1. Describe the assemblies that took place in southern kingdoms.
Answer:
In the southern kingdoms, particularly during the Pallava period, various assemblies played significant roles in local governance. One prominent assembly was the
Sabha
, composed mainly of Brahmin landowners. This assembly handled diverse responsibilities, including irrigation, agricultural development, road construction, and management of local temples and was divided into specialized subcommittees. In areas where landowners were not Brahmins, a different form of village assembly was established. Additionally, there was the
Nagaram
, a mercantile organization consisting of wealthy traders and merchants who managed trade-related affairs and local commerce.
2. What does the Prayag Prashasti list about Samudragupta?
Answer:
The Prayag Prashasti, an inscription celebrating Samudragupta, highlights his significant military achievements and victories. It also outlines his genealogy, providing details about his lineage. This inscription gives insight into his state policies by describing the practices of the territories he conquered. Furthermore, it provide information about his court and its members. In the prashasti, Samudragupta is depicted with divine qualities, emphasizing his esteemed status and accomplishments. The inscription is known for its grandiose praise and elaborate language.
3. What were the administrative arrangements after the fall of the Gupta Dynasty?
Answer:
After the Gupta Dynasty's decline, administrative arrangements evolved with a shift toward hereditary positions. Administrative roles were often passed from father to son, leading to a system where one individual could hold multiple offices.
Important figures in local administration included Harishena, who served as both Mahadandanayaka (chief military commander) and Kumar-Amatya (minister for war and peace). Prominent local officials included the NagaraShreshthi (chief merchant or banker), the Sarthavaha (leader of commercial caravans), the chief craftsman, and the head of scribes. This system allowed for concentrated power but eventually led to these administrators establishing their own independent kingdoms.
4. How did the Guptas administer their kingdom? Explain briefly.
Answer:
The Gupta administration was highly organized and hierarchical. At the top was the king, who governed with the assistance of a council of ministers. The kingdom was divided into provinces called
Bhuktis
, each managed by a governor and their officers. These provinces were further divided into districts known as
Visayas
, administered by
Ayuktas
. At the grassroots level, villages were governed by village elders. This decentralized structure empowered officials at various levels to make local decisions, ensuring efficient administration across the vast empire.
5. What were the Prashastis and how did these help?
Answer:
Prashastis
were inscriptions intended to praise and honor rulers. An example is the "Prashasti of Samudragupta," written in Sanskrit by the court poet Harisena around 1700 years ago. These inscriptions, such as the one on the Ashokan pillar in Allahabad, celebrated the achievements of kings, detailing their conquests and glorifying their rule. Prashastis often included information about the ruler’s ancestors, providing a historical context for their reign. They played a role in reinforcing the ruler's divine status and legitimacy, thereby bolstering their authority and influence.
Benefits of CBSE Class 6 Social Science History Notes Chapter 9 Traders, Kings and Pilgrims
-
Improved Recall of Key Facts:
The notes highlight important historical facts, events and figures related to trade routes, rulers, and pilgrims. This helps students remember and recall specific details accurately during exams.
-
Enhanced Understanding of Concepts:
By breaking down complex historical events and concepts into simpler terms, the notes facilitate better understanding. This clarity helps in answering exam questions with greater confidence and accuracy.
-
Efficient Time Management:
The concise nature of the notes allows students to review a large amount of information in a short period. This efficiency helps in managing study time effectively, ensuring that all topics are covered before the exam.
-
Confidence Building:
With a thorough understanding of the chapter content, students can approach their exams with increased confidence. The notes prepare them to handle both straightforward and complex questions with ease.
