Indus Valley Civilization: Trade, Society, Technology, and Urban Planning

Indus Valley Civilization

Trade and Economy

The Indus Valley Civilization thrived around 2600 BCE and lasted until around 1900 BCE. The economy of this civilization was based on agriculture, fisheries, and animal husbandry, with crops such as wheat, barley, rice, and pulses being grown. They were also involved in extensive trading activities, with evidence suggesting exchanges of goods with neighboring regions like Mesopotamia and Elam. The Indus Valley Civilization had an impressive network of roads, enabling efficient transport of goods.

Social Structure

Unlike the rigid caste systems of later Indian civilizations, the early Harappan society showed signs of social equality. However, there is evidence of wealth disparities, with wealthy individuals having access to finer quality goods and services. The societal structure appears to have been divided into urban and rural populations, with the former being more elite in nature.

Technology and Craftsmanship

The Indus Valley Civilization was highly advanced for its time. They created standardized systems of measurement using tools like ivory scales and had specialized workshops that produced various items such as pottery, metalware, and textiles. This civilization also had an impressive understanding of mathematics, which is evident from the discovery of a granite ball from Mohenjodaro with 44 lines engraved on it, suggesting mathematical calculations.

Art and Artifacts

Indus Valley Civilization artifacts include terracotta figurines, bronze sculptures, and gold jewelry. These objects often depict scenes of daily life, religious ceremonies, and hunting activities. Notable finds include the "Dancing Girl," a small bronze figure representing a female dancer, and the "Priest-King," an image of a bearded man wearing robes.

Urban Planning

The Indus Valley Civilization cities were well planned, with streets laid out in a grid pattern, public baths, drains, and water supply systems. There are indications of city planning based on astronomical observations, with some cities arranged along east–west axes. The cities were fortified, possibly indicating defense against external threats.