Question

Differentiate between Janapada and Mahajanapada on following parameters:

1. Meaning
2. Example
3. Societal features

Answer 1

Instructions:
The answer for this question can be broken down into three parts:

1. Meaning of Janapada and Mahajanapada
2. Example of Janapada and Mahajanapada
3. Societal conditions of Janapada and Mahajanapada

Solution:
Meaning:

• Large and powerful tribes defeated the smaller ones and took over their territories to form their kingdoms. These large kingdoms were called Janapadas. The term "Janapada" refers to the place where the people put their feet.
• Janapadas joined together and formed more powerful kingdoms called Mahajanapadas. The period between 600 BCE and 400 BCE saw the emergence of Mahajanapadas.

Examples:

• Janapadas: Purana Qila in Delhi, Hastinapura near Meerut, and Atranjikhera near Etah.
• Mahajanapada: Magadha, Vajji, Avanti etc.

Society:

• Janapadas: People lived in huts, and domesticated animals. They grew crops such as rice, wheat, barley, etc. Painted Grey Ware was a unique type of pottery that was found at these locations.
• Mahajanapada: The capital city of Mahajanapadas was fortified. Forts were built by the rulers to protect themselves from external attacks, control the land and people living in it and showcase their power and wealth.