Early Medieval Feudal Administration
The administrative system of the Early Medieval period (c. 600–1200 CE) in India was fundamentally defined by political decentralization and the institutionalization of the Samanta system, leading to what historians often term Indian Feudalism. The Samantas (feudatories, vassals, or subordinate chiefs) were the pillars of this decentralized administration and the key military component of the political structure. The term Samanta gradually evolved from meaning a neighbouring king to a subjugated vassal.
Key Features
- Autonomous Governance: Samantas were granted territories (often in lieu of a cash salary or as a reward for conquest/allegiance) and were authorized to administer them almost autonomously.
- Revenue ....
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