Best Answer : Decentralized Governance: The Nature of the State in Early Tamilakam
During the early period in Tamilakam, which encompasses the Sangam Age (c. 300 BCE – 300 CE), the nature of the state was notably different from the more centralized empires of North India. Tamilakam, located in the southern part of the Indian subcontinent, was characterized by a distinct socio-political structure.
- Decentralized Polities: Tamilakam consisted of multiple small and independent chiefdoms known as “nadus” or “muvendar,” each ruled by a local chieftain or king. These nadus enjoyed a degree of autonomy, with their own administrations and territories. This decentralized structure was in contrast to the centralized empires of the north.
- Assembly of Poets and Chieftains: The Sangam period was known for the “Sangam” literary assemblies, where poets and chieftains gathered to discuss and decide important matters. The decisions made in these assemblies reflected a more republican form of governance.
- Feudal System: The society in Tamilakam was organized along feudal lines. The king or chieftain was at the top of the social hierarchy, followed by a class of aristocrats and nobles, and then commoners who engaged in various professions.
- Warrior Culture: Military prowess was highly valued in Tamilakam, and chieftains often led their armies into battle. They were expected to protect their territories and people.
- Trade and Commerce: Tamilakam’s coastal location facilitated trade with regions as far as Rome and Southeast Asia. This trade contributed to the prosperity of the region and its local rulers.
- Local Autonomy: The nadus had a significant degree of local autonomy, with local chiefs having control over their respective territories. This allowed for regional variations in governance and administration.
- Literary Sources: Much of what we know about the nature of the state in early Tamilakam comes from the Sangam literature, particularly the “Puram” poems that describe the heroic exploits of chieftains, their patronage of poets, and the values of their society.
Overall, the early state in Tamilakam was characterized by a decentralized and republican structure with local chieftains exercising a degree of autonomy. It was a society where military valor, trade, and cultural patronage were highly esteemed, and governance was more localized and fragmented compared to the centralized empires of North India.
Happy Learning !! We hope you are liking our blogs , in case any suggestion or request please comment or Contact Us by Ask Question button on top right corner.
For More such question:
https://ignoucorner.com/assignments-programme-wise/
Please refer eGyanKosh for more details: