Introduction to History and Pre-Historic Society

What is History?

 Definition: History is the systematic record of past events, offering a

comprehensive journey through human experiences—both triumphs and failures.

 Clarity is Key:

o Time: When did it happen?

o Place: Where did it occur?

o Person: Who was involved?

 Without precise answers to these, history loses its authenticity and becomes just a
story.

o Example:

 Story: "Once upon a time, there was a king who fought a battle."

 History: "In 261 BC, King Ashoka of Pataliputra fought the Kalinga
War."

Why Do We Need History?

 Memory as Progress:

o Just like touching fire teaches us not to repeat the mistake, history is society's
memory.

o It prevents us from repeating past errors and guides our future decisions.

 Collective Experience:

o History captures the joys, sorrows, challenges, and wisdom of our ancestors.

o It serves as a beacon, illuminating the path for future generations.

 Cultural Identity:

o Understanding history fosters admiration and respect for our culture and
heritage.

o It inspires us through tales of bravery, sacrifice, and innovation.

Father of History

 Herodotus:

o An ancient Greek historian.

o Called the "Father of History" for his methodical recording of events.

Sources of History
Historians use various sources to reconstruct the past accurately. These are broadly
classified into:

1. Literary Sources

o Written Literature:

 Native Literature: Works produced within a country or culture.

 Foreign Literature: Accounts written by visitors or outsiders.

 Authored by literate individuals.

o Oral Literature:

 Includes folk songs, stories, ballads, and legends.

 Transmitted verbally across generations.

 Often preserved by communities without written scripts.

2. Archaeological Sources

o Material Remains:

 Artifacts crafted or used by prehistoric humans.

 Examples: Pottery shards, tools, coins, inscriptions, monuments, beads,

crystals, bones.

o Excavation:

 A scientific method to uncover buried artifacts.

 Utilizes tools like brushes, trowels, knives, and delicate instruments.

 Helps piece together the lifestyle, culture, and advancements of ancient

societies.

Understanding Prehistoric Society

Stone Age Periods

1. Palaeolithic Age (Old Stone Age):

o Earliest phase of human history.

o Use of simple stone tools.

o Nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyle.

2. Mesolithic Age (Middle Stone Age):

o Transition period with advancements in tool technology.

o Introduction of microliths (small stone tools).

o Beginnings of semi-permanent settlements.

 3. Neolithic Age (New Stone Age):

o Development of agriculture.

o Domestication of animals.

o Permanent settlements and the rise of villages.

Metal Age

 Introduction of Metals:

o Discovery and use of metals like copper and bronze.

o Led to stronger tools and weapons.

 Impact on Civilization:

o Enhanced agricultural productivity.

o Growth of trade due to surplus production.

o Formation of more complex societies and early urban centers.

Key Competencies Developed

 Concept of History:

o Grasping the systematic study of past events and its significance.

 Importance of History:

o Recognizing history as society's collective memory and learning tool.

 Role of Sources:

o Understanding how literary and archaeological sources help reconstruct

history.

 Classification of History:

o Differentiating between historic (recorded history) and prehistoric periods.

 Stone Age Stages:

o Identifying characteristics and developments of Palaeolithic, Mesolithic, and

Neolithic ages.

 Role of Metals:

o Analyzing how metal use transformed societies and propelled civilizations

forward.

Digging Deeper: The Essence of History

History isn't just a chronology of events; it's a tapestry woven from the lives, cultures, and
innovations of people across time. By studying history, we:
  Learn from the Past:

o Avoid repeating mistakes.

o Emulate successful strategies and ideas.

 Understand Cultural Roots:

o Appreciate the diversity and richness of different civilizations.

o Foster a sense of identity and belonging.

 Fuel Progress:

o Innovations and discoveries build upon historical knowledge.

o Societal advancements are often a response to past challenges.

Introduction to History and Prehistoric Society

Chronology in History (Common Era)

 Chronology refers to the arrangement of events in the order of their occurrence.

 The Common Era (C.E.) begins with the traditional date of the birth of Jesus Christ.

o For example, saying the Vijayanagara Empire was founded in 1336 C.E.
means it was established 1336 years after the beginning of the Common Era.

