Class 7th NCERT HISTORY

Hello everyone welcome in SONU LIVE ,in this article I will provide you all important questions related Class 7th NCERT HISTORY chapter 2 and also important questions for UPSC.

Important Questions for UPSC point of view

Differentiate between Nagarams and Brahmadeya. Ans –

Nagarams:

• Meaning: “Town” or “City”
• Purpose: Granted for the development and maintenance of towns and cities.
• Grantees: Merchants, artisans, and guilds responsible for various urban functions like trade, crafts, and infrastructure maintenance.
• Revenue: The revenue generated from the town, through taxes and levies, was used for its upkeep and development.
• Administration: Nagarams had a degree of autonomy and self-governance, often with elected councils or committees managing their affairs.

Brahmadeyas:

• Meaning: “Gift to Brahmins”
• Purpose: Land grants made to Brahmins, priests, and scholars for their religious and educational pursuits.
• Grantees: Brahmins or institutions associated with learning and religious activities.
• Revenue: The land was exempt from taxes, and the produce or income generated from it belonged to the grantees.
• Administration: Brahmadeyas were often self-governing units, and the head of the Brahmin community might manage their affairs.

Key Differences:

• Purpose: Nagarams focused on urban development, while Brahmadeyas supported religious and educational activities.
• Grantees: Nagarams were granted to non-religious communities, while Brahmadeyas were exclusive to Brahmins or religious institutions.
• Revenue: Nagarams generated revenue for the state, while Brahmadeyas were tax-exempt and provided income to the grantees.
• Administration: Nagarams had some self-governance, while Brahmadeyas were often more autonomous units. Q. Which parties participated in the tripartite struggle? Ans-
• The parties involved in the tripartite struggle, also known as the Kannauj Triangle Wars, were three powerful empires in 9th-century India:
• Gurjara-Pratihara Dynasty: Based in western and central India, known for their military prowess and eventually emerging victorious in the struggle.
• Pala Dynasty: Ruled over eastern India, renowned for their cultural and intellectual achievements.
• Rashtrakuta Dynasty: Dominated the Deccan plateau, boasting a strong military and economic base.
• Q. Who were known as Nadu? Ans- In ancient South India, particularly Tamil Nadu, “nadu” referred to groups of villages that formed larger administrative units. These units held cultural and economic significance, often named after geographical features or prominent communities. Q. What do you mean by Sabha? Ans-
• For your reference, here are some of the possible meanings of “Sabha” across different regions and contexts:
• Ancient India: In Vedic society, a “Sabha” was a public assembly or council, often associated with warriors and kings. These assemblies could have played a role in decision-making, social control, and religious functions.
• Ancient Greece: In Ancient Greece, a “Sabha” referred to a gathering of people, often for religious or political purposes. The most famous Sabha was the Areopagus, a supreme court and council in Athens.
• Middle Eastern Societies: In some Middle Eastern cultures, “Sabha” could refer to a group of elders or wise men who served as advisors or leaders in their community.
• Q. Who were Samanthas ? Ans-
• Samantas were large landowners or warrior chiefs in various regions of the Indian subcontinent.
• They were considered subordinates or feudatories to existing monarchs or emperors.
• Q. Who were Maha-samanthas? Ans- Maha-samanthas were powerful regional figures who emerged from the ranks of the ordinary samanthas in ancient India. Essentially, they were “superintendents” or “great samanthas”, having attained even greater power and influence compared to their lesser counterparts. Q. How did the new rulers emerge? Ans-
• Internal Factors:
  • Revolts or rebellions against existing rulers due to discontent, economic hardship, or internal power struggles.
  • Succession disputes within royal families, leading to conflicts and the eventual triumph of a new branch.
  • Advancements in military technology or tactics, enabling previously marginalized groups to challenge the established order.
• External Factors:
  • Invasions by foreign powers, leading to the overthrow of existing rulers and the establishment of new dynasties.
  • Migration of powerful tribes or groups into a region, disrupting the existing political landscape and potentially forming new kingdoms.
