4. Shishunaga, Nanda Dynasties, Economy & Terms

Shishunaga (Founder)

Defeated Nagadasaka, the last ruler of the Haryanka Dynasty - Defeated Avanti and merged it with Magadha.

Kalashoka

Second ruler of the Shishunaga dynasty, permanently shifted the capital to Pataliputra and patronized the Second Buddhist Council at Vaishali.

Mahapadmananda

Founder of Nanda dynasty - Handwritten note adds Son of Shishunaga king & Shudra woman, making him India's 1st non-kshatriya emperor.

Mahapadmananda Titles

Ekarat (Sole Sovereign) and Sarvakshatrantaka (Destroyer of all Kshatriyas).

Dhananada

Last king of Nanda Dynasty - Alexander invaded India during his reign (326 BC) - Introduced "Nandopakramani", a measuring unit.

Battle of Hydaspes

Alexander defeated Porus on the banks of Hydaspes (Jhelum) in 326BC.

Mahajanapada Pottery

Northern black polished wares (NBPW) were used for pottery.

Mahajanapada Coins

Punch-marked coins made of silver were used as the form of money for trade purposes - Gold coins such as Nishka and Satmana were also used.

Mahajanapada Trade

Artisans and merchants formed associations called Shrenis (Guilds) that were collectively referred to as Nigama.

Mahajanapada Craft and Architecture

Craft was hereditary - Iron ploughshare played a crucial role in the empire's agricultural success (second urbanization after Harappa).

Bhojaka / Gramabhojaka

Village Headman.

Gahapatis

Wealthy property owners, who employed Slaves or Hired Labourers.

Shaulkika / Shulkadhyaksha

Toll-tax collecting officers.

Bhaga

Tax (1/6th of produced).

Bali

Voluntary Offerings to the king.