Chapter 2: Kings and Kingdoms
1. Emergence of New Dynasties
From the 7th century onwards, many big landlords and warrior chiefs became powerful in different
parts of the Indian subcontinent. These chiefs were known as Samantas. Initially, they worked
under larger kings and provided military support. Over time, many samantas became strong
enough to declare themselves independent rulers and established their own dynasties.
Important dynasties of this period included the Gurjara-Pratiharas, Rashtrakutas, Palas and Cholas.
These dynasties constantly fought wars to expand their territories and gain political prestige.
2. Administration and Royal Titles
Kings adopted grand titles such as Maharajadhiraja (King of Kings) and Tribhuvan Chakravartin to
show their power. They appointed ministers and officials to help in administration. The kingdom was
divided into provinces, districts and villages for easier governance.
Land revenue was the main source of income. Taxes were collected from farmers, traders and
artisans. Kings also received tribute from subordinate rulers.
3. Prashastis and Inscriptions
Prashastis were royal inscriptions written by court poets in praise of kings. They described victories,
donations and achievements of rulers. These inscriptions are important historical sources as they
provide information about wars, administration and society.
4. The Tripartite Struggle
The Gurjara-Pratiharas, Rashtrakutas and Palas fought for control over Kannauj. This long conflict
is known as the Tripartite Struggle. Kannauj was important because of its fertile land, strategic
location and political importance. The struggle continued for nearly two centuries.
5. The Chola Empire
The Cholas were one of the most powerful dynasties in South India. Vijayalaya founded the
dynasty. Rajaraja I expanded the empire and built the famous Brihadeeswara Temple at Thanjavur.
, Rajendra I extended the empire to the Ganga river and built Gangaikonda Cholapuram.
The Cholas had a strong navy which helped them control sea trade routes. They maintained
detailed land surveys and efficient revenue systems.
6. Local Self-Government
Village administration was very advanced. There were assemblies such as Ur (village assembly),
Sabha (Brahmin assembly) and Nagaram (assembly of traders). Members were selected through
the Kudavolai system, which was a type of lottery system.
7. Economy and Irrigation
Agriculture was the backbone of the economy. The Cholas built tanks, canals and irrigation
systems to increase agricultural production. Temples played an important role in economic life as
they owned land and employed people.
1. Emergence of New Dynasties
From the 7th century onwards, many big landlords and warrior chiefs became powerful in different
parts of the Indian subcontinent. These chiefs were known as Samantas. Initially, they worked
under larger kings and provided military support. Over time, many samantas became strong
enough to declare themselves independent rulers and established their own dynasties.
Important dynasties of this period included the Gurjara-Pratiharas, Rashtrakutas, Palas and Cholas.
These dynasties constantly fought wars to expand their territories and gain political prestige.
2. Administration and Royal Titles
Kings adopted grand titles such as Maharajadhiraja (King of Kings) and Tribhuvan Chakravartin to
show their power. They appointed ministers and officials to help in administration. The kingdom was
divided into provinces, districts and villages for easier governance.
Land revenue was the main source of income. Taxes were collected from farmers, traders and
artisans. Kings also received tribute from subordinate rulers.
3. Prashastis and Inscriptions
Prashastis were royal inscriptions written by court poets in praise of kings. They described victories,
donations and achievements of rulers. These inscriptions are important historical sources as they
provide information about wars, administration and society.
4. The Tripartite Struggle
The Gurjara-Pratiharas, Rashtrakutas and Palas fought for control over Kannauj. This long conflict
is known as the Tripartite Struggle. Kannauj was important because of its fertile land, strategic
location and political importance. The struggle continued for nearly two centuries.
5. The Chola Empire
The Cholas were one of the most powerful dynasties in South India. Vijayalaya founded the
dynasty. Rajaraja I expanded the empire and built the famous Brihadeeswara Temple at Thanjavur.
, Rajendra I extended the empire to the Ganga river and built Gangaikonda Cholapuram.
The Cholas had a strong navy which helped them control sea trade routes. They maintained
detailed land surveys and efficient revenue systems.
6. Local Self-Government
Village administration was very advanced. There were assemblies such as Ur (village assembly),
Sabha (Brahmin assembly) and Nagaram (assembly of traders). Members were selected through
the Kudavolai system, which was a type of lottery system.
7. Economy and Irrigation
Agriculture was the backbone of the economy. The Cholas built tanks, canals and irrigation
systems to increase agricultural production. Temples played an important role in economic life as
they owned land and employed people.
