Class 7 History Chapter 7 Tribes, Nomads and Settled Communities Extra Questions with Answers

Tribes, Nomads and Settled Communities Class 7 Extra Questions Social Science Chapter 7 History

In the Class 7 History chapter 7 “Tribes, Nomads, and Settled Communities,” students learn about the social structures and lifestyles of different groups in ancient times. This chapter explores how tribes, nomads, and settled communities interacted and lived, highlighting their unique characteristics, relationships, and contributions to early civilizations. We have some extra questions with answers to help students understand how these groups coexisted and influenced each other in ancient times.

Social Science Class 7 History Chapter 7 Tribes, Nomads and Settled Communities Extra Questions and Answers

Here are the long and short answer types extra questions with topic-wise and multiple choice questions for chapter 7 Tribes, Nomads and Settled Communities

Tribes, Nomads and Settled Communities Extra Questions Chapter 7 Class 7 History Short Answer Type Questions – (SAQs)

Here are 20 short answer type questions and their answers for Class 7 History Chapter 7 Tribes, Nomads, and Settled Communities:

Question 1: What are tribes?
Answer: Tribes are communities that typically live in forests, hills, or remote areas and have their own distinct culture, language, and social organization.

Question 2: Who are nomads?
Answer: Nomads are people who do not have a permanent home and move from place to place in search of food, water, and grazing land for their animals.

Question 3: What is the main occupation of settled communities?
Answer: The main occupation of settled communities is agriculture, as they live in permanent settlements and cultivate land for food production.

Question 4: How were tribal societies organized?
Answer: Tribal societies were usually organized into clans or kinship groups, led by a chief or a group of elders, and had their own customs and traditions.

Question 5: What are pastoralists?
Answer: Pastoralists are people who raise livestock, such as cattle, sheep, goats, or camels, and move with their herds to different grazing areas.

Question 6: How did nomadic tribes interact with settled communities?
Answer: Nomadic tribes interacted with settled communities through trade, exchange of goods, and sometimes through conflicts over resources.

Question 7: What role did women play in tribal societies?
Answer: Women in tribal societies played crucial roles in managing the household, gathering food, and participating in social and cultural activities.

Question 8: What is shifting cultivation?
Answer: Shifting cultivation is a farming practice where land is cleared by slashing and burning vegetation, crops are grown for a few years, and then the land is left fallow to regenerate.

Question 9: How did tribes adapt to their environment?
Answer: Tribes adapted to their environment by developing skills and knowledge suited to their surroundings, such as hunting, gathering, and farming techniques.

Question 10: What were the common beliefs and practices of tribal communities?
Answer: Tribal communities often shared common beliefs and practices related to nature worship, ancestor veneration, and rituals celebrating life events and seasonal changes.

Question 11: How did nomads contribute to trade and cultural exchange?
Answer: Nomads contributed to trade and cultural exchange by transporting goods across regions, spreading ideas, and facilitating interactions between different cultures.

Question 12: What is a clan?
Answer: A clan is a social group within a tribe, consisting of families related by blood or marriage, often with a common ancestor.

Question 13: What were the main challenges faced by tribal communities?
Answer: Tribal communities faced challenges such as loss of traditional lands, conflicts with neighboring societies, and pressures to assimilate into mainstream cultures.

Question 14: How did settled communities benefit from interactions with nomads?
Answer: Settled communities benefited from interactions with nomads through access to new products, knowledge exchange, and opportunities for trade.

Question 15: What is a totem?
Answer: A totem is a natural object, animal, or plant that is considered sacred and emblematic of a tribe or clan, often symbolizing their identity and beliefs.

Question 16: How did tribes maintain their cultural identity?
Answer: Tribes maintained their cultural identity through their language, traditions, rituals, art, and by passing down their customs and knowledge to future generations.

Question 17: What is the significance of oral traditions in tribal societies?
Answer: Oral traditions in tribal societies are significant as they preserve history, values, and cultural knowledge through storytelling, songs, and folklore.

Question 18: How did the environment influence the lifestyle of nomadic tribes?
Answer: The environment influenced the lifestyle of nomadic tribes by dictating their movements, types of dwellings, clothing, and the animals they raised.

Question 19: What is the difference between nomadic and settled communities in terms of social structure?
Answer: Nomadic communities often have more fluid social structures, with less emphasis on hierarchy, while settled communities tend to have more defined social hierarchies and roles.

Question 20: How did tribes resolve conflicts within their community?
Answer: Tribes often resolved conflicts within their community through mediation by elders, councils, or traditional conflict resolution practices that emphasized reconciliation and maintaining harmony.

