The Age of Reorganisation

Overview

After the decline of the Mauryan Empire, India entered an age of reorganisation. Many smaller kingdoms and new ruling families rose in the north and south. Foreign rulers also entered the north-west. Despite the political change, trade, art and culture flourished during this lively period.

Key points

• The Shungas ruled in the north after the Mauryas.
• The Kushanas, led by Kanishka, ruled the north-west and promoted trade and Buddhism.
• The Satavahanas were powerful in the Deccan.
• In the south, the Cholas, Cheras and Pandyas ruled the Tamil region (Sangam Age).
• The Silk Route connected India with distant lands for trade.

Important terms / dates

• Reorganisation - rearranging of power among new kingdoms.
• Sangam Age - period of early Tamil literature.
• Silk Route - ancient trade route linking Asia and Europe.
• Kanishka - famous Kushana king.

Important questions

1. Which dynasties rose after the Mauryas?
2. Why was Kanishka an important ruler?
3. Name the three early Tamil kingdoms of the south.
4. What was the importance of the Silk Route?

Quick revision

After the Mauryas, India saw many new kingdoms such as the Shungas, Kushanas, Satavahanas and the southern Cholas, Cheras and Pandyas. Trade through the Silk Route and growth in art and literature marked this age of reorganisation.