Our Pasts-I

This chapter gives an introduction to history. It familiarises the learner with the significant developments to be studied and developed an understanding of the significance of geographical terms used during the time frame.

This chapter throws light on the earliest societies. It discusses hunting and gathering as a way of life and its implications. It also introduces stone tools and artefacts as archaeological evidence and describes their uses.

This chapter talks about the first farmers and herders. It describes the implications of farming and herding. It also explains archaeological evidence for crops, animals, houses, tools, pottery, burials, etc.

This chapter deals with the first cities, the settlement pattern of the Harappan civilisation, its unique architectural features, and craft production. It also describes the concept of urbanism and life in the city.

This chapter focuses on different ways of life and quality of living. It highlights the basics of Vedas- sources, importance, features, and what they tell us. It also elaborates on a contemporary chalcolithic settlement.

This chapter explores the rise of Janapadas, Mahajanapadas, and kingdoms. It introduces the concept of the state and its varieties. We also learn about the causes of the rise of these kingdoms and the life of their people.

The chapter focuses on new questions and ideas related to Upanishads, Jainism, and Buddhism. It outlines the basic tenets of these systems and the context in which they developed and flourished. It discusses the teachings of Jainism and Buddhism.

This chapter elaborates on the empire of King Ashoka and highlights his greatness. It introduces the concept of empire and shows what led to the expansion of empires. It further explores the regime of Ashoka and the Mauryan administration.

This chapter features life in towns and villages. It elaborates on agricultural expansion, people, and the role of literary sources, archaeological sources, coins, and accounts of foreign travellers in learning more about ancient towns and cities.

This chapter talks about contacts with distant lands. It describes the Sangam texts, literature, and long-distance exchange. Furthermore, it sheds light on the Silk Route, Indian colonies in Southeast Asia, and India's connection with the west.

In this chapter, we will extensively read about the conquerors from distant lands and the spread of Buddhism in Central Asia. It will also elaborate on the Greek influence on India- coins, astronomy, art, and medicine.

The chapter elaborates on political development. It explains the growth and effects of different administrative systems. It further explores the Gupta Empire and its administration, advancement in literature, science, art, technology, and trade.

This chapter elaborates on Harshavardhana and his regime. It brings up the strategy of expansion, conquests, administration, and development of Harshavardhana’s empire. It also describes the society and life of his people.

This chapter provides knowledge on the political development of Chalukyas and the Pallavas. It throws light on the life and society under the rule of Chalukyas and Pallavas, their religions, art, architecture, sculpture, etc.

This chapter deals with culture and science. It develops a sense of understanding in students about the field of literature and architecture. It also gives a brief account of progress made in the field of science.