CBSE Notes for Class 7 History Chapter 2 New Kings and Kingdoms

New Kings and Kingdoms Class 7 Notes History Chapter 2 PDF

The chapter “New Kings and Kingdoms” in Class 7 History is about the period in Indian history when new dynasties emerged and established their rule. It covers how these new kings came into power, their strategies for governance, and the administrative systems they set up. This chapter is a part of the NCERT and CBSE syllabus and talks about a time in Indian history when new dynasties came into power and how they managed their kingdoms. Our notes for Class 7 History Chapter 2 are carefully made to match the NCERT syllabus and help students understand the important events and people from medieval India. These CBSE notes are very useful for exam preparation or for anyone interested in learning about India’s history. We also have NCERT solutions for the questions present in the NCERT textbook class 7 history chapter 2 New Kings and Kingdoms.

NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Social Science

Topic-wise Class 7 History Chapter 2 Notes

1. The Emergence of New Dynasties
2. Administration in the Kingdoms
3. Prashastis and Land Grants
4. Warfare for Wealth
5. The Cholas

CBSE Class 7 Social Science Syllabus

The Emergence of New Dynasties

• Background: After the seventh century, several new dynasties emerged in the Indian subcontinent, marking a period of political fragmentation and regional consolidation.
• Role of Samantas: Big landlords or warrior chiefs, known as samantas, played a crucial role during this period. Initially, they were subordinate to existing kings, providing military support and gifts. Over time, some of these samantas gained significant power and wealth, leading them to declare independence from their overlords.
• Rashtrakutas: A notable example of this trend was the Rashtrakutas in the Deccan region. Starting as subordinates to the Chalukyas of Karnataka, they eventually overthrew their overlords. Dantidurga, a Rashtrakuta chief, performed the hiranya-garbha ritual, symbolizing his rebirth as a Kshatriya and asserting his independence.
• Other Examples: Similarly, individuals from non-traditional backgrounds, such as the Kadamba Mayurasharman and the Gurjara-Pratihara Harichandra, used their military skills to establish new kingdoms in Karnataka and Rajasthan, respectively.

Administration in the Kingdoms

• Titles and Power Sharing: New kings often adopted grand titles like maharaja-adhiraja or tribhuvana-chakravartin. Despite these claims, they typically shared power with their samantas, as well as with associations of peasants, traders, and Brahmanas.
• Resource Collection: The state’s resources were primarily obtained from producers such as peasants, cattle-keepers, and artisans. Taxes were imposed in various forms, including rent and land revenue. The Cholas, for example, are known for having over 400 terms for different kinds of taxes in their inscriptions.
• Use of Resources: The collected resources were used for various purposes, including the maintenance of the king’s establishment, construction of temples and forts, and conducting warfare. Warfare was particularly important as it was seen as a means to acquire wealth, land, and control over trade routes.

Prashastis and Land Grants

• Prashastis: These are eulogies or praises written for kings, often containing exaggerated claims of their achievements. They were composed by learned Brahmanas and provide insights into how rulers wanted to portray themselves, such as valiant and victorious warriors.
• Land Grants: Kings often rewarded Brahmanas and other loyal followers with grants of land. These grants were recorded on copper plates and included various types of lands, such as brahmadeya (land gifted to Brahmanas) and shalabhoga (land for the maintenance of a school).

Warfare for Wealth

• Regional Conflicts: Ruling dynasties often engaged in conflicts to control strategic regions. The city of Kanauj in the Ganga valley was a significant target for many rulers due to its strategic and economic importance. The long-drawn conflict for control over Kanauj among the Gurjara-Pratiharas, Rashtrakutas, and Palas is known as the “tripartite struggle.”
• Temple Targeting: Temples were often targets in warfare due to their wealth. Notable incidents include the raids by Mahmud of Ghazni, who attacked wealthy temples such as the one at Somnath, Gujarat, to carry away their riches.

The Cholas

• Rise to Power: The Cholas initially were a minor chiefly family under the Pallavas. Vijayalaya Chola captured the Kaveri delta from the Muttaraiyar and established the city of Thanjavur. Subsequent rulers like Rajaraja I and Rajendra I expanded the Chola territory and reorganized the administration.
• Temples and Sculptures: The Cholas are renowned for their splendid temples, such as those at Thanjavur and Gangaikondacholapuram, which are architectural and sculptural marvels. They were also known for their exquisite bronze sculptures, often depicting deities and devotees.
• Agriculture and Irrigation: The Cholas made significant advancements in agriculture, particularly in the Kaveri delta region. They employed various irrigation methods, including the construction of tanks and canals, to support agriculture, especially the cultivation of rice.
• Administration: The Chola empire was organized into units called nadu, with village councils (ur) playing a key role in administration. The empire saw the involvement of rich peasants and landowners in administrative functions, often holding titles and positions of respect.

NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Social Science History

• Chapter 1 Tracing Changes Through A Thousand Years
• Chapter 2 New Kings And Kingdoms
• Chapter 3 The Delhi Sultans
• Chapter 4 The Mughal Empire
• Chapter 5 Rulers And Buildings
• Chapter 6 Towns, Traders, And Craftsperson’s
• Chapter 7 Tribes, Nomads, And Settled Communities
• Chapter 8 Devotional Paths To The Divine
• Chapter 9 The Making Of Regional Cultures
• Chapter 10 Eighteenth-Century Political Formations

Why to Choose Infinity Learn Class 7 History Ch 2 Notes

Choosing the right study materials is crucial for a student’s academic success. Infinity Learn Class 7 History Chapter 2 Notes are an excellent choice for several reasons:

• Comprehensive Coverage: Infinity Learn’s notes cover all the essential topics of Chapter 2 in detail. From the emergence of new dynasties to the administration of kingdoms, every aspect is explained thoroughly to ensure a deep understanding of the subject matter.
• Easy-to-Understand Language: The notes are written in simple and clear language, making it easy for Class 7 students to grasp complex historical concepts. This approach helps in better retention and recall during exams.
• Well-Structured Format: The notes are organized in a logical sequence, starting with the emergence of new dynasties and ending with the administration of the Chola empire. This structured format helps students follow the flow of historical events and developments.
• Visual Aids: To enhance understanding, Infinity Learn’s notes often include maps, diagrams, and images relevant to the topics discussed. These visual aids make learning more engaging and help students visualize historical events and geographical locations.
• Expertly Curated Content: The notes are prepared by experienced educators and subject matter experts who ensure that the content is accurate, relevant, and aligned with the CBSE curriculum. This ensures that students are studying material that is both reliable and exam-oriented.
• Focus on Key Concepts: Infinity Learn’s notes emphasize important concepts, dates, and figures, making it easier for students to identify and focus on the critical aspects of each topic. This targeted approach helps in effective revision and preparation for exams.
• Interactive Learning: Along with the notes, Infinity Learn often provides interactive learning resources such as quizzes, flashcards, and practice questions. These interactive elements make learning more enjoyable and help reinforce the concepts covered in the notes.
• Accessibility: Infinity Learn’s Class 7 History Chapter 2 Notes are easily accessible online, allowing students to study anytime and anywhere. This convenience is particularly beneficial for revising and refreshing concepts before exams.

Importance of Class 7 History Chapter 2 New Kings and Kingdoms Notes

Class 7 History Chapter 2, “New Kings and Kingdoms,” is significant as it offers an in-depth insight into a pivotal era in Indian history.

• Foundation of Medieval History: This chapter introduces students to the early medieval period in India, marking the emergence of new dynasties and kingdoms. Understanding this era is essential for grasping the historical context that shaped the Indian subcontinent.
• Insight into Political Dynamics: The notes offer a detailed account of the political changes, including the rise and fall of various dynasties such as the Rashtrakutas, Cholas, and others. This knowledge is crucial for understanding the complex political landscape of medieval India.
• Understanding of Administrative Systems: The chapter sheds light on the administrative structures established by these new kingdoms, providing insights into the governance and societal organization of the time.
• Cultural and Economic Developments: The notes highlight the cultural achievements and economic advancements made during this period, such as temple architecture, bronze sculpture, and agricultural innovations. These aspects are vital for appreciating the rich cultural heritage of India.
• Preparation for Higher Studies: A solid grasp of this chapter lays the foundation for more advanced historical studies in higher classes. It helps students develop a chronological understanding of Indian history.
• Development of Analytical Skills: Studying this chapter enables students to analyze historical events, understand cause-and-effect relationships, and develop critical thinking skills.
• Enhanced Exam Preparation: Well-prepared notes help students revise efficiently and perform better in exams. They provide a concise summary of key points, making it easier to retain information.

FAQs on Class 7 History Chapter 2 Notes

What is the reason for the emergence of new kings after the 7th century?

After the 7th century, new kings emerged due to the power and wealth gained by big landlords or warrior chiefs. They asserted their independence and declared themselves as kings, leading to the formation of new dynasties.

How did the new rulers gain power?

New rulers gained power by accumulating wealth, forming alliances, and demonstrating military prowess. They often performed rituals and adopted high-sounding titles to legitimize their authority and assert their independence from their overlords.

How were new kings and dynasties formed?

New kings and dynasties were formed when powerful landlords or warrior chiefs declared themselves as kings. They often expanded their territories through conquests and established their rule by building strong administrations.

What I learned from the chapter New Kings and Kingdoms?

From the chapter New Kings and Kingdoms, I learned about the emergence of new dynasties after the 7th century, their strategies for gaining power, and the administration of their kingdoms. The chapter also highlights the significance of land grants and the role of temples in economic and cultural life.

How did the Rashtrakutas become powerful in Class 7 History Chapter 2?

In Class 7 History Chapter 2, the Rashtrakutas became powerful by overthrowing their Chalukya overlords in the mid-8th century. Their leader, Dantidurga, performed the hiranya-garbha ritual to legitimize his rule as a Kshatriya king.

What is the name of Chapter 2 in Class 7 history?

The name of Chapter 2 in Class 7 history is New Kings and Kingdoms. This chapter discusses the rise of new dynasties, their administration, and the cultural and economic developments during their rule.