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

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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

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.

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

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