Summary of "Most Important Ancient & Medieval History Topics | Conquer Prelims 2025 | Abhishek Mishra"

Main Ideas and Concepts

Purpose of the Session: The session aims to prepare students for the UPSC prelims by revising critical static topics in ancient and medieval history, focusing on high-yielding areas based on previous exam questions.
Structure of the Series:
- Three sessions covering:
  - Ancient and Medieval History
  - Modern India
  - Art and Culture
- Each session includes questions for self-evaluation and will provide answers in subsequent sessions.
Key Topics in Ancient History:
- Indus Valley Civilization:
  - Timeframes: Early (3200-2600 BCE), Mature (2600-1700 BCE), Decline (1700-1500 BCE).
  - Characteristics: First urban civilization, trade development, town planning, economy, polity, writing, religion, and decline theories (Aryan migration, ecological factors).
  - Important sites: Harappa, Mohenjo-Daro, Kalibangan, etc.
  - Features of town planning: Grid pattern, drainage systems, standardization of bricks, and urban characteristics.
- Buddhism:
  - Emergence as a response to dissatisfaction with Brahmanism and the caste system.
  - Core teachings: Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.
  - Key figures: Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha), councils that codified teachings.
  - Division into different schools: Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism.
- Jainism:
  - Founders: Rishabha (philosophy) and Mahavira (religion).
  - Emphasis on non-violence (ahimsa), strict ethical conduct, and ascetic practices.
  - Key concepts: Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Conduct.
Medieval Indian Administration:
- Ika System: Land grants in lieu of salary, non-hereditary, with obligations for revenue collection and law enforcement.
- Nara System: A more decentralized model without strict military obligations, leading to instability.
- Mansabdar System: Rank-based administration with military obligations specified, where ranks (zat and saar) determine salary and military responsibilities.
Market Reforms by Alauddin Khilji:
- Implemented to manage a standing army amidst Mongol threats.
- Price control measures to stabilize the economy and ensure affordable supplies for soldiers.
Muhammad bin Tughlaq's Four Experiments:
- Capital Shift to Daulatabad: Failed due to logistical challenges and rebellions.
- Introduction of Token Currency: Attempted to address silver shortages but led to counterfeiting and economic instability.
- Military Expeditions: Poorly executed campaigns that drained resources and weakened the state.

Methodology/Instructions

Review and revise the following key areas:

Indus Valley Civilization: Focus on urban planning, trade, and decline theories.
Buddhism: Understand the core teachings and historical developments.
Jainism: Familiarize with its principles and notable figures.
Medieval Administration: Distinguish between Ika, Nara, and Mansabdar systems.
Market Reforms: Analyze the effectiveness of Alauddin Khilji's strategies.
Muhammad bin Tughlaq's experiments: Evaluate the outcomes and implications for the empire.