Flash Cards: The Beginnings of Indian Civilisation

A civilisation is an advanced stage of human society characterized by urbanism, government, trade, writing, cultural practices, and productive agriculture.

The Harappan Civilisation, also known as the Indus or Indus-Sarasvatī Civilisation, was one of the world's oldest civilisations, flourishing around 2500 BCE in the Indian subcontinent.

Major cities included Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, Dholavira, and Rakhigarhi.

The Sarasvatī River supported agriculture and urban development in the Harappan Civilisation and is mentioned in the Ṛig Veda.

The Harappans were the first to cultivate cotton in Eurasia, alongside cereals, pulses, and vegetables.

Harappan cities featured wide streets oriented to cardinal directions, fortifications, and were divided into upper and lower towns.

Harappan drainage systems were elaborate, with lined drains and wells for water supply, crucial for urban living.

They traded goods such as cotton, ornaments, and other crafts, with evidence of external trade.

Urbanism refers to the development of cities, town planning, and management systems to accommodate growing populations.

Harappans used an undeciphered script for writing, primarily for record-keeping and communication.

Trade enables the exchange of goods and ideas, leading to economic growth and cultural interaction.

The term refers to the emergence of urban centres like Harappa and Mohenjo-daro that showcased advanced town planning.

The Harappan economy was structured, with evidence of trade facilitated by seals used for identification and packaging.

Harappan society was characterized by less glaring differences between the rich and poor, focusing on mutual accommodation.

Water management was crucial for agriculture, sanitation, and daily life, showcasing advanced engineering skills.

Harappa was the first city excavated in 1920-21, uncovering insights into the Harappan way of life.

Potential climatic changes and the drying up of the Sarasvatī River are believed to have contributed to its decline.

Harappans were skilled in diverse crafting techniques, including pottery, bead-making, and metallurgy.

The fertile land from the Indus and Sarasvatī rivers supported agriculture, enabling urban growth.