All questions of In the Earliest Cities for Class 6 Exam

Answer is b

A plough  is a tool or farm implement used in farming for initial cultivation of soil in preparation for sowing seed or planting to loosen or turn the soil. ... In modern use, a ploughed field is typically left to dry out, and is then harrowed before planting.

Notable Discovery at Dholavira
The archaeological site of Dholavira, located in the arid region of Gujarat, India, has yielded significant insights into the Harappan civilization. Among its notable finds, the large letters of the Harappan script stand out as a unique discovery.
Unique Aspects of the Find
- Size and Visibility:
- The large letters discovered at Dholavira are distinct from the smaller seals and inscriptions commonly found at other Harappan sites. These letters, carved on stone, are much larger and designed to be conspicuous.
- Context of Use:
- The letters were likely part of a public display, possibly serving as markers or signage within the city. This suggests a different use of writing than what is typically observed in the Harappan context, where seals were primarily used for trade and administrative purposes.
- Communication and Administration:
- The presence of large script indicates a more organized system of communication, potentially aimed at a broader audience, as opposed to the more private or commercial inscriptions found elsewhere.
Comparison with Typical Harappan Findings
- Seals and Sealings:
- While seals are prevalent in Harappan sites, they serve specific functions related to trade and do not exhibit the same visibility or public engagement as the large letters.
- Stone Objects for Public Ceremonies:
- Although ceremonial objects have been found, they do not focus on written communication.
- Raw Materials:
- The discovery of semi-precious stones is common across many sites and does not pertain to the linguistic aspects that the large letters represent.
Significance of the Discovery
The large letters at Dholavira provide a profound understanding of the Harappan civilization's communication methods, reflecting a sophisticated approach to public expression and administration, thereby differing significantly from typical Harappan writing discoveries.

Significance of the Great Bath in Mohenjodaro
The Great Bath is one of the most remarkable and well-preserved structures from the Indus Valley Civilization, located in Mohenjodaro. Its construction and features provide insights into the culture and social practices of the time.
Watertight Construction
- The Great Bath was a specially constructed tank, which was lined with bricks and made watertight with natural tar.
- This unique feature indicates advanced engineering skills and knowledge of waterproofing techniques, which were crucial for the tank's intended use.
Purpose and Usage
- While the exact purpose remains debated, it is widely believed that the Great Bath served a ritualistic or ceremonial function, possibly for public bathing or purification purposes.
- The size and design suggest it was meant for communal use, emphasizing social interaction and cultural practices among the inhabitants.
Architectural Significance
- The structure measures approximately 12 meters long, 7 meters wide, and 2.5 meters deep, showcasing the architectural sophistication of the Indus Valley Civilization.
- The presence of steps leading down into the tank and drainage systems reflects an understanding of urban planning and sanitation.
Cultural Context
- The emphasis on water and bathing rituals in the Great Bath may suggest a spiritual or religious significance, which was common in ancient civilizations.
- The existence of such a structure highlights the importance of cleanliness and possibly hints at early forms of social organization and communal activities.
In conclusion, the Great Bath's watertight construction and communal use signify its importance as a central feature in Mohenjodaro, reflecting the advanced engineering, social structure, and cultural practices of the Indus Valley Civilization.

Harappan Civilization Overview
The Harappan Civilization, one of the world's earliest urban cultures, flourished around 2500 BCE in the Indus Valley. It is known for its advanced city planning, architecture, and social organization.
Key Cities with Elaborate Storehouses
The cities recognized for having sophisticated storehouses are:

• Mohenjo-Daro: This city featured large granaries that showcased its agricultural surplus and effective storage techniques.
• Harappa: Similar to Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa also had well-constructed storage facilities, indicating a strong emphasis on trade and resource management.
• Lothal: Known for its dockyard, Lothal had an advanced system of warehouses, facilitating trade and commerce with other regions.

Importance of Storehouses
The presence of elaborate storehouses in these cities signifies:

• Economic Prosperity: The ability to store surplus agricultural products points to a thriving economy.
• Trade Facilitation: Storehouses enabled these cities to engage in extensive trade, both locally and with distant regions.
• Resource Management: Efficient storage systems reflect advanced planning and management of resources by the Harappan people.

Conclusion
Thus, the correct answer is option 'B' because Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa, and Lothal were key cities that exhibited elaborate storehouses, highlighting their significance in the Harappan civilization's economic and social framework.

