NCERT Class 6 History Book Summary || Our Pasts 1 Overview

NCERT 6th History Book "Our Pasts 1" provides an overview of ancient Indian history, focusing on various aspects of life, society, and culture during different periods. While I cannot provide a detailed summary of the entire textbook, which is more relevant to any Competitive exams in india like UPSC, State PCS, SSC etc..I can give you a brief outline of the chapters and topics covered in "Our Past 1":

Chapter 1: What, Where, How, and When?

Introduces the concepts of history, archaeology, and historians.

Discusses the importance of studying history and understanding the concept of time. 

It overviews People lived At the Bank of River Narmada, at the mountains of Sulaiman and Kirthar.

The Word 'India' comes from the indus called sindhu in sanskrit

Chapter 2: On the Trail of the Earliest People

Explores the Paleolithic and Mesolithic ages.

Describes the lifestyle, tools, and activities of early human beings. 

Kurnool Caves (Andhra Pradesh), Hunsgi (Karnataka), Bhimbetka (Madhya Pradesh)  are the Examples of Palaeolithic Sites

Chapter 3: From Gathering to Growing Food

Discusses the transition from hunting-gathering to agriculture.

Focuses on the importance of agriculture in the development of settled communities.

Chapter Talks about the Neolithic Sites, for example -  Mehrgarh, Koldihwa, Mahagara, Gufkral, Burzahom, Chirand, Hallur, Paiyampalli.

Chapter 4: In the Earliest Cities

Explores the Harappan civilization (also known as the Indus Valley civilization).

Describes the urban planning, trade, crafts, and religion of the Harappan people.

(We will detailed study in Ncert 12th Textbook 'Themes in Indian History Part 1)

Chapter 5: What Books and Burials Tell Us

Highlights the significance of written records and archaeological findings.

Discusses the Rigveda, early burial sites, and the emergence of social hierarchies.

Chapter 6: Kingdoms, Kings, and an Early Republic

Focuses on the rise of Mahajanapadas (16 great kingdoms) in ancient India.

Discusses the administration, society, and economy of these kingdoms.

Chapter 7: New Questions and Ideas

Explores the religious and philosophical movements in ancient India.

Discusses the concepts of Jainism, Buddhism, and the teachings of Mahavira and Buddha.

Chapter 8: Ashoka, The Emperor Who Gave Up War

Focuses on the Mauryan Empire and the reign of Emperor Ashoka.

Discusses Ashoka's policies, Dhamma, and his impact on society.

Chapter 9: Vital Villages, Thriving Towns

Explores rural and urban life during ancient times.

Discusses the economy, trade, and craftsmanship in villages and towns.

Chapter 10: Traders, Kings, and Pilgrims

Focuses on the trade networks and cultural interactions in ancient India.

Discusses the importance of trade routes and the spread of Indian culture abroad.

Chapter 11: New Empires and Kingdoms

Explores the Gupta Empire and the post-Gupta regional kingdoms.

Discusses the political, social, and cultural developments during this period.

The textbook "Our Past 1" provides an introduction to ancient Indian history, laying the foundation for further historical studies in subsequent grades. It aims to develop an understanding of the past and its relevance to the present.