LAQ for Chapter 6 The Age of Reorganization Class 7 Social Science NCERT
Important Questions1
Q1: What factors led to the decline of the Maurya Empire and the rise of new kingdoms?
Answer
The Maurya Empire weakened after Aśhoka’s death due to weak successors and internal conflicts. Distant regions broke away, and local rulers regained independence. Economic decline and invasion by foreign groups further weakened central control. These factors led to the rise of new kingdoms like the Śhungas, Sātavāhanas, and Chedis, who took advantage of the political vacuum to expand their territories.
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Q2: How did Puṣhyamitra Śhunga’s rule differ from the Maurya Empire?
Answer
Puṣhyamitra Śhunga founded the Śhunga dynasty after assassinating the last Maurya emperor. Unlike the Mauryas, who were more inclusive of various religions, the Śhungas promoted Vedic rituals and Hindu practices. Puṣhyamitra also sought to maintain control through military action and alliances, like those with the Greeks, whereas the Mauryas relied on a more centralized system of governance.
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Q3: What role did the Sātavāhanas play in trade and cultural development?
Answer
The Sātavāhanas were instrumental in fostering trade, especially maritime trade with the Roman Empire, and boosting agriculture through the fertile Krishna-Godavari river system. Their coins, often depicting ships, reflect their strong maritime connections. They also supported cultural growth, encouraging literature, art, and religious tolerance, contributing to India’s cultural richness during the 2nd century BCE.
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4
Q4: Describe the role of the Chera, Chola, and Pāṇḍya kingdoms in shaping the South Indian economy and culture.
Answer
The Cheras, Cholas, and Pāṇḍyas contributed to South India’s economic prosperity through trade in spices, timber, ivory, and pearls. They also played a central role in cultural development by supporting Tamil literature and Sangam poetry. These kingdoms maintained strong trade relations with the Roman Empire and other foreign regions, enriching their economy and culture.
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Q5: How did Khāravela of the Chedi dynasty contribute to the promotion of Jainism?
Answer
Khāravela was a strong advocate of Jainism, and he made significant contributions to the religion by building the Udayagiri-Khandagiri Caves for Jain monks. His reign was marked by the patronage of Jainism, but he also respected other religions. His inscriptions and actions reflect his commitment to religious tolerance and his support for Jain principles.
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6
Q6: What was the cultural significance of the Indo-Greek rulers in India?
Answer
The Indo-Greek rulers, after Alexander’s invasion, introduced Greek cultural elements to India. They adopted Indian customs and incorporated them into Greek art, leading to a blend of both cultures, particularly in art and coinage. The Gandhara school of art, which depicted Buddha with Greek influences, is a key example of this cultural fusion. Their rule helped connect India with the Mediterranean world.
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Q7: What were the key achievements of the Kuṣhāṇa Empire in India?
Answer
The Kuṣhāṇa Empire, under King Kaniṣhka, significantly influenced India’s culture and trade. They controlled parts of the Silk Route, facilitating trade between India, Central Asia, and the West. Kaniṣhka supported the spread of Buddhism and promoted the Gandhara and Mathura schools of art. These schools of art combined Greek and Indian styles, depicting realistic figures of deities and Buddha, influencing Indian sculpture.
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Q8: What was the significance of the Silappadikāram during the Sangam Age?
Answer
The Silappadikāram is an epic that highlights the justice system and cultural values of the time. It tells the story of Kannagi, who proved her husband’s innocence after he was falsely accused, showcasing the importance of truth and justice. The epic provides valuable insights into the society, governance, and culture of the Chola, Pāṇḍya, and Chera kingdoms, reflecting their commitment to fairness and moral values.
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