All questions of The Beginnings of Indian Civilisation for Class 6 Exam

The term ‘First Urbanisation of India’ refers to the development of cities in the Harappan civilisation. This period saw the transition from rural settlements to well-planned urban centers, marking the beginning of urban life in the Indian subcontinent.

The presence of beads of carnelian, a semiprecious stone, indicates that the Harappans had advanced trade networks. They traded these beads, which required sophisticated techniques to drill and decorate, showing their engagement in long-distance trade.

Harappan cities were notable for their uniform quality of construction, as buildings were generally made of bricks that were consistent in size and shape. This indicates a high level of planning and standardisation in their building techniques.

The Harappans managed their water resources by creating large reservoirs and wells. For example, Dholavira had at least six large reservoirs, and Mohenjo-daro had numerous wells, which ensured a steady supply of water for domestic and agricultural use.

Most Harappan buildings were made of bricks. The uniform quality of these bricks across various structures indicates a high level of standardization and planning in their construction methods.

The Sarasvatī River played a crucial role in providing water for agriculture. This made the surrounding plains fertile and favorable for growing crops, supporting the growth of villages, towns, and cities in the region.

Introduction to Harappans
The term "Harappans" refers to the inhabitants of the Indus Valley Civilization, a notable ancient civilization that flourished around 2500 BCE in present-day Pakistan and northwest India. The name comes primarily from one of its key archaeological sites.
Reason for the Name 'Harappans'
- First Excavated City
The city of Harappa was one of the first sites to be excavated in the early 20th century. This significant archaeological discovery provided a wealth of information about the Indus Valley Civilization. As a result, the inhabitants of this civilization were commonly referred to as "Harappans."
- Significance of Harappa
Harappa was a major urban center characterized by advanced urban planning, sophisticated drainage systems, and impressive architectural structures. These features highlighted the complexity and ingenuity of the civilization, making it a focal point for researchers.
- Broader Indus Valley Civilization
While Harappa is a key site, it is important to note that the Indus Valley Civilization included many other cities, such as Mohenjo-Daro and Dholavira. However, the name "Harappan" became widely accepted due to the early discoveries made at the Harappa site.
Conclusion
In summary, the term "Harappans" is derived from the city of Harappa, which was pivotal in the understanding of the Indus Valley Civilization. The archaeological work conducted there laid the groundwork for exploring the history and culture of this ancient society.

Harappan Civilization Overview
The Harappan Civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, thrived around 2500 BCE in what is now Pakistan and northwest India. This civilization is renowned for its advanced urban planning, architecture, and craftsmanship.
Extensive Use of Bronze
Among the various metals utilized by the Harappans, bronze was the most significant for tools and ornaments. Here’s why:

• Alloy Composition: Bronze is an alloy made primarily of copper and tin. The Harappans had access to copper and used it widely, indicating their advanced metallurgical skills.
• Durability: Bronze is more durable than copper alone, making it ideal for crafting tools that required strength and longevity.
• Versatility: The malleable nature of bronze allowed artisans to create intricate designs for ornaments, weapons, and tools, showcasing their artistic talents.
• Trade and Resources: The Harappans engaged in extensive trade networks, which facilitated the acquisition of tin from distant regions, essential for bronze production.
• Artifacts and Archaeological Findings: Archaeological excavations have uncovered numerous bronze artifacts, including figurines, tools, and jewelry, highlighting the importance of this metal in their daily life.

Conclusion
The extensive use of bronze by the Harappans illustrates their advanced technological capabilities and their significance in the development of early urban societies. This metal played a crucial role in their culture, economy, and craftsmanship, distinguishing them in ancient history.