Later Vedic Age

The Later Vedic Age (1000-500 BCE) was a significant period in ancient Indian history, characterized by the transition from pastoralism to a more settled agricultural society. This period followed the Early Vedic Age (1500-1000 BCE), and was marked by significant cultural, social, and political changes.

Social Structure: In the Early Vedic Age, the society was divided into four groups called Varnas - Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras. However, the Varna system was relatively flexible during this time. In the Later Vedic Age, the Varna system became more rigid, with caste-based occupations and social hierarchy becoming more prominent.
Economy: The Early Vedic Age was characterized by a predominantly pastoral and nomadic lifestyle, with the Rigveda mentioning cattle rearing as the primary occupation. In the Later Vedic Age, there was a shift towards a settled agricultural society, with the cultivation of rice, wheat, and barley becoming more widespread.
Religious Practices: In the Early Vedic Age, the primary religious texts were the four Vedas - Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda. The Later Vedic Age saw the development of the Brahmanas, Aranyakas, and Upanishads, which introduced complex rituals and philosophical concepts. The importance of rituals and sacrifices increased during this period, leading to the emergence of a priestly class.
Political System: The Early Vedic Age was characterized by tribal organization and small, autonomous political units called Janapadas. The Later Vedic Age witnessed the emergence of larger political units called Mahajanapadas, which were governed by kings and their councils. The concept of divine kingship also evolved during this period, with kings assuming the role of protectors and upholders of Dharma.
Art and Literature: The Later Vedic Age produced a rich body of literature, including the Brahmanas, Aranyakas, and Upanishads. The development of the Sanskrit language also took place during this period. The art and architecture of this period, though not well-documented, laid the foundation for the subsequent Mauryan and Gupta periods.

Time Frame and Geographic Spread:

The Later Vedic Age lasted from around 1000 BCE to 500 BCE. This period saw the expansion of Vedic culture from the northwestern part of the Indian subcontinent to the Gangetic plains, covering present-day states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and parts of Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan. The migration and settlements in the fertile Gangetic plains facilitated the development of agriculture and the emergence of larger political units.