Overview
This lecture introduces the medieval period of Indian history, its subdivisions, changing regional names, and provides context for the historical timeline covered in class.
Medieval Period of India
- The medieval period in India saw significant changes in society, economy, politics, religion, and culture.
- This period is divided into two sub-periods: early medieval (eighth to twelfth century) and late medieval (thirteenth to eighteenth century).
- Dominant powers in the early medieval period included the Palas, Pratiharas, Rashtrakutas, Cholas, and Rajputs.
- The late medieval period began with the Delhi Sultanate and continued through the Mughal era.
Changing Names of Regions in India
- Article 1 of the Indian Constitution states that India is also known as Bharat.
- The term 'Bharat' comes from Bharata, son of Dushyanta, a legendary ruler in the Mahabharata.
- 'India' has been used since the 17th century, originating from the Greek and Latin terms for land beyond the River Indus, derived from Sanskrit 'Sindhu'.
- During Sultanate and Mughal rule, the region was called 'Hindustan', though its meaning differed from the modern sense.
- Today, Bharat, India, and Hindustan are used interchangeably for the nation.
Historical Periodization
- Indian history is divided into ancient, medieval, and modern periods.
- The ancient period was covered in class VI; this class focuses on the medieval period (eighth to eighteenth century CE).
You Will Learn
- The history of medieval India.
- Literary and archaeological sources of the period.
- Emergence of new social and political groups and kingdoms.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Medieval Period — Era in Indian history from the eighth to the eighteenth century CE.
- Bharat — Name for India, derived from a legendary ruler in the Mahabharata.
- India — Name for the country, originating from the Greek and Latin interpretations of 'Sindhu' (River Indus).
- Hindustan — Historical term used by Sultanate and Mughal rulers for their Indian territories.
- Delhi Sultanate — Islamic empire that began the late medieval period in India.
- Mughals — Dynasty that ruled India in the late medieval period.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the ancient period of Indian history from previous class notes.
- Prepare to study the major kingdoms, sources, and changes in medieval India as outlined.