Why is 6th century regarded as …

1.Political map of India changed during this period. 16 big states or Mahajanapadas emerged in this period, e.g. Magadha, Avanti, Kashi, Gandhara, Anga, Kosala,etc. Many contemporary cultural stories originated from these states. It is assumed that after epic war of mahabharata, many of these states lost their former glory and existence.

2. Technology in agriculture advanced in this phase. Iron-made axes had emerged and helped burning of forests easy for farmers. They could expand their farming fields and provide enough granary to increasing population. This provided society with more peace and luxury than before.

3. It also increased tax collection of the state and it could bear the high cost of its administration. State could pay for soldiers during peace time as well, and could easily maintain standing armies. This strengthened defence of the state and increased security of its population.

4. People started questioning old and rigid ways of brahminism during this time. Voices rose against caste system and ritual rich hinduism. Many philosophers like Charvaka, Gautam Budhha, Mahavir Swamy grew in prominence and popularity.

5. Slowly, their inclusive and relatively more rational ideas became popular and took form of established religion. Thus, 6th century BCE led to foundation of Buddhism and Jainism- two great contemporary belief systems.