Question

The History of Pataliputra

Each city had a history of its own. Pataliputra, for instance, began as a village known as Pataligrama. Then, in the fifth century BCE, the Magadhan rulers decided to shift their capital from Rajagaha to this settlement and renamed it. By the fourth century BCE, it was the capital of the Mauryan Empire and one of the largest cities in Asia. Subsequently, its importance apparently declined. When the Chinese pilgrim Xuan Zang visited the city in the seventh century CE, he found it in ruins, and with a very small population.

What role did Pataliputra play in the history of the Magadhan empire?

Hint:

Pataliputra became synonymous with the power and organization of the Mauryan administration.

Answer 1

Pataliputra played a crucial role in the rise and administration of the Magadhan empire. After becoming the capital in the fifth century BCE, it served as the political and administrative center. Under the Mauryas, it flourished as one of Asia’s largest cities and became symbolic of imperial strength and governance. It was a major seat of power during the height of Magadhan dominance.