  • Economic or cultural shifts that altered the balance of power and created opportunities for new leaders to emerge.
• By pinpointing the specific region and providing some context about the previous political structure, I can offer a more detailed and relevant explanation of how new rulers came to power in the 9th century BC
• Q. How did the Dantidurga become a Kshatriya? Ans- Dantidurga’s claim to Kshatriya status is a complex and fascinating aspect of his rise to power. Unlike most Kshatriyas, who inherited their caste designation by birth, Dantidurga performed a ritual known as Hiranya-garbha to symbolically “reborn” himself as a Kshatriya. This ritual played a crucial role in legitimating his rule and solidifying his position as the founder of the Rashtrakuta Empire. Q. What was the process of controlling the financial condition in the states? Ans-
• Revenue Generation:
• Taxes: Land taxes were likely the primary source of revenue, often collected in kind (agricultural produce) or through levies on trade and crafts.
• Tribute: Conquered territories or vassal states might provide regular tribute payments or gifts to their overlords.
• Royal domains: Kings or rulers often owned vast lands (crown lands) whose produce or income directly contributed to the treasury.
• Other sources: Some states might have additional sources like mining, salt production, or specific trade monopolies.
• Expenditure Management:
• Maintaining the court and administration: Salaries for officials, upkeep of palaces and administrative centers, and expenses for religious ceremonies were significant outlays.
• Military: Equipping and maintaining armies, funding campaigns, and supporting veterans were major expenses.
• Public works: Construction of infrastructure like irrigation systems, roads, and public buildings could be undertaken by the state, requiring significant resources.
• Religious institutions: Temples and priests often received grants or landholdings from the state for their sustenance and rituals.
• Control Mechanisms:
• Record-keeping: Maintaining detailed records of income and expenditure was crucial for monitoring financial health and preventing corruption. Appointing officials specifically for treasury management and record-keeping was common.
• Budgets and audits: While formal budgeting systems might not have existed in the same way as today, some form of planning and allocation of resources likely occurred. Periodic audits or inspections could be conducted to ensure proper handling of funds.
• Decentralization: In some cases, regional authorities or local chiefs might have been responsible for collecting and managing finances within their territories, reporting periodically to the central government.
• Q. Explain about Prashastis. Ans-
• Prashastis are essentially laudatory inscriptions, meaning they’re written in praise of someone, most often a king or ruler. They typically take the form of poems or ornate prose, composed by court poets or Brahmins.
• Here are some key characteristics of Prashastis:
• Content: They focus on glorifying the achievements and virtues of the ruler, including their military victories, piety, generosity, and administrative skills.
• Purpose: Prashastis served multiple purposes, such as legitimating the ruler’s power, promoting their achievements to the public, and even deterring potential enemies.
• Material: They were often inscribed on durable materials like stone, copper, or metal plates, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
• Location: Prashastis were typically found in prominent locations like temples, victory pillars, or royal palaces.
• Examples of Prashastis:
• Junagadh Rock Inscription: This Prashasti, written by Rudradaman I, details his victories, irrigation projects, and religious piety.
• Ashoka Pillars: The famous Ashoka Pillars feature Prashastis inscribed by Emperor Ashoka, proclaiming his conversion to Buddhism and pacifist principles.
• Mehrauli Iron Pillar: This iconic pillar bears a Prashasti praising King Chandragupta II Vikramaditya for his strength and achievements.
• Significance of Prashastis:
• Prashastis are crucial historical sources for understanding ancient India. They provide valuable information about:
• Political Landscape: They shed light on the power dynamics, alliances, and rivalries between different kingdoms.
• Social and Cultural Practices: They offer insights into social hierarchies, religious beliefs, and artistic styles of the time.
• Economic Conditions: References to trade, agriculture, and infrastructure projects can reveal economic trends and prosperity levels
• Q. Who was Kalahana? Ans-
• Kalhana was a famous Kashmiri poet and author who lived in the 12th century CE. He is best known for his magnum opus, Rajatarangini, which translates to “River of Kings.” This vast Sanskrit poem chronicles the history of Kashmir from the mythical beginnings to the reign of King Sussala in 1125 CE.
