The Vedic age began with the coming of the Indo-Aryan speaking people and ended in about seventh century B.C. Initially, this phase marked a reversal in some respects. It marked the end of city life. It reverted to a pastoral economy and the tribal system of political organization. It saw the beginning of the spread of agriculture throughout the country with the knowledge and use of iron technology. It thus laid the foundations of a civilization in all parts of the country.
The culture that began to emerge during this phase was the result of the intermixing of the Indo-Aryans with the pre-existing inhabitants of India. Some elements of the culture of this period have survived over a period of 3000 years and continue to be a part of Indian culture today. The period from about the sixth century B.C. to about 200 B.C., is marked by far-reaching changes in almost every aspect of life in India. This period saw the spread of agriculture over large parts of the country, the rise of cities and the formation of states. The period also saw the rise and decline of the first all-India empire in Indian history.
This period is important not only for political unity but also for cultural unity. Two major religions—Jainism and Buddhism—which arose in the sixth century B.C. left a lasting influence on Indian life and culture. These religions also influenced religious beliefs and practices of Hinduism. As it developed Hinduism, it included many Vedic beliefs and practices but had many other features which distinguished it from the religion of the Vedas. The Varna system as the caste system now became well-established and gradually became the dominant form of social organization throughout the country.
The process of cultural unity was furthered by the rise of cities, crafts and trade. This is best exemplified by Ashoka. He unified almost the entire country under one empire but renounced the use of war as state policy. Instead he declared the victory or righteousness as the real victory. Ashokan edicts were inscribed in the local language and the local script. Though he himself became a Buddhist, Ashoka made no effort to impose it on others.