Ancient History syllabus for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) based on the typical structure of the exam.
Ancient History Syllabus for UPSC CSE (Prelims & Mains)
The Ancient History section is a key part of the General Studies Paper I for the UPSC CSE. It focuses on the history of India from the ancient period up to the early medieval period. Here's a breakdown of the topics usually covered:
1. Prehistoric and Proto-historic Cultures
- Prehistoric India: The Stone Age (Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic); Rock art and cave paintings.
- Harappan Civilization: Indus Valley Civilization (its major sites, features, decline theories, and contributions).
- Neolithic and Chalcolithic Cultures: Early farming societies, transition from hunting-gathering to settled life.
2. Vedic Period
- Early Vedic and Later Vedic Period: Social, political, and economic conditions; Rig Vedic culture, society, and literature.
- Later Vedic Culture: Development of kingdoms, the rise of Brahmanism, philosophical texts (Upanishads, Vedanta), and social stratification (Varna system).