Gupta Empire | |
---|---|
320–550 | |
Capital | Pataliputra |
Dominant mode of production | Feudalism |
Government | Monarchy |
Area | |
• Total | 3,500,000 km² |
The Gupta Empire was a state in ancient India.
Economy
Agriculture was highly organized and irrigation was widespread. India participated in a global market with Arabia, Western Asia, and China and traded metals, gems, textiles, spices, salt, and exotic animals. Banks and money-lending were common, and guilds regulated work.[1]
Government
Village councils and courts managed local affairs.[1]
Religion
Hinduism was the religion of the ruling class and upheld a traditional and metaphysical order based on caste and state. Buddhism applied to all classes and advocated for a moral lifestyle but was later corrupted to justify social inequality.[1]