The State in Ancient India: A Study in the Structure and Practical Working of Political Institutions in North India in Ancient Times c12.29

Language: English

c12.29

Arrian says that the succession was hereditary but if the regular line failed, the most meritorious man was elected to the kingship.⁴ It may be assumed that the selection was ordinarily confined to the royal family. The king had a number of counsellors, mostly perhaps the chief officers but occasionally others as well. Royal counsellors commanded the respect of the people. Besides these

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