All questions of In the Earliest Cities for Class 6 Exam

Answer is b

Earliest Cities in the Sub-Continent

The sub-continent refers to the Indian subcontinent, which is a region located in South Asia. The subcontinent is home to some of the earliest civilizations in the world. Here are some of the earliest cities in the subcontinent:

1. Sotkakoh: Sotkakoh is believed to be one of the earliest cities in the subcontinent. It is located in the Balochistan region of Pakistan, and it dates back to the 7th millennium BCE.

2. Dholavira: Dholavira is an ancient city located in the state of Gujarat in India. It is believed to have been inhabited from around 2900 BCE. It is one of the five largest Harappan sites in the Indian subcontinent.

3. Lothal: Lothal is another ancient city located in the state of Gujarat in India. It was an important center of trade and commerce during the Indus Valley Civilization. It is believed to have been inhabited from around 2400 BCE.

4. Mahrgarh: Mahrgarh is a Neolithic site located in the Balochistan region of Pakistan. It is one of the earliest sites of agriculture in the Indian subcontinent. It dates back to around 7000 BCE.

Not the Earliest City in the Sub-Continent

C. Mahrgarh: Although Mahrgarh is one of the earliest sites of agriculture in the Indian subcontinent, it is not considered to be a city. It was a small settlement that predates the development of cities in the subcontinent.

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.

In other harappan cities , the writings were written on small objects such as seals .

The primary purpose of seals found in Harappan cities is to mark ownership of goods.
So the correct answer is B

Mohenjo-daro is situated in Pakistan.

- Mohenjo-daro is one of the most ancient cities in the world and was built around 2500 BCE. It is located in the Larkana District of the Sindh province in present-day Pakistan.
- The city was part of the Indus Valley Civilization, also known as the Harappan Civilization, which flourished in the Indus River Valley from around 3300 BCE to 1300 BCE. It was one of the largest and most advanced urban settlements of its time.
- The discovery of Mohenjo-daro was made in the 1920s by Sir John Marshall, who was the Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India at that time. Excavations were carried out, revealing a well-planned city with sophisticated urban infrastructure.
- The city was built on a mound, which protected it from annual floods. It had a grid-like layout with well-organized streets, public buildings, and residential areas. The buildings were constructed with burnt bricks and had an advanced drainage system.
- The ruins of Mohenjo-daro provide valuable insights into the social, economic, and cultural aspects of the Indus Valley Civilization. Archaeologists have found evidence of a highly organized society with a system of governance, trade networks, and a rich artistic and craft tradition.
- The site of Mohenjo-daro has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical significance. It is an important archaeological site for the study of ancient civilizations and attracts tourists and researchers from around the world.
- The Indus Valley Civilization, including Mohenjo-daro, was spread across parts of modern-day Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, and Iran. However, Mohenjo-daro specifically is located in the Sindh province of Pakistan.
- It is important to note that Mohenjo-daro is not located in Nepal, Bangladesh, or India. While these countries also have rich historical and archaeological sites, Mohenjo-daro is specifically associated with Pakistan due to its geographical location.

Carnelian is a Beautiful Red Stone

Carnelian is a type of chalcedony mineral that is commonly reddish-brown in color. It is a popular gemstone that has been used for jewelry and decorative purposes for thousands of years. Here are some key points about carnelian:

- Color: Carnelian is typically reddish-brown, but can also come in shades of orange, yellow, and even pink.
- Hardness: Carnelian has a hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear.
- Origin: Carnelian is found in many parts of the world, including Brazil, India, Madagascar, and the United States.
- Uses: Carnelian has been used for jewelry and decorative purposes since ancient times. It is believed to have healing properties and is associated with creativity, vitality, and courage.

In conclusion, carnelian is a beautiful red stone that has been prized for its beauty and durability for thousands of years. Its unique color and properties make it a popular choice for jewelry and decorative items, as well as for its supposed healing benefits.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Elaborate Storehouses in Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa, and Lothal

Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa, and Lothal are three prominent cities of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, which flourished around 2600-1900 BCE. These cities were known for their well-planned urban layouts and advanced infrastructure, including elaborate storehouses. The correct answer is option 'B', which includes Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa, and Lothal.

