What was used in the Vedic period as a unit of money in the barter system?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Cattle.

• In the Vedic period, cattle were commonly used as a unit of money and wealth. Cattle were essential for agricultural work, as well as for food and milk, making them highly valuable.

• The barter system during this time involved exchanging goods or services directly without the use of currency, and cattle served as a major medium of exchange.

Information Booster:

• Cattle were considered a symbol of wealth and prosperity in ancient Indian society, especially in the Vedic period.

• The Vedic texts mention the importance of cows and bulls in society, and their role in trade and commerce.

• Although coins like silver and copper began to emerge later in Indian history, they were not used during the early Vedic period.

Facts about the Vedic Age:

1. Time Period:

   • The Vedic Age lasted from 1500 BCE to 500 BCE, divided into the Early Vedic (Rigveda) and Later Vedic periods.

2. Vedas:

   • The Vedas are the oldest sacred texts, consisting of the Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Atharvaveda, composed in Sanskrit.

3. Social Structure:

   • Society was tribal and patriarchal, with a Varna system (Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras), which later evolved into the caste system.

4. Economy:

   • The economy was agrarian, with cattle used as a form of wealth and in the barter system. Trade and farming were key aspects.

5. Religion:

   • Polytheistic beliefs, with deities related to natural forces (Agni, Indra, Surya). Yajnas (sacrificial rituals) were central to Vedic religion.

6. Language:

   • Sanskrit was the primary language, used for religious texts and oral transmission of knowledge.

7. Political System:

   • Early Vedic society had monarchical rule (Rajas), with tribal republics emerging later.

8. Education:

   • Education was oral and conducted in Gurukuls (teacher-student system).

9. Decline:

   • The rise of Buddhism and Jainism around 500 BCE led to the decline of the traditional Vedic system.

10. Scientific Contributions:

    • Vedic people had knowledge in astronomy, mathematics, and medicine.