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Understanding the Early Harappan Culture: Key Developments and Features
The Early Harappan Culture emerged from the gradual development of early farming communities in the Indus-Saraswati region. It flourished between the late 4th millennium B.C. and mid-3rd millennium B.C., displaying both regional diversity and cultural uniformity.
Exploring Key Features of Early Harappan Culture: Settlements and Trade
Geographical spread: Indus, Saraswati, and Darishadwati river valleys.
Transition from rural settlements to urban centers.
Widespread trade networks and advanced craftsmanship.
Development of fortifications and planned settlements.
Detailed Overview of Early Harappan Phase: Geographical Extent to Social Aspects
Analyzing Geographical Extent of Early Harappan Culture: Key Regions
Covered present-day Pakistan, northwest India, and parts of Afghanistan.
Major regions included Baluchistan, Gujarat, and Haryana.
Examining Settlements and Urban Planning in the Early Harappan Period
Key sites: Kot Diji, Amri, Kalibangan, Rakhigarhi.
Use of mud-brick houses, often elevated on artificial mounds for flood protection.
Basic urban layout with streets and drainage systems.
Understanding Agriculture and Economy in the Early Harappan Culture
Cultivated crops: wheat, barley, peas, mustard.
Farming techniques: plowing, irrigation, and crop rotation.
Extensive trade networks within the region and with Mesopotamia.
Reviewing Technological and Cultural Developments in the Early Harappan Phase
Pottery styles: Red Ware and Black-and-Red Ware with geometric motifs.
Stone and copper tools for daily use and craftsmanship.
Bead-making using semi-precious stones.
Analyzing Social and Religious Aspects of the Early Harappan Culture
Settlement hierarchy suggests a stratified society.
Burial practices indicate social differentiation.
Seals and terracotta figurines reflect early religious beliefs.
Exploring Architectural and Structural Features of Early Harappan Settlements
Fortifications
Massive walls found at Kalibangan, Siswal, and Rakhigarhi.
Constructed using molded mud bricks in a 1:2:3 ratio.
Fortifications suggest a need for security and defense.
House Complexes
Structures included kitchens, courtyards, and multiple rooms.
Brick masonry followed an English bond pattern.
Sun-dried mud bricks were commonly used for construction.
Drainage Systems
Evidence of drainage systems at Kalibangan and Rakhigarhi.
Burnt brick and mud brick drains connected to houses.
Proper wastewater disposal indicated early sanitation practices.
Analyzing Economic and Trade Developments in the Early Harappan Period
Based on agriculture, animal husbandry, and trade.
Domesticated animals included cattle, sheep, and goats.
Ploughed fields found at Kalibangan indicate advanced farming.
Regional and long-distance trade connections with Mesopotamia.
Key imports: copper from Khetri, sandstone from Aravalli, and shells from coastal regions.
Examining Ceramics and Craftsmanship in the Early Harappan Culture
Distinct pottery types:
Red Ware with black-and-white motifs.
Fine paste pottery with geometric patterns.
Thick, sturdy wares used for large jars and basins.
Terracotta figurines depicting animals and humans.
Tools and ornaments crafted from stone, shell, and bone.
Analyzing Artifacts and Material Culture of the Early Harappan Phase
Metal Objects
Copper tools: axes, chisels, arrowheads.
Gold and silver beads, ornaments.
Stone and Shell Artifacts
Chert, agate, and jasper tools.
Shell bangles and decorative items.
Terracotta Objects
Figurines, toy carts, spindle whorls.
Beads and pottery with symbolic motifs.
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