The Growth of Indian Civilisation
Long after the early Indus Valley civilisation, the land of India saw new kingdoms and great empires rise. Two of the most important were the Maurya and the Gupta dynasties. A dynasty is a line of rulers from the same family. Under strong emperors such as Ashoka of the Maurya dynasty, large parts of India were united and trade grew across the land and sea.
Government and Society
The great Indian empires were ruled by an emperor helped by ministers and officials who collected taxes and kept order. Indian society was organised into groups, and religion played a very large part in daily life. Emperor Ashoka is remembered for turning to peace after a great war and for supporting the teachings of the Buddha.
Key idea
Indian civilisation grew through powerful dynasties such as the Maurya and Gupta. A dynasty is a line of rulers from the same family. Religion, trade and learning were at its heart.
Religion and Achievements
India was the birthplace of two great world religions, Hinduism and Buddhism. Indian scholars made brilliant advances in mathematics and astronomy. They developed the idea of zero and the number system we still use today, which spread across the world. They also created fine art, literature and architecture, including carved temples and stone pillars. The Gupta period is often called a "golden age" of Indian learning.
Remember
- Important Indian dynasties: the Maurya and the Gupta.
- Emperor Ashoka supported peace and the teachings of the Buddha.
- India gave the world Hinduism, Buddhism, the number zero and advances in mathematics.