Ancient Magadha Empire History

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What were the different types of taxes collected during this time period?

Taxes on crops, craftspersons, herders, goods through trade, and forest produce from hunters and gatherers.

What were the two major changes in agriculture that occurred around this time?

The growing use of iron ploughshares and the transplanting of paddy.

Why would kings encourage the use of iron ploughshares and the transplanting of paddy?

To increase agricultural productivity and ensure more food production.

What geographical advantages did Magadha have that made it the most important mahajanapada?

Presence of rivers like Ganga and Son, which aided in transport, water supplies, and fertile land. Signup and view all the answers

How did the forested parts of Magadha contribute to the kingdom's military strength?

Elephants, captured and trained from the forest, were used in the army. Signup and view all the answers

Who became the most important mahajanapada in about two hundred years?

Magadha. Signup and view all the answers

Who were the two powerful rulers of Magadha mentioned in the text?

Bimbisara and Ajatasattu Signup and view all the answers

What was the capital of Magadha before it was shifted to Pataliputra?

Rajagriha (present-day Rajgir) Signup and view all the answers

What was the form of government in Vajji, with its capital at Vaishali?

Gana or Sangha Signup and view all the answers

Which ruler extended his control up to the north-west part of the Indian subcontinent?

Mahapadma Nanda Signup and view all the answers

What was the reason Alexander's soldiers refused to march further eastwards into India?

They were scared of the vast armies of foot soldiers, chariots, and elephants of the Indian rulers. Signup and view all the answers

What was the unique feature of the government system in Vajji?

Multiple rulers known as rajas Signup and view all the answers

What was the advice given by the Buddha to Ajatasattu regarding the Vajjis?

The Vajjis would continue to prosper as long as they held full and frequent public assemblies, met and acted together, followed established rules, and respected, supported, and listened to elders. Signup and view all the answers

What groups were not allowed to participate in the Vajji assemblies?

Women, dasas, and kammakaras were not allowed to participate in the Vajji assemblies. Signup and view all the answers

How did the Vajji sangha differ from other mahajanapadas?

The Vajji sangha differed from other mahajanapadas by maintaining full and frequent public assemblies, acting together, following established rules, and respecting elders. Signup and view all the answers

What were some of the characteristics of the Vajji government as described in the text?

The Vajji government involved meeting in assemblies, discussing and debating decisions, maintaining public order, respecting elders, and upholding established rules. Signup and view all the answers

How did the Vajji society treat women according to the text?

Vajji women were not held by force or captured, indicating a level of respect for women's autonomy and rights. Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of maintaining Chaityas (local shrines) in both towns and villages for the Vajjis?

Maintaining Chaityas reflected the religious and cultural practices of the Vajji society, emphasizing the importance of spirituality and community in their governance. Signup and view all the answers