NCERT Class 6 History Chapter 10 New Empires and Kingdoms Notes

Chapter 10 – New Empires and Kingdoms

These NCERT Class 6 History Chapter 10 notes explain the rise of new empires and kingdoms after the decline of the Mauryan Empire. The chapter focuses on the Indo-Greeks, Shakas, Kushanas, Satavahanas, and the Gupta Empire, making it important for school exams and BPSC foundation preparation.

1. Background of the chapter

  • After the decline of the Mauryan Empire, many new empires and kingdoms emerged.
  • This decline took place about 2200 years ago.
  • The period witnessed major political changes.
  • There was significant cultural growth.
  • Trade expanded across different regions of India.

2. Indo-Greeks

  • The Indo-Greeks ruled parts of North-West India.
  • Their rule lasted for about 100 years.
  • They are known for issuing distinctive coins.
  • These coins had Greek and Indian features.
  • Coinage shows cultural interaction during this period.

3. Shakas (Scythians)

  • The Shakas came from Central Asia.
  • They ruled parts of Northern India.
  • They also controlled regions of Western India.
  • The Shakas ruled for about 500 years.
  • They fought wars with the Satavahanas.

4. Kushanas

  • The Kushanas were another group from Central Asia.
  • They controlled North-West India.
  • They also ruled parts of Central Asia.
  • Kanishka was the most famous Kushana ruler.
  • He ruled around c. 78–100 CE.

5. Contributions of the Kushanas

  • The Kushanas promoted long-distance trade.
  • They supported the spread of Buddhism.
  • Kanishka issued gold coins.
  • Trade links connected India with other regions.
  • Their rule strengthened economic activities.

6. Satavahanas

  • The Satavahanas ruled parts of Western India.
  • They also controlled regions of Central India.
  • The dynasty was established about 2100 years ago.
  • The Satavahanas ruled for about 400 years.
  • They played an important role in regional politics.

7. Gupta Empire

  • The Gupta Empire was established around c. 320 CE.
  • This period is considered a time of peace.
  • It was also a period of prosperity.
  • Science and mathematics developed greatly.
  • Art and architecture flourished.

8. Rulers and Regions

  • In Northern and Central India, the Shungas ruled for some time.
  • The Shungas were founded by Pushyamitra Shunga.
  • The Kanvas ruled after the Shungas.
  • Later, the Guptas replaced these rulers.
  • Different regions were ruled by different dynasties.

9. Southern India

  • Cholas ruled parts of southern India.
  • Cheras were another important dynasty.
  • Pandyas also ruled in the south.
  • These dynasties ruled between 2200 and 1800 years ago.
  • Southern kingdoms played a key role in trade.

10. Administration

  • Kings maintained strong armies.
  • They appointed officials for administration.
  • The empire was divided into provinces.
  • Provinces were governed by governors.
  • Revenue was collected from agriculture and trade.

11. Sources of Information

  • Coins provide information about rulers and economy.
  • Inscriptions tell us about administration and events.
  • Books written in the past are important sources.
  • These sources help reconstruct political history.
  • Historians use them to understand ancient kingdoms.

12. Important Keywords

  • Indo-Greeks were foreign rulers in India.
  • Shakas were Central Asian rulers.
  • Kushanas controlled large regions.
  • Kanishka was a famous Kushana ruler.
  • Guptas established a powerful empire.

13. Important dates (NCERT focus)

  • The Mauryan Empire declined about 2200 years ago.
  • Kanishka ruled around c. 78–100 CE.
  • The Gupta Empire was established around c. 320 CE.
  • These dates mark major political changes.
  • They help in understanding chronological order.

14. Why this chapter is important

  • This chapter explains political changes after the Mauryas.
  • It shows the rise of regional powers.
  • It helps us understand India’s political diversity.
  • It explains the growth of culture and trade.
  • It is important for understanding early Indian history.

This chapter highlights political changes, regional powers, and cultural growth in ancient India. Topics like Kanishka, Gupta rule, and early administration are essential for understanding India’s political diversity.

Continue reading Class 6 History Chapter 11 – Buildings, Paintings and Books to learn about art, architecture, and knowledge traditions of ancient India.

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FAQs

Q1. What does Class 6 History Chapter 10 explain?
It explains the rise of new empires and kingdoms after the Mauryan period.

Q2. Why is the Gupta Empire important?
The Gupta period is considered a golden age of peace, prosperity, art, and learning.

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