These towns were strategically located and depended on royal patronage. They were often surrounded by well-defended forts.

2. Temple Towns and Pilgrimage Centres

• Centered around large temples and catered to religious needs.
• Examples: Tirupati, Somnath, Madurai, Ajmer, Benaras (Varanasi), Mathura, Pushkar, Nashik.
• Large temples were built under royal patronage and became hubs for trade, agriculture, banking, and craft production.

3. Centres of Trade and Commerce

• Catered to trade and commerce.
• Examples: Benaras (Varanasi), Kanchipuram, Pulicat, Surat, Masulipatnam, Patna, Dhaka, Agra, Lahore.
• These towns had market streets or large retail markets, important textile and craft centers, and caravan sarais for traders.

4. Port Towns

• Served as trade centers on the coastline.
• Western coast examples: Cambay, Sopara, Bharuch, Surat, Goa. Eastern coast: Tamralipti, Masulipatnam.
• These towns facilitated trade with Africa, West Asia, Europe, and Southeast Asia.

5. Towns Founded by Rulers

• Established to accommodate growth or commemorate victories.
• Examples: Hyderabad, Fatehpur Sikri, Shahjahanabad.
• These towns served as administrative centers and often housed the ruler's court. They were fortified for protection.

A Closer Look at Three Cities

1. Hampi - A Grand Capital City

• Capital of the Vijayanagara empire.
• Strategically located on the banks of the Tungabhadra River.
• Known as Virupakshapura.
• Foreign travelers described it as well-fortified with distinctive architecture, including splendid arches, domes, and pillared halls.
• Hampi had large temples, including the Virupaksha Temple, which served as centers of cultural activities and commerce.
• The city also had irrigation facilities, including large tanks, canals, and wells.
• Hampi controlled both internal and international trade.

2. Masulipatnam - Reaching Out Overseas

• Founded by Arab traders in the 14th century.
• Located on the Coromandel Coast.
• A major center of international trade with the Dutch, English, and French.
• Specialized in weaving and dyeing industries, known for kalamkari textiles.
• Kalamkari textiles had a market in West Asia and Europe.

3. Surat - Gateway to the West

• Located on the banks of the Tapti River in Gujarat.
• A major port city and trading center during the Mughal period.
• A gateway to the West for trade with West Asia.
• Known for exporting textiles, jewelry, and merchandise.
• Had important places like the custom house and imperial mint.
• Under the influence of the Portuguese and later the English East India Company.

Conclusion

• Towns in medieval India served various functions and played a crucial role in trade, administration, and culture.
• They were strategically located and often received royal patronage.
• Each type of town contributed to the prosperity of the region and facilitated trade with other parts of the world.