The Rise of Empires
Class 7 · Social Science Part 1 · 16 Questions
Empires extended over vast areas and had diverse people with differing languages, customs and cultures. How do you think the emperors made sure that they lived in harmony? Discuss in groups and share your thoughts with the class.
Looking at the many challenges involved in managing an empire, why should a king be so keen to expand his kingdom into an empire and become an emperor? Here are a few possible answers; see if you can think of a few more: An ambition to 'rule the entire world', a metaphor for controlling large territories and ensuring that they would be remembered for posterity; A wish to bring large areas under control and gain access to their resources to build economic and military strength; A desire for great wealth for himself and for the empire.
Warfare apart, what other methods do you think the rulers might have used to expand their empires? Pen your ideas and share them with your class.
What modes of transport on those roads do you think were available at the time?
Why do you think Alexander wanted to rule over the entire world? What would he have gained from it?
Why do you think it was important to take special care of the countryside? (Hint: Think back to what you have learnt at the beginning of this chapter)
Aśhoka, in his edicts, tells the story of the Kalinga war. He could have chosen not to mention it and maintain his image as a peaceful, benevolent king for future generations. Why do you think he admitted to this destructive war?
Aśhoka details instructions on the conduct of his officials and mentions ways to ensure that they practised fairness in one of his edicts. Read the translation below and share your thoughts on whether those ways would have been successful in helping manage his empire and how.
What are the features of an empire, and how is it different from a kingdom? Explain.
What are some important factors for the transition from kingdoms to empires?
Alexander is considered an important king in the history of the world —why do you think that is so?
In early Indian history, the Mauryas are considered important. State your reasons.
What were some of Kauṭilya's key ideas? Which ones of these can you observe even today in the world around us?
What were the unusual things about Aśhoka and his empire? What of that has continued to influence India and why? Write your opinion in about 250 words.
Thus speaks the Beloved of the Gods, the king Piyadasi: My officers of Dhamma are busy in many matters of public benefit, they are busy among members of all sects, both ascetics and householders. I have appointed some to concern themselves with the Buddhist Order, with brahmans and Ājīvika..., with the Jains..., and with various sects. There are many categories of officers with a variety of duties, but my officers of Dhamma are busy with the affairs of these and other sects. After reading the above edict of Aśhoka, do you think he was tolerant towards other religious beliefs and schools of thought? Share your opinion in the classroom.
Suppose you had to travel from Kauśhāmbī to Kāveripattanam in the 3rd century BCE. How would you undertake this journey, and how long would you expect it to take, with reasonable halts on the way?