Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers

Students often refer to SCERT Kerala Syllabus 9th Standard Social Science Notes Pdf and Class 9 History Chapter 2 Ideas and Early States Notes Questions and Answers English Medium that include all exercises in the prescribed syllabus.

Kerala Syllabus 9th Standard Social Science History Notes Chapter 2 Ideas and Early States

Class 9 Social Science History Chapter 2 Notes Question Answer Kerala Syllabus Ideas and Early States

Class 9 History Chapter 2 Notes Kerala Syllabus English Medium

Question 1.
How did the development of an agricultural economy set the stage for the rise of new ideas in the 6th century BCE? Discuss.
Answer:
By the 6th century BCE, a socio-economic system based on agriculture and cattle had emerged in the Ganga basin. This was not in harmony with the Vedic practice which gave importance to rituals and animal sacrifices. Agriculture depending on cattle was adversely affected by the widely prevailed practice of animal sacrifice as part of rituals. This forced people to think against the Vedic rituals.

The Vaishyas, who had acquired better material progress through advancement in trade, desired a suitable higher status in society. During this period, some classes emerged outside the existing Varna system. The important group among these was that of the rich Gahapathis. They were engaged in trade and owned land. In this way, they were in a financially higher position and thus gained better status in society. It was under this social background that new ideological concepts were formulated among the Jain and Buddhist philosophies.

Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers

Question 2.
Prepare a biography based on Gautama Buddha. Collect more information from the school library.
Answer:
Siddhartha Gautama, who would later be known as the Buddha, was born around 563 BCE in Lumbini, which is in modem-day Nepal. Siddhartha was born into a royal family as the prince of the Shakya clan. His father, King Suddhodana, ruled the kingdom of Kapilavastu. Siddhartha’s mother, Queen Maya, passed away shortly after his birth, and he was raised by his aunt, Mahapajapati Gotami.

Despite the comforts and privileges of palace life, Siddhartha was deeply troubled by the suffering he observed in the world. At the age of 29 , he renounced his royal heritage and set out on a quest to understand the nature of suffering and how to overcome it. After six years of rigorous ascetic practices and meditation, Siddhartha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India. He realised the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, which are the foundation of Buddhist philosophy.

Following his enlightenment, Siddhartha, now known as the Buddha, travelled to Sarnath, near Varanasi. It was here, in Deer Park, that he delivered his first sermon, known as the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta or “Setting in Motion the Wheel of Dharma.” In this sermon, he expounded the core principles of his teachings, including the Middle Way, the Four Noble Truths, and the Noble Eightfold Path. This event marked the beginning of his ministry and the establishment of the Sangha, a community of monks and nuns.

After 45 years of teaching and spreading his message across northern India, the Buddha reached the age of 80 . He spent his final days in Kushinara (modern-day Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, India). It was here that he passed away, entering Parinirvana – a final release from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. His death is commemorated in Buddhism as a significant event, symbolising the ultimate liberation that he taught his followers to seek.

The Buddha’s teachings have had a profound impact on millions of people across the world, giving rise to various schools of Buddhism that continue to thrive today. His life story, from the luxurious palace of Lumbini to his profound realisations under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, and his compassionate teachangs in Samath, to his peaceful passing in Kushinara, serves as an enduring testament to the quest for enlightenment and the profound insights he shared on the nature of existence and suffering.

Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers

Question 3.
Do you think the activities of Buddhist monastic organisations were democratic? Evaluate.
Answer:
‘Sangas’ of monks were formed to propagate Buddhism. All were included regardless of gender or race. The women of the group were known as’ bhikkhunis’ and the men as’ bhikkhus’. Decisions are made through discussion and majority opinion.

