Harappan Civilisation: The Harappan Civilization represents a remarkable chapter in the history of human civilization, showcasing the achievements of one of the world’s earliest urban societies. Its complex urban planning, advanced technologies, and cultural artifacts continue to captivate archaeologists, historians, and enthusiasts, shedding light on the roots of Indian civilization and its contributions to human history.

Harappan Civilisation

The Harappan Civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, was one of the world’s earliest urban civilizations, thriving in what is now modern-day Pakistan and northwest India during the Bronze Age. Here are key points about the Harappan Civilization:

1. Chronology:

• The Harappan Civilization is generally dated to have flourished from approximately 3300 BCE to 1300 BCE, although there is some debate about the exact dating.

2. Geographic Extent:

• The civilization encompassed a vast area, covering parts of present-day Pakistan, India, and Afghanistan.
• Major urban centers include Harappa, Mohenjo-Daro, Lothal, Kalibangan, and Dholavira.

3. Urban Centers:

• The Harappan cities were characterized by advanced urban planning and architecture.
• They had well-organized streets, drainage systems, public baths, and multi-story buildings.
• The cities were laid out in a grid pattern.

4. Writing System:

• The Harappans used a script that remains undeciphered, known as the Indus script.
• Inscriptions in this script have been found on various artifacts, suggesting a developed system of communication.

5. Economy:

• The economy was based on agriculture, with the Harappans cultivating wheat, barley, rice, and cotton.
• They engaged in trade with regions as far as Mesopotamia, as evidenced by archaeological finds of Harappan artifacts in ancient Sumer.

6. Religion and Art:

• The Harappans practiced a religion that is not well understood, although some symbols and artifacts suggest the worship of deities and sacred animals.
• Artifacts such as terracotta figurines, seals, and pottery reveal the artistic skills of the civilization.

7. Decline:

• The reasons for the decline of the Harappan Civilization are still a subject of debate among historians.
• Possible factors include ecological changes, such as a shift in the course of the Indus River, natural disasters, and social or political upheaval.

8. Legacy:

• The Harappan Civilization left behind a rich archaeological legacy, including its well-planned cities, advanced drainage systems, and artistic artifacts.
• It is considered one of the cradles of ancient Indian civilization and has had a lasting impact on the cultural and historical identity of the Indian subcontinent.

9. Rediscovery:

• The Harappan Civilization was rediscovered in the 19th century when archaeologists and scholars began excavations at sites like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro.
• The decipherment of the script and a deeper understanding of the civilization are ongoing research challenges.

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Download Harappan Civilisation Notes PDF in Hindi

Download Harappan Civilisation Notes PDF in English

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By Team Learning Mantras