Question

What were the main advantages that helped Magadha to emerge as the most powerful kingdom?

Answer 1

With the help of the following advantages, Magadha emerged as the most powerful kingdom

1. The presence of natural resources helped Magadha’s rise to power in the 6th century BC.
2. Rich deposits of iron ore contributed to the making of effective iron weapons and agricultural tools.
3. Due to strategic locations of both the capitals, Rajgriha (Rajgir) and Pataliputra, it was difficult for any rival to capture these cities.
4. The Magadhan rulers had well-organised, efficient, and powerful armies, which consisted of elephants, horses, and chariots.
5. The Magadhan territory being fertile produced surplus food.
6. The Magadhan rulers gained immensely from trade and commerce.
7. The rivers like Ganga, Son, etc. provided waterways.