Overview
This lecture introduces the first chapter of Class 7 Social Studies, covering the division of Indian history, the medieval period, the impact of geography, terms for the Indian subcontinent, and sources for studying medieval Indian history.
Periods of Indian History
- Indian history is divided into three periods: Ancient, Medieval, and Modern.
- The Ancient period lasts from the beginning of writing to the death of King Harshvardhan (647 CE).
- The Medieval period spans 647 CE (post-Harshvardhan) to 1700 CE (end of Mughal rule).
- The Medieval period is split into Early (647–1200 CE) and Later Medieval (1200–1700 CE) periods.
- The Modern period begins with the decline of the Mughal Empire and rise of British rule.
Medieval Period: Events and Changes
- The medieval period brought significant changes in politics, society, economy, and culture.
- Northern India experienced several invasions by Turks, Afghans, Persians, and Mongols.
- Southern India remained mostly peaceful, ruled by kingdoms like the Rashtrakutas, Cholas, and Cheras.
Geography’s Impact on Indian History
- India’s varied landforms include mountains, plateaus, plains, and deserts.
- The Himalayas sometimes blocked, but also allowed invaders through passes into northern India.
- Fertile northern plains supported major empires along river basins.
- The Deccan plateau, protected by mountains, was mainly ruled by Indian dynasties.
Terms Used for the Indian Subcontinent
- Indian subcontinent includes present-day India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.
- India was called Saptasindhu (land of seven rivers: Indus, Jhelum, Beas, Ravi, Satlaj, Saraswati, Chenab).
- Hindustan derived from the ritual drink "Hindu" of the Vedic period.
- Aryavarta referred to the land of Aryans.
- Bharatvarsha named after the descendants of King Bharat.
- Known as Hind (in Persian/Arabic) and Indica (by Greeks), the latter evolving into the modern name India.
Sources for Studying Medieval History
- Epigraphic evidence: inscriptions found throughout India.
- Numismatic evidence: study of coins with names, dates, and images.
- Archaeological evidence: buildings, sculptures, and artifacts.
- Artistic evidence: paintings and portraits of rulers and events.
- Literary evidence: indigenous and foreign written records, including historical writings by travelers and locals.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Medieval Period — Time in Indian history from 647 CE to 1700 CE.
- Epigraphic Evidence — Inscriptions providing historical information.
- Numismatic Evidence — Study of old coins as historical sources.
- Archaeological Evidence — Material remains like buildings and artifacts.
- Artistic Evidence — Historical insights from paintings and art.
- Literary Evidence — Written historical records, both local and foreign.
- Indian Subcontinent — Region including India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review and complete book exercises for Chapter 1.
- Prepare questions for further clarification if needed.