Discuss the concept of polity, economy and trade during 200 BC-300 AD
Answers
Polity : After the decline of Mauryan empire in 184 BC ,there was political instability and upheaval. Sungas began their rule in India . In the mean time many foreign tribes from Greece and Central Asia attacked India. They established their kingdoms especially in Northwest India and ruled between 200 BC-300 AD. Among these kingdoms were Indo-Greeks, Sakas, Parthians and Kushans. In the South there was a kingdom named Satvahana which ruled South India during this period. So during this period India was divided into various smaller kingdoms and there was the absence of a mighty empire and a centralized administration.
Economy : During this period the economy moved at an accelerated speed. There was the mixed economy. The agricultural growth was very high, trade and commerce was at brisk and crafts were specialized and advanced. The period saw the large number of introduction of silver and gold coins which also testifies there was a high economic growth.
Trade : During this period there was a brisk trade-both internal and external. The improved internal communication system and trade routes and the introduction of coinage played an important role in this flourishing trade. Trade was carried through land as well as through water.India had a trade relations with West Asia, China, Roman Empire and the balance of trade was in favor of India.