• Here’s what we know about Kalhana:
• Family and Ancestry: His family belonged to the Chanpaka lineage, possibly Brahmin, who served as ministers to the Lohara dynasty.
• Education and Background: Details about his early life and education are largely unknown, but his writing suggests he was well-versed in literature, history, and political thought.
• Rajatarangini: This 7,826-verse poem details the lives of 121 kings and queens, recounting their achievements, wars, and cultural contributions. It also offers valuable insights into Kashmiri society, traditions, and mythology.
• Sources: Kalhana drew from various sources for his work, including earlier historical records, oral traditions, inscriptions, and literary works.
• Q. Why did Mahmud of Ghazni invade the temples in first place? Ans-
• The reasons behind Mahmud of Ghazni’s temple invasions were complex and multifaceted, driven by a combination of religious, political, and economic factors:
• Religious motivations:
• Spread of Islam: As a fervent Muslim ruler, Mahmud aimed to expand the Islamic faith into conquered territories. He saw the destruction of Hindu and Buddhist temples as a symbolic gesture of Islamic dominance and a way to pave the way for conversion.
• Religious justification: Some theologians of the time argued that destroying idols and places of worship associated with other religions was permissible under Islamic law, further motivating Mahmud’s actions.
• Political motivations:
• Demonstration of power: The raids served as a display of Mahmud’s military might and instilled fear in his enemies. By attacking powerful religious centers, he asserted his authority and discouraged potential revolts in conquered regions.
• Loot and treasure: Temples often housed immense wealth in the form of gold, jewels, and precious artifacts. Raiding them provided Mahmud with significant financial resources to fund his military campaigns and enrich his own treasury.
• Political alliances: In some instances, Mahmud might have been encouraged or even assisted by local Hindu factions opposed to rival kingdoms or rulers. These opportunistic alliances could have factored into his decision to target specific temples.
• Economic motivations:
• Trade routes: Control over key trade routes and strategic cities was crucial for economic prosperity. Targeting temples located along these routes or within important economic centers might have served to disrupt rival trade networks and bolster Mahmud’s own economic influence.
• Tribute and taxation: By demonstrating his military power and religious zeal, Mahmud could potentially increase the tribute or taxes levied on conquered regions, further supplementing his treasury and solidifying his control.
• Q. During the Chola Kingdom, what was the role of temples? Ans-
• Temples played a multifaceted and crucial role in the Chola Kingdom (roughly 850-1250 CE), beyond their primary function as centers of worship. They served as:
• 1. Religious and Cultural Hubs:
• Temples were dedicated to Hindu deities like Shiva, Vishnu, and Parvati, providing places for prayer, rituals, and festivals.
• They fostered devotional activities, attracting pilgrims and scholars from far and wide.
• Temple walls featured intricate carvings and sculptures depicting religious stories and mythological figures, serving as repositories of Hindu art and tradition.
• Dance and music performances dedicated to deities flourished within temple precincts, enriching the cultural landscape.
• 2. Economic Powerhouses:
• Land grants from Chola kings and donations from devotees made temples major landowners, generating significant income from agriculture and other commercial activities.
• They employed a vast workforce, including priests, musicians, dancers, artisans, and administrators, contributing to the kingdom’s economic life.
• Surplus temple revenue was used for various purposes, including funding temple upkeep, expanding religious activities, and supporting charitable endeavors.
• 3. Educational and Academic Centers:
• Brahmin communities associated with temples established schools and libraries, offering education in Sanskrit, religious texts, philosophy, and other subjects.
• Learned scholars and priests engaged in theological debates and intellectual discourse, making temples vital centers of knowledge production and dissemination.
• 4. Social and Administrative Units:
• Temples often functioned as self-governing units, managing their own affairs and finances through administrative bodies.
