Question

The period from 8th to 18th century saw many changes in the society in Kerala. What were some of the socio-economic features of Medieval Kerala?

• A. It was an egalitarian society.
• B. Agriculture was dependent on Edavapathy and Thulavarsham.
• C. There were three broad types of land based on ownership.
• D. Land was cultivated by middlemen (Karalar).

Answer 1

Answer: (B), (C), (D)

Land was cultivated by middlemen (Karalar).

Medieval Kerala had a hierarchical society with naduvazhis at the top. Agriculture was the primary occupation and it was dependent on Edavapathy (Southwest monsoon) and Thulavarsham (Northeast monsoon). Brahmins exercised ownership over farm lands but it was cultivated by middlemen known as karalar.