India Notes

Where did civilization begin in India? Civilization began in the Indus River valley. It is one of the four Cradles of Civilization. The two main cities were Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro.

What’s so special about Harappa & Mohenjo-Daro? They looked like modern cities. Streets were straight & planned. They were divided into districts for different activities like homes vs. business.

What happened in India’s Golden Age? The Hindu caste system becomes more formal. Scientists figured out the size of the moon. Also, they understood gravity long before Europeans. And they came up with the number zero. It’s very important for math. Also, they did many different types of surgery. And they learned to inoculate people against disease.

The Mughal Empire Created civil service. Efficient government. Built Taj Mahal Built Red Fort.

What are the British doing in India? Making money. Building an empire. British & French fight over India in the 1700s. The British win. India is called the jewel of the empire. India was a source of raw materials. It was also an important market for British goods.

Why did India want to be independent? British treated them as second-class people in their own country. Government & business serve British interests, not Indian interests. British had best jobs, most power, etc.

Who was Gandhi? Leader of protests to help India become free of British rule. Used passive resistance to fight. This used protests, boycotts, & work stoppages. Did not use violence. Who else used this approach in US history?

When did India become independent? 1947

What problems did a free India face? The caste system: It is impossible to have democracy when people are considered unequal. It is banned, but still plays an unofficial role. Religious differences: India has many Hindus, but also many Muslims. India is divided into two new nations: India & Pakistan. This led to violence that left more than 500,000 dead.

What’s India like today? It is the world’s biggest democracy. Over one billion people live in India. It is starting to become more developed & wealthy, but most still live in poverty. It is one of the eight countries with nuclear weapons. Their economy is becoming more involved in technology/computer stuff.