 Other chronological systems include:

o Shakas like Shalivahana Shaka, Vikrama Shaka, and Gupta Shaka.

o The Hijri calendar used in Islamic countries.

 Century Calculation:

o A century equals 100 years.

o We are currently in the 21st century C.E. (which spans from 2001 to 2100).

Note: Understanding chronology helps us sequence historical events and comprehend

the progress of humankind.

Classification of History

History is broadly divided into three periods based on the availability and understanding
of written records:

1. Prehistoric Period:

o Time before the invention or knowledge of writing.

o No written records are available.

o Information is gathered from archaeological sources.

2. Protohistoric Period:
 o Transitional phase where writing existed but cannot be deciphered by modern
historians.

o Examples include the Indus Valley Civilization scripts.

3. Historic Period:

o Time when written records exist, and scripts can be read and understood
today.

o Provides detailed accounts of historical events.

Human Evolution and Migration

 Human evolution began approximately 1.8 million years ago.

 Modern humans first appeared in Africa and later migrated to other parts of the
world.

 This migration and settlement are still subjects of research and debate.

Prehistoric Ages

Prehistory is further divided based on tool technology and lifestyle changes:

1. Paleolithic Age (Old Stone Age)

 Time Period: Roughly 500,000 to 12,000 years ago.

 Characteristics:

o Humans were hunter-gatherers.

o Lived in caves or under rock shelters.

o Used simple stone tools like knives and hand axes made from pebbles.

o Discovered fire during the later part.

o No permanent settlements; nomadic lifestyle.

 Key Sites in India:

o Belan Valley (Madhya Pradesh)

o Hunasagi and Baichbal Valley (Karnataka)

o Kurnool and Amaravati (Andhra Pradesh)

o Attirampakkam (Tamil Nadu)

2. Mesolithic Age (Middle Stone Age)

 Time Period: Approximately 12,000 to 9,000 years ago.

 Characteristics:

o Transitional phase between Paleolithic and Neolithic ages.

 o Use of microliths: small, skillfully crafted stone tools.

o Development of hunting weapons by attaching microliths to wooden

handles.

o Began domesticating animals, leading to pastoralism.

o Artistic expressions through cave paintings.

o Wore clothes made from animal skins.

 Key Sites in India:

o Bhimbetka and Adamgarh (Madhya Pradesh)

o Brahmagiri and Konganahalli (Karnataka)

o Bagor and Ganeshwar (Rajasthan)

o Birbhanpur (West Bengal)

o Vanpalli (Andhra Pradesh)

o Sarai Nahar Rai and Mahadaha (Uttar Pradesh)

3. Neolithic Age (New Stone Age)

 Time Period: Around 9,000 to 5,000 years ago.

 Characteristics:

o Agricultural Revolution: Domestication of plants and animals.

o Shift from nomadic to settled life due to farming.

o Built permanent houses using mud bricks; some regions used underground
dwellings.

o Invented pottery for storing grains.

o Improved stone tools: polished and more efficient.

o Invention of the wheel led to advancements in pottery and transportation.

 Key Sites in India:

o Mehrgarh (Pakistan): Earliest evidence of agriculture.

o Burzahom (Kashmir)

o Sanganakallu, Brahmagiri, Banahalli, Budihal, Hallur, Piklihal, T.

Narasipura, and Utnur (Karnataka)

o Chirand (Bihar)

Metal Ages

1. Chalcolithic Age (Copper and Bronze Age)

  Time Period: About 5,000 years ago.

 Characteristics:

o Introduction of metals, starting with copper.

o Discovery of bronze by mixing copper with tin.

o Continued use of stone tools alongside metal ones.

o Advanced agriculture and animal husbandry techniques.

o Development of trade due to surplus production.

o Led to urbanization, exemplified by the Indus Valley Civilization.

 Key Sites in India:

o Hallur, Banahalli, and Brahmagiri (Karnataka)

2. Iron Age

 Time Period: Began around 3,500 years ago in South India.

