Sixteen major states now cover northern India, together with many smaller units. Some of these states are ruled by oligarchies of noblemen or princes. Most, however, are monarchies.
Ancient India has seen the reappearance of urban civilization over the past few centuries: Towns and cities are scattered across north India, mostly on the major trade routes of the Ganga river system and into central Asia, or down to the coast and the sea route to the Middle East. A Sanskrit script is probably in use by this date and, shortly, a system of coinage will appear.
This period of Indian history is one of great intellectual ferment, with the religious assumptions underlying the Vedas, the ancient Hindu scriptures, under challenge from various quarters. Two teachings of enduring significance, Buddhism, and Jainism – the former to become a major world faith - emerge from this environment.
Related Timelines:
Timeline of World History
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