11.
28 14:08
UNIT-II History
1. Vedic Society-Advent of Aryans, Changes from Regvedie to later vedic phases;
political and social organizations, religion and economy
2. Rise of new religious movements in Ancient India-Doctrines and social dimensions
of early Jainism and Budhism
3. Post Vedic Era-The Mauryan Empire: State Administration and Economy, Ashoka's
Dhamma. The Gupta Empire: Administration, agrarian and revenue systems, society and
culture.
1. Vedic Society
Advent of Aryans
Aryans migrated into India around 1500 BCE and settled in the north-western
regions, introducing the Vedic culture.
Their arrival marks the beginning of the Vedic Age, primarily documented in the
Rigveda, the earliest literary work in India.
Changes from Rigvedic to Later Vedic Phases
Rigvedic Phase (1500-1000 BCE):
Society was largely pastoral and tribal, centered around small kinship groups
called janas.
Political units were led by chiefs called rajan, and governance was conducted
through tribal assemblies like sabha and samiti.
Simple religious practices focused on nature worship and yajnas (ritual
sacrifices).
Later Vedic Phase (1000-600 BCE):
Expansion into the Gangetic plains led to the establishment of agricultural
societies.
Political units grew larger, leading to the emergence of mahajanapadas (great
states).
Varna system (social stratification) became rigid, with a clear hierarchy of
Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras.
Increased focus on elaborate rituals, and the dominance of Brahmins in religious
practices.
Political and Social Organization
Political units transitioned from tribal assemblies to centralized kingdoms.
Patriarchy was dominant; women’s status declined over time.
Caste hierarchy became central to social organization.
Religion
Early Vedic religion was polytheistic, worshiping forces of nature (e.g., Indra,
Agni, and Varuna).
Later Vedic religion emphasized rituals, sacrifices, and the supremacy of Brahmins,
paving the way for philosophical speculations in the Upanishads.
Economy
Transition from a pastoral economy (based on cattle) to an agrarian economy.
Trade and use of coins started to develop in the later Vedic period.
---
2. Rise of New Religious Movements in Ancient India
Doctrines and Social Dimensions of Early Jainism and Buddhism
These movements arose as a response to the growing rigidity of the caste system and
Vedic ritualism.
Jainism:
Founded by Vardhamana Mahavira in the 6th century BCE.
Doctrine:
Belief in ahimsa (non-violence), anekantavada (multiplicity of truth), and
asceticism.
Emphasis on individual effort for liberation (moksha).
Social Dimension:
Rejected caste distinctions and rituals.
Promoted simple living and non-possession.
Buddhism:
Founded by Gautama Buddha in the 6th century BCE.
Doctrine:
Four Noble Truths: Life is suffering, suffering is caused by desire, cessation of
suffering is possible, and the Eightfold Path leads to liberation.
Rejected the authority of Vedas and Brahmanical rituals.
Social Dimension:
Open to all, irrespective of caste or gender.
Advocated equality, compassion, and non-violence.
---
3. Post-Vedic Era
The Mauryan Empire (321-185 BCE):
State Administration:
Centralized monarchy with a well-organized bureaucracy.
Key officials: Amatyas (ministers), Rajukas (judicial officers), and Dhamma
Mahamattas (officers for propagating Dhamma).
Kautilya’s Arthashastra provides insights into governance, diplomacy, and
statecraft.
Economy:
Agriculture was the backbone of the economy; land revenue was a significant source
of income.
Extensive trade networks within India and with foreign regions (e.g., Central Asia,
Greece).
Ashoka’s Dhamma:
Promoted ethical conduct, social harmony, and non-violence.
Inscribed edicts emphasized religious tolerance and welfare measures.
The Gupta Empire (320-550 CE):
Administration:
Decentralized administration with local autonomy for provinces.
Kings were seen as divinely ordained rulers.
Agrarian and Revenue Systems:
Land grants (Brahmadeya) to Brahmins and temples became common.
Revenue was collected in cash or kind, primarily from agriculture.
Society and Culture:
Revival of Hinduism with emphasis on temple building and Sanskrit literature.
Achievements in science, mathematics (Aryabhata), and arts (classical Gupta
sculpture and painting).
Women’s status declined, and the caste system became rigid.