Mohenjo-Daro:
Mohenjo-Daro, located in present-day Pakistan, was one of the largest and most advanced cities of the Indus Valley Civilization. It had a complex urban structure comprising well-organized streets, drainage systems, and multi-story buildings. Excavations at Mohenjo-Daro have revealed several large storehouses.

These storehouses were built using baked bricks and had thick walls, indicating their robustness. They were strategically located near the citadel and the Great Bath, suggesting their importance in the city's economic and administrative activities. The storehouses had multiple chambers and were likely used for storing various commodities such as grains, pottery, and other valuable items.

Harappa:
Harappa, also located in present-day Pakistan, was another major city of the Indus Valley Civilization. Like Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa had a well-planned urban layout with a sophisticated drainage system, public buildings, and residential areas. Excavations at Harappa have unearthed several large storehouses, providing insights into the city's economic and trading activities.

The storehouses in Harappa were similar to those found in Mohenjo-Daro, characterized by thick walls and multiple chambers. These storehouses were likely used for storing surplus agricultural produce, raw materials, and finished goods. The presence of such elaborate storehouses suggests that Harappa was a center of economic activity and had a well-organized system for managing and distributing resources.

Lothal:
Lothal, located in present-day Gujarat, India, was a prominent port city of the Indus Valley Civilization. It was strategically situated near the Gulf of Khambhat, facilitating maritime trade with other regions. Excavations at Lothal have revealed a well-structured dockyard and several storehouses, indicating its importance as a trading hub.

The storehouses in Lothal were unique in design and construction. They were built on a raised platform and had a separate entrance for loading and unloading goods. The storehouses were made of sun-dried bricks and had chambers with storage jars, indicating the storage of different commodities. The presence of such elaborate storehouses in Lothal highlights the city's role in trade and commerce.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the cities of Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa, and Lothal had elaborate storehouses as an integral part of their urban infrastructure. These storehouses were built using robust materials, had multiple chambers, and were strategically located to support the cities' economic activities. The presence of such well-designed storehouses indicates the advanced planning and management systems of the Indus Valley Civilization.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Material used to make Harappan beads:
Harappan beads, which are known for their intricate designs and craftsmanship, were made using carnelian.

Characteristics of Carnelian:
- Carnelian is a type of semi-precious gemstone that is reddish-brown in color.
- It is a form of chalcedony, a cryptocrystalline variety of quartz.

Significance of Carnelian in Harappan culture:
- Carnelian beads were highly valued in the Harappan civilization for their striking color and durability.
- These beads were used for making jewelry, decorations, and other artifacts.

Harappan bead-making process:
- Artisans would carefully shape and polish carnelian stones to create small beads.
- These beads were then drilled to create holes for stringing them together into necklaces, bracelets, and other ornamental pieces.

Legacy of Harappan beads:
- Harappan beads are considered an important archaeological find, shedding light on the craftsmanship and artistic skills of the ancient Indus Valley civilization.
- These beads have been found in various Harappan sites, providing valuable insights into the trade and cultural exchanges of the time.

Mustard was the crop grown by the Harappans
The Harappans were an ancient civilization that flourished in the Indus Valley around 2600-1900 BCE. They were known for their advanced urban planning, trade networks, and agricultural practices. One of the crops they grew was mustard.
Here are some key points about mustard being one of the crops cultivated by the Harappans:
- Importance of Mustard: Mustard was an essential crop for the Harappans as it provided them with oil for cooking and lighting, as well as medicinal and cosmetic uses.
- Growth Conditions: Mustard is a hardy crop that can grow in a variety of soil types and climates, making it well-suited for cultivation by the Harappans in the fertile Indus Valley region.
- Harappan Agriculture: Along with mustard, the Harappans grew a variety of other crops such as wheat, barley, pulses, peas, rice, sesame, and linseed. This diverse agricultural system allowed them to sustain their large population and engage in trade with other civilizations.
- Domestication: The cultivation of mustard by the Harappans is evidence of their early agricultural practices and the domestication of plants for food and other purposes.
In conclusion, mustard was an important crop grown by the Harappans alongside other staples like wheat, barley, and rice. Its cultivation played a vital role in the economy and daily life of this ancient civilization.