Latest / The Chola Empire: How South India Dominated the Indian Ocean — Fexingo History
Chola Iron Tax and the Military Economy
In this episode of The Chola Empire, Lucas and Luna explore how Rajaraja I transformed South India’s economy through a unique fiscal policy: the iron tax. While previous episodes covered naval power, temple inscriptions, and merchant guilds, this show dives into the material reality of state-building in the eleventh century. We examine the Thiruvalangadu Plates, which detail how farmers paid their taxes not just in grain, but in iron nails and tools. This wasn't merely a revenue stream; it was a strategic move to control metallurgy, fund the standing army, and standardize agricultural…
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