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4 months ago in Ancient History By Meera

What are the Gana-Sanghas (republics) of ancient India, and where can I find analysis?

I’ve come across references to Gana-Sanghas or ancient Indian republics in early history texts. What exactly were these political systems, and where can I find solid scholarly analysis on them?

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By Jasmin Answered 3 months ago

The Gana-Sanghas were non-monarchical political formations in ancient India, roughly from the 6th century BCE to the 4th century CE. They functioned as oligarchic or republican systems, governed by assemblies of elite clans, usually from the K?atriya class. Well-known examples include the Vrijji Confederacy and the Shakyas, the clan of the Buddha. For in-depth analysis, beyond general histories like Keay, key works include J. P. Sharma’s Republics in Ancient India, K. P. Jayaswal’s Ancient Indian Republics, and A. S. Altekar’s The State and Government in Ancient India.

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