Question 4.
How did Buddha respond to the socio-economic conditions that prevailed in the 6th century BCE? Discuss.
Indications

  • Vedic practices
  • Varna system
  • Status of women

Answer:
Buddha’s teachings and principles were very simple and practical. He rejected the Vedas, the sacrifices and the caste system. His stance against sacrifices attracted those engaged in agricultural pursuits. In the group of monks called ‘Sanghas’ formed by him for the propagation of Buddhism, everyone was included without any consideration of caste and gender.

Question 5.
Find out and list the common ideas propounded by the Buddha and Mahavira.
Answer:

  • They denied the authenticity of the Vedas.
  • Ideas were spread in the common people’s (Palli) language.
  • The theory of Ahimsa was propagated.
  • They will oppose the caste system and sacrifices.
  • Asceticism

Question 6.
Why are they called materialists?
Answer:
The main characteristic of Indian culture since ancient times is the emergence and merger of different schools of thought. Several schools of thought were formed in the 6th century BCE. Materialism was one of them. The materialists opined that all religious practices are meaningless and that there is neither Thaloka or Paraloka (this world or the other world). The materialists said: ‘Humans are made up of four elements. When they die, their solid matter dissolves in the earth. Liquidity dissolves in water, heat in the fire, breath in air and senses in a vacuum.’

Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers

Question 7.
Prepare a virtual tour report including the places connected with the formation of new ideas and religions.
Answer:
Vaishali

  • A district of Bihar.
  • Hindi and Urdu languages
  • Bajijika is the local language.
  • The Second Buddhist Council was held.

Pvapuri

  • Nalanda district of Bihar.
  • Jal Mandir (water temple) is situated.
  • Pavapuri festival

Lumbini

  • It is located in southern Nepal.
  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • There are many historical places.

Bodhgaya/ Buddhism

  • Gaya district of Bihar
  • Mahabodhi Temple
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site

Sarnath

  • City near Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
  • Visited Huansang
  • Pilgrim Centre of Jainism

Kushinagar

  • A village in Uttar Pradesh
  • Apart from Hindi and Urdu, the language of Bhojpuri also exists.
  • There are many temples and shrines here.

Question 8.
What can we learn from this about the administrative system of Vajji at that time?
As long as such decisions are taken together after discussion; as long as they work together; as long as elders are respected, supported and listened to carefully; as long as the women of Vajji live freely; as long as the places of worship in villages and cities exist; as long as people of different faiths can move about freely; as long as they are respected, Vajji will exist.
Answer:

  • Decisions were taken jointly through discussions
  • Elders were respected and supported.
  • The women were free.
  • Temples were built in towns and villages.
  • People of different faiths were able to travel freely.
  • Vajji will remain as long as those who follow different faiths are respected.

Question 9.
Find out and list 16 Mahajanapadas from the map given below
Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers 1
Answer:
1. Kamboja
2. Gandhara
3. Kuru
4. Panchala
5. Koshala
6. Malla
7. Vaji
8. Kashi
9. Anga
10. Magadha
11. Vatsa
12. Ashmaka
13. Chedi
14. Avanti
15. Matsya
16. Shurasena

Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers

Question 10.
Identify and discuss the various stages of growth from a tribal political system to Mahajanapadas and their characteristics.
Answer:

  • In the Vedic period, the tribal social system was in existence.
  • With the spread of agriculture, these tribal groups started living in one place permanently.
  • These were known as’ Janapadas’. The growth of agriculture led to the growth of towns and cities.
  • Some regulation was needed to coordinate and regulate various economic activities.
  • Their relationship with agriculture and soil grew and this shaped their vision of the region.
  • In the Buddhist work ‘Anguttharanikaya’ 16 nations are mentioned after coming into existence in this way.
  • These were known as Mahajanapadas.
  • These changes to nation-building came to be known as the Second Urbanism.
  • The Mahajanapadas had an efficient tax collection system and a stable army.
  • Crops and livestock were the main sources of income.
  • A large number of officials were present.
  • The Mahajanapadas had forts and capital cities.

