NCERT Class 7 Social Science Chapter 5
The Rise of Empires
This chapter traces the rise of the Maurya Empire, one of the largest empires in ancient India, under rulers like Chandragupta Maurya and Ashoka. It examines how empires were built through conquest, diplomacy, and administration, and how Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism changed the nature of his rule. Students will learn about the administration, economy, and legacy of the Mauryan Empire.
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Key Terms
- Maurya Empire
- The first large empire in India, founded by Chandragupta Maurya around 321 BCE with Pataliputra as its capital, covering most of the Indian subcontinent.
- Ashoka
- The third Mauryan emperor, known for his military conquest of Kalinga, his subsequent conversion to Buddhism, and his policy of Dhamma.
- Dhamma
- Ashoka's policy of righteous conduct and non-violence, promoting tolerance, respect for all religions, and compassion, spread through edicts on pillars and rocks.
- Kautilya (Chanakya)
- The chief minister and advisor of Chandragupta Maurya, author of the Arthashastra, a treatise on statecraft, economic policy, and military strategy.
- Arthashastra
- An ancient Indian treatise on governance, economic policy, and military strategy written by Kautilya, serving as a guidebook for rulers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded the Maurya Empire?▾
The Maurya Empire was founded by Chandragupta Maurya around 321 BCE with the help of his advisor Chanakya (Kautilya). He overthrew the Nanda dynasty and established his capital at Pataliputra (modern Patna).
Why is Ashoka considered a great ruler?▾
Ashoka is considered great because after the brutal Kalinga War, he gave up violence, embraced Buddhism, and promoted principles of peace, non-violence, tolerance, and welfare of his people through his policy of Dhamma.
What were Ashoka's edicts?▾
Ashoka's edicts were inscriptions on rocks and pillars spread across the Mauryan Empire, containing his messages about Dhamma, moral conduct, respect for all religions, and instructions to officials.
What was the Kalinga War?▾
The Kalinga War (261 BCE) was a bloody military campaign fought by Ashoka to conquer the kingdom of Kalinga (modern Odisha). The massive loss of life deeply affected Ashoka and led to his conversion to Buddhism.
How was the Mauryan Empire administered?▾
The Mauryan Empire had a centralized administration with the emperor at the top, assisted by a council of ministers. The empire was divided into provinces governed by princes or officials, with a network of spies keeping the emperor informed.
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