Class7 Social Studies Chapter4 QA

Class 7 Social Studies – Exploring Society: India and Beyond

Chapter 4: New Beginnings – Cities and States

1 Mark Questions and Answers

1. What is the early historic period in India?
   The early historic period in India is from 600 BCE to 600 CE.

2. Name one early city of India.
   One early city of India was Pataliputra.

3. What is a janapada?
   A janapada was a region ruled by a king or chief.

4. What were Mahajanapadas?
   Mahajanapadas were large and powerful kingdoms.

5. Name one Mahajanapada.
   Magadha was one important Mahajanapada.

6. Which river helped in the growth of early cities?
   The Ganga River helped in the growth of early cities.

2 Mark Questions and Answers

1. Why did new cities develop in ancient India?
   New cities developed due to better farming, surplus food production, and the growth of trade.

2. What was the importance of iron tools?
   Iron tools helped in clearing forests and improving agriculture.

3. Mention two features of early cities.
   Early cities had planned streets and busy markets.

4. How did trade help cities grow?
   Trade helped cities grow as centres of exchange and economic activity.

5. What is meant by state formation?
   State formation means the development of small communities into organised kingdoms.

5 Mark Questions and Answers

1. How did cities develop during the early historic period?

Cities developed during the early historic period due to several reasons.
Improved agricultural methods produced surplus food. The use of iron tools helped in clearing forests for farming. Trade and commerce expanded, leading to the growth of markets. Craftsmen and traders settled in towns, and rivers helped in the transport of goods and people. As a result, cities became centres of administration, trade, and culture.

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2. Describe the Mahajanapadas.

Mahajanapadas were large and powerful states that emerged around 600 BCE.
There were sixteen Mahajanapadas. Each was ruled by a king and had a strong army. Agriculture was the main occupation of the people. Some Mahajanapadas grew stronger than others, and Magadha became the most powerful among them.

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3. Explain the importance of Magadha.

Magadha was an important Mahajanapada because it had fertile land and was located near major rivers that supported trade. Its rulers were strong and expanded their territories. The powerful army and rich resources helped Magadha grow into a major centre of power. Its capital, Pataliputra, became a famous city.

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4. How did the formation of states change people’s lives?

The formation of states brought many changes in people’s lives. Kings made laws and maintained order. Taxes were collected to run the administration. Cities developed as centres of power and trade. Occupations increased, and society became more organised and structured.