 Characteristics:

o Use of iron, a harder and more durable metal.

o Significant advancements in agriculture due to iron tools.

o Increased production led to social and economic changes.

o Emergence of republics and later kingdoms like the Nandas and Mauryas.

 Megalithic Culture:

o Known for large stone burial monuments.

o Reflects complex social rituals and beliefs about life and death.

 Key Sites in Karnataka:

o Banahalli, Hirebenakal, Brahmagiri, Koppa, Heggadehalli, T.

Narasipura, Hemmige, Hallur, Jadigenahalli, Savandurga, Hutridurga,
Pandavara Dinne.

Important Prehistoric Sites in India

 Paleolithic Sites:

o Belan Valley, Hunasagi, Baichbal Valley, Kurnool Caves,

Attirampakkam.

 Mesolithic Sites:

o Bhimbetka (noted for cave paintings), Bagor, Sarai Nahar Rai.

 Neolithic Sites:
 o Mehrgarh, Burzahom, Sanganakallu, Piklihal.

 Megalithic Sites:

o Hirebenakal: Known for numerous megalithic structures.

Significance of Metals in Civilization Development

 Copper and Bronze:

o Enabled stronger tools and weapons.

o Facilitated deeper plowing, leading to surplus agriculture.

o Surplus led to trade and urbanization.

o Copper and bronze artifacts indicate advances in craftsmanship.

 Iron:

o Revolutionized agriculture and warfare.

o Iron tools allowed for clearing dense forests for farming.

o Contributed to the rise of powerful kingdoms and empires.

Understanding Historical Progression

 The Stone Ages mark human reliance on stone tools.

 Transition to the Metal Ages signifies technological advancements.

 Each age reflects changes in:

o Technology: From stone to metal tools.

o Economy: Hunting-gathering to agriculture and trade.

o Society: Nomadic bands to settled communities and complex societies.

India - Our Pride

Introduction

 Awareness and Pride: Education should instill a sense of awareness in students,

fostering pride and respect for one's country, and promoting emotional integration.

 Purpose: To highlight the values that Indians have stood for, their contributions
across various fields, and their achievements.
  Aim: Introduce the timeless values and gifts that India has offered to the world.

Competencies

1. Understanding European Scholars (Orientalists):

o Recognize how modern European scholars helped the world appreciate the
glory of ancient India.

2. Achievements in Knowledge and Science:

o Take pride in the significant contributions of Indians in fields like mathematics,

astronomy, metallurgy, and navigation.

3. Eternal Values Gifted to Mankind:

o Comprehend the enduring values India has provided and their relevance in
modern times.

Key Concepts

1. Respect for Motherland

 Sacred Motherland:

o The phrase “Jananee Janmabhumischa Swargadapi Gariyasi” means

“Mother and Motherland are greater than heaven.”

o India holds a universal respect for the motherland, viewing it as sacred and
paramount.

 Worship of Mother Goddess:

o The tradition of venerating the Mother Goddess has ancient roots in India and
other civilizations.

o Reflects deep reverence for femininity and the land.

2. Evolution from Nomads to Empires

 Settlements Formation:

o Early humans were nomadic but gradually began settling in convenient

places, leading to the formation of villages.

 Growth into Kingdoms and Empires:

o Villages combined to form kingdoms, which further united into empires.

o This progression fostered a concrete sense of patriotism and national

identity.

 Janapada to Mahajanapada:

o Janapada: A realm or territory where people settled.

 o Mahajanapada: Great kingdoms that emerged from these settlements.

3. Names of India

 Bharata:

o The most widely used name, supported by the Indian Constitution.

o Derived from King Bharata, the eldest son of Vrishabhanatha, as per the
Puranas.

o The land he ruled was called Bharata Kanda or Bharata Varsha.

 Hindustan and India:

o Persians (around 3000 years ago) came into contact with people near the
Sindhu River.

 They pronounced 'Sindhu' as 'Hindu' and the land as 'Hindustan'.

o Greeks later referred to the river as 'Indus', leading to the name 'India'.

 Jambudweepa:

o An ancient name used in scriptures, meaning 'Island of the Jamun Trees'.