• They provided social services like food distribution, shelter for the needy, and medical care, contributing to the welfare of the community.
• They served as venues for public gatherings and discussions, providing opportunities for community engagement and participation in local governance.
• 5. Political Legitimacy:
• Royal patronage of temples enhanced the Chola kings’ image as pious rulers and strengthened their claims to legitimacy.
• Grand temple construction projects like Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur showcased the kingdom’s power and prosperity, fostering public admiration and loyalty.
• Q. How were the committee members of the Sabha elected? Ans-
• 1. Hereditary or Lineage-Based Selection:
• In some cases, membership in the Sabha might have been inherited or restricted to specific lineages within a society. This could be based on their association with warrior class (Kshatriyas) or nobility, who traditionally held positions of power and influence.
• This practice reflects the social hierarchies and class structures prevalent in certain ancient Indian societies.
• 2. Appointment by Monarchs or Rulers:
• Kings or emperors might have directly appointed individuals to the Sabha, usually from noble families or trusted advisors. This selection process aimed to ensure loyalty and alignment with the ruler’s interests.
• This method emphasizes the centralized authority of monarchs and their control over influential bodies like the Sabha.
• 3. Acclamation or Selection by Peers:
• Some historical references suggest that Sabha members might have been chosen through a process of acclamation or selection by existing members. This could involve open discussions, consensus building, or voting among existing committee members.
• This approach suggests a degree of democratic or peer-based selection, although specific details about the process remain unclear.
• 4. Combination of Factors:
• It’s also possible that a combination of these factors might have been used depending on the context. For example, certain lineages might have held hereditary seats while other members were appointed or selected by peers.
• Challenges in Reconstructing the Process:
• Reconstructing the precise election process for Sabha members in the 9th century BC is challenging due to limited historical records and variations across regions.
• Archaeological evidence and literary sources offer fragments of information, but often lack specific details about the selection process.
• Q. How did Cholas come to power? Ans-
• The rise of the Chola dynasty to power was a gradual process spanning several centuries, marked by strategic alliances, military conquests, and astute political maneuvering. Here’s a breakdown of their ascension:
• Early Beginnings:
• The origins of the Chola dynasty trace back to the 9th century AD in the Kaveri Delta region of South India.
• They initially served as feudatories to the Pallava kings, who ruled from Kanchipuram.
• Vijayalaya, regarded as the founder of the Chola dynasty, established Thanjavur as their independent kingdom in the mid-9th century.
• Building Power:
• Vijayalaya’s successors, Aditya I and Parantaka I, expanded the Chola territory through successful campaigns against the Pallavas and Pandya kingdoms.
• They consolidated control over the Kaveri Delta, a crucial agricultural region, solidifying their economic and military strength.
• Strategic alliances with neighboring powers like the Rashtrakutas further bolstered their position and influence.
• Golden Age:
• Raja Raja I (985-1014 AD) is considered the architect of the Chola empire’s golden age.
• His ambitious conquests extended Chola control across South India, encompassing parts of present-day Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Sri Lanka.
• He established the Chola navy, ensuring dominance on the seas and facilitating trade and cultural exchange.
• Raja Raja’s reign also saw a flourishing of art, architecture, and literature, exemplified by the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur.
• Continued Success:
• Raja Raja’s son, Rajendra I (1014-1044 AD), expanded the empire further, reaching the Ganges River in the north and conquering parts of Southeast Asia.
• The Cholas maintained their power for several centuries, with subsequent rulers like Rajadhiraja I and Kulottunga I continuing their cultural and military accomplishments.
• Factors Contributing to their Rise:
• Military prowess: The Cholas developed a powerful army and navy, adept at both land and sea battles.
• Clever alliances: They formed strategic alliances with neighboring kingdoms when advantageous, preventing them from being isolated or overwhelmed.
• Efficient administration: The Cholas established a well-organized administrative system, ensuring efficient tax collection, resource management, and governance.
• Economic prosperity: Control over fertile agricultural lands and thriving trade contributed to the Chola Empire’s economic strength.
