Mahajanapadas, Second Urbanization, and Heterodox Religions

Identify the 16 Mahajanapadas and explain the political, economic, and military factors behind Magadha's dominance.

Describe the socio-economic conditions—urbanization, trade guilds (shrenis), and punch-marked coins—that characterize the second urbanization.

Describe the major trade routes (Uttarapatha, Dakshinapatha) and key urban centers of this period.

Explain the core teachings, monastic organization (Sangha), and social appeal of Buddhism.

Explain the core teachings and ethical framework of Jainism (Ahimsa, Triratnas, Mahavratas).

Compare the social base and patronage of Buddhism and Jainism in this era.

Describe the administrative and revenue innovations under the pre-Mauryan Magadhan and Nanda dynasties.