History of Bihar Notes

Ancient Period (Before Common Era):

Magadha Empire: Bihar, particularly the region of Magadha, was pivotal in ancient India due to its strategic location in the fertile Gangetic plains. It emerged as a powerful Mahajanapada (great kingdom) around the 6th century BCE. Magadha’s prominence was enhanced under rulers like Bimbisara and later Chandragupta Maurya.
Haryanka Dynasty: The Haryanka dynasty, with its capital at Rajgir, marked the early political consolidation of Magadha. Bimbisara, the most notable ruler, expanded Magadha’s territory through diplomacy and military campaigns.
Maurya Dynasty: Founded by Chandragupta Maurya in 322 BCE, the Maurya Empire became the first pan-Indian empire, encompassing most of the Indian subcontinent. Pataliputra (modern-day Patna) was its capital under Chandragupta and his grandson Ashoka. Ashoka, known for his conversion to Buddhism and propagation of dharma, erected inscriptions and pillars across his empire, including the famous Ashoka Pillars at sites like Sarnath and Bodh Gaya.
Nalanda and Vikramashila: During the Gupta and Pala periods (5th to 12th centuries CE), Bihar was renowned for its centers of learning. Nalanda University, founded in the 5th century CE, was a preeminent center for Buddhist studies, attracting scholars from across Asia. Vikramashila, established by King Dharmapala of the Pala dynasty, also flourished as a major seat of Buddhist learning and intellectual exchange.

Pala Dynasty: The Pala dynasty, ruling from the 8th to the 12th centuries, played a significant role in Bihar’s medieval history. The Palas were patrons of Buddhism and promoted the spread of Mahayana Buddhism across Southeast Asia. They supported the construction of monasteries, temples, and institutions like Vikramashila University, which contributed to Bihar’s reputation as a center of Buddhist scholarship.
Turkish Invasions: Bihar experienced invasions by Turkish rulers from Central Asia starting in the 11th century. These invasions, initially led by Mahmud of Ghazni and later by other Turkish dynasties, brought significant changes to Bihar’s political landscape. The Turks established their rule in parts of Bihar, leading to cultural interactions and the assimilation of Central Asian and Indian traditions.
Bhakti Movement: The medieval period in Bihar also witnessed the rise of the Bhakti movement, a socio-religious reform movement emphasizing devotion (bhakti) to a personal god. Saints like Kabir, Guru Nanak, Ramananda, and others propagated monotheistic beliefs, social equality, and religious harmony. Bihar became a fertile ground for the spread of these ideas, influencing religious practices and social norms.

British Rule: Bihar came under British rule during the 18th century as part of the Bengal Presidency. The British established administrative control from Patna, which became a key center for trade, governance, and education in eastern India. They introduced modern administrative reforms, legal systems, and infrastructure projects such as railways and telegraphs, which transformed Bihar’s socio-economic structure.
Freedom Movement: Bihar played a crucial role in India’s freedom struggle against British colonial rule. Leaders like Dr. Rajendra Prasad, who later became India’s first President, Sri Krishna Sinha (Bihar Kesari), and Jayaprakash Narayan (JP) were prominent figures in the independence movement. Bihar witnessed mass movements, protests, and civil disobedience campaigns that contributed to the national struggle for independence.

Formation of Bihar State: After India gained independence in 1947, Bihar became a separate state in 1950 based on linguistic considerations. Patna was designated as its capital, marking a new phase in Bihar’s political and administrative history.
Socio-economic Challenges: Post-independence, Bihar faced challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, and socio-economic disparities. Developmental efforts focused on improving infrastructure, healthcare, education, and agricultural productivity to uplift the standard of living in rural and urban areas.
Political Landscape: Bihar’s political landscape has been dynamic, witnessing the emergence of various political parties and alliances. The state has been pivotal in national politics, with its large electorate playing a crucial role in parliamentary elections and shaping political outcomes at the national level.