NCERT Class 7 Social Science Chapter 4
New Beginnings: Cities and States
This chapter explores the emergence of new cities and states in ancient India, focusing on the period after the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization. It covers the rise of Janapadas and Mahajanapadas, the development of urban centres, and the growth of trade and administration. Students will understand how early Indian states were organized and governed.
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Key Terms
- Janapada
- Early territorial units or small kingdoms that emerged in India around 1000 BCE, where people settled and formed communities.
- Mahajanapada
- The sixteen large and powerful kingdoms or republics that flourished in ancient India around 600 BCE, such as Magadha, Kosala, and Vajji.
- Gana-Sangha
- Republican states in ancient India where power was shared among a group of warriors or rulers rather than being concentrated in one king.
- Punch-marked coins
- Early metallic coins used in ancient India, made of silver or copper, with symbols punched onto them, indicating the growth of trade and commerce.
- Varna System
- The social division in ancient India into four groups — Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras — based on occupation and birth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Mahajanapadas?▾
Mahajanapadas were sixteen large kingdoms and republics in ancient India around 600 BCE. Some important ones were Magadha, Kosala, Vajji, Avanti, and Kashi. Magadha eventually became the most powerful.
How were Janapadas different from Mahajanapadas?▾
Janapadas were smaller, earlier territorial units that emerged after the Vedic period, while Mahajanapadas were larger, more organized, and powerful kingdoms that developed from the Janapadas around 600 BCE.
Why did cities develop in ancient India?▾
Cities developed in ancient India due to the growth of trade and commerce, specialization of crafts, surplus agricultural production, and the need for administrative centres to manage growing populations.
What was the role of punch-marked coins in ancient India?▾
Punch-marked coins facilitated trade and commerce by providing a standardized medium of exchange. They replaced the earlier barter system and indicate the growth of a money-based economy in ancient India.
Which was the most powerful Mahajanapada and why?▾
Magadha became the most powerful Mahajanapada due to its strategic location, fertile land, iron ore resources, control of trade routes, and able rulers like Bimbisara and Ajatashatru.
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