Tribes, Nomads and Settled Communities Class 7 History Extra Questions and Answers – Long Answer Type Questions(LAQs)

Question 1: Describe briefly the origin of Rajputs.

Answer: The origin of the Rajputs is a subject of debate among historians. Some believe they descended from ancient Kshatriyas or warrior classes, while others suggest they emerged from various tribal and nomadic communities during the early medieval period in India. They became prominent between the 6th and 12th centuries and established several kingdoms in northern and central India.

Question 2: What were the main features of Ahom society?

Answer: Ahom society, which ruled the region of Assam for nearly 600 years, had several unique features:

1. Social Structure: Ahom society was divided into clans called ‘Khels,’ each with specific duties.
2. Administration: They had a centralized administration with the king at the top, followed by ministers and other officials.
3. Agriculture: Rice cultivation was the mainstay of their economy, with advanced irrigation techniques.
4. Military: They had a strong military organization, which helped them resist several invasions.
5. Cultural Integration: Ahom society absorbed cultural elements from other groups, leading to a rich and diverse culture.

Question 3: Who were Adivasis?

Answer: Adivasis are the indigenous tribal people of India, who have their distinct culture, languages, and social practices. They are believed to be the original inhabitants of the Indian subcontinent and live in various regions, including forests, hills, and remote areas. Adivasis have a close connection with nature and often practice sustainable ways of living.

Question 4: In what was the history of the Gonds different from the Ahoms? Also, list similarities between them.

Answer: The Gonds and Ahoms had different historical trajectories:

• Gonds: They primarily inhabited central India and established several Gond kingdoms. Their society was organized into clans, and they practiced shifting cultivation.
• Ahoms: They ruled Assam and had a more centralized and structured administration.

Similarities:

• Both societies were agrarian, with a strong emphasis on agriculture.
• They had rich cultural traditions and were known for their art, music, and dance.
• Both faced threats from external invasions but managed to retain their distinct identities.

Question 5: What changes took place in varna-based society?

Answer: Over time, the varna-based society in India underwent several changes:

1. Rigidity: The social system became more rigid, with less mobility between varnas.
2. Caste System: The varna system evolved into a more complex caste system, with numerous sub-castes and jatis.
3. Economic Changes: Changes in the economy, such as the rise of trade and agriculture, affected the social structure.
4. Religious Influence: Buddhism and Jainism challenged the varna system, promoting more egalitarian values.

Question 6: Write a brief note on Banjaras.

Answer: Banjaras were a nomadic tribal group in India, known for their role as traders and transporters of goods. They traveled in large caravans called ‘tandas’ and were instrumental in the long-distance trade, carrying commodities like grain, salt, and cattle across regions. Banjaras played a crucial role in the economy by connecting different markets and regions.

Question 7: What do you know about Mongols?

The Mongols were a nomadic tribe from the steppes of Central Asia, who, under the leadership of Genghis Khan, established one of the largest empires in history during the 13th and 14th centuries. They were known for their military prowess, horseback riding skills, and ability to swiftly conquer vast territories. The Mongol Empire facilitated trade and cultural exchange across Eurasia through the Silk Road.

Question 8: How did tribal societies change after being organized into a state?

Answer: After being organized into a state, tribal societies underwent several changes:

1. Centralized Authority: The establishment of a state brought centralized authority and governance, with a ruler or king at the helm.
2. Social Stratification: The previously egalitarian tribal societies saw the emergence of social stratification, with a clear division of roles and hierarchy.
3. Agricultural Expansion: There was a shift towards settled agriculture, with an emphasis on increasing agricultural production to sustain the state.
4. Trade and Commerce: The formation of a state led to the development of trade and commerce, as surplus goods were traded with neighboring regions.
5. Military Organization: States organized their military forces for defense and expansion, leading to the formation of standing armies.
6. Cultural Assimilation: Tribal societies often assimilated with neighboring cultures, adopting new customs, religions, and languages.

Question 9: Write about Rani Durgawati.

Answer: Rani Durgawati was a prominent Gond queen who ruled the region of Garha-Mandla in the 16th century. She was known for her bravery and administrative skills. After her husband’s death, she took over the reins of the kingdom and proved to be an able ruler. Rani Durgawati is best remembered for her valiant resistance against the Mughal emperor Akbar’s forces. Despite being outnumbered, she led her troops into battle and fought fiercely. Unfortunately, she was defeated and chose to end her life rather than surrender. Rani Durgawati’s legacy is celebrated as a symbol of courage and resistance.

How did the emergence of large states change the nature of Gond society?

