NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Social Science History Chapter 2 New Kings and Kingdom

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February 06, 2025

Class 7 Social Science History Chapter 2 New Kings and Kingdom:- Chapter 2 of the NCERT Social Science History textbook for Class 7, "New Kings and Kingdoms," explains the formation and growth of new kingdoms in India from the 7th to the 12th century. This time saw many regional kingdoms rise, with powerful dynasties establishing new ways of governing.

The chapter describes how these rulers gained power, managed their kingdoms, and expanded their territories. It also covers the social and economic conditions of the time, including land grants, temple donations, and the development of regional cultures. This helps students understand the early medieval period of Indian history. Get the NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Social Science History Chapter 2 New kings and Kingdom from the below article.

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NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Social Science History Chapter 2 New Kings and Kingdom

1. Match the following:

Gurjara-Pratiharas⇒ Western Deccan

Rashtrakutas ⇒Bengal

Palas⇒ Gujarat and Rajasthan

Cholas ⇒Tamil Nadu

Answer: Gurjara-Pratiharas ⇒Gujarat and Rajasthan

Rashtrakutas ⇒Western Deccan

Palas ⇒Bengal

Cholas⇒ Tamil Nadu

2. Who were the parties involved in the “tripartite struggle”?

Answer: Three parties were involved in the "tripartite struggle," fighting for control over Kannauj. These were the Gurjara-Pratihara, Rashtrakuta, and Pala dynasties.

3. What were the qualifications necessary to become a member of a committee of the sabha in the Chola empire?

Answer: To become a member of the sabha in the Chola empire, several qualifications were required:

Candidates needed to be between 35 and 70 years old and knowledgeable about the Vedas.
They had to own land from which land revenue was collected and have their own home.
Honesty and expertise in administrative matters were essential.
Individuals who had served on any committee in the past three years were ineligible to join another committee.
Anyone who had not submitted their accounts or those of their relatives could not run for election.

4. What were the two major cities under the control of the Chahamanas?

Answer: The two major cities that were under the control of the Chahamanas were Ajmer and Delhi.

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5. How did the Rashtrakutas become powerful?

Answer: The Rashtrakutas in the Deccan initially served as subordinates to the Chalukyas of Karnataka. In the mid-8th century, Dantidurga, a Rashtrakuta chief, overthrew his Chalukya overlord and performed the 'Hiranya-garbha' ritual with the assistance of Brahmanas. This ritual was believed to transform the sacrificer into a Kshatriya, regardless of his birth status. The Rashtrakutas also engaged in battles with the Gurjara Pratihara and Pala dynasties. Through these conflicts, they successfully established their kingdoms in Karnataka and Rajasthan.

6. What did the new dynasties do to gain acceptance?

Answer: To gain acceptance, the new dynasties adopted new titles and performed religious rituals to be recognized as Kshatriyas. Initially, they were considered subordinates or Samantas by their overlords. As they amassed power and wealth, they proclaimed themselves maha-Samanta. These emerging dynasties also engaged in warfare to assert their dominance and establish their own kingdoms.

7. What kind of irrigation works were developed in the Tamil region?

Answer: During the fifth or sixth century, the regions near the Kaveri River in Tamil Nadu were opened up for large-scale cultivation. This period saw the development of extensive irrigation works in the Tamil region, including the creation of water channels for agriculture, the construction of embankments to prevent floods, and the digging of wells and tanks for water storage.

8. What were the activities associated with Chola temples?

Answer: Activities associated with Chola temples were diverse and integral to the social, economic, and cultural life of their communities. These temples served not only as places of worship but also as centres of craft production and economic activity. Surrounding settlements often grew around these temples, which were endowed with land by rulers and other benefactors. The produce from this land supported various specialists who worked at the temple.

One of the most distinctive crafts associated with Chola temples was the creation of bronze images, renowned worldwide for their artistry. These bronze images primarily depicted deities but also included representations of devotees. This craftsmanship not only showcased artistic prowess but also played a significant role in religious and cultural practices within the Chola kingdom.

Class 7 Social Science History Chapter 2 New Kings and Kingdom Summary

Chapter 2 of the Class 7 Social Science History textbook, "New Kings and Kingdoms," discusses the emergence of new kingdoms in India between the 7th and 12th centuries. During this period, various regional dynasties rose to power by conquering territories and establishing control over land and resources. Key dynasties included the Cholas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, and Palas.

The chapter explains how these rulers used military force, strategic alliances, and administrative reforms to consolidate their power. Land grants to Brahmins and temples played a significant role in legitimizing their rule and expanding agricultural production. The construction of grand temples and patronage of art and culture helped these kings enhance their prestige and control over their subjects.

Additionally, the chapter highlights the importance of trade and commerce in these kingdoms, as well as the development of new towns and cities. By examining inscriptions and historical records, students learn about the political, social, and economic conditions of early medieval India. The chapter provides a comprehensive understanding of how new kingdoms were formed and how they influenced the course of Indian history.

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Class 7 Social Science History Chapter 2 New Kings and Kingdom FAQs

Q1. What is the significance of the "tripartite struggle"?

Ans. The tripartite struggle involved the Gurjara-Pratihara, Rashtrakuta, and Pala dynasties vying for control over Kannauj. It marked a pivotal period in Indian history where regional powers competed for political supremacy.

Q2. How did land grants influence the power of new kingdoms?

Ans. Land grants were essential for legitimizing and consolidating the power of new kingdoms. They were given to Brahmins and temples, which helped in agricultural expansion, revenue collection, and gaining religious sanction.

Q3. What were the major contributions of the Cholas to temple architecture and society?

Ans. The Cholas made significant contributions to temple architecture, including the construction of grand temples that served as centers of economic, social, and cultural life. They also pioneered the creation of exquisite bronze sculptures.

Q4. Why were Chola temples important beyond religious worship?

Ans. Chola temples were not only places of worship but also centers of economic activity, craft production (especially bronze images), and social gatherings. They played a crucial role in integrating communities and fostering cultural practices.

Q5. What were the main factors that contributed to the rise of new kingdoms in medieval India?

Ans. Factors such as the decline of central authority, regional aspirations for power, strategic alliances, military conquests, and economic developments (like trade and agriculture) contributed to the rise of new kingdoms in medieval India.