An Encyclopaedia of Indian Archaeology v1.c9.s18.t4.1

v1.c9.s18.t4.1

The early historical period in Karnataka is a continuation of the Iron Age distinguished by its Megalithic [4.17.8] burial monuments and associated pottery. But far more important is the impact of the n. ushering in the roots of urbanization, trade, money economy and heterodox religions, first Jainism and then Buddhism. This impact is reflected in the fortified towns like BANAVASI, UDAYAVARA and possibly VADAGAON-MADHAVPUR, punch-marked coins [3.1], *stūpas* and *caityas*, etc., as at BANAVASI, SANNATHI, etc. Later through the sea-borne trade of the Sātavāhanas contact with the Roman traders is borne out by Sātavāhana coins bearing figures of the ship, Roman coins, the Rouletted Ware [11.21], etc. The period also witnessed an extensive structural activity. The Brāhmī script [20.4.2] utilized to its maximum by Aśoka, a few of whose edicts are seen in Karnataka as well, remained the only script in Karnataka till the evolution of old Kannaḍa in late, historical times, although the Kadamba rulers did have their own variety of Brāhmī.