SOCIAL STUDY

What is the time period of Ancient India known as?

The Harappan period or Indus River Valley Civilization.

What role did religion play in Ancient India?

Religion played a major role in the economy and daily life.

What are the major seasonal winds in Ancient India called?

Monsoons.

Where did the Indus Valley Civilization flourish?

The Indus River basin, in present-day Pakistan and NW India.

What crops did farmers in the Indus River Valley grow?

Wheat, barley, rice, dates, sesame, peas.

What is Hinduism?

A major religious system of India that originated from the Aryans, characterized by the worship of many gods and goddesses.

Who is Brahma in Hinduism?

Brahma is known as 'The Creator' in the Hindu religion.

What is the Sanskrit?

A written language developed around 1000 B.C.E. by the Aryans for documenting legends and religious chants.

What is the caste system?

A hierarchical social structure that categorizes people in India based on family and economic status.

What were Rajas in Ancient India?

Aryan leaders or princes who created small kingdoms and fought each other.

Who was Siddhartha Gautama?

He was known as the Buddha and the Enlightened One, who founded Buddhism.

What does Nirvana signify in Buddhism?

Achieving wisdom, ultimate reality, and reuniting with the great warrior soul.

What is karma?

The idea that a person's actions will determine their next life when they are reborn.

What are Varnas?

The four major social classes in Aryan society.

What was the role of the Brahmins in the social hierarchy of Ancient India?

They held the top position and were usually in charge of religious ceremonies.

What caused the summer monsoons in India?

Winds carrying moisture from the Indian Ocean bring heavy rains from June to September.

What is the significance of the Iron Pillar of Delhi?

It has remained rust-free for over 1600 years.

What did ancient Indians observe about the earth?

They realized that the Earth was a sphere and revolved around the sun.

What are some contributions of Ancient India?

Advancements in astronomy, urban planning, writing systems, and the decimal number system.

What is Dharma in Hinduism?

Divine law that requires individuals to do their duty, with more expectations for higher caste members.

What is the contrasting belief between Hinduism and Buddhism regarding gods?

Hinduism worships many gods and goddesses, while Buddhism forbids the worship of gods.