BIHAR HISTORY FULL INFORMATION

The history of Bihar, a state in eastern India, is long and illustrious, dating back thousands of years. Here’s an overview:

1. Ancient Period:
   • Bihar has a rich ancient history dating back to the time of the Vedic civilization. It was a center of learning and culture during this period.
   • The famous kingdoms of Magadha and Licchavi emerged in the region around the 6th century BCE. Magadha, in particular, became one of the most powerful and prosperous kingdoms in ancient India.
   • Under the reign of rulers like Bimbisara and his son Ajatashatru, Magadha expanded its territory through conquest and diplomacy. The capital of Magadha, Rajgir, and later Pataliputra (modern-day Patna) became major centers of power and culture.
2. Mauryan Empire (4th to 2nd Century BCE):
   • Bihar was at the heart of the Mauryan Empire, one of the largest and most influential empires in ancient Indian history. It was founded by Chandragupta Maurya in the 4th century BCE.
   • The Mauryan Empire reached its zenith under Emperor Ashoka, who embraced Buddhism and propagated its teachings across the empire and beyond. Ashoka’s famous edicts were inscribed on pillars and rocks across Bihar and other parts of India.
3. Gupta and Post-Gupta Period (4th to 7th Century CE):
   • Bihar continued to be an important region during the Gupta Empire, known as the Golden Age of India. The Gupta rulers patronized art, literature, and sciences.
   • Nalanda University, one of the oldest and most renowned centers of learning in ancient India, flourished in Bihar during this period. It attracted scholars and students from across the world.
4. Medieval Period:
   • Bihar witnessed the rule of various dynasties during the medieval period, including the Pala and Sena dynasties. These dynasties contributed to the region’s cultural and intellectual legacy.
   • Nalanda and other centers of learning continued to thrive during this period, attracting scholars not only from India but also from countries like China, Korea, and Tibet.
5. Mughal and British Period:
   • Bihar came under the rule of the Delhi Sultanate and later the Mughal Empire. It saw a period of relative stability and prosperity under Mughal rule.
   • With the advent of the British East India Company, Bihar became a part of British India. It was administered as a part of the Bengal Presidency.
6. Post-Independence Period:
   • After India gained independence in 1947, Bihar became a state in the Indian Union. It continued to face challenges related to poverty, illiteracy, and social inequality.
   • In 2000, Bihar underwent a significant bifurcation, leading to the creation of the state of Jharkhand, which was carved out of its southern region.
   • Bihar has since made strides in various fields such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. However, it continues to grapple with developmental challenges.

Throughout its history, Bihar has been a melting pot of cultures, religions, and ideologies. It has played a crucial role in shaping the socio-cultural and political landscape of India.

 Bihar: A Journey Through Time

Bihar boasts a rich and vibrant history, stretching back thousands of years. Its fertile plains and strategic location have made it a cradle of civilization and a witness to the rise and fall of empires. Here’s a glimpse into its fascinating past:

**Ancient Bihar:**

* **Early Settlements:** Archaeological evidence suggests human settlements in Bihar as early as the Paleolithic era.

* **Magadha Empire:** One of the most powerful empires in ancient India, Magadha (c. 600 BCE – 550 CE) originated in Bihar. Its capital, Pataliputra (modern-day Patna), was a major center of political and cultural activity.

* **Rise of Buddhism and Jainism:** Both religions found fertile ground in Bihar. Buddha attained enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, and Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, was born in Vaishali.

* **Golden Age of Learning:** Nalanda and Vikramshila, two renowned universities, flourished in Bihar, attracting scholars from across Asia.

**Medieval Bihar:**

* **Gupta Empire:** Under the Guptas (c. 320 – 550 CE), Bihar experienced a golden age of cultural and artistic development.

* **Arrival of Islam:** With the conquest of Bihar by Muslim rulers in the 12th century, the region witnessed a new wave of cultural influences.

* **Mughal Rule:** Bihar became a part of the Mughal Empire in the 16th century. During this period, Patna emerged as a major trading center.

**Colonial Era:**

* **British East India Company:** The British gained control of Bihar in the 18th century, transforming it into a major center for indigo and opium production.

* **Champaran Satyagraha:** Mahatma Gandhi launched his first Satyagraha movement in Champaran, Bihar, in 1917, marking a turning point in India’s struggle for independence.

**Independent India:**

* **Bihar as a State:** In 1950, Bihar became a state of independent India.

* **Challenges and Progress:** The state has faced challenges like poverty and social inequality, but it has also made significant strides in education, infrastructure, and economic development.

**Bihar’s rich history is reflected in its numerous historical sites and monuments, including:**

* **Mahabodhi Temple:** A UNESCO World Heritage Site marking the place of Buddha’s enlightenment.

* **Nalanda University Ruins:** The remains of the ancient university, showcasing its architectural grandeur.

* **Vikramshila University Ruins:** Another renowned ancient university, now an archaeological site.

* **Patna Museum:** Housing artifacts and relics from Bihar’s glorious past.

* **Golghar:** A unique granary built by the British, offering panoramic views of Patna.

**Bihar’s history is not just about empires and monuments; it’s also about the resilience and cultural diversity of its people.** The state has produced numerous luminaries in various fields, from literature and art to science and politics. Today, Bihar is a vibrant state looking towards the future while cherishing its rich heritage.