Ancient Period:

1. • Vedic and Mahajanapada Era: Bihar was a significant region during the Vedic period and later the Mahajanapada period, around 600 BCE. It was the core of the Magadha Kingdom, one of the 16 Mahajanapadas (great states) mentioned in ancient Indian texts. The Magadha region, which roughly corresponds to modern-day Bihar, played a central role in early Indian history.
   • Magadha Kingdom: The kingdom of Magadha was one of the most important in Indian history. It saw the rise of two of the most influential empires in ancient Indian history:
     • The Maurya Empire (321–185 BCE): Founded by Chandragupta Maurya, it expanded under his successor, Ashoka the Great, who is credited with spreading Buddhism across Asia.
     • The Gupta Empire (c. 320–550 CE): The period of the Gupta Empire is known as the Golden Age of India, with significant advancements in science, mathematics, astronomy, literature, and art.
   • Buddhism and Jainism: Bihar is particularly important in the history of Buddhism and Jainism. Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, located in Bihar, and the region became a major center for Buddhist pilgrimage. Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, was born in Vaishali (modern-day Bihar), and his teachings are also rooted in this region.

Medieval Period:

1. • During the medieval period, Bihar came under the control of various Muslim rulers. The Delhi Sultanate and later the Mughal Empire ruled Bihar for several centuries, contributing to the region’s architectural and cultural landscape.
   • Sher Shah Suri, who ruled over the region in the early 16th century, is one of the most notable historical figures from Bihar. He reformed the administrative system, introduced the currency system, and built extensive road networks.

British Colonial Era:

1. • Bihar, like much of India, was annexed by the British in the 18th century. Under British rule, Bihar became an important agricultural area, and the British introduced various reforms that transformed the state’s economy.
   • Bihar played a significant role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 (also known as the First War of Independence), with several revolts and uprisings occurring in the region.
   • The British focused heavily on cultivating cash crops, which led to economic challenges for the local population. The Bihar Famine of 1873-74 is one example of the severe impact of British policies on the people of Bihar.

Post-Independence:

1. • After India gained independence in 1947, Bihar became a part of the newly formed Indian Republic. However, it faced significant challenges due to poverty, lack of infrastructure, and political instability.
   • In 2000, Bihar was divided, with the southern part becoming Jharkhand, which has affected Bihar’s political and economic landscape.
   • Bihar has also been a center for political activism, with several prominent national leaders coming from the state. Jayaprakash Narayan, Karpoori Thakur, and Laloo Prasad Yadav are some of the political figures associated with Bihar.