Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
The gradual decline of towns was an important feature of which period?
Solution & Analysis
Answer: A
Concept
Urbanization cycles in ancient India were often disrupted by external invasions and internal socio-economic transformations, leading to a shift from urban centers to rural agrarian economies.Explanation
Archaeological and literary evidence from the late Gupta period (4th-6th century CE) shows a clear 'urban decay'. Significant cities that flourished during the Kushan era began to show signs of abandonment or reduced population.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Huna Invasions: Nomadic tribes from Central Asia plundered major cities in North India, breaking the urban infrastructure.
Logic 2: Economic Shifts: The decline of long-distance trade with the Roman Empire reduced the wealth of urban mercantile classes.
Logic 3: Administrative Decentralization: The rise of feudalism led to power shifting to local rural lords, reducing the political importance of centralized capitals.