• Cultural influence: The Cholas fostered a vibrant cultural environment, sponsoring art, architecture, and literature, enhancing their prestige and legitimacy. NCERT SOLUTIONS Q. What were the qualifications necessary to become a member of a committee of the sabha in the Chola empire? Ans-
• To become a member of a committee of the sabha in the Chola empire, individuals needed to meet several qualifications:
• Landownership and Social Standing:
• Landowner: They had to be owners of land from which land revenue was collected. This ensured a certain level of economic stability and vested interest in the community’s well-being.
• Homeownership: Possessing their own home indicated financial independence and community commitment. Q. What were the two major cities under the control of the Chahamanas? Ans-
• The two major cities under the control of the Chahamanas, also known as the Chauhans, were:
• 1. Delhi: Originally named Indraprastha, Delhi became a crucial part of the Chahamana kingdom during the 12th century. Its central location provided strategic advantages for controlling both eastern and western territories.
• 2. Ajmer: Founded as Ajayameru by an 11th-century Chahamana ruler, Ajmer served as the dynasty’s capital for a significant period. Its religious significance, boasting pilgrimage sites like the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, further bolstered its importance.
• Therefore, Delhi and Ajmer stood as the two pillars of the Chahamana realm, shaping their political and cultural landscape during their reign. It’s worth noting that while these were the most prominent cities, the Chahamanas also held sway over other significant areas like Hansi, Mandore, and Mandalgarh. Q. How did the Rashtrakutas become powerful? Ans-
• The rise of the Rashtrakutas to power in the Deccan involved a dynamic interplay of several factors:
• Military Prowess:
• Overthrowing Chalukyas: Dantidurga, a Rashtrakuta chief, strategically overthrew his Chalukya overlord in the mid-8th century, establishing Rashtrakuta independence.
• Expansion through Conquest: Skilled rulers like Krishna I and Amoghavarsha III expanded the empire through successful campaigns against Palas, Gurjara Pratiharas, and other neighboring kingdoms.
• Strong Cavalry: Their well-trained cavalry played a crucial role in achieving swift victories and establishing their military dominance. Q. What did the new dynasties do to gain acceptance? Ans-
• New dynasties throughout history have employed various strategies to gain acceptance amongst existing populations. Here are some common methods:
• Political Strategies:
• Conquest and Military Prowess: Establishing themselves through military victories and showcasing their strength could create awe and submission amongst conquered populations.
• Alliances and Marriages: Forming strategic alliances with existing powers or intermarrying with influential families could foster trust and legitimize their rule.
• Adopting Existing Titles and Rituals: Adopting titles and performing rituals associated with established dynasties could create a sense of continuity and appease traditional customs.
• Patronage of the Clergy and Religious Institutions: Gaining the support of religious leaders and institutions could offer moral authority and legitimization, influencing public opinion.
• Economic Strategies:
• Tax Reductions and Infrastructure Development: Offering tax breaks and investing in infrastructure projects could improve living standards and generate goodwill amongst the populace.
• Promotion of Trade and Commerce: Fostering economic prosperity through trade networks and market development could benefit a wider range of people and solidify their rule.
• Land Grants and Rewards: Rewarding supporters and loyal subjects with land or other privileges could incentivize loyalty and secure alliances.
• Social and Cultural Strategies:
• Assimilation and Cultural Blending: Adapting and incorporating elements of local customs and traditions could foster a sense of unity and cultural acceptance.
• Patronage of the Arts and Education: Supporting artistic endeavors and educational institutions could enhance the empire’s prestige and attract talented individuals.
• Emphasis on Justice and Security: Maintaining effective law and order and ensuring justice for all could create a stable environment and earn public trust.
