The History of Ancient India In this lesson, students will identify characteristics of civilization in the Indus river valley. Students will be able to define and/or identify the following terms: Harappa Mohenjo-Daro Urban Planning E. Napp
The Indus River begins in the Himalayas. When the snows melt, the river floods. E. Napp
The Indus river allowed people to farm. It made irrigation and transportation possible. A great civilization developed in the Indus river valley. E. Napp
Harappan Civilization The early civilization that developed in the Indus river valley is frequently referred to as Harappan civilization. The name “Harappan” comes from one of the cities in the Indus river valley. Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro were two important cities of this early river valley civilization. E. Napp
This ruin reveals the careful planning of the Indus river city of Harappa. E. Napp
The buildings of Mohenjo-Daro were also carefully planned. E. Napp
Urban Planning Urban planning refers to the careful planning of a city. In Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, every brick in every city was exactly the same size during a period of time. Like modern cities, buildings had to conform to government standards. E. Napp
This hole and drain suggest that indoor bathrooms and toilets may have existed. E. Napp
Harappan civilization had writing. However, archaeologists are still deciphering it. E. Napp
This map reveals the location of Harappan civilization. E. Napp
Harappan civilization began around 3000 B.C. E. Napp
The cities were surrounded by walls. Walls were used to protect the inhabitants of the cities. E. Napp
Harappan civilization declined around 1500 B.C. It is possible that the monsoon failed or an earthquake occurred. E. Napp
Questions for Reflection: What is the relationship between the Indus river and the Himalayas? Why is India’s earliest civilization referred to as Harappan civilization? Define urban planning. How did Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro exhibit aspects of urban planning? List three accomplishments of Harappan civilization. E. Napp