Overview of Harappan Cities
The Harappan civilization, known for its advanced urban planning, featured distinct areas within its cities: the citadel and the lower town. Understanding their differences sheds light on the societal structure of this ancient civilization.
Main Differences
Citadel Characteristics:
- The citadel was typically elevated, often constructed on a raised platform.
- It served as a fortified area, likely used for administrative and religious purposes.
- The citadel was generally smaller in area compared to the lower town but played a critical role in governance and security.
Lower Town Characteristics:
- The lower town was expansive and densely populated.
- It included residential areas, markets, and varied public spaces, indicating its role in daily life and commerce.
- The lower town was lower in elevation compared to the citadel, which allowed for better drainage and accessibility.
Significance of the Structure:
- The elevation of the citadel suggests a focus on defense and control, protecting the elite and important structures.
- The layout of the lower town reflects the importance of trade and community living, showcasing the civilization's economic activities.
Conclusion
In summary, the correct distinction is that the citadel was smaller but higher in elevation, serving specific functions related to governance and security, while the lower town was larger but lower, functioning as the heart of daily life and trade in Harappan cities. This structural division illustrates the complexity of Harappan urban planning and society.

Significance of the Harappan Script
The discovery of the Harappan script is crucial for understanding the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world's earliest urban cultures. Here are the key reasons why it holds such importance:
Earliest Form of Writing
- The Harappan script, dating back to around 2500 BCE, represents the earliest known form of writing in the Indian subcontinent.
- It indicates the presence of a complex society capable of literacy and record-keeping, a hallmark of advanced civilizations.
Cultural Insights
- Analyzing the script can provide insights into the social, economic, and religious practices of the Harappan people.
- It may reveal how they conducted trade, governance, and communication, contributing to our understanding of their daily lives.
Challenges of Decipherment
- Despite its significance, the Harappan script remains undeciphered, which poses challenges for historians and archaeologists.
- The inability to read the script limits our understanding of the civilization's history and achievements.
Comparison with Other Ancient Scripts
- The Harappan script can be compared to other early writing systems, such as cuneiform and hieroglyphics, providing a broader context of human communication development.
- This comparison highlights the independent evolution of writing in different cultures.
Conclusion
- The discovery of the Harappan script is vital as it marks the beginning of written expression in the region, offering a glimpse into the complexity of one of the earliest urban societies in history. Its study continues to be a significant area of research in understanding ancient civilizations.

Unique Feature of Dholavira:
Dholavira, one of the five largest Harappan cities, is known for its unique feature in comparison to other Harappan cities.

Large Open Area for Public Ceremonies:
One of the distinguishing characteristics of Dholavira is the presence of a large open area specifically designed for public ceremonies. This area, known as the 'stadium', is believed to have been used for various communal activities and gatherings. This feature sets Dholavira apart from other Harappan cities, as it indicates a focus on public events and community engagement.

Significance of the Stadium:
The stadium at Dholavira was meticulously planned and constructed, highlighting the importance of public ceremonies and gatherings in the city. It served as a central space for social interactions, religious rituals, and other communal activities. The presence of such a designated area underscores the organized nature of urban planning in Dholavira.

Archaeological Evidence:
Archaeological excavations at Dholavira have revealed the layout and structure of the stadium, providing valuable insights into the social and cultural practices of the Harappan civilization. The presence of this unique feature has led researchers to speculate on the significance of public ceremonies and communal activities in the daily life of the inhabitants of Dholavira.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the large open area for public ceremonies at Dholavira distinguishes it from other Harappan cities and sheds light on the social dynamics and community interactions of the ancient civilization. This unique feature adds to the historical significance of Dholavira as a key archaeological site in understanding the Harappan civilization.

Unique Aspects of Dholavira
Dholavira, an archaeological site of the Harappan Civilization located in present-day Gujarat, India, showcases distinctive features that set it apart from other Harappan cities.

Large Open Area for Public Ceremonies
- The most significant feature of Dholavira is its large open area, which was likely used for public gatherings and ceremonies.
- This space reflects the societal structure and the communal aspects of the Harappan people, indicating a culture that valued communal activities.
- Unlike other Harappan cities which may have focused on urban planning for trade or residential purposes, Dholavira prioritized open spaces for social interaction.

Comparison with Other Features
- **Fire Altars**: While fire altars were significant in some regions, Dholavira is not particularly noted for them compared to other sites.
- **Dockyard**: Although Dholavira had a sophisticated water management system, it is not renowned for a dockyard like Lothal, which was famous for its maritime trade.
- **Great Bath**: The Great Bath is an iconic feature of Mohenjo-Daro and represents ritualistic practices, which were not a highlight in Dholavira.

Conclusion
Dholavira's emphasis on large open areas for public ceremonies illustrates its unique cultural and social dynamics within the Harappan Civilization. This feature underscores the city's role as a center for community life, distinguishing it from its contemporaries.

