Satavahana Dynasty And Trade

Exam-Oriented Q&A

Q1: When did the Satavahana dynasty rule and where were their main capitals?
A1: They reigned from the late 2nd century BCE to c. 224 CE, with capitals at Pratishthana (Paithan) and Amaravati.

Q2: Name three key ports under Satavahana control and their trade links.
A2: Sopara (Persian Gulf, East Africa), Kalyan (western coast cargo), Bharuch (Southeast Asia, Red Sea).

Q3: How did Satavahana coinage support their trade economy?
A3: They issued lead and potin coins with Prakrit and Brahmi legends, fostering commercial confidence across regions.

Q4: What goods formed the core of Satavahana trade?
A4: Spices, textiles, precious stones, agricultural produce, and metalwork were exchanged via land and sea routes.

Q5: What factors contributed to the decline of Satavahana power?
A5: Internal divisions, Western Kshatrapa invasions, and the rise of successor states led to their collapse by the early 3rd century CE.