Medieval Towns and Economic Functions

The video explores the diverse functions of medieval towns, including administrative, temple, and commercial roles. It highlights Tanjavur as a key administrative center and temple town, emphasizing the economic and social significance of temples. The emergence of small towns and their market dynamics are discussed, along with the role of trade guilds and routes. The video also covers the craftsmanship in towns and the changing fortunes of towns like Ahmedabad and Tanjavur.

What were the primary functions of medieval towns?

• Only religious centers

• A combination of administrative, commercial, and religious functions

• Only commercial hubs

• Only administrative centers

What was Tanjavur known for during the Chola dynasty?

• Its military strength

• Its exquisite bronze idols and temple architecture

• Its maritime trade

• Its vast agricultural lands

How did temple towns contribute to urbanization?

• By focusing solely on religious activities

• By serving as military bases

• By being centers of pilgrimage and economic activity

• By being isolated from trade routes

What role did small towns play in the medieval economy?

• They served as market hubs for local and distant trade

• They were primarily residential areas

• They were centers for military training

• They were isolated from major trade routes

What was a common feature of small towns in medieval India?

• They had market streets called 'hatta'

• They were known for their large temples

• They were primarily agricultural

• They had large universities

Which communities became principal trading groups in medieval India?

• The British East India Company

• The Mughal emperors

• The Chola and Pandya dynasties

• The Marwari Oswal and Gujarati traders

What was a significant outcome of European traders arriving in India?

• The decline of traditional crafts

• The introduction of new agricultural techniques

• The rise of Indian textile exports

• The decline of Indian spices

What was the primary reason for the decline of towns like Tanjavur?

• Lack of resources

• Natural disasters

• Competition from European manufactured goods

• Invasion by foreign powers

What was the significance of the Silk Route for Kabul?

• It was used for agricultural exports

• It was a path for military conquests

• It was a major trade route for horses and other goods

• It was a route for religious pilgrimages

What was the 'lost wax technique' used for?

• Creating pottery

• Making bronze statues

• Weaving textiles

• Building temples