Complete Assam History in Short 



Assam, a northeastern state of India, has a rich and diverse history marked by various dynasties, cultural influences, and significant historical events. Here are some key points in the history of Assam:

Ancient Period

  • Prehistoric Era: Archaeological findings suggest human habitation in Assam dating back to the Stone Age. Tools and artifacts have been discovered in various parts of the state.
  • Vedic Period: Assam is mentioned in ancient Indian texts like the Mahabharata and the Puranas. It was known as Pragjyotisha in the early Vedic period and later as Kamrupa.
  • Kamrupa Kingdom: The Kamrupa kingdom (350–1140 CE) was one of the earliest historical states in Assam, ruled by powerful dynasties such as the Varmanas, the Salasthambhas, and the Palas. King Bhaskaravarman (7th century CE) was one of the most notable rulers, known for his diplomatic relations with Harshavardhana of Kannauj.

Medieval Period

  • Ahom Kingdom: The Ahom dynasty, founded by Sukaphaa in 1228, ruled Assam for nearly 600 years. The Ahoms were originally from Myanmar and gradually expanded their kingdom in Assam. They successfully resisted several Mughal invasions. The Ahom rule is noted for its administrative reforms, land revenue system, and promotion of the Assamese culture.
  • Battle of Saraighat (1671): One of the most significant events in Assam's medieval history was the Battle of Saraighat, where the Ahoms, led by Lachit Borphukan, defeated the Mughal forces. This battle is celebrated as a symbol of Assamese valor and resistance against foreign invasion.

Colonial Period

  • British Rule: Assam came under British control in 1826 after the Treaty of Yandabo, which ended the First Anglo-Burmese War. The British administration reorganized Assam, separating it from Bengal and establishing it as a Chief Commissioner's province in 1874. The introduction of tea cultivation and the establishment of tea estates marked significant economic changes.
  • Freedom Movement: Assam played an active role in India's struggle for independence. Notable leaders from Assam, such as Gopinath Bordoloi, played crucial roles in the freedom movement and in securing Assam's future within the Indian Union.

Post-Independence Period

  • State Reorganization: After India gained independence in 1947, Assam underwent several administrative changes. In 1963, Nagaland was carved out of Assam, followed by the creation of Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh in the 1970s and 1980s.
  • Assam Agitation: From 1979 to 1985, Assam experienced a mass movement against illegal immigration from Bangladesh, led by the All Assam Students Union (AASU). The agitation led to the Assam Accord in 1985, which sought to address the issue of illegal immigrants.

Contemporary Period

  • Ethnic Conflicts and Insurgency: Assam has witnessed ethnic conflicts and insurgencies, particularly involving groups seeking autonomy or independence. The Bodo insurgency is one of the most notable, leading to the creation of the Bodoland Territorial Region.
  • Economic Development: In recent years, Assam has focused on economic development, improving infrastructure, and promoting industries such as oil, natural gas, tea, and tourism.

Prehistoric and Early Historic Period

  • Neolithic Culture: Archaeological sites like Sarutaru and Daojali Hading reveal evidence of Neolithic settlements in Assam, indicating the presence of a sophisticated prehistoric culture with polished stone tools and pottery.
  • Megalithic Culture: The discovery of megaliths and ancient burial sites points to the existence of early complex societies with distinct burial practices, such as those found in the districts of Karbi Anglong and North Cachar Hills.

Early Dynasties and Kingdoms

  • Danava Dynasty: According to ancient texts, the Danava dynasty ruled before the Varmanas, with Narakasura as one of the legendary rulers. The kingdom of Pragjyotisha is associated with this period.
  • Varmana Dynasty: The first historically documented dynasty of Assam, the Varmanas, established their rule around the 4th century CE. Pushyavarman is considered the founder, and his descendants expanded their kingdom significantly.

Kamrupa Kingdom

  • Harsha and Bhaskaravarman: The Kamrupa king Bhaskaravarman allied with the north Indian emperor Harshavardhana in the 7th century. The Chinese traveler Xuanzang visited his court and documented the prosperity and culture of the region.
  • Decline of Kamrupa: The Palas, the last major dynasty of Kamrupa, faced invasions from the Pala dynasty of Bengal and eventually lost power, leading to political fragmentation.

