Question

How did society organise themselves prior to 1000 CE?

Answer 1

Before 1000 CE, society in the Indian subcontinent was organised first around families (kula), clans or tribes (jana), and villages (grāma). Over time, these groups developed into larger territorial units called janapadas and mahājanapadas. As agriculture, trade and population increased, powerful kingdoms and empires emerged. The king (rājā) was the main ruler and was supported by assemblies, ministers, officials and other administrative institutions. Society was also organised through different occupations and social groups, with agriculture, crafts, trade and religious activities playing important roles. Thus, society gradually changed from small kin-based communities into larger and more organised kingdoms and empires.