Assam History: High-Yield Notes & Exam Breakdown

1. Ancient Kamarupa Era

The earliest period of Assam history is mentioned in the Epics (Mahabharata) as Pragjyotisha. King Narakasura and his son Bhagadatta participated in the Kurukshetra War. In the 4th century AD, Pushyavarman founded the Varman Dynasty of Kamarupa. Bhaskaravarman was the most illustrious Varman ruler and a contemporary of King Harshavardhana. Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang visited Kamarupa during his reign (640 AD).

2. The Ahom Kingdom (1228 – 1826 AD)

Chaolung Sukaphaa established the Ahom kingdom in 1228 AD after crossing the Patkai hills from Mong Mao. He established Charaideo as the first permanent capital in 1253 AD.

• Battle of Saraighat (1671): Naval battle fought on the Brahmaputra River near Saraighat (Guwahati) between the Mughal forces (led by Ram Singh I) and the Ahom Kingdom (led by General Lachit Borphukan). The Ahoms secured a decisive victory using guerilla tactics and naval maneuvers.
• Swargadeo Rudra Singha (1696–1714): Built Rang Ghar, Talatal Ghar in Joysagar, and expanded Ahom diplomatic relations across India.
• Treaty of Yandabo (February 24, 1826): Marked the end of the First Anglo-Burmese War and handed administration of Assam over to the British East India Company.