Aspects of Harappan Economy:
1. Agriculture:
- The Harappans were skilled farmers who cultivated crops such as wheat, barley, peas, and sesame.
- Evidence of irrigation systems like canals and reservoirs suggest advanced agricultural practices.
2. Crafts and Trade:
- Harappans were known for their craftsmanship in pottery, jewelry, and textiles.
- Trade networks existed with regions like Mesopotamia, Oman, and Afghanistan, supported by seals and weights.
3. Urban Planning:
- Harappan cities like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa were well-planned with grid-like streets, indicating centralized authority.
- Presence of granaries, public baths, and sophisticated drainage systems suggest organized urban life.
4. Metalworking:
- Copper, bronze, and tin were used to create tools, weapons, and ornaments.
- Evidence of metal workshops and artifacts like bronze figures indicate a developed metalworking industry.
5. Domestic Economy:
- Houses were equipped with private wells, bathrooms, and storage facilities for domestic activities.
- Specialized areas for craft production within homes point towards a diversified domestic economy.
6. Long-distance Trade:
- Harappans engaged in long-distance trade, evidenced by the presence of exotic goods like carnelian beads from Gujarat and lapis lazuli from Afghanistan.
- Seals with inscriptions and standardized weights suggest a sophisticated trade system.
7. Social Stratification:
- Variations in house sizes, presence of public buildings, and burial practices indicate social hierarchies within Harappan society.
- Elites may have controlled resources and trade networks, contributing to economic disparities.
Overall, archaeological evidence provides insights into the diverse aspects of the Harappan economy, showcasing their advanced agricultural practices, skilled craftsmanship, organized urban planning, and participation in long-distance trade networks.