Indus Valley

Indus Valley Civilization

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Alternative name
Location	South Asia
Region
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Type	Civilization
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The Indus Valley Civilization (IVC), also known as the Harappan Civilization, was a Bronze Age civilization located in the northwestern regions of South Asia, extending from what today is northeast Afghanistan to Pakistan and northwest India. Flourishing around the Indus River basin, the civilization primarily centered in the areas of modern-day Pakistan and India. It is one of three early cradles of civilizations of the Old World, alongside the civilizations of ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia.

History

The Indus Valley Civilization emerged around 3300 BCE and began to decline around 1900 BCE, with the final stages of the civilization lasting until around 1300 BCE. The reasons for its decline are still a subject of research and debate among scholars. Possible theories include climate change, overpopulation, and seismic activity.

Culture

The people of the Indus Valley Civilization achieved great accuracy in measuring length, mass, and time, and based on the artifacts found, they had a rich culture that produced major advances in architecture, craftsmanship, and trade. The civilization is noted for its cities built of brick, roadside drainage system, and multistoried houses.

Economy

The economy of the Indus Valley was heavily based on agriculture, supported by the fertile lands of the Indus River. Wheat, barley, and peas were among the main crops grown. In addition to agriculture, the Indus Valley people engaged in trade with Mesopotamia, Southern India, Afghanistan, and Persia.

Technology

The Indus Valley Civilization is noted for its technological advancements, which include the world's first known urban sanitation systems and the development of a form of writing, which remains undeciphered to this day.

Sites

Major urban centers of the Indus Valley Civilization include Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, Dholavira, and Lothal. These sites show evidence of advanced urban planning and impressive architectural achievements.

Decline

The decline of the Indus Valley Civilization is believed to have been gradual, attributed to a combination of factors including climate change, declining trade, and possibly invasions. The civilization transitioned into the Vedic Period, which laid the foundation for the subsequent rise of major religions and cultural practices in the region.

Legacy

The Indus Valley Civilization left a profound impact on the history and culture of the Indian subcontinent and has been a major focus of archaeological studies.