Class 12 History - Chapter 2: Kings, Farmers and Towns – Early States and Economies (c. 600 BCE–600 CE)
Learn about early Indian states, economies, and urban centres from 600 BCE–600 CE in Class 12 History Chapter 2. Explore Ashoka, agriculture, trade, and inscriptions.
Overview
This chapter traces the emergence of early states and economies in India from 600 BCE to 600 CE. It covers the rise of Mahajanapadas, Mauryan and post-Mauryan empires, growth of agriculture, urbanisation, trade, and the use of inscriptions and texts as sources.
Why This Chapter Matters
The period marks the foundation of large empires, complex economies, and urban growth. It also introduces students to historical sources like inscriptions, coins, and religious texts.
Real-Life Applications
- Understanding political and economic developments in ancient India.
- Analyzing the significance of Ashokan inscriptions, punch-marked coins, and land grants.
- Exploring the role of kingship, revenue systems, and trade in shaping early Indian society.
Skills You Will Learn
- Interpreting inscriptions and textual references to reconstruct history.
- Distinguishing between archaeological and literary sources.
- Understanding how historians debate political authority and social structures.
Explore and Test Your Knowledge
Practice Test
Test your knowledge with our practice test.
Scheduled Talent Test
Participate in the weekly talent test for this chapter.
Flashcards
A: Mahajanapadas were large kingdoms or republics that emerged around 600 BCE in ancient India.
A: Inscriptions, coins, Buddhist and Jain texts, and the Arthashastra provide insights into kingship and administration.
A: Agriculture enabled surplus production, which supported trade, urbanisation, and complex state systems.
🎒 Must-Have School Essentials (Recommended by Prodigy Genius)
Carefully curated for students of Class 12 — trusted by 50,000+ parents!