Answer: The emergence of large states changed the nature of Gond society in several ways:

1. Centralization: Gond society, which was initially decentralized and clan-based, saw the emergence of centralized governance under powerful Gond kings.
2. Territorial Expansion: The Gond rulers expanded their territories through conquests and alliances, leading to the formation of larger Gond kingdoms.
3. Social Hierarchy: The rise of large states led to the development of a more hierarchical social structure, with the king and his court at the top, followed by nobles, priests, and commoners.
4. Economic Changes: The expansion of the Gond states stimulated trade and agriculture, leading to economic growth and the accumulation of wealth.
5. Cultural Influences: The Gond societies came into contact with neighboring cultures and religions, leading to the assimilation of new customs and practices.
6. Military Organization: Large states necessitated the organization of a professional army for defense and expansion, altering the traditional role of warriors in Gond society.

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CBSE Class 7 Social Science Our Past 2 Chapter 7 Tribes, Nomads And Settled Communities Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Here are multiple-choice questions (MCQs) for CBSE Class 7 Social Science Our Past 2 Chapter 7 “Tribes, Nomads, and Settled Communities”:

Question 1: What is the main characteristic of nomadic tribes?

A) They live in permanent settlements.

B) They practice agriculture.

C) They move from place to place.

D) They are involved in trade.

Answer: C) They move from place to place.

Question 2: Which of the following was a common occupation of tribal communities?

A) Shipbuilding

B) Textile manufacturing

C) Hunting and gathering

D) Banking

Answer: C) Hunting and gathering

Question 3: Who were the Banjaras?

A) A warrior tribe

B) A nomadic trading community

C) A settled agricultural community

D) A seafaring tribe

Answer: B) A nomadic trading community

Question 4: What is shifting cultivation?

A) A method of irrigation

B) A type of terrace farming

C) A practice of moving crops seasonally

D) A practice of clearing forest land for farming

Answer: D) A practice of clearing forest land for farming

Question 5: Rani Durgawati was associated with which tribe?

A) Gonds

B) Bhils

C) Ahoms

D) Mauryas

Answer: A) Gonds

Question 6: What was the main feature of Ahom society?

A) Matrilineal descent

B) Worship of fire

C) Wet rice cultivation

D) Desert nomadism

Answer: C) Wet rice cultivation

Question 7: Which of the following tribes is known for their expertise in iron smelting?

A) Munda

B) Santhal

C) Gond

D) Khasi

Answer: C) Gond

Question 8: Who were pastoralists?

A) People who lived in forests

B) People who practiced agriculture

C) People who raised and herded animals

D) People who were involved in trade

Answer: C) People who raised and herded animals

Question 9: Which of the following is not a characteristic of tribal societies?

A) Rigid social hierarchy

B) Close relationship with nature

C) Communal ownership of resources

D) Rituals and festivals

Answer: A) Rigid social hierarchy

Question 10: How did the Gonds govern their kingdom?

A) Through a council of ministers

B) By a single all-powerful king

C) Through a democratic assembly

D) By a group of tribal chiefs

Answer: B) By a single all-powerful king

Question 11: Who prescribed the ‘Varna’ rules?

(a) Rulers

(b) Jatis

(c) Brahmanas

(d) No one

Answer: (c) Brahmanas

Question 12: Tribals obtained their livelihood from:

(a) Hunting

(b) Agriculture

(c) Herding

(d) All of these

Answer: (d) All of these

Question 13: Which tribe was influential in Punjab in the 13th and 14th centuries?

(a) Khokhar

(b) Ahoms

(c) Gonds

(d) Baiyaras

Answer: (a) Khokhar

Question 14: Which tribal group established a powerful kingdom in Assam?

(a) Khokhar

(b) Ahoms

(c) Gonds

(d) Banjaras

Answer: (b) Ahoms

Question 15: The important tribe of Bihar is

(a) Mundas

(b) Ahoms

(c) Khokhar

(d) Gonds

Answer: (a) Mundas

Question 16: Who used the services of Banjaras as trading nomads?

(a) Alauddin Khalji

(b) Jahangir

(c) Both of these

(d) None

Answer: (c) Both of these

Question 17: Who were known as the rathakaras?

(a) Chariot makers

(b) Soldiers

(c) Brahmanas

(d) Carpenters

Answer: (a) Chariot makers

Question 18: How many units of villages were called chaurasi?

