Overview
This lecture covers the major features and contributions of ancient river valley civilizations, focusing on Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley, their geography, government, urban planning, and literacy.
River Valley Civilizations Overview
- Ancient civilizations developed along rivers for fertile land and water resources.
- Major river valley civilizations: Mesopotamia, Egypt, Indus Valley, and China.
Mesopotamia: Achievements and Society
- Mesopotamia is called the Cradle of Civilization for its early cities, governments, and writing systems.
- Contributions include the Code of Hammurabi (early law code), Hanging Gardens of Babylon, and ziggurats (temples).
- "Lex talionis" is the principle of punishment fitting the crime ("an eye for an eye").
- Division of labor led to specialization and improved agriculture.
- Nebuchadnezzar II built the Hanging Gardens for his wife Amitis.
Indus Valley Civilization: Legacy and Innovations
- Indus Valley Civilization emerged in South Asia (now Pakistan, India, Afghanistan).
- Major cities: Harappa and Mohenjodaro, known for grid layouts and urban planning.
- Cities featured citadels, wide, paved roads, and advanced drainage and sewage systems.
- Used bricks for building, developed pictogram writing (not yet deciphered), and utilized scales and seals for trade.
- The civilization was highly organized and had trade links with Mesopotamia.
Geographic Features of Ancient India
- Three main zones: Northern plains (fertile, river-fed), Deccan Plateau (dry, not suitable for large-scale farming), and coastal plains (trade and fishing).
- Major rivers: Indus, Ganges, Brahmaputra.
- Himalayas and Hindukush mountains served as natural barriers.
- Khyber Pass was a key route for invasions.
- Aryans later migrated, established the caste system, and influenced Hinduism.
Indus Civilization: True/False Insights
- Indus was organized and had trade, paved roads, effective drainage, and toilets.
- Used cotton clothing, not silk.
- Possessed a writing system, though undeciphered.
- Created detailed artifacts, jewelry, and pottery.
- Houses were of sun-dried bricks; used bronze and copper for furniture.
- Civilization declined due to river changes or invasions.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Lex talionis — Law of retaliation; punishment equals the crime.
- Citadel — Fortified center of ancient cities.
- Ziggurat — Mesopotamian temple structure.
- Caste system — Rigid social hierarchy established in ancient India.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the features and achievements of Mesopotamia and Indus Valley Civilizations.
- Complete any assigned exercises comparing river valley civilizations.
- Read about the impacts of geography on ancient Indian society.