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Chapter Analysis
Intermediate14 pages • EnglishQuick Summary
This chapter on 'Kings and Kingdoms' explores the emergence of new dynasties, their administrative systems, and the military conquests of rulers between the seventh and twelfth centuries. It highlights the strategies of rulers like the Rashtrakutas and Cholas to expand territories and strengthen their rule. The chapter also delves into architectural and cultural developments, such as the construction of grand temples, which served as centers of economic and social life. It provides insights into the political dynamics, including the 'tripartite struggle' and the administrative innovations introduced by these ruling dynasties.
Key Topics
- •Emergence of new dynasties
- •Tripartite struggle for Kanauj
- •Role of temples in economy and culture
- •Land grant and revenue systems
- •Military conquests and expansions
- •Decentralized administration techniques
- •Chola architecture and sculptures
- •Role of Brahmanas in governance
Learning Objectives
- ✓Understand the causes and effects of the emergence of new dynasties.
- ✓Analyze the impact of the tripartite struggle on regional politics.
- ✓Evaluate the administrative systems developed by the Cholas.
- ✓Explore the socio-economic role of temples during this period.
- ✓Discuss the influence of Brahmanas in the administration of kingdoms.
- ✓Identify the key architectural and cultural contributions of the dynasties.
Questions in Chapter
Match the following: Gurjara-Pratiharas Western Deccan Rashtrakutas Bengal Palas Gujarat and Rajasthan Cholas Tamil Nadu
Page 28
Who were the parties involved in the 'tripartite struggle'?
Page 28
What were the two major cities under the control of the Chahamanas?
Page 28
How did the Rashtrakutas become powerful?
Page 29
What did the new dynasties do to gain acceptance?
Page 29
What kind of irrigation works were developed in the Tamil region?
Page 29
Contrast the 'elections' in Uttaramerur with present-day panchayat elections.
Page 29
Additional Practice Questions
What were the primary factors that led to the emergence of new dynasties after the seventh century?
mediumAnswer: Various factors led to the emergence of new dynasties, including the decay of centralized power, the rise of powerful local chiefs, and the ability of enterprising individuals to carve out new territories through military conquests.
Explain the significance of the tripartite struggle.
mediumAnswer: The tripartite struggle was a prolonged conflict between the Gurjara-Pratiharas, Rashtrakutas, and Palas for the control of the strategic and economically prosperous region of Kanauj. This struggle highlights the complex political dynamics and the desire for territorial expansion and consolidation among Indian dynasties.
Discuss the administrative strategies employed by the Cholas to manage their vast empire.
hardAnswer: The Cholas employed a highly organized administrative system, dividing their empire into mandalams (provinces), valanadus (districts), and nadus (sub-districts). Local assemblies like the sabha and ur played vital roles in village governance, while revenue administration depended on meticulous land records. This decentralization allowed effective control over diverse regions.
What role did temples play in the Chola society?
easyAnswer: Chola temples functioned as vital socio-economic centers. They facilitated agricultural management, hosted festivals, and supported craftsmen and artists. Temples were heavily endowed with land, which supported temple services and staff. They also served as repositories of culture and learning.
Analyze the role of Brahmanas in the administration of the kingdoms discussed in this chapter.
mediumAnswer: Brahmanas played a significant role in governance, often acting as advisors, record keepers, and ritual specialists. Land grants enriched them, strengthening their influence in both rural and urban settings. Their role in legitimizing and chronicling royal achievements, via inscriptions and prasastis, reinforced their eminent position in society.