 Evolution of Names:

o Over centuries, the country's name evolved due to interactions with different
cultures and languages.

4. European Scholars (Orientalists)

 William Jones (1746-1794):

o An English scholar and judge with a deep interest in Sanskrit.

o Quotes: Described Sanskrit's vocabulary as "wonderful."

o Contributions:

 Founded the Asiatic Society in 1784 CE (later called Asiatic Society of

Bengal in 1832 CE).

 Translated significant Sanskrit works into English, including the

Bhagavad Gita and Kalidasa's 'Shakuntala'.

o Impact:

 His translations opened up Indian literature and philosophy to the

Western world.

 Inspired further studies by French and German scholars into Indian

culture and languages.

5. Changes in Place Names

  Ancient to Modern Names:

o Magadha → Bihar

o Kalinga → Odisha

o Chera → Kerala

o Indraprastha → Delhi

o Prayag → Allahabad (now renamed back to Prayagraj)

o Madras → Chennai

o Bombay → Mumbai

o Baroda → Vadodara

 Unchanged Names:

o Kashmir, Nepal, Kailasa, Kurukshetra, Ayodhya, Kashi, Mathura remain

the same.

 Significance:

o Understanding these changes is vital for historical awareness and recognizing

the continuity and evolution of Indian culture and geography.

6. Contributions to Mathematics and Science

 Numerals and Zero:

o Ashoka's Edicts: Use of numbers 2,300 years ago.

o Zero: Invented by Indians, revolutionizing mathematics.

o Numerals: Indians developed the decimal system, fractions, and algebra.

 Astronomy:

o Aryabhata (5th century CE):

 Proposed that the Earth is round and rotates on its axis.

 Stated that the Earth revolves around the Sun.

 His work predates Copernicus by about a thousand years.

 Mathematical Theorems:

o Baudhayana:

 Documented the Pythagoras Theorem centuries before Pythagoras.

o Kanada:

 Ancient sage who proposed the concept of Anu (Atom) over 2,700
years ago.
  Metallurgy:

o Steel Production: Indians knew how to manufacture high-quality steel.

o Iron Pillar of Delhi: Testimony to advanced metallurgy; rust-resistant even

after 1,600 years.

 Navigation and Shipbuilding:

o Shipbuilding: India was a leader; Surat was a prominent shipbuilding center.

o Monsoon Winds: Knowledge of seasonal winds aided navigation and

maritime trade.

 Other Contributions:

o Yoga: A holistic practice for mind and body wellness.

o Sanskrit: An ancient language rich in literature and scientific texts.

7. Influence of Indian Culture Abroad

 Spread of Buddhism:

o Reached Afghanistan, Tibet, Mongolia, China, Korea, Japan, and Sri

Lanka.

o Bamiyan Buddhas: Once the world's tallest Buddha statues in Afghanistan.

 Architectural Marvels:

o Angkor Wat (Cambodia):

 Originally a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu; later became a Buddhist

temple.

 One of the largest religious monuments globally.

o Borobudur (Java, Indonesia):

 Massive 9th-century Buddhist temple.

 Reflects Indian influence in architecture and religion.

 Cultural Impact:

o Dance and Music: Indian classical forms influenced Southeast Asian arts.

o Literature:

 Epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata are integral to cultures in

Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and beyond.

o Language: Sanskrit words are found in many Southeast Asian languages.

 Legacy:
 o Indian culture contributed to the development of art, religion, and societal
structures in other countries.

o These cultural exchanges happened peacefully through trade and scholarship.

Relevance in Modern Times

 Global Recognition:

o Indian contributions are now widely acknowledged worldwide.

o Inspire contemporary developments in science, philosophy, and spirituality.

 Cultural Integration:

o Emphasizes the importance of understanding one's heritage.

o Promotes unity and respect among diverse cultures.

 Educational Importance:

o Studying these achievements encourages innovation and pride in one's

country.

o Provides valuable lessons on peaceful cultural exchange and mutual respect.

