02. Class 7 history chapter 2 Kings and Kingdoms NCERT Notes CBSE and UPSC

Welcome to Kings and Kingdoms Class 7 History NCERT Notes for Chapter 2 CBSE

Exam Notes: Our Pasts – II Chapter 2

The Emergence of New Dynasties

Introduction

In the period after the seventh century, significant changes occurred in the political landscape of the Indian subcontinent.

The emergence of new dynasties played a pivotal role in reshaping the power dynamics.

Map of Major Dynasties

• The subcontinent witnessed the rise of several major dynasties between the seventh and twelfth centuries.
• These dynasties included the Gurjara-Pratiharas, Rashtrakutas, Palas, Cholas, and Chahamanas.
• Understanding the historical boundaries and evolution of these regions is crucial for comprehending their impact.

Rise of Samantas

• During this period, influential landlords and warrior chiefs began to assert their presence in various regions.
• These individuals, known as samantas, were typically recognized as subordinates by reigning monarchs.
• Their roles encompassed bringing gifts to their kings, attending royal courts, and providing military support.

Example: – Class 7 history chapter 2

Rashtrakutas

• The Rashtrakutas, initially subordinates to the Chalukyas of Karnataka, exemplify the dynamics of this era.
• Dantidurga, a Rashtrakuta chief, overthrew his Chalukya overlord, marking a significant shift in power.
• A ritual called “hiranya-garbha” was performed to symbolize this transformation, highlighting the cultural aspects intertwined with political change.

Enterprising Families

• Some influential families made strategic use of their military skills to establish their rule.
• For instance, figures like Kadamba Mayurasharman and Gurjara-Pratihara Harichandra, originally Brahmanas, abandoned their traditional roles to become rulers.
• Their successful endeavors led to the establishment of kingdoms in regions like Karnataka and Rajasthan.

Administration in the Kingdoms

Shared Power

• The administration within these new kingdoms was characterized by shared power.
• Monarchs collaborated with various segments of society, including samantas, peasants, traders, and Brahmanas.
• This complex power-sharing arrangement influenced governance significantly.

Financing the Kingdom

• Resources to sustain these kingdoms were primarily obtained from producers, which included peasants, cattle-keepers, and artisans.
• These producers often had to surrender a portion of their produce, which was claimed as “rent” by lords who asserted land ownership.
• Revenue was also collected from traders, contributing to the kingdom’s financial stability.

Four Hundred Taxes!

• An interesting aspect of this period was the multitude of taxes mentioned in inscriptions, particularly by the Cholas.
• These taxes ranged from vetti (forced labor) to kadamai (land revenue), reflecting the diverse sources of state income.
• Taxes were levied on various activities and possessions, providing insights into the economic structure of the time.

Resources Allocation

• The resources collected from producers and traders were allocated for various purposes.
• They funded the maintenance of the king’s establishment, the construction of temples and forts, and the financing of military campaigns.
• These campaigns often aimed to acquire wealth through plunder and gain control over valuable land and trade routes.

Functionaries and Hereditary Positions

• Key positions in administration, including revenue collection and military leadership, were often filled by members of influential families.
• This hereditary system ensured a continuity of power and authority.
• Close relatives of the king were frequently entrusted with these important roles, consolidating power within the royal lineage.

Prashastis and Land Grants

Depiction of Rulers

• Prashastis, composed by learned Brahmanas, played a significant role in depicting rulers in a favorable light.
• These compositions served as instruments of political propaganda, highlighting the valor and achievements of the ruling monarchs.

Warfare for Wealth -Class 7 history chapter 2

Tripartite Struggle

• One notable feature of this era was the tripartite struggle for control over Kanauj in the Ganga valley.
• This prolonged conflict involved the Gurjara-Pratihara, Rashtrakuta, and Pala dynasties.
• The city of Kanauj held immense significance, leading historians to refer to this conflict as the “tripartite struggle.”

Temple Raids

• Interestingly, when these dynasties engaged in warfare, they often targeted temples, even though temples were places of religious worship.
• Temples were sometimes repositories of great wealth, making them attractive targets.
• Capturing temples symbolized both victory and access to valuable resources.

The Chahamanas’ Ambitions – Class 7 history chapter 2

• The Chahamanas, later known as the Chauhans, ruled over regions encompassing Delhi and Ajmer.
• They were ambitious and sought to expand their territories.
• However, their expansionist goals often led to conflicts with neighboring dynasties, such as the Chalukyas of Gujarat and the Gahadavalas of western Uttar Pradesh.

The Cholas – Class 7 history chapter 2

Rise to Power

• The Cholas rose to power through a series of conquests, starting with Vijayalaya’s capture of the Kaveri delta.
• The reign of Rajaraja I, followed by his son Rajendra I, marked the zenith of Chola influence.
• Rajendra I expanded Chola control not only within the subcontinent but also into Southeast Asia, showcasing their naval prowess.