Question 11.
Identify the present Indian state to which Magadha belonged.
Answer:
Bihar

Question 12.
Do you think that the geographical features were the main reason for the growth of Magadha? Why?
Answer:
Yes, Magadha was a fertile region with good rainfall. There were large deposits of iron ore also. The iron needed for tools and weapons was readily available. Elephants were an important factor in wars in those days. Elephants were available in large numbers in the forests of Magadha. This ensured Magadhan’s victory in battles. The Ganga and its tributaries provided easy transportation of goods.

Question 13.
What do you understand about the Maurya kingdom from the inscription?
Answer:

  • Emperor Ashoka came to Lumbini and worshiped.
  • Lumbini Stupa was built as the birthplace of Buddha.
  • Taxes such as’ bali ‘and’ bhaga ‘were prevalent in the Maurya Empire.

Question 14.
Find the capitals of the provinces from the given map below and write it.
Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers 2
Answer:

Southern province Suvarnagiri
Western province Ujjayini
Northern province Takshashila
Eastern province Tosali

Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers

Question 15.
What features of the present Indian administrative system can be seen in the Mauryan administrative system? Discuss and compare.
Answer:

  • The country was divided into different provinces for administrative convenience. capital of the provinces.
  • Capital of the country
  • A permanent army with five divisions.
  • Taxes

Question 16.
Observe the map given below and find out the regions through which trade was conducted.
Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers 3
Answer:

  • Takshashila
  • Ujjayini
  • Pataliputra
  • Thamralipti
  • Suvarnagiri
  • Broach

Question 17.
How did the Athenian system of government differ from modern democracy?
Answer:

  • All men over the age of 30 who were not slaves were considered citizens.
  • These citizens formed a committee and took decisions on important matters.
  • They meet four times a year.
  • Women, artisans, and foreigners who worked as traders were not considered citizens.

Question 18.
Compare the Mahajanapadas of India and the citystates of Greece.
Answer:
In Greece, villages co-existed for public safety and administration. They were called cities. A city-state consisted of a city and surrounding agricultural villages. The hills and mountains provided natural boundaries for these city-states. Some of the cities were islands. The city was situated on the top of a hill. The main Greek city-states were Athens, Sparta, Corinth, and Thebes.

The growth of agriculture and trade led to the development of large-scale industries. The Mahajanapadas were characterized by efficient tax collection, a standing army, and a large number of officials to administer the treasury. The Mahajanapadas had forts and chief towns.

Ideas and Early States Class 9 Extended Activities

Question 1.
Prepare a short biographical text based on the lives of thinkers who popularised new ideas in the 6th century BCE. Make them attractive, by adding pictures. all
Answer:
Confucius (551-479 BCE)
He was born in the state of Lu in ancient China and is renowned for his teachings on ethics, politics, and morality. His philosophy, known as Confucianism emphasized personal and governmental morality, the importance of family, social harmony, and justice. Confucius’ ideas were compiled by his disciples in the “Analects,” a collection of his sayings and ideas that have profoundly influenced East Asian thought and values.
Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers 6

Buddha (Siddhartha Gautama, circa 563-483 BCE)Gautama Buddha, born in what is now Nepal, founded Buddhism, a major world religion. After attaining enlightenment, Buddha spent his life teaching the path to liberation from suffering through the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. His teachings emphasised mindfulness, ethical conduct, and the development of wisdom and compassion, influencing millions across Asia and beyond.
Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers 7

Pythagoras (circa 570-495 BCE)
He is a Greek philosopher and mathematician who founded the Pythagorean school in southern Italy. Pythagoras is best known for the Pythagorean theorem in mathematics, but his influence extends to philosophy and mysticism. He believed in the transmigration of souls and that numbers underpin the structure of the universe, merging numerical relationships with spiritual beliefs.
Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers 8

Heraclitus (circa 535-475 BCE)
Heraclitus is another preSocratic Greek philosopher is famous for his doctrine of change being central to the universe encapsulated in his assertion that “you cannot step into the same river twice.”Heraclitus emphasized the constant flux and the unity of opposites, contributing significantly to the development of dialectical thinking.
Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers 9

Question 2.
Prepare a digital presentation including maps on the topic ‘From Janapadas to the Maurya Kingdom.’
Answer:
Slide 1: Introduction

  • Briefly introduce the topic.
    Importance of understanding the transition from Janapadas to the Maurya Kingdom.