Medieval Assam

  • The Rise of the Ahoms: The Ahom kingdom, established by Sukaphaa in 1228, gradually expanded by incorporating various tribes and regions. The Ahoms introduced advanced irrigation and land management techniques.
  • Ahom Administration: The Ahoms had a well-organized administrative system with officials like Barphukans and Rajkhowas. They maintained detailed records, known as Buranjis, which provide valuable historical information.
  • Cultural Contributions: The Ahoms promoted the Assamese language and literature. They built numerous temples, including the famous Sivasagar Sivadol, and patronized various art forms.

Colonial Assam

  • British Conquest: After the Treaty of Yandabo in 1826, Assam was annexed by the British. The discovery of tea plants led to the establishment of tea gardens, significantly impacting Assam's economy.
  • Resistance Movements: Several uprisings occurred against British rule, including the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny in Assam and the 1894 Patharughat uprising, where peasants protested against unfair taxes.
  • Education and Reform: The British established modern educational institutions. Assamese intellectuals like Anandaram Dhekial Phukan and Hemchandra Barua played key roles in social and educational reforms.

Independence Movement

  • Gopinath Bordoloi: Gopinath Bordoloi, a prominent freedom fighter, became the first Chief Minister of Assam. He worked towards preserving Assam’s cultural heritage and protecting it from external influences.
  • Role in Partition: During the partition of India in 1947, Assam was affected by the migration of refugees and political reorganization. The Sylhet district was transferred to East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) after a referendum.

Post-Independence Assam

  • State Reorganization: The reorganization of Assam led to the creation of new states like Nagaland (1963), Meghalaya (1972), Mizoram (1987), and Arunachal Pradesh (1987), each with its unique ethnic and cultural identity.
  • Assam Accord and Its Aftermath: The Assam Accord aimed to address issues arising from illegal immigration. It led to the establishment of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) to identify and deport illegal immigrants, though the implementation has been controversial.
  • Economic and Social Challenges: Assam faces challenges like flood management, ethnic strife, and economic development. Efforts are being made to improve infrastructure, promote industries like tourism and IT, and enhance educational opportunities.

Cultural Heritage

  • Festivals and Traditions: Assam is known for its vibrant festivals like Bihu, which celebrates the agricultural calendar, and Durga Puja. Traditional dances like Bihu dance and Sattriya dance reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Handicrafts and Weaving: Assam is famous for its handloom industry, producing exquisite silk textiles like Muga and Eri silk. Handicrafts like bamboo and cane products also play a significant role in the local economy.
  • Cuisine: Assamese cuisine is known for its unique flavors, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients. Dishes like Assam Laksa, Pitha, and traditional fish curries are integral to its culinary identity.

Recent Developments

  • Peace Processes: Efforts to resolve insurgencies and ethnic conflicts through peace talks and agreements, like the Bodoland Territorial Region accord, have been crucial in stabilizing the region.
  • Infrastructure and Connectivity: Investments in infrastructure, such as the Bogibeel Bridge and improvements in road and rail connectivity, are boosting economic growth and integration with the rest of India.

Some Important Question's For Exam Point of View

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Question 1: Which ancient kingdom was Assam known as in early Vedic literature?
A) Pragjyotisha
B) Kosala
C) Magadha
D) Avanti
Explanation: Pragjyotisha.
Question 2: Who was the founder of the Ahom kingdom in Assam?
A) Sukaphaa
B) Bhaskaravarman
C) Rudra Singha
D) Lachit Borphukan
Explanation: Sukaphaa
Question 3: The Battle of Saraighat (1671) was fought between the Ahoms and which other power?
A) Mughals
B) Burmese
C) British
D) Marathas
Explanation: Mughals
Question 4: When did Assam come under British control?
A) 1826
B) 1757
C) 1829
D) 1889
Explanation: 1826
Question 5: What is the traditional festival of Assam that marks the Assamese New Year and the onset of the harvest season?
A) Bihu
B) Durga Puja
C) Pongal
D) Onam
Explanation: Bihu.
Question 6: Which type of silk is Assam especially known for producing?
A) Tussar Silk
B) Muga Silk
C) Eri Silk
D) Mulberry Silk
Explanation: Muga Silk

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