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Class 7 Social Science Chapter 4 New Beginnings: Cities and States

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I. Chapter Summary:

This chapter discusses the emergence and growth of cities and states in ancient India during the post-Harappan period. It explores the development of urban centers, the role of kings and political systems, and how states were formed. The chapter also highlights the social, economic, and political changes that led to new governance structures and the rise of city life, trade, and cultural developments.

II. Key Concepts Covered:

• Post-Harappan Urbanization: Growth of new cities after the decline of the Harappan civilization.

• Emergence of States: Formation of political units ruled by kings or assemblies.

• Role of Kings: Governance, administration, and military functions.

• Social Structure: Division of society, roles of different groups, and governance participation.

• Trade and Economy: Expansion of trade networks within and beyond states.

• Cultural Developments: Growth of arts, crafts, and religious practices in cities.

• City Planning: Features of early cities including fortifications, markets, and public buildings.

III. Important Questions:

(A) Multiple Choice Questions (1 Mark):

1. Which period saw the rise of new cities after the Harappan civilization?
   a) Vedic period
   b) Mauryan period
   c) Gupta period
   d) Mughal period
   Answer: a) Vedic period
   (PYQ 2021)

2. Who was at the head of the state during this period?
   a) Priests
   b) Kings
   c) Merchants
   d) Farmers
   Answer: b) Kings

3. The places where people bought and sold goods were called:
   a) Forts
   b) Markets
   c) Temples
   d) Palaces
   Answer: b) Markets

4. Which of these was NOT a function of the king?
   a) Law-making
   b) Military leadership
   c) Teaching students
   d) Administration
   Answer: c) Teaching students

(B) Short Answer Questions (2/3 Marks):

1. Define a state as understood in the post-Harappan period.

2. What role did kings play in the governance of states?

3. Describe the significance of markets in new cities.

4. How did social structures change with the rise of cities?

(C) Long Answer Questions (5 Marks):

1. Explain the features of new cities that emerged after the Harappan period.

2. Discuss the role and powers of kings in the early states.

3. Describe how trade contributed to the growth of cities.

4. Explain the social changes that took place with urbanization.

(D) HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills) Questions:

1. Why do you think kings needed to have military power in early states? Explain.

2. How might the growth of cities have affected rural communities? Discuss.

IV. Key Formulas/Concepts:

• No mathematical formulas; key definitions and explanations related to urbanization, state formation, governance, and economy.

• Understanding of political, social, and economic changes during the period.

V. Deleted Portions (CBSE 2025–2026):

No portions have been deleted from this chapter as per the rationalized NCERT textbooks.

VI. Chapter-Wise Marks Bifurcation (Estimated – CBSE 2025–2026):

VII. Previous Year Questions (PYQs):

• 2022: MCQ on state formation (1 mark)

• 2021: Short answer on role of kings (2 marks)

• 2020: Long answer on city features (5 marks)

• 2019: HOTS question on social changes (3 marks)

VIII. Real-World Application Examples to Connect with Topics:

• Modern urban governance and administration based on early state models.

• Markets and trade routes shaping economic hubs today.

• Social stratification and political power dynamics in contemporary societies.

IX. Student Tips & Strategies for Success:

• Relate historical urban development to present-day cities.

• Practice map-based questions showing early states and cities.

• Use timelines to understand sequence of historical events.

• Revise previous year questions and sample papers regularly.

X. Career Guidance & Exploration:

• For Classes 9–10:

  • Foundation for History, Political Science, and Economics streams.

  • Useful for NTSE, Olympiads, and other competitive exams.

• For Classes 11–12:

  • Relevant for careers in History, Archaeology, Political Science, and Urban Planning.

  • Helps in preparation for UPSC and other civil services examinations.

XI. Important Notes:

• Always consult the latest CBSE syllabus and NCERT updates.

• Focus on understanding the impact of urbanization and state formation.

• Consistent practice and conceptual clarity are essential for success.