Slide 2: The Janapadas

  • Explain what Janapadas were: early political and territorial units in ancient India.
    Mention the Vedic texts and the role of Janapadas in them.

Slide 3: Major Janapadas

  • Map: Display a map showing the locations of the sixteen Mahajanapadas of Ancient India.
    Highlight prominent ones like Magadha, Kosala, Vatsa, and Avanti.
  • Explanation
    Brief descriptions of a few key Janapadas.
    Their governance, economy, and society.

Slide 4: The Rise of Magadha

  • Key Factors
    Strategic location and fertile land.
    Strong leadership and military prowess.
    Expansion under rulers like Bimbisara and Ajatashatru.
  • Map: Show a map depicting the growth of Magadha.

Slide 5: The Nanda Dynasty

  • Transition Period
    Explain the significance of the Nanda Dynasty. Administrative innovations and military strength.
  • Map: Display the territorial extent of the Nanda Empire.

Slide 6: Alexander’s Invasion

  • Context and Impact
    Brief overview of Alexander the Great’s invasion of India.
    The political vacuum and power struggles following his departure.

Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers

Slide 7: The Maurya Dynasty

  • Foundation by Chandragupta Maurya Story of Chandragupta Maurya’s rise with the help of Chanakya.
  • The overthrow of the Nanda Dynasty and the establishment of the Maurya Empire.
  • Map: Early Maurya Empire

Slide 8: Expansion Under Bindusara

  • Consolidation and Expansion
    Policies and military campaigns of Bindusara.
    Territories were added during his reign.
  • Map: Maurya Empire Under Bindusara

Slide 9: Ashoka the Great

  • Ashoka’s Reign Kalinga War and Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism. Spread of Buddhism and Ashoka’s edicts.
  • Map: Show the maximum territorial extent of the Maurya Empire under Ashoka.

Slide 10: Governance and Administration

  • Mauryan
    Administration Centralized bureaucracy and provincial administration.
    Role of officials like the Mahamatras.

Slide 11: Economic and Social Structure

  • Economy
    Agricultural base, trade routes, and urban centres.
    Use of coins and standard weights and measures.
  • Society
    Social stratification, urbanization, and culture.

Slide 12: Decline of the Maurya Empire

  • Factors Leading to Decline
    Weak successors after Ashoka.
    Internal revolts and external invasions.

Slide 13: Legacy of the Maurya Empire

  • Historical Impact
    Influence on subsequent Indian empires.
  • Contributions to art, architecture, and administration.

Question 3.
Organise a debate on ‘Ideas and Early State Formation’.
Answer:
Conduct a debate by the using following points:
Pros of Early State Formation

Centralized Governance:

  • Pro: Centralized governments enabled the creation of organized societies with established laws and systems of governance.
  • Pro: Allowed for large-scale projects like infrastructure development, including roads, bridges, and irrigation systems.

Economic Development:

  • Pro: Facilitated economic growth through the establishment of trade networks and marketplaces.
  • Pro: Improved agricultural productivity through coordinated efforts and technological advancements.

Social Order and Stability:

  • Pro: Establishment of laws and order reduced internal conflicts and provided a sense of security.
  • Pro: Created systems for managing resources and distributing goods, leading to more stable societies.

Cultural and Intellectual Advancements:

  • Pro: Centralized states often became centers of learning, art, and culture, fostering . intellectual and cultural advancements.
  • Pro: Development of writing systems and record-keeping for administrative and historical purposes.

