Ancient history

Indus Valley Civilization

An urban civilization that existed around 2500 BCE to 1900 BCE, covering parts of India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.

Urban civilization

Characterized by well-planned cities and advanced drainage systems.

Trade and economy in the Indus Valley

Utilized a standard measurement system based on multiples of 16.

Bronze Age

The period during which bronze was widely used in the Indus Valley Civilization.

Seals in the Indus Valley

Artistic and significant items used in trade, such as the Pashupati seal.

Terracotta pottery

Fired earthen clay used for making utensils in the Indus Valley Civilization.

Vedic Period

Divided into Early Vedic (1500-1000 BCE) and Later Vedic (1000-600 BCE) periods.

Early Vedic society

A patriarchal society characterized by a pastoral lifestyle and worship of nature gods.

Later Vedic Period features

Marked by the rise of the Varna System, child marriages, and mixed farming.

Four Noble Truths

The core principles of Buddhism founded by Gautam Buddha.

Eightfold Path

The path to enlightenment in Buddhism, outlining ethical and mental practices.

Mahavira

The founder of Jainism, known as the 24th Tirthankara.

Five Vows of Jainism

Non-violence, truth, non-stealing, celibacy, non-possession.

Haryanka Dynasty

Ancient Indian dynasty founded by Bimbisara, with its capital in Rajgir.

Ajatashatru's contributions

Fortified Pataliputra during his reign, contemporary to Buddha and Mahavira.

Maurya Empire

Founded by Chandragupta Maurya, significant for Ashoka's reign and administration.

Ashoka's Dhamma Policy

A set of ethical guidelines promoted after the Kalinga War, emphasizing non-violence.

Post-Mauryan Period rulers

Included the Shungas, Kanvas, Kushanas, and Satavahanas.