Indus Valley Civilization, History, Facts, Features, Characteristics

Indus Valley Civilization , also known as the Harappan civilization, was a significant chapter in the history of India. It existed during the Bronze Age in the northern parts of South Asia and played a crucial role in shaping ancient India. This civilization thrived from around 3300 BCE to 1300 BCE, with its peak period occurring between 2600 BCE and 1900 BCE.

Indus Valley Civilization

History of Indus Valley Civilization

Evolution of Indus Valley Civilization

1. Pre-Harappan (approximately 7000 to 5500 BCE): This phase, during the Neolithic period, is exemplified by sites like Mehrgarh. It shows evidence of agricultural development, the domestication of plants and animals, and the production of tools and ceramics.
2. Early Harappan (approximately 5500 to 2800 BCE): During this period, trade relations were firmly established with Egypt, Mesopotamia, and possibly China. Communities living in small villages built ports, docks, and warehouses near waterways.
3. Mature Harappan (approximately 2800 to 1900 BCE): This was the time of great urbanization and the construction of major cities. Cities like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro flourished around 2600 BCE. Other cities, including Ganeriwala, Lothal, and Dholavira, followed a similar model, leading to the construction of hundreds of cities throughout the region.
4. Late Harappan (approximately 1900 to 1500 BCE): The decline of the civilization coincided with a wave of Aryan migrations from the north, likely from the Iranian Plateau. Physical evidence suggests that climate change, including flooding, drought, and famine, played a role in this decline. Additionally, a loss of trade relations with Egypt and Mesopotamia may have contributed to the decline.
5. Post-Harappan (approximately 1500 to 600 BCE): During this phase, the cities were abandoned, and the population moved south. The Indus Valley Civilization had already fallen by the time Cyrus II (the Great) invaded India in 530 BCE.

Indus Valley Civilization Cities and Sites

Town Planning in Indus Valley Civilization

Social and Political System in Indus Valley Civilization

• The second theory proposes that each of the urban centers, such as Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa, and other settlements, had their own rulers who represented them. In this scenario, there might have been multiple rulers in different places.
• Lastly, some researchers argue that there were no traditional rulers in the Indus Valley Civilization. Instead, they believe that everyone lives in a state of equality, with no central authority governing the society.

Agriculture in Indus Valley Civilization

Craft in Indus Valley Civilization

Trade and Economy in Indus Valley Civilization

Decline of Indus Valley Civilization