Early Medieval Political Developments in India

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on the key political developments and dynasties in Early Medieval India.

Rajputs

Warrior clans that emerged in medieval India, often ruled by Kshatriya lineages.

Feudalism

A political system characterized by the relationship between landowners and vassals, involving land grants in exchange for military and fiscal obligations.

Maharajadhiraja

A title used by paramount kings indicating their supreme status over subordinate rulers.

Paramara Dynasty

An Indian dynasty that ruled Malwa and surrounding areas, established in the 9th or 10th centuries.

Brahman

A member of the priestly class in Hindu society, traditionally responsible for religious duties and rituals.

Vassal

A subordinate ruler or lord in a feudal system who owes allegiance and service to a higher authority.

Agnikula Theory

A theory positing that certain Rajput clans emerged from fire during a great sacrifice conducted by sage Vasishtha.

Gurjara-Pratihara

An imperial power that ruled much of Northern India from the mid-8th to the 11th century, instrumental in containing Arab invasions.

Tripartite Struggle

A prolonged struggle for dominance in Northern India involving the Palas, Pratiharas, and Rashtrakutas.

Didda

A noted queen of Kashmir known for her successful rule during the early medieval period.

Dharmapala

A significant ruler of the Pala dynasty known for his military expansion and patronage of Buddhism.

Mahipal I

A prominent king of the Pala dynasty, noted for reviving Buddhism and facing invasions from rival kingdoms.

Somapura Mahavihara

A famous Buddhist monastery established during the Pala period, known for its contribution to Buddhist learning.

Kailasanath Temple

An impressive rock-cut temple attributed to the Rashtrakutas, known for its intricate sculptures and architecture.

Chandellas

A Rajput clan that established a dynasty in Bundelkhand, known for constructing the famous temples of Khajuraho.

Kalachuri Dynasty

A dynasty that ruled parts of central India during the medieval period, often involved in conflict with neighboring kingdoms.

Gahadavala Dynasty

A ruling dynasty in northern India during the 11th and 12th centuries, noted for its conflicts with the Ghaznavids.

Devapala

A ruler of the Pala dynasty who significantly expanded his territory and supported Buddhism.