(a) 80

(b) 84

(c) 14

(d) 24

Answer: (b) 84

Question 19: A division of Gond kingdoms controlled by a particular clan was termed as

(a) tanda

(b) clan

(c) garh

(d) khel

Answer: (c) garh

Question 20: The main occupation of Gond tribes was

(a) trade

(b) agriculture

(c) goldsmith

(d) blacksmith

Answer: (b) agriculture

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Topic-Wise – Tribes, Nomads and Settled Communities Class 7 Extra Questions Social Science History Chapter 7

Beyond Big Cities: Tribal Societies -Extra Questions

Question 1: Who were called the tribes?
Tribes are communities that usually live in forests, hills, or remote areas, with their distinct culture, language, and social organization. They have a close relationship with nature and often practice sustainable ways of living.

Question 2: Give main features of the tribal societies.
Tribal societies are characterized by their close connection with nature, egalitarian social structure, self-sufficient economy, and distinct cultural practices. They often have a clan-based organization, with decisions made collectively by the community.

Question 3: What led to the change in societies?
Changes in societies were often triggered by external factors such as invasions, colonization, trade, and the spread of new religions. Internal factors like population growth, technological advancements, and social conflicts also played a role in societal changes.

Question 4: Who were Tribal People?
Tribal people are indigenous communities with their own unique culture, language, and social practices. They are often found living in harmony with nature in forests, hills, and other remote areas.

Question 5: Why do we have scanty information about tribes?
We have scanty information about tribes because they often have oral traditions rather than written records. Additionally, their remote locations and marginalized status in society have led to limited research and documentation of their history and culture.

Question 6: Which tribes inhabited North West and North East India? Write about them.
In North West India, tribes like the Bhils and Gonds were prominent. The Bhils were known for their archery skills, while the Gonds had a rich cultural heritage with unique art forms. In North East India, tribes like the Ahoms and Nagas were significant. The Ahoms established a powerful kingdom in Assam, and the Nagas are known for their vibrant festivals and intricate handicrafts.

Question 7: What do you mean by “clan”? Give an example.
A clan is a social group within a tribe, consisting of families related by blood or marriage, often with a common ancestor. For example, the Maurya clan in the Gond tribe is a well-known clan with its members sharing a lineage.

How Nomads and Mobile People Lived – Extra Questions

Question 1: How did nomads and mobile people live?
Nomads and mobile people lived a life of constant movement, traveling from place to place in search of grazing lands for their animals, water sources, and trade opportunities. They typically lived in temporary shelters, had a deep knowledge of their environment, and their social structure was often flexible to adapt to their mobile lifestyle.

Question 2: Who were nomads and Itinerant groups?
Nomads were people who did not have a permanent home and moved from one place to another, usually following a seasonal pattern, to graze their animals or for trade. Itinerant groups were those who traveled from place to place but might have had a more fixed route or pattern, often for trade, entertainment, or as craftsmen.

Question 3: Who were the Banjaras? Why were they important?
The Banjaras were a nomadic tribe in India, known for their role as traders and carriers of goods. They were important because they transported goods across long distances, connecting different regions and facilitating trade, especially during the medieval period. They used bullock carts to carry grains, salt, and other commodities, playing a crucial role in the economy

Changing Society: New Castes and Hierarchies – Extra Question

Question 1: How was varna based society changed?
The varna-based society underwent changes due to various social, economic, and political factors. Over time, the rigid classification into four varnas became more complex with the emergence of numerous jatis or sub-castes. The concept of purity and pollution associated with different varnas led to increased social stratification. Additionally, the rise of new religious movements like Buddhism and Jainism challenged the varna system, advocating for equality and social justice.

Question 2: What was described in the 12th-century inscription from Tiruchirapalli?
The 12th-century inscription from Tiruchirapalli described a land grant by a Chola king to a temple. It mentioned the names of the donors, the purpose of the grant, and the details of the land. This inscription is significant as it provides insights into the social, economic, and religious practices of that time, including the role of temples in society and the importance of land grants in the political economy.

Question 3: Who became powerful among the Kshatriyas?
Among the Kshatriyas, the Rajputs became particularly powerful during the medieval period. They emerged as a prominent warrior class, establishing several kingdoms in northern and western India. The Rajputs were known for their valor, chivalry, and loyalty, and they played a crucial role in the defense and expansion of their territories.

Question 4: What other changes came with the rise of Rajputs?
With the rise of the Rajputs, there were several changes in society:

1. Feudal System: The Rajputs established a feudal system, with land grants given to warriors in exchange for military service.
2. Military Architecture: They were known for their fortifications and palaces, contributing to the development of military architecture in India.
3. Cultural Patronage: Rajput kingdoms became centers of art, literature, and music, fostering a rich cultural heritage.
4. Religious Influence: They were patrons of Hinduism and played a significant role in the construction of temples and the promotion of religious practices.
5. Social Customs: Rajput society was characterized by strict adherence to customs and traditions, including practices related to marriage, honor, and warfare.