Class 7 Social Science - BIHAR
History: Empires and Kingdoms: 6th to 10th Centuries
This chapter explores the political developments in India from the 6th to the 10th centuries, a period marked by the rise of powerful regional empires. Bihar Board Class 7 students will learn about dynasties like the Palas, Gurjara-Pratiharas, and Rashtrakutas, and the famous struggle for control over Kanauj, known as the Tripartite Struggle. We will also study the administrative systems, temple architecture, and cultural growth during this era, particularly highlighting Bihar's central role under the Pala Empire as a great center of Buddhism and learning, which is crucial for scoring well in board exams.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
The Tripartite Struggle
A long-drawn conflict between three major dynasties—the Palas, Gurjara-Pratiharas, and Rashtrakutas—to control the prosperous city of Kanauj in northern India.
The Pala Empire
A powerful dynasty that ruled over Bihar and Bengal from the 8th to the 12th century, known for patronizing Buddhism and establishing famous universities like Vikramshila.
Feudalism (Samantas)
A system where kings gave land grants to warriors and chiefs called Samantas, who in turn provided military support and collected taxes from peasants.
Temple Architecture
Emperors built magnificent stone temples like the Kailashnath temple in Ellora and sun temples to display their power, wealth, and devotion.
Administration and Taxation
Kingdoms were divided into provinces and districts, and revenue was collected mainly from peasants based on agricultural produce and trade.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Bihar Board Class 7 Social Science examinations, this chapter typically carries around 6 to 8 marks. Questions usually include multiple-choice questions (MCQs), short answer questions about dynasties and terms like 'Samanta', and map-based or descriptive questions about the Tripartite Struggle and Vikramshila University.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main reason for the Tripartite Struggle?
The three dynasties fought to control Kanauj because it was situated on the fertile Gangetic plain and was a major center of trade and political power.
Which important university in Bihar was established during this period?
Vikramshila University was established by the Pala king Dharmapala in present-day Bhagalpur, Bihar.
Who were the Samantas?
Samantas were big landlords or warrior chiefs subordinate to kings, who collected taxes and provided troops when required.
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