Class 7 Social Science Chapter 6: The Age of Reorganisation Solutions

1. Why was the post-Maurya era also known as the era of reorganisation?

Ans: The post-Maurya era is called the era of reorganisation because after the Maurya Empire broke up, many new kingdoms rose, and the political boundaries of India changed significantly.

Regions got reorganised into different kingdoms that competed for power and influence, leading to new forms of administration, alliances, and cultural exchanges.

2. Write a note on the Sangam literature in 150 words.

Ans: Sangam literature refers to the earliest known works of Tamil literature, composed by assemblies (Sangams) of poets and scholars in south India, mainly in the region corresponding to modern Tamil Nadu and parts of Kerala. Created between the 2nd century BCE and the 3rd century CE, these poems and narratives are rich sources of information on the social life, values, and political history of the time.

The literature mostly consists of anthology poems expressing love, heroism, generosity, and ethical values. In addition to personal emotions, these works record the achievements of the Chera, Chola, and Pandya kings, as well as common people, including farmers, traders, and craftsmen.

Sangam texts are invaluable for understanding the culture, economy, and administration of early South Indian kingdoms. The most famous epics of the Sangam era, like Silappadikaram, highlight moral dilemmas, justice, and the responsibilities of rulers, shaping the identity and heritage of Tamil society.

3. Which rulers mentioned in this chapter included their mother’s name in their title, and why did they do so?

Ans: Sātavāhana kings, such as Gautamīputra Sātakarṇi, included their mother’s name in their royal titles. For example, Gautamīputra means 'son of Gautamī.' This tradition signified the importance of the maternal line in royal succession and acknowledged the influence and status of queen mothers in the kingdom.

4. Write a note of 250 words about one kingdom from this chapter that you find interesting. Explain why you chose it. After presenting your note in class, find out what kingdoms have been the most selected by your classmates.

Ans: The Sātavāhana dynasty, which ruled over large parts of the Deccan from the 2nd century BCE onward, stands out for its cultural and economic achievements. Their empire spanned present-day Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, with famous capitals like Amrāvati and Pratiṣhthāna (Paithan).

What fascinates me about the Sātavāhanas is their vibrant maritime trade, as seen in coins depicting ships, indicating links with distant lands such as the Roman Empire. They supported the flourishing of agriculture by utilising the fertile Krishna-Godavari river system, which led to economic stability.

The Sātavāhanas were religiously tolerant, providing grants and land to Vedic, Jaina, and Buddhist scholars. They are especially known for encouraging the construction of spectacular Buddhist sites, like the Karla and Pitalkhora caves. Queens like Gautamī Balaśhrī played a significant role, as seen in inscriptions, and the tradition of including the mother’s name in royal titles speaks to their progressive approach.

Overall, the Sātavāhanas contributed greatly to art, trade, and society, making their kingdom an inspiring example of inclusive governance and cultural richness.

5. Imagine you have the chance to create your own kingdom. What royal emblem would you choose, and why? What title would you take as the ruler? Write a note about your kingdom, including its values, rules and regulations, and some unique features.

Ans: If I could create my own kingdom, my royal emblem would be a lotus and sun, symbolising purity, hope, and knowledge. I would take the title "Samrājya Bandhu" (Friend of the Kingdom).

My kingdom would value justice, unity in diversity, and respect for all beliefs. Rules would ensure equal opportunities for education, support for artists and traders, and special protections for nature and wildlife.

Unique features would include 'Festival Days' where all communities contributed music and food, and schools where every child learned about our shared history, emphasising kindness and creativity. The focus would be on harmony, prosperity, and the happiness of my people.

6. You have read about the architectural developments of the post-Maurya era. Take an outline of the Indian subcontinent and mark the approximate locations of some of the ancient structures mentioned in this chapter.

Ans:

On a blank map of the Indian subcontinent, students should mark:

• Bharhut Stupa - (Madhya Pradesh)

• Karla caves and Naneghat caves - (near Pune, Maharashtra)

• Pitalkhora caves - (Maharashtra)

• Udayagiri-Khandagiri caves - (near Bhubaneswar, Odisha)

• Grand Anicut/Kallanai - (Tamil Nadu)

• Vidisha - (Madhya Pradesh, site of Heliodorus Pillar)

• Mathura - (Uttar Pradesh)

• Gandhara region - (now in Pakistan/Afghanistan; for Gandhara School of Art)

Students should research and locate each on the map for better understanding.

Key Concepts of The Age of Reorganisation: Class 7 Social Science

Discover the significance of the Age of Reorganisation in this NCERT Class 7 Social Science chapter. By exploring dynamic kingdoms, cultural interactions, and major historical shifts, students build a solid foundation for understanding India’s past and enhancing exam performance.

Consistent practice of chapter-wise NCERT solutions helps in mastering complex timelines, major dynasties, and important cultural contributions. Focusing on exam-oriented details allows students to prepare effectively for Social Science evaluations.

Strengthen your knowledge by revising exercise-based questions and reviewing maps and illustrations. These tips not only boost confidence but also ensure a comprehensive grip on the Age of Reorganisation for scoring higher marks in exams.