01. Introduction Tracing Changes through a Thousand Years Class 7 History NCERT Notes for Chapter CBSE Estimated reading: 5 minutes 43 views Welcome to Tracing Changes through a Thousand Years Class 7 History NCERT Notes for Chapter CBSE. Introduction This chapter explores the historical changes in the Indian subcontinent over a thousand years. It highlights two historical maps, Map 1 from 1154 CE by Al-Idrisi and Map 2 from the 1720s by a French cartographer, showcasing the differences in geographical representation. Al-Idrisi’s map is notable for placing south India where we would expect to find north India, and Sri Lanka at the top. The maps provide insights into how information about the subcontinent changed over time. Map 1 Map 1 History chapter 1 class 7 Map 1 is a section of the world map drawn by the geographer Al-Idrisi in the twelfth century. It displays the Indian subcontinent from land to sea. Place-names are marked in Arabic, and some names like Kanauj in Uttar Pradesh are recognizable. Map 2 Map 2 Class 7 History Chapter 1 Map 2 is from the early-eighteenth-century Atlas Nouveau of Guillaume de l’Isle. It represents the subcontinent and is more detailed, particularly along the coastal areas. This map was used by European sailors and merchants during their voyages. Differences between Maps The interior areas of the subcontinent on Map 2 are less detailed than the coastal regions. The course of the River Ganga is shown differently on both maps. The differences in detail and accuracy between coastal and inland areas raise questions. Factors for Differences The differences in maps can be attributed to changes in geographical knowledge over 600 years. It also reflects differences in the science of cartography during the two periods. Historians need to consider the historical context when interpreting maps, texts, and documents from the past. New and Old Terminologies Language and meanings have changed over time. Terms like “Hindustan” had different connotations in the past. In the thirteenth century, it referred to areas like Punjab, Haryana, and the region between the Ganga and Yamuna. Language changes affect the interpretation of historical documents. Historians and Their Sources Historians rely on various sources like coins, inscriptions, architecture, and textual records. During this period (700 to 1750 CE), the number and variety of textual records increased significantly. Manuscripts were crucial sources of information, but they were copied by hand, leading to variations and challenges for historians. New Social and Political Groups The period saw significant changes in society, including the emergence of new technologies, new crops, and increased mobility. The Rajputs, Marathas, Sikhs, Jats, and other groups became politically important during this time. Forest-dwellers transitioned to peasants, leading to social and economic differentiation. Region and Empire Large states like the Cholas, Tughluqs, and Mughals encompassed many regions. The subcontinent witnessed changes in governance, economy, and culture due to these large states. The legacy of these states influenced regional traditions and societies. Old and New Religions Significant developments occurred in religious traditions during this period. Changes in Hinduism, including the worship of new deities and the emergence of bhakti, are notable. The arrival of Islam brought religious diversity, with variations in beliefs and practices. Thinking about Time and Historical Periods Historians divide history into periods based on shared characteristics. The division of history into “Hindu,” “Muslim,” and “British” periods was oversimplified. The “medieval” period, often contrasted with “modern,” witnessed significant changes and challenges historians’ periodization. Keywords and Definitions Important Keywords for Tracing Changes through a Thousand Years Class 7. Cartography: The science and art of mapmaking. Hindustan: Historically referred to different regions over time, now associated with India. Bhakti: A devotional movement within Hinduism emphasizing a personal connection with the divine. Periodization: The process of dividing history into distinct periods for analysis. FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) Important Questions for Tracing Changes through a Thousand Years Class 7 History. 1. Who was considered a “foreigner” in the past? In the past, a “foreigner” referred to anyone who was not a part of a specific village or community. 2. Were inscriptions found for the period after 700? Yes, inscriptions continued to be found after 700, providing valuable historical information. 3. How did the Marathas assert their political importance during this period? The Marathas became politically important through their military and administrative efforts, establishing their rule in various regions. 4. What led to the clearing of forests and the extension of agriculture? Changes in habitat and economic pressures led to the clearing of forests and the extension of agriculture. 5. What was the impact of European trading companies on the subcontinent? European trading companies played a significant role in the economic and political changes in the subcontinent during this period. 6. What is “Bhakti” in Hinduism? Bhakti is a devotional movement within Hinduism that emphasizes a personal and loving connection with the divine. 7. How did language and meanings change over time? Languages have evolved over time, and the meanings of words can change, leading to differences in interpretation. 8. What challenges did historians face when using manuscripts as historical sources? Historians faced challenges due to variations introduced during manual manuscript copying over centuries. 9. What is periodization in history? Periodization is the process of dividing history into distinct periods based on shared characteristics for analysis. 10. Why is the division of history into “Hindu,” “Muslim,” and “British” periods considered oversimplified? This division oversimplifies history by ignoring the complex and diverse developments that occurred during these periods. This was the end of Tracing Changes through a Thousand Years Class 7 History NCERT Notes for Chapter CBSE. For more information, refer to NCERT SOLUTIONS, NCERT NOTES, and NCERT BOOKS .
