Overview
This lecture introduces the Indus Valley Civilization, its characteristics, significance, and decline, while explaining what defines a civilization and why history is studied.
Why Study History?
- History helps us understand how the past shapes the present and future.
- Studying history allows us to learn from previous human experiences.
What Does 'Civilization' Mean?
- Civilization refers to a complex human society with cities, central governments, social structure, and written language.
- Having a surplus of food enables specialization and the rise of cities.
Characteristics of a Civilization
- Civilizations have urban centers, surplus food production, division of labor, and social hierarchy.
- Writing, politics, art, architecture, and long-distance trade are common features.
- Civilizations allow for greater technological and social development than simple farming or hunter-gatherer societies.
The Indus Valley Civilization
- The Indus Valley Civilization existed around 3000–1500 BCE in the Indus River region (now Pakistan and northwest India).
- Major cities included Harappa and Mohenjo-daro, known for advanced urban planning.
- Cities had grid layouts, drainage systems, and standardized baked brick buildings.
- The civilization had extensive trade with Mesopotamia and used standardized weights and measures.
- The writing system remains undeciphered, and little is known about their government and religion.
- Evidence suggests a peaceful society with few signs of warfare or large disparities in wealth.
Decline of the Indus Valley Civilization
- Around 1750 BCE, the civilization declined—possible reasons include climate change, river shifts, or overuse of resources.
- There is little evidence of invasion as the primary reason for collapse.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Indus Valley Civilization — Ancient civilization in the Indus River region, noted for urban planning and undeciphered script.
- Harappa/Mohenjo-daro — Major urban centers of the Indus Valley Civilization.
- Civilization — A complex society with cities, social hierarchy, government, and writing.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review maps of the Indus River and locations of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro.
- Research more about undeciphered Indus script and urban planning features.
- Read textbook section on early river valley civilizations.