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Caste System
As Fa Hien, mentions that Chandals lived at the outskirts of the society in miserable conditions and were segregated from the society proved that in Gupta Era the caste system had crystalized and became very rigid with Brahmins getting the top position in the society.
International Trade:
Gupta had a flourishing Roman Trade. The Trade contacts developed during the Kushana Period continued and Chandragupta II's conquest in western India further added to this trade. The people were prosperous and they were free to grow and flourish. The imporant port towns were Brigukachchaha, Kalyana & Sind, which were bulk trade centers with Romans.
Ujjain had become a major commercial center and it was linked to southern and northern India. Nasik, Paithan, Pataliputra, Benares were other major trade centers. Trade was badly affected by the Huna InvasionsThe Huna Invasions on India during Gupta Era The Hunas had poured down from the steppes of Central Asia through the Northwestern passes and devastated the ...... Silk, Leather goods, Fur, Iron Products, Ivory, pearl, Spices and Indigo were major export items. The Port of Tamralipti was a good source of Trade with East Asia. Most of the commodities were taxed One Fifth of the value as a toll in international Trade.
Agriculture:
Agriculture was the main occupation in Gupta Empire and there was no governmental interference. The land was fertile and means of irrigation were simple.
Occupation:
Gupta period had many cloth centers and silk industry witnessed a significant development during this period. The Mandsor Inscriptions gives account that Gupta people were helped to a great extent for the growth of Silk Industry. Gold, silver and Copper was used in making ornaments and issuing coins. The Gold coins show the pomp, power and prosperity of the empire.
The Coins of SamudraguptaSamudragupta (reign 335-380 AD) was son of Chandragupta –I and Kumaradevi. He ascended the throne in 335 AD. Before his death, probably 4 or 5 ..... and Kumaragupta issued after the Ashvamedha depict the horse tied to a Yupastambha. The coins of Chandragupta-II bearA pessimist market operator who expects the market price of shares to decline. The term also refers to the one who has sold shares which ..... Garuda preying a snake.
Guild System during Gupta Empire
In ancient history, the glimpses of guild systems are seen in Jatakas Tales. Guilds refer to organizations of artisans, and traders, which have high place in the society. In Gupta Era, the activities of Guilds were increased and these activities are recorded in various literature, inscription, clay seals etc. There is a mention of Guild of architects in Raghuvamsa. The Indore Copper plate inscription mentions about a guild of oilmen. The Mandsor Inscription mentions the guild of silk weavers. The guild system declined after the Gupta Period.