• Public Relations and Propaganda: Disseminating positive narratives about the new dynasty through inscriptions, literature, and oral traditions could create a favorable public image. Q. What kind of irrigation works were developed in the Tamil region? Ans-
• Throughout history, the Tamil region has relied on ingenious irrigation systems to thrive in a monsoon-dependent climate. These systems, a testament to the region’s engineering prowess, can be broadly categorized into three main types:
• 1. Tanks:
• Artificial reservoirs: Constructed by excavating earth and piling it up to form embankments, tanks served as storage for rainwater during the monsoon months.
• Varying sizes: Ranging from small village ponds to vast lakes like the Grand Anicut in Thanjavur, tanks catered to the specific needs of the surrounding communities.
• Sophisticated water distribution: Networks of channels diverted water from the tanks to irrigate farmlands, often employing gravity flow for efficient distribution.
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• Tanks in Tamil Nadu
• 2. Wells:
• Groundwater access: In areas with limited surface water, wells were dug to reach groundwater aquifers.
• Different types: Traditional methods like “mottai” wells and “kulai” wells used pulleys and bullocks to draw water, while later innovations like Persian wheels improved efficiency.
• Community collaboration: Often owned and maintained by communities, wells fostered cooperation and ensured equitable water access.
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• Wells in Tamil Nadu
• 3. Canals:
• Diverting river water: Canals were constructed to divert water from rivers and streams towards agricultural lands, particularly in the Kaveri delta region.
• Extensive network: The Chola dynasty, for example, built a vast network of canals exceeding 1,500 km in length, ensuring reliable irrigation for vast tracts of land.
• Maintenance and regulation: Complex sluice gates and water management systems were employed to regulate water flow and prevent flooding.
• Opens in a new windowwww.psuconnect.in
• Canals in Tamil Nadu
• These irrigation systems played a crucial role in enabling agriculture, supporting large populations, and contributing to the prosperity of the Tamil region for centuries. Even today, they continue to be vital for agriculture and serve as a testament to the region’s rich history of innovation and adaptation to environmental challenges.
• Beyond these categories, it’s worth mentioning other traditional methods like “eri” systems (bunds built across streams) and “surangams” (tunnels for tapping groundwater), showcasing the diversity and ingenuity of Tamil irrigation practices. Q. What were the activities associated with Chola temples? Ans-
• Chola temples transcended their spiritual significance and served as vibrant hubs of economic, social, and cultural life in the Chola empire. Here’s a glimpse into the bustling activities that took place within these magnificent structures:
• Religious Activities:
• Daily rituals: Priests performed elaborate daily rituals involving puja offerings, hymns, and processions, drawing devotees to witness the divine.
• Festivals: Grand festivals like Brahmotsava and Pongal drew massive crowds, featuring processions of decorated deities, vibrant cultural performances, and communal feasts.
• Pilgrimage: Chola temples like Brihadeeswarar in Thanjavur and Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram became renowned pilgrimage centers, attracting devotees from far and wide.
• Economic Activities:
• Land grants: Kings endowed temples with vast landholdings, generating income through agriculture and ensuring resources for maintenance and rituals.
• Craft production: Temple precincts often housed workshops for metalworkers, weavers, sculptors, and other artisans, creating thriving centers of craft production.
• Marketplaces: Temple towns blossomed into bustling marketplaces, catering to the needs of pilgrims, priests, and artisans, driving economic activity.
• Social and Cultural Activities:
• Learning and education: Temple schools provided religious education and training in various arts and sciences, fostering intellectual growth and cultural transmission.
• Public gatherings: Temple courtyards served as venues for assemblies, debates, and public discourse, facilitating social interaction and community engagement.
• Patronage of arts and literature: Chola kings generously supported music, dance, and literary pursuits, contributing to the flourishing of various art forms.
• Additional noteworthy activities:
• Charitable deeds: Temples often provided food and shelter for the poor and disadvantaged, acting as centers of social welfare.
• Performance of temple dances: Devadasis, skilled dancers dedicated to the temple deity, performed classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam, enriching the cultural scene.
• Administration and record-keeping: Temple authorities maintained detailed records of land holdings, donations, and rituals, offering insights into social and economic life. READ MORE-https://sonulive.in/class-7th-ncert-history/