Chapter Test: The First Cities - CTET & State TET MCQ

Most of the things that have been found by archaeologists are made of stone, shell and metal, including copper, bronze, gold and silver. Copper and bronze were used to make tools, weapons, ornaments and vessels. Gold and silver were used to make ornaments and vessels.

• Mohen-jo-daro: Mohen-jo-daro is an ancient archaeological site located in the Sindh province of Pakistan.


• Location: The site is situated in the Larkana District of Sindh, Pakistan.


• Historical Significance: Mohen-jo-daro is one of the largest settlements of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, which dates back to around 2500 BCE.


• Excavations: The site was discovered in the 1920s and has been extensively excavated, revealing insights into the urban planning, architecture, and daily life of the ancient civilization.


• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Mohen-jo-daro is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its cultural importance and historical significance.

• Citadel: The term "citadel" refers to a fortress typically situated on higher ground, providing defense and protection. In this context, the part of the west that was smaller but higher would be described as a citadel.


• Characteristics: Citadels are often built on elevated areas to enhance their defensibility and strategic advantage.


• Usage: Citadels were commonly used in ancient times for military purposes, serving as strongholds during conflicts.


• Symbols of Power: Citadels are also symbolic of power and authority, representing the ruling entity within a region.


• Architecture: The architecture of citadels often includes thick walls, watchtowers, and other features to fortify the structure.

• Terracotta toys were commonly made in ancient civilizations and were used as playthings for children.


• These toys were typically decorated with various designs and patterns to make them more visually appealing.


• Among the different designs, the most common ones found on terracotta toys were pictures of animals.


• The depiction of animals on these toys could vary from simple outlines to more detailed and intricate carvings.


• Animals were often chosen as subjects for decoration because they were familiar to children and could capture their imagination.


• Other designs that could be found on terracotta toys included pictures of fire, kings, wells, and more.


• However, the most prevalent design was that of animals.


• These terracotta toys provide valuable insights into the daily life and culture of ancient civilizations.

• Mohenjodaro: The Great Bath, one of the most well-known structures of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, was found in Mohenjodaro.

• The Great Bath is a large, well-built structure that was likely used for ritual bathing and other religious purposes in the ancient city of Mohenjodaro.


• It is believed to have been an important part of the social and religious life of the people living in Mohenjodaro.


• The discovery of the Great Bath provides valuable insights into the advanced urban planning and engineering skills of the Indus Valley Civilization.


• Archaeologists have also found evidence of a sophisticated drainage system connected to the Great Bath, indicating the high level of engineering and architectural knowledge of the people of Mohenjodaro.

• Harappa: Harappa is known for its well-planned city layout and sophisticated drainage system. The city had elaborate storehouses to store goods and supplies.


• Mohenjo-Daro: Mohenjo-Daro, another Indus Valley Civilization city, also had well-structured storehouses to store various commodities.


• Lothal: Lothal, a port city of the Indus Valley Civilization, had large storehouses to store goods that were being traded through the port.

• The cities of Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa, and Lothal had elaborate storehouses as part of their urban planning and infrastructure.


• These storehouses were essential for storing goods, maintaining supplies, and facilitating trade in these ancient cities.

In Harappan sites, archaeologists have found spindle whorls made of terracotta and faience. These were mainly used to spin thread.

• Harappan Civilization: The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley civilization, existed around 3300-1300 BCE in the region of the Indian subcontinent.



• Harappan Pottery: The Harappans were skilled in pottery making and produced a wide variety of pottery items for various purposes.



• Black Designs: Among the various designs found on Harappan pottery, black designs were one of the most prominent and aesthetically pleasing.



• Symbolism: The black designs on Harappan pottery often featured intricate patterns and motifs that may have held symbolic significance for the people of that time.



• Artistic Expression: The use of black designs on pottery indicates the artistic and creative abilities of the Harappan people, showcasing their attention to detail and craftsmanship.

• Local citizens: In ancient cities, local citizens often provided food to craft persons, scribes, and rulers as part of their community responsibilities.


• Farmers and herders: Farmers and herders played a crucial role in supplying food to the urban population, including those involved in crafts, writing, and governance.

Therefore, the correct answer is option C: Farmers and herders. They were the main suppliers of food to craft persons, scribes, and rulers in the cities.

• The termination of the Harappan tradition at Harappa falls between 1900 and 1500 BC.