Military Organization:

  • Pro: Enabled the creation of organized military forces for defence and expansion.
  • Pro: Provided protection for the population against external threats and invasions.

Cons of Early State Formation
Centralized Power and Corruption:

  • Con: Centralized power often led to the emergence of autocratic rulers who could abuse their power.
  • Con: Corruption and exploitation of resources and people by the ruling class.

Social Inequality:

  • Con: Creation of social hierarchies and class divisions, leading to inequality and social stratification.
  • Con: Marginalization and oppression of certain groups within society.

Conflict and Warfare:

  • Con: Competition between early states often led to confliets and wars, resulting in destruction and loss of life.
  • Con: Expansionist policies could lead to the subjugation and displacement of neighbouring communities.

Bureaucratic Challenges:

  • Con: Large bureaucracies could become inefficient and slow, hindering effective governance.
  • Con: Administrative complexity could lead to difficulties in managing large territories and diverse populations.

Resistance to Change:

  • Con: Established systems and traditions within early states could resist innovation and adaptation.
  • Con: Rigidity in governance structures could stifle creativity and limit societal progress.

Std 9 History Chapter 2 Notes Kerala Syllabus Extra Question Answer

Question 1.
Where did Vardhamana Mahavira attain Nirvana?
Answer:
Pava.

Question 2.
Where was Vardhamana Mahavira born and what was he also known as?
Answer:
Vardhamana Mahavira was born in Kundagrama near Vaishali in Bihar. He came to be known as Mahavira and Jina.

Question 3.
What are the two main sects of Buddhism?
Answer:
The two main sects of Buddhism are Mahayana and Hinayana,

Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers

Question 4.
What does ‘Ahimsa’ mean in the context of Buddha’s teachings?
Answer:
‘Ahimsa’ means non-violence and was a concept suitable to the new conditions in the Ganga basin.

Question 5.
What does the ‘Middle Path’ in Buddhism signify?
Answer:
The ‘Middle Path’ signifies a balanced way of life between severe asceticism and luxurious living.

Question 6.
Explain the role of the Ganga basin in the emergence of new ideas in India during the 6th century BCE.
Answer:
During the 6th century BCE, the Ganga basin was a crucial region for the emergence of new ideas in India. The material conditions of this area, including the widespread use of iron tools, increased agricultural production, and the growth of trade and cities, played a significant role in fostering an environment conducive to intellectual and philosophical development.

The socio-economic system in the Ganga basin, which was based on agriculture and cattle, provided the stability and resources necessary for people to explore new ideological concepts. Consequently, this region became the cradle for Jainism and Buddhism, which were supported by the emerging social classes of Vaishyas (merchants) and Gahapathis (wealthy householders).

Question 7.
How did Magadha emerge as a dominant power in ancient India?
Answer:
Magadha’s dominance stemmed from its fertile land, abundant rainfall, and iron ore deposits, facilitating agricultural prosperity and weaponproduction. The availability of elephants for warfare, efficient rulers like Bimbisara and Ajatashatru, and geographic advantages such as easy access to transportation via the Ganga and its tributaries further solidified Magadha’s supremacy.

Question 8.
What factors contributed to Magadha’s dominance among the Mahajanapadas?
Answer:
Factors such as fertile land, large deposits of iron ore, availability of elephants, and efficient rulers contributed to Magadha’s dominance among the Mahajanapadas.

Question 9.
What led to the growth of trade and the development of towns in the Janapadas?
Answer:
Agnicultural surplus production in the Janapodas led to the growth of trade and the development of towns.

Question 10.
How did Buddhism influence Indian culture, and what were its major sects?
Answer:
Buddhism profoundly influenced Indian culture by promoting democratic values through the functioning of the Sangha and by advocating for non-violence (Ahimsa). It also played a role in reducing the rigidity of the caste system and promoting social equality. Over time, Buddhism split into two major sects: Mahayana and Hinayana. Followers of Mahayana worshipped Buddha as a deity, while Hinayana adhered to Buddha’s original teachings without deifying him. This division led to diverse interpretations and practices within Buddhism, enriching the cultural and spiritual landscape of India.

Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers

Question 11.
The words ‘Setthis’ and ‘Satthavahakar’ are used to refer to ——–during Mauryan times.
Answer:
Traders

Question 12.
The capitals of city-states in Greece were often located on ——-
Answer:
High hills

Question 13.
Why was the sixth century BCE considered a remarkable period in world history?
Answer:
The sixth century BCE was a remarkable period because it saw the emergence of influential thinkers and the spread of new philosophical and religious ideas across different regions of the world. Notable figures such as Vardhamana Mahavira and Gautama Buddha in India, Zarathustra (Zoroaster) in Iran, Confucius in China, and Heraclitus in Greece introduced transformative ideas that significantly shaped their respective cultures and have had a lasting impact on human history.

Question 14.
What material conditions in the Ganga basin contributed to the development of new ideas during the sixth century BCE?
Answer:
Several material conditions in the Ganga basin contributed to the development of new ideas:

  • The widespread use of iron tools, which improved agricultural efficiency and productivity.
  • Increased agricultural production, which supported larger populations and the growth of settlements.
  • The growth of trade and cities, which facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural practices.

Question 15.
How did the socio-economic system of the Ganga basin in the sixth century BCE influence the emergence of new philosophical ideas?
Answer:
By the sixth century BCE, the Ganga basin had developed a socio-economic system based on agriculture and cattle rearing. This system led to economic surplus, social stratification, and the rise of a merchant class (Vaishyas) and wealthy landowners (Gahapathis). These groups supported new philosophical ideas that challenged the traditional Vedic rituals and the authority of the Brahmins. Jainism and Buddhism, which emphasized ethical conduct, nonviolence, and individual spiritual practice, resonated with these social groups seeking social and spiritual alternatives.

Question 16.
What role did the Vaishyas and Gahapathis play in the support of new ideas such as Jainism and Buddhism?
Answer:
The Vaishyas (merchant class) and Gahapathis (wealthy landowners) played a crucial role in supporting new ideas like Jainism and Buddhism. These classes were often marginalised by the traditional Vedic system dominated by the Brahmins. Jainism and Buddhism offered more egalitarian approaches to spirituality and ethical living, which appealed to the Vaishyas and Gahapathis. Their economic power and influence provided the necessary support and patronage for these new movements to grow and spread.

Question 17.
Where did Vardhamana Mahavira was born?
Answer:
Kundagrama near Vaishali in Bihar

Question 18.
Who is known as Thirthankaras?
Answer:
Thirthankara means one who attained wisdom through ‘asceticism’.

Question 19.
How many Thirthankaras are there in the Jainism?
Answer:
24 Thirthankaras

Question 20.
What are the three principles for attaining Moksha?
Answer:
Right Belief, Right Knowledge, and Right Action.

Question 21.
Write a short note on Buddhism.
Answer:

  • Buddhism was founded by Gautama Buddha.
  • He was born in Lumbini (Kapilavastu) in Nepal.
  • He got Enlightenment at Bodh Gaya in Bihar.
  • Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath.
  • He attained Nirvana at Kushinara.
  • The Buddha’s teachings and principles were simple and practical.
  • He rejected the Vedas, sacrifices (Yagas) and the caste system.
  • His concept of ‘Ahimsa’ was suitable to the new conditions in the Ganga basin.
  • Buddha spread his ideas in the Pali language.

Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers

Question 22.
What is Stupas?
Answer:
Stupas are buildings built on sites where the physical remains of the Buddha or objects used by the Buddha were buried. Stupas are made in a semicircular shape.

Question 23.
Buddhism Split into …………… and …………………
Answer:
Mahayana, Hinayana

Question 24.
Name the work composed by Buddha before 2300 years ago.
Answer:
Digha Nikaya

Question 25.
What is Janapadha?
Answer:
Janapada means a place where people settled.

