Introduction – Changes in India from 8th to 18th Century

• The period from 700 CE to 1750 CE saw major changes in India’s politics, society, and culture.
• Many new rulers and dynasties emerged.
• Trade, agriculture, and towns grew, making India a powerful region.
• Religious and cultural traditions changed, leading to the rise of new beliefs and practices.

New and Old Terminologies – How Words and Meanings Changed

• Over time, the meanings of words changed.
• Example:
  • Hindustan (earlier) → Meant the land of the people living in the Indian subcontinent.
  • Hindustan (later) → Became associated with modern India.

Changes in Language

• Persian and Arabic words became common due to Islamic influence.
• Many Sanskrit words disappeared or changed in meaning.

Historians and Their Sources – Studying the Past

• Historians study manuscripts, inscriptions, and coins to learn about this period.
• They also use travelers’ accounts, paintings, and archaeological evidence.

Sources of History

• Manuscripts – Handwritten books in Persian, Sanskrit, and Arabic.
• Inscriptions– Writings on stone and metal.
• Coins – Help in understanding trade and economy.
• Travelers’ Writings – Ibn Battuta and Al-Biruni wrote about India.

New Social and Political Groups

• New ruling dynasties like the Rajputs, Cholas, and Delhi Sultans emerged.
• Merchants and traders became powerful, as trade grew.
• Different castes and communities settled in new regions.

Changes in Society

• Brahmins and priests became advisors to kings.
• Craftsmen and artisans formed guilds (trade organizations).
• Nomadic groups settled and took up farming.

Regions and Kingdoms – The Rise of New Rulers

• Small kingdoms grew into large regional empires.
• The Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire controlled vast territories.

Important Dynasties

• Cholas (South India) → Known for strong navy and temple architecture.
• Rajputs (Rajasthan & North India) → Brave warriors who ruled many small kingdoms.
• Delhi Sultanate (1206–1526 CE) → Ruled by Turks and Afghans.
• Mughals (1526–1707 CE) → Ruled a large empire and promoted art and culture.

Religious Developments – The Spread of New Beliefs

• Hinduism and Islam became dominant religions.
• Bhakti and Sufi movements spread ideas of love, devotion, and equality.

Bhakti Movement (Hinduism)

• Encouraged personal devotion to God.
• Opposed caste system and rituals.
• Famous Bhakti saints: Kabir, Mirabai, Tulsidas.

Sufi Movement (Islam)

• Sufi saints preached love and unity.
• Opposed strict religious rules.
• Famous Sufis: Nizamuddin Auliya, Baba Farid.

Economic Changes – Growth of Trade and Agriculture

• Agriculture improved with new irrigation techniques.
• Trade expanded due to better roads and sea routes.

Agriculture Growth

• Canals and wells were built for irrigation.
• New crops like rice, sugarcane, and cotton were grown.

Trade and Economy

• Silk and spices were exported to the Middle East and Europe.
• Cities like Delhi, Surat, and Hampi became major trade centers.

Conclusion

• Between 700–1750 CE, India saw major political, social, and economic changes.
• New rulers and dynasties like the Cholas, Delhi Sultans, and Mughals rose to power.
• Trade, agriculture, and cities expanded, making India a wealthy region.
• The Bhakti and Sufi movements promoted religious harmony.
• Historians study manuscripts, inscriptions, and coins to learn about this period.