"History of India II (c. 300 BCE – 500 CE)" is a meticulously researched and student-friendly textbook authored by Dr. Chandana Goswami and Dr. Suprity Barua Bhuyan, designed according to the FYUGP NEP 2020 curriculum for B.A. 3rd Semester History Major (HISC3).

This book delves into a critical and transformative period in Indian history, covering nearly eight centuries from the post-Mauryan era to the early classical age. It offers a comprehensive study of political developments, cultural achievements, economic changes, and religious transitions in ancient India. Special emphasis is placed on primary sources, historiographical debates, and archaeological findings to help students develop a nuanced understanding of the past.

Structured to meet the needs of undergraduate learners, the text is written in clear, accessible language with thematic clarity, conceptual depth, and academic rigour. It is ideal for students of Gauhati University and other Indian universities following the FYUGP syllabus.

? Unit-Wise Content Overview:

UNIT 1: Changing Political Formations – I

• The Mauryan Empire: its extent, sources, inscriptions, and decline

• Ashoka’s Dhamma and administration

• Post-Mauryan politics: The Sunga and Kanva dynasties

• The rise and development of the Satavahanas

UNIT 2: Changing Political Formations – II

• Foreign rulers in India: Indo-Greeks, Sakas, and Pallavas

• The rise and governance of the Kushanas

• The Gupta Empire: sources, administration, achievements, and decline

• Contemporary dynasties of the Guptas

UNIT 3: Economy and Society

• Expansion of the agrarian economy and land revenue systems

• Agricultural developments from Post-Mauryan to Gupta period

• Irrigation, crop spread, and economic expansion

• Growth of urban centers and craft production

• Trade networks: internal, external, and metallic coinage

• Social stratification: Varna, Jati, and untouchability

UNIT 4: Cultural Developments (c. 300 BCE – CE 750)

• Religious transformations in Buddhism, Jainism, and Puranic Hinduism

• Literature: Sanskrit, Pali, Prakrit, and Tamil traditions

• Scientific and technical treatises in ancient India

• Art & architecture during Mauryan, Post-Mauryan, Gupta, and Vakataka periods

• Special focus on Ajanta paintings and temple art traditions