Splendid Temples and Bronze Sculpture

• The Cholas are renowned for their magnificent temples, including those in Thanjavur and Gangaikonda-cholapuram.
• These architectural marvels featured elaborate stone sculptures that adorned the outer walls.
• Temples were not merely places of worship but also served as economic, social, and cultural centers.

Agriculture and Irrigation -Class 7 history chapter 2

Agricultural Developments

• Agriculture thrived in the Kaveri delta, thanks to innovative developments.
• The landscape was transformed with the clearing of forests, leveling of land, and construction of embankments.
• Irrigation systems, including canals, wells, and tanks, were established to ensure consistent water supply for crops.
• The ability to cultivate two crops annually significantly boosted agricultural output.

Administration of the Empire -Class 7 history chapter 2

Organizational Structure

• The Chola empire was divided into administrative units known as ur and nadu.
• Village councils and nadu assemblies played crucial roles in local governance.
• Rich landowners held key positions within these administrative bodies, wielding substantial influence.

Inscriptions and Texts

Membership Criteria

• Inscriptions from the Chola period provide insights into the criteria for committee membership.
• Brahmanas played vital roles in land grants and the administration of the empire.
• Sabhas and committees were integral to the functioning of Chola governance, ensuring the efficient execution of policies.

Conclusion -Class 7 history chapter 2

• The emergence of new dynasties during this period brought about significant transformations.
• The rise of samantas, the intricate power-sharing arrangements, and the methods of financing kingdoms shaped the political landscape.
• Prashastis served as tools for political propaganda, projecting rulers in a favorable light.
• Warfare for wealth, exemplified by the tripartite struggle and temple raids, had far-reaching consequences.
• The Cholas’ influence extended not only within the subcontinent but also into Southeast Asia.
• Agricultural advancements, administrative structures, and inscriptions provide valuable insights into this dynamic era.

Keywords and Definitions -Class 7 history chapter 2

Important Definitions for Kings and Kingdoms Class 7 history chapter 2 NCERT Notes for CBSE

• Samanta: Local chieftains or landlords who often served as subordinates to monarchs.
• Prashastis: Compositions created to celebrate and praise rulers, often serving political purposes.
• Tripartite Struggle: A conflict for control over the city of Kanauj involving the Gurjara-Pratihara, Rashtrakuta, and Pala dynasties.
• Sabha: An assembly that played a role in administrative functions and governance.

Wikipedia Links for Class 7 history chapter 2

• Gurjara-Pratiharas
• Rashtrakutas
• Cholas
• Chahamanas

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Important Questions for Kings and Kingdoms Class 7 History NCERT Notes for Chapter 2 CBSE

Who were the samantas, and what role did they play in emerging dynasties?

• Samantas were local chieftains or landlords who often served as subordinates to monarchs.
• They played roles such as providing gifts to kings, attending royal courts, and offering military support.
• Some samantas asserted their independence.

What were prashastis, and why were they composed?

• Prashastis were compositions created to celebrate and praise rulers.
• They served political propaganda purposes by highlighting the achievements and valor of rulers.

What was the tripartite struggle, and what was its significance?

• The tripartite struggle was a conflict for control over the city of Kanauj, involving the Gurjara-Pratihara, Rashtrakuta, and Pala dynasties.
• Its significance lies in its impact on the political landscape of the time.

Why did rulers target temples during conflicts?

• Temples were often repositories of great wealth, making them attractive targets during warfare.
• Capturing temples symbolized both victory and access to valuable resources.

Who were the Chahamanas, and what were their ambitions?

• The Chahamanas, later known as the Chauhans, ruled over regions encompassing Delhi and Ajmer.
• They had ambitious expansionist goals but often encountered conflicts with neighboring dynasties.

How did the Cholas contribute to the development of agriculture in the Kaveri delta?

• The Cholas introduced innovative agricultural practices, including advanced irrigation systems.
• These developments enabled the cultivation of two crops annually, significantly increasing agricultural output.

What was the organizational structure of the Chola empire?

• The Chola empire was divided into administrative units known as ur and nadu.
• Village councils and nadu assemblies played crucial roles in local governance.
• Key positions were often held by rich landowners.

Who played crucial roles in land grants and administration in the Chola empire?

• Brahmanas played vital roles in land grants and the administration of the Chola empire.
• They contributed significantly to governance and policy implementation.

What were sabhas, and how did they function in the Chola empire?

• Sabhas were assemblies that played a role in administrative functions and governance.
• They ensured the smooth operation of various aspects of governance.

What is the significance of inscriptions in understanding the history of the Chola dynasty?

• Inscriptions serve as historical records providing insights into governance, land grants, and influential individuals during the Chola dynasty’s rule.

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This was the end of Kings and Kingdoms Class 7 history chapter 2 NCERT Notes for CBSE

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