Our Pride, Our State - Karnataka

Introduction

Karnataka isn't just a state—it's a vibrant tapestry woven from rich history, diverse
cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. Knowing about our natural resources, agriculture,
industries, and unique features deepens our connection to this incredible land. Let's dive
into the heart of Karnataka and explore its four revenue divisions, each brimming with its
own stories and treasures.

Competencies

1. Historical Significance: Grasp the importance of Karnataka's divisions, their

historical backgrounds, and the significance of each district.

2. Economic and Geographical Insights: Understand the crops grown, population

details, industries, rivers, and other key aspects of each division.

3. Regional Uniqueness: Identify your own division, its unique traits, natural
resources, wildlife, and bird sanctuaries.

4. Notable Personalities: Recognize well-known figures in arts, literature, sports,

politics, and more who hail from Karnataka.

1. Historical Background of Karnataka

 Ancient Roots: Our state boasts a history stretching back over two thousand
years, with many regions dotted with prehistoric Stone Age sites.

 Formation of Districts: Various districts were established during the British rule,
often undergoing changes in headquarters and boundaries. This has resulted in
districts of varying sizes—some sprawling, others more compact.

 Administrative Divisions: For efficient governance, Karnataka is divided into four

revenue divisions:

1. Bengaluru Division – 9 districts

2. Mysuru Division – 8 districts

3. Belagavi Division – 7 districts

4. Kalaburagi Division – 7 districts

o Total Districts: 31

 Leadership: Each district is headed by a Deputy Commissioner, and each

division is overseen by a Divisional Commissioner.

1.1 Bengaluru Division

Overview

 Capital Spotlight: Home to Bengaluru, the state capital and a global tech hub.

 Location: Nestled in the southern part of Karnataka.

  Comprising Districts:

1. Bengaluru Urban

2. Bengaluru Rural

3. Kolar

4. Chikkaballapur

5. Ramanagara

6. Tumakuru

7. Chitradurga

8. Davanagere

9. Shivamogga

1.1.1 Historical Background

 Early Dynasties:

o Ganga Dynasty:

 Capital: Kuvalalapura (modern-day Kolar).

 One of the earliest ruling dynasties in the region.

 Subsequent Rulers:

o Cholas

o Hoysalas

o Vijayanagara Empire

o Marathas

o Mysuru Kingdom

o Bijapur's Adil Shahi Sultanate

 The Palegaras:

o During the Vijayanagara period, local chieftains known as Palegaras

governed regions called Palepattus.

o Nayakas were leaders under the Palegaras, loyal to the Vijayanagara kings.

o Prominent Palepattus included Keladi, Chitradurga, Yelahanka,

Chikkaballapura, and others.

1.1.2 Natural Resources

Climate
  Varied Climate:

o Kolar: Hot and arid.

o Shivamogga (Malnad region): Receives the highest rainfall; lush and

verdant.

o Chitradurga: Experiences the lowest rainfall.

o Tumakuru, Davanagere, Bengaluru Rural, Ramanagara,

Chikkaballapur: Moderate rainfall with a tropical monsoon climate.

Rivers and Water Bodies

 Origins: Many rivers spring from the Western Ghats.

 Major Rivers:

o Uttara Pinakini (North Pinakini)

o Dakshina Pinakini (South Pinakini)

o Vedavathi

o Shimsha

o Tungabhadra

o Sharavathi

o Varada

 Notable Waterfalls:

o Jog Falls: Formed by the Sharavathi River in Shivamogga; one of India's

highest waterfalls.

o Muthyalamaduvu: A picturesque waterfall in Bengaluru district.

 Dams and Reservoirs:

o Gajanur Dam and Tunga Dam: Both in Shivamogga district.

o Vanivilas Sagar Dam: Located in Hiriyur taluk of Chitradurga, an irrigation

project by Mysuru kings.

o Markonahalli Dam: Situated in Kunigal taluk of Tumakuru.

 Lakes: The division is dotted with numerous lakes, essential for irrigation and
drinking water.

Environmental Concerns

 Drying Rivers: Environmental pollution, deforestation, and rapid urbanization have

led to many rivers drying up, especially in Bengaluru Urban.
  Disappearing Lakes: Urban expansion is causing lakes to vanish due to land
conversion.

