CCWH#02 Indus Valley Civilization

Why does the term "civilization" pose a problem when discussing different social orders?

• It implies a linear progression of societies
• It promotes cultural diversity
• It encourages unbiased analysis
• It emphasizes technological advancements

What were the criteria used by John Green to diagnose a civilization?

• Written language and organized religion
• Nomadic lifestyle and hunting skills
• Advanced technology and trade networks
• Agricultural practices and surplus food production

Why don't we know more about the Indus Valley Civilization?

• Limited written records and deciphered language.
• Lack of archaeological evidence and remains.
• Inaccessibility of the Indus Valley region.
• Cultural practices that intentionally erased their history.

Why were rivers historically important for the development of civilizations?

• They facilitated the growth of surplus food production
• They provided a source of entertainment
• They served as natural boundaries between civilizations
• They prevented conflicts and wars

Describe some characteristics of the Indus Valley Civilization.

• Well-planned cities and complex drainage systems
• Monolithic architecture and centralized political power
• Extensive maritime trade and naval dominance
• Elaborate tombs and funerary rituals

What role did baths play in the Indus River Valley civilization?

• We are unsure of their role. But it must have been important due to the number of baths and their culture.
• Exclusively used for religious rituals and ceremonies.
• Primarily used for agricultural purposes and irrigation.
• No evidence of baths being utilized in the Indus River Valley civilization.

How do archaeologists know that the Indus Valley Civilization engaged in trade? What did they trade?

• Through archaeological artifacts and remains; traded agricultural products such as cotton for metals
• Through oral traditions and historical accounts; traded spices and textiles
• Through written records and trade agreements; traded pottery and beads
• Through geological surveys and ancient maps; traded precious stones and gems

What does John argue is the most interesting thing about the Indus Valley Civilization?

• They were peaceful.
• They were warlike.
• They had the largest trading networks in the ancient world.
• They conducted the longest sea explorations of the time.

How do we know the Indus valley civilization was peaceful?

• Through the analysis of archaeological evidence and material remains
• Through historical accounts and written records from the civilization
• Through the interpretation of cave paintings and rock art
• Through genetic studies and DNA analysis of ancient individuals

What are the three theories historians propose to explain the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization?

• Climate change, social unrest, and political instability
• Alien invasions, natural disasters, and economic collapse
• Religious conflicts, technological advancements, and cultural assimilation
• Trade disruptions, epidemics, and foreign trade domination