Reassessing the Historiography of Jharkhand (1200–1750 CE) Based on Archaeological Remains

1200-1750 ई. के झारखंड में पुरातात्विक अवशेषों के आधार पर इतिहास-लेखन का पुनर्मूल्यांकन

Abstract

This study presents a reassessment of the historiography of Jharkhand during the period 1200–1750 CE based on archaeological evidence. Traditional historical narratives, largely derived from Persian court chronicles, Mughal records, and colonial sources, have often portrayed the region as a "frontier" and "underdeveloped" area. In contrast, archaeological remains such as forts, temples, copper plate inscriptions, stone inscriptions, coins, and pottery reveal Jharkhand as a politically organized, culturally vibrant, and economically active region. The study analyzes archaeological evidence from significant sites including Navratangarh, Palamu, Ichak, Palkot, Satpahari, and Baidyanath. Coins and inscriptions provide evidence of commercial networks, administrative organization, and cultural integration, while pottery and iron implements reflect the technological advancement of tribal communities. The findings demonstrate that the Nagvanshi, Chero, and other local ruling powers were not merely peripheral entities but represented well-established regional political authorities with significant contributions to the socio-cultural and economic development of the region.