what were the reason for the rise of magadha as an empire in 16 century NCE? 400 words
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The period from the 6th century bce in the history of north India witnessed the transition into the early historic phase, marked by the formation of territorial states – both monarchical and non‐monarchical – the onset of the second urbanization, and the introduction of metallic currency and a more complex society. North India experienced the emergence of several territorial political entities, known as mahajanapadas. Among the 16 mahajanapadas the monarchical states of Kosala, Vatsa, Avanti, and Magadha, along with the non‐monarchical mahajanapada of the Vrijis or Vajjis, attained political prominence by eclipsing other contemporary powers. However, it was the mahajanapada of Magadha which ultimately rose to prominence. The factors that contributed to the rise of Magadha were the strategic locations of its two capitals Rajagriha and Pataliputra, very rich alluvial soil contributing to agricultural surplus production, and the availability of minerals, which resulted in the introduction of iron tools especially for warfare. During this period at Magadha we find three dynasties who contributed to the emergence of Magadha as a superpower: Haryanka, Saisunaga, and the Nanda dynasties.