The History of Ancient India

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

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.

Indus Valley Civilization • 1. began 2500 BC, • 2. settlements well planned out, with structure and roads and public water access • 3. Large cities had citadels • 4. Economy focused on trade/agriculture • 5. unsure about society in ancient India • 6. Many theories on its decline

This ruin reveals the careful planning of the Indus river city of Harappa.

The buildings of Mohenjo-Daro were also carefully planned.

Vedic Period • 1. Vedas – writings detailing Aryan history in India • 2. regional settlements under control of rajas – war leader • 3. Social Structure • Varnas: 4 social classes • Caste system • 4. religion • Sacrifices to many gods, rituals

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.

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.

Harappan civilization began around 3000 B.C.

The cities were surrounded by walls. Walls were used to protect the inhabitants of the cities.

Harappan civilization declined around 1500 B.C. It is possible that the monsoon failed or an earthquake occurred.

Ancient Indian Caste System

Hinduism • A. Basic Teachings • 1. one of oldest religions • 2. Brahman • Eternal being that created, preserves the world • 3. Rebirth/Salvation • Continual cycle of birth, death called reincarnation • Karma – • Moksha – • Dharma -

Buddhism • A. Life of Buddha • 1. traced to teachings of Siddhartha Gautama  “Buddha” • 2. wandered, sought enlightenment for 6 years • B. Teachings of Buddhism • 1. 4 central truths: • Suffering is part of life • Suffering comes from desire • Overcoming desire ends suffering • End by following Eightfold Path

Buddhism (cont…) • 2. If you follow 8 fold path, you can reach Nirvana – state of perfect peace • C. Spread of Buddhism • 1. 350 million today • 2. Growth from India, missionaries sent • 3. Today, Buddhism is very diverse 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. • What were the two major world religions that began in India? E. Napp

The History of Ancient India