Question 26.
The tribes of the Vedic period are known as ……………
Answer:
Jana

Question 27.
Explain the administrative system of Mahajanapadhas.
Answer:

  • Contemporary works provide some information about the administrative systems of the Mahajanapadas.
  • An efficient system of tax collection and a standing army developed during this time.
  • The word ‘Bali’ found in Pali texts means tax.
  • ‘Bhaga’ was another type of tax. Grains and cattle were mainly paid as tax.
  • Those who lived in the forests paid forest produce as taxes, while artisans worked for the king on fixed days.
  • There were many officials for carrying out administration.
  • The work Satapathabrahmana mentions Senani, Purohita and Gramani, who assisted the king.
  • Mahajanapadas had forts and capital cities.

Question 28.
Write a short note about the rise of Magadha.
Answer:

  • The sixteen Mahajanapadas were constantly engaged in wars for dominance. Magadha was the ultimate winner.
  • Magadha was a fertile region with good rainfall.
  • There were large deposits of iron ore also.
  • The iron needed for tools and weapons was readily available.
  • Elephants were an important factor in wars in those days.
  • Elephants were available in large numbers in the forests of Magadha. This ensured Magadhan’s victory in battles.
  • The Ganga and its tributaries provided easy transportation of goods.
  • Magadha also had efficient rulers like Bimbisara and Ajatashatru.

Question 29.
Write a short note on the Mauryan rule.
Answer:

  • The Maurya kingdom was divided into various provinces.
  • Such provinces were under the control of governors.
  • Pataliputra, the capital, was under the direct control of the Emperor.
  • The Mauryan army had five divisions. They were infantry, cavalry, chariots, elephants and the navy.
  • Military administration was carried out by a 30 -member committee.
  • The ideas propagated by Emperor Asoka to maintain peace and coexistence among his subjects are known as ‘Asoka Dhamma’ (Dharma).
  • The following are the main ideas of ‘Asoka Dhamma’ – Be tolerant of other religions, Respect elders and teachers, and Be kind to slaves and the sick.
  • Eminent historian Romila Thapar opines that ‘Asoka Dhamma’ was a policy for the efficient administration of a vast country and for keeping various social groups in harmony.

Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers 3

Question 30.
What are the main ideas of Asoka Dharma?
Answer:
The following are the main ideas of ‘Asoka Dhamma’ Be tolerant of other religions, Respect elders and teachers, and Be kind to slaves and the sick.

Question 31.
Name the two words that refer to the trades in the Mauryan Period.
Answer:
Setthis and Satthavahakar

Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers

Question 32.
Explain the growth of trade in the Mauryan Empire.
Answer:

  • The Coins used for trade during Mauryan rule are known as Punch Marked Coins.
  • They are made of silver and copper.
  • Goods were transported through land, sea and rivers.
  • Grains, textiles, metal, etc. were the chief commodities of trade.
  • The words ‘Setthis’ and ‘Satthavahakar’ are used to refer traders on those days.

Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers 4

Question 33.
What are called City-states?
Answer:
In Greece, villages co-existed for public safety and administration. They were called cities.

Question 34.
Name the city-states of Greece.
Answer:
Athens, Sparta, Corinth, Thebes.

Question 35.
Define the state formation in Greece.
Answer:

  • In Greece, villages stood together for the purpose of security and governance.
  • They came to be known as city-states.
  • A city-state consisted of a city and the surrounding agricultural villages.
  • Hills and mountains provided natural boundaries for these city-states.
  • Some of the city-states were islands.
  • The capitals of these city-states were located on high hills.
  • Athens, Sparta, Corinth, and Thebes were some of the major city-states of Greece.

Ideas and Early States Notes Class 9 History Chapter 2 Kerala Syllabus Questions and Answers 5

Leave a Comment