Early civilizations of South Asia pretest

Answer 1

1. What are some key characteristics of early civilizations in South Asia?

- settled civilizations with advanced agricultural practices
- well-developed urban centers
- organized city planning and infrastructure
- sophisticated trade networks
- complex social hierarchies and political structures

2. Which river was a vital source of life for early civilizations in South Asia?

The Indus River.

3. What were the two major ancient civilizations in South Asia?

The Indus Valley Civilization and the Vedic civilization.

4. What were the main economic activities of early civilizations in South Asia?

- Agriculture, including the cultivation of wheat, barley, and other crops
- Animal husbandry, including the domestication of cattle and sheep
- Trade, both within the region and with other civilizations

5. What is significant about the writing system of the Indus Valley Civilization?

The writing system of the Indus Valley Civilization, known as the Indus script, has not been fully deciphered, making it difficult to gain a comprehensive understanding of their culture and history.

6. Where were the cities of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro located?

Harappa and Mohenjo-daro were major cities of the Indus Valley Civilization, located in present-day Pakistan.

7. What evidence suggests that early civilizations in South Asia had robust trade networks?

Archaeological findings, such as the discovery of goods like Mesopotamian seals, Persian Gulf shells, and Central Asian ceramics, indicate long-distance trade connections.

8. How did the Vedic civilization differ from the Indus Valley Civilization?

The Vedic civilization, which emerged after the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization, was based on Aryan culture and Vedic texts. The Vedic civilization focused more on pastoralism and the development of Sanskrit literature.

9. What role did religion play in early civilizations of South Asia?

Religion played a significant role in the lives of people in early South Asian civilizations. The religious beliefs and practices varied, but a common feature was the veneration of deities and gods.

10. What ultimately led to the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization?

The exact reasons for the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization are still debated among scholars, but some theories suggest that climatic changes, ecological degradation, or invasions may have contributed to its downfall.