Textbook Solutions: Places of Historical Significance: Regional Sites I | Footprints Class 7: Book Solutions, Notes & Worksheets PDF Download

I. Tick (✓) the correct option.

1.
Ans: (b)

2.
Ans: (b)

3.
Ans: (b)

4.
Ans: (b)

5.
Ans: (a)

II. Observe the given picture and answer the questions that follow.

1.
Ans: The picture shows a postage stamp issued by India Post. The stamp features an image of a bull and some symbols that resemble the script of the Indus Valley Civilization. The text on the stamp indicates that it is associated with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

2.
Ans: India Post likely published the stamp to honor and raise awareness about the rich cultural heritage of India, particularly the Indus Valley Civilization, one of the oldest and most significant ancient civilizations in the world. The stamp highlights the importance of archaeological discoveries and the role of the ASI in preserving these treasures.

3.
Ans: The script shown in the picture is from the Indus Valley Civilization, also known as the Harappan script. It is one of the earliest forms of writing known to humanity and consists of pictorial symbols. Despite numerous efforts, the script has not yet been fully deciphered, and its meaning remains a mystery. The symbols found on seals, pottery, and other artefacts provide valuable insights into the culture and trade practices of the Harappan people.

4.
Ans: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) plays a crucial role in preserving India's vast and diverse heritage. It is responsible for the protection, conservation, and maintenance of archaeological sites, monuments, and artefacts across the country. By conducting excavations, preserving ancient structures, and educating the public about the historical significance of various sites, the ASI ensures that India's rich cultural history is safeguarded for future generations. The work of the ASI helps maintain a connection with the past, enabling people to understand and appreciate the legacy left behind by ancient civilizations.

III. There are two statements given as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read both the statements to choose the correct option.

Ans: (a)

IV. Answer the following questions in brief.

1.
Ans: Sites of historical significance are official locations where elements of political, military, religious, cultural, or social history have been preserved. These sites include buildings, landscapes, monuments, and other structures that have historical value and are typically protected by law.

2.
Ans: The Indian government plays a crucial role in preserving historical sites by enacting laws and setting up institutions like the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). These institutions identify, protect, and maintain sites of historical significance, ensuring their preservation for future generations.

3.
Ans: The two main sources used to learn about the past are:

• Archaeological Sources: These include tools, weapons, pottery, inscriptions, monuments, and other physical remains.
• Literary Sources: These include manuscripts, religious texts, biographies, court chronicles, and accounts of travelers.

4.
Ans: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for identifying, protecting, and conserving historical sites and monuments across India. The ASI conducts archaeological excavations, maintains sites, and provides information about the history and significance of these sites to the public through informational boards and publications.

5.
Ans: Pre-modern sites are cities or settlements that existed before the modern industrial era. These sites were often based on agricultural surplus and served as political, military, religious, or trade centers.
Examples of pre-modern sites include:

• Pataliputra (modern-day Patna)
• Mathura

V. Answer the following questions in detail.

1.
Ans: Cities are large human settlements characterized by a high population density and significant infrastructure development. In pre-modern times, cities emerged as centers of political power, trade, and religious activities, often built around agricultural surplus.
Examples include:

• Pataliputra: A major political and administrative center in ancient India.
• Mathura: A religious and trade center with significant historical importance.

2.
Ans: Significant archaeological findings at Kalibangan include:

• Agricultural fields with furrow marks: Indicating early agricultural practices.
• Mud-brick fortifications and houses: Showing urban planning and defensive strategies.
• Fire altars and citadel structures: Suggesting ritualistic and communal activities.
• Artefacts like pottery, beads, and seals: Providing insights into the daily life, trade, and culture of the Harappans. These findings contribute to our understanding of the Harappan Civilization by revealing the city's planning, social structure, religious practices, and economic activities.

3.
Ans: The layout of Kalibangan includes:

• Citadel and Lower Town: The city was divided into a citadel, which housed administrative and ritual structures, and a lower town where common residences and craft production were located.
• Fortifications: The city was surrounded by mud-brick fortifications, indicating a need for defense.
• Grid-like Streets: The lower town had streets arranged in a grid pattern, a characteristic of planned urban settlements.
• Drains and Sewage Management: Evidence of drainage systems in the citadel shows an understanding of sanitation and public health. This layout reflects advanced urban planning, with designated areas for different functions, a focus on defense, and a concern for public health, which were hallmarks of Harappan cities.

4.
Ans: The historical significance of the Kalibangan site lies in its contribution to our understanding of the Harappan Civilization. Kalibangan provides evidence of early urbanization in South Asia, showcasing advanced agricultural practices, city planning, and ritualistic traditions. The site also reveals continuity in religious practices, as seen in the fire altars and sacrificial pits, linking ancient Harappan beliefs with later traditions in the region. The discovery of various artefacts further enhances our knowledge of the social, economic, and cultural aspects of life during the Harappan period, making Kalibangan a key site in the study of ancient Indian history.