Material Used by Harappans for Beads
The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, thrived around 2500 BCE. They are renowned for their advanced craftsmanship, particularly in bead-making.
Commonly Used Material: Carnelian
- Carnelian:
- This semi-precious stone was extensively used by the Harappans to create intricate beads.
- Its vibrant orange-red color made it highly desirable for ornamental purposes.
- The stone was sourced from nearby regions, particularly from the deposits in present-day Rajasthan.
Other Materials Considered
- Granite:
- While durable, granite was not commonly used for bead-making due to its hardness and difficulty in shaping.
- Marble:
- Although marble was utilized in other architectural and artistic forms, it was not a primary material for beads.
- Limestone:
- This softer stone was often used for various construction purposes but lacked the aesthetic appeal needed for decorative beads.
Craftsmanship and Techniques
- The Harappans employed advanced techniques for shaping and polishing carnelian beads.
- They used tools made of harder materials to carve and shape the stones, showcasing their skilled craftsmanship.
- The beads varied in size, shape, and color, indicating a high level of artistry and a sophisticated trade network.
Conclusion
In conclusion, carnelian was the primary material used by the Harappans for making beads, reflecting their artistic capabilities and the significance of trade in their civilization. The use of carnelian not only highlights the aesthetic values of the Harappans but also their connections with other regions through commerce.

The bricks in Harappan cities were arranged in an interlocking pattern, which made the walls strong and durable. This careful and advanced construction technique contributed to the longevity of the Harappan structures, many of which have survived for thousands of years.

Materials Used by the Harappans
The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, flourished around 2500 BCE in present-day Pakistan and northwest India. They were highly advanced in metallurgy and utilized various materials to craft tools and ornaments.
1. Copper and Bronze
- The Harappans primarily used copper and bronze for making their tools and ornaments.
- Copper was easily extracted from ores and was the first metal used by the Harappans.
- Bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, was particularly significant as it offered greater strength and durability, enhancing the quality of tools and weapons.
2. Tool Production
- The civilization produced various tools, including axes, chisels, and sickles, which were essential for agriculture and construction.
- The techniques of casting and forging allowed for intricate designs and improved efficiency in tool-making.
3. Ornament Making
- Harappan artisans created beautiful ornaments using copper and bronze, including necklaces, bangles, and earrings.
- They often adorned these pieces with semi-precious stones, shells, and beads, highlighting their artistic skills and trade networks.
4. Conclusion
- The extensive use of copper and bronze in the Harappan civilization reflects their advanced metallurgical knowledge and artistry.
- This mastery of materials not only facilitated daily life but also contributed to their economic prosperity through trade.
In summary, option 'B' correctly identifies copper and bronze as the primary materials used by the Harappans for tools and ornaments, showcasing their ingenuity in metallurgy.

Lothal's Dockyard:
Lothal, an ancient city in present-day Gujarat, is known for its well-planned urban layout and advanced engineering and architectural features. One of the most significant structures found in Lothal is its dockyard.

Importance of the Dockyard:
- The dockyard at Lothal is considered to be one of the earliest known docks in the world. It was built during the Harappan civilization around 2400 BCE.
- The dockyard was strategically located along the banks of the Sabarmati River, providing access to the sea and facilitating trade with other regions.
- The dockyard played a crucial role in the economic and commercial activities of Lothal, serving as a hub for maritime trade.
- It is believed that the dockyard enabled Lothal to engage in long-distance trade with regions like Mesopotamia, Egypt, and other parts of the ancient world.

Architectural Features:
- The dockyard at Lothal consisted of a basin with a series of compartments connected to a channel that led to the river.
- The dockyard was built using a combination of burnt bricks, lime, and gypsum, showcasing the advanced engineering skills of the Harappan civilization.
- The dockyard's design indicates a sophisticated understanding of hydrology and maritime technology.

Significance:
- The presence of a dockyard in Lothal reflects the city's status as a thriving center of trade and commerce during the Harappan period.
- The dockyard also highlights the advanced urban planning and architectural achievements of the Harappan civilization.
In conclusion, the dockyard at Lothal is a remarkable archaeological discovery that sheds light on the maritime activities and economic prosperity of the ancient city. Its strategic location and sophisticated design make it a unique and significant structure in the history of urban planning and trade in the Indian subcontinent.

Well-Planned Drainage System in Harappan Cities
Harappan cities are known for their advanced urban planning, including a well-thought-out drainage system. The presence of a carefully laid out covered drainage system indicates the level of sophistication in their urban infrastructure. Here are some key points to explain why covered drains suggest a well-planned drainage system:

Straight and Carefully Laid Out Drains
- The drains in Harappan cities were straight and carefully laid out, showing a systematic approach to channeling wastewater and maintaining cleanliness in the urban areas.
- The straight layout of the drains suggests a planned design rather than a haphazard or ad-hoc arrangement.

Efficient Waste Management
- The covered drains indicate that the Harappans were concerned about proper waste disposal and maintaining hygienic conditions in their cities.
- A well-planned drainage system helps prevent waterlogging, reduce the risk of diseases, and improve overall sanitation.

Urban Development and Organization
- The presence of covered drains in Harappan cities reflects the level of urban development and organization achieved by the ancient civilization.
- It shows that they had a clear understanding of city planning and the importance of infrastructure for sustainable living.
In conclusion, the straight and carefully laid out covered drains in Harappan cities are a clear indication of a well-planned drainage system. This aspect of their urban planning highlights the advanced nature of the Harappan civilization and their focus on creating livable and organized urban spaces.