Ancient Karnataka (Prehistoric to 4th Century CE):

1. • Prehistoric Period: Evidence of human habitation in Karnataka dates back to the Paleolithic period, with the discovery of tools and artifacts in places like the Bhimbetka Caves and the Hampi region.
   • Maurya and Shunga Period: Karnataka was influenced by the Mauryan Empire, especially during the reign of Ashoka, who propagated Buddhism. The state was part of the vast Mauryan Empire in the 3rd century BCE.
   • Kadamba Dynasty: In the 4th century CE, the Kadamba dynasty rose to power, establishing the first major Kannada-speaking kingdom. They ruled from their capital, Banavasi, and are considered pioneers in the establishment of Kannada culture and language.

Medieval Karnataka (5th to 12th Century CE):

1. • Chalukya Dynasty: The Chalukyas (both Western and Eastern) were one of the most influential dynasties in Karnataka’s medieval history. The Western Chalukyas ruled from Badami, and under them, the state witnessed the flourishing of art, architecture, and literature. The Chalukya style of architecture, exemplified by the rock-cut temples in Badami and Aihole, became a hallmark of Indian culture.
   • Rashtrakutas: The Rashtrakuta dynasty, who ruled from the 8th to the 10th century, expanded Karnataka’s influence further. They are credited with commissioning the construction of the famous Kailasa temple at Ellora.
   • Hoysala Dynasty: One of the most prominent dynasties of Karnataka, the Hoysalas, rose to prominence in the 12th century. They are known for their distinct architectural style, with notable temples like the Chennakesava Temple in Belur and the Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu.

Vijayanagara Empire (14th to 17th Century CE):

1. • The Vijayanagara Empire, founded by Harihara and Bukka Raya in 1336, was one of the most powerful and prosperous empires in South India. Its capital, Hampi, is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and showcases the grandeur of the empire through its temples, monuments, and fortifications.
   • The empire reached its zenith under Krishnadevaraya, and the period is often regarded as the golden age of Kannada and Telugu culture, literature, and art.

Post-Vijayanagara Period (17th to 18th Century CE):

1. • After the fall of the Vijayanagara Empire in 1565, Karnataka was fragmented into various smaller kingdoms. One of the most significant powers during this period was the Mysore Kingdom, founded by the Wodeyar family in the 14th century but later taken over by Sultan Hyder Ali and his son, Sultan Tipu Sultan.
   • Tipu Sultan: Often called the “Tiger of Mysore,” Tipu Sultan was a valiant ruler known for his resistance against British colonialism. His kingdom was one of the few to successfully challenge British expansion in India during the 18th century. After his death in 1799, Mysore became a princely state under British control.

Modern Karnataka (19th Century to Present):

1. • British Rule: During the British colonial period, Karnataka came under the control of the British, with Mysore being a princely state. The state witnessed significant economic, social, and infrastructural changes during this period.
   • Post-Independence: Karnataka became a part of India after independence in 1947. In 1956, the state underwent reorganization based on linguistic lines, leading to the formation of the modern state of Karnataka. The capital city of Bangalore (now Bengaluru) has become one of the leading IT hubs in the world.
   • Current Era: Today, Karnataka is one of India’s most important states, known for its vibrant culture, historical heritage, and technological advancements.