 Water Scarcity: There's an urgent need to protect water sources and recharge
groundwater levels.

Minerals

 Gold:

o Kolar Gold Fields (KGF): Once India's most productive gold mines; now
exhausted.

 Iron Ore:

o Found in Chitradurga and Tumakuru districts.

 Copper:

o Deposits located in Chitradurga.

1.1.3 Forests, Wildlife, and National Parks

Forest Cover

 Shivamogga: Boasts dense forests, part of the biodiverse Western Ghats.

 Bengaluru Urban: Has minimal forest cover due to urbanization.

 Forest Types: Range from evergreen to deciduous forests.

Flora

 Common Trees:

o Bamboo

o Banyan

o Tamarind

o Sandalwood

o Dindiga

o Teak

o Jali

o Mango

o Neem

 Minor Forest Produce: Provides livelihoods through collection of products like

honey, herbs, and medicinal plants.

Mountains
  Halurameshwara Gudda: Tallest mountain in the division, located in Chitradurga.

 Other Peaks:

o Kavaledurga

o Chandragutti

o Kodachadri

o Nandidurga

Wildlife

 Fauna:

o Big Cats: Tigers, leopards, wildcats.

o Herbivores: Deer, bison, wild pigs.

o Others: Bears, wolves.

 Conservation Efforts:

o Establishment of multiple wildlife sanctuaries and national parks to protect

flora and fauna.

Protected Areas

 Jogimatti Forest Reserve: Chitradurga.

 Bannerghatta National Park: Bengaluru Urban; home to a variety of wildlife

including tigers and elephants.

 Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: Shivamogga; a tiger reserve.

 Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary: Shivamogga; rich in biodiversity.

 Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary: Shivamogga.

 Bird Sanctuaries:

o Gudavi and Mandagadde in Shivamogga.

o Kaggaladu in Tumakuru.

o Ramadevara Betta Vulture Sanctuary: Ramanagara; dedicated to the

conservation of vultures.

o Jayamangali Blackbuck Sanctuary: Tumakuru; protects the elegant

blackbuck.

1.1.4 Agriculture and Industrial Growth

Agriculture

 Main Occupation: The majority of the population relies on agriculture.

 Farming Types:

o Dryland Agriculture: Predominant due to varying rainfall; depends heavily

on the monsoon.

o Irrigated Farming: More prominent in Shivamogga due to better water

resources.

 Soil Types:

o Red Sandy Soil: Common across the division; suitable for certain crops.

o Black Soil: Found in pockets; ideal for cotton and other crops.

 Major Crops:

o Food Grains:

 Ragi (Finger Millet)

 Maize

 Paddy (Rice)

 Pulses

o Oilseeds:

 Groundnuts

o Commercial Crops:

 Coconut

 Arecanut

 Cotton

 Sugarcane

o Sericulture:

 Mulberry Cultivation: Especially in Bengaluru Rural, Ramanagara,

Kolar, and Chikkaballapur; forms the backbone of the silk industry.

 Horticulture:

o Fruits:

 Sapota (Chikoo)

 Papaya

 Jackfruit

 Oranges

 Bananas
Dietary Habits

 Staple Foods:

o Ragi Rotis: A traditional staple made from finger millet.

o Rice: Consumed widely in various forms.

o Chapatis: Wheat-based flatbreads that have gained popularity.

 Festive Foods:

o Sweets: Payasa, holige, kichadi, shavige are savored during festivals.

o Cultural Practices: Non-vegetarian dishes are customary in certain festivals.

Agricultural Infrastructure

 Markets:

o Agricultural Produce Markets: Established in all taluk and district centers

to facilitate direct sales for farmers.

 Storage:

o Granaries and Warehouses: Available for farmers to store their harvest

safely.

Industrial Growth

 Industries:

o Silk Industry: Boosted by widespread mulberry cultivation.

o Tech and IT:

 Bengaluru Urban: Known as the "Silicon Valley of India," hosting

numerous tech giants and startups.