Indus Valley

Indus Valley Civilization Overview

• Emerged approximately 3,000 BCE.
• Major sites include Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro.
• City-states with little centralized governance; advanced urban planning and infrastructure.

Geographic Context

• Indian subcontinent comprises diverse regions: Himalayas, Ganges valley, Indus valley, and Deccan.
• Geography influenced early civilization development.

Major Eras in Indian History

• Indus Valley Civilization: 2600-1700 BCE.
• Vedic Age: 1700-600 BCE.
• Gupta Empire/Classical Period: 300-600 CE.

Cultural and Political Structures

• Civilization began as small farming villages, evolving into walled cities with ruling elites.
• Harappa served as a political hub, characterized by thick city walls and advanced architectural designs.

Urban Planning and Infrastructure

• Harappa had a grid layout, broad streets, and population of around 80,000.
• Mohenjo-Daro featured sophisticated urban planning: multistory homes, sewage systems, and public baths.

Economic and Social Aspects

• Extensive trade networks linked to Sumer and other regions, trade of textiles, metals, and luxury goods.
• Class and gender issues were present in the societal structure.

Cultural Achievements

• Noteworthy for cotton cultivation and potential introduction of rice.
• Artistic capabilities demonstrated through pottery, sculpture, and undeciphered writing on seals.

Mysterious Decline

• Reasons for the collapse remain unclear; theories include social decay, climate change, and possible external invasions.
• Archaeological evidence indicates urban decline: trash accumulation, overpopulation, and neglect of services.