How did the Indus people survive?
The Indus people, also known as the Harappan civilization, thrived in the basins of the Indus River wherefore they derived their name from. Their survival and prosperity were attributed to various factors, including:
1. Agriculture: The Indus people were primarily farmers, relying on the fertile alluvial soil deposited by the Indus River and its tributaries. They cultivated a wide range of crops such as wheat, barley, cotton, and peas. To ensure efficient irrigation, they built and maintained an elaborate network of canals and reservoirs, showcasing remarkable engineering skills.
2. Domestication of Animals: Along with agriculture, the Indus people also practiced animal husbandry. They domesticated animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, and buffaloes for food, transportation, and dairy products. This provided a diverse source of sustenance and facilitated trade.
3. Trade: The Indus civilization was actively engaged in trade with neighboring regions and civilizations. They traded surplus agricultural products, textiles, and other goods for raw materials, such as metals, gemstones, and timber, which were not locally available. This extensive trade network contributed significantly to their economic prosperity.
4. Planned Urban Settlements: The Indus civilization is renowned for its well-organized and meticulously planned cities, such as Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa. These cities exhibited advanced urban planning, with a grid layout of streets, efficient drainage systems, and sophisticated sanitation practices. The urban centers facilitated efficient trade, social interaction, and cultural development.
5. Cultural Exchange: The Indus people interacted and exchanged ideas with various cultures, including those from Mesopotamia, Persia, and Central Asia. This cultural exchange enriched their civilization, leading to the adoption of new technologies and innovations. For instance, the Indus script, which remains undeciphered to this day, is believed to have been influenced by the Sumerian cuneiform script.
6. Religion: Religion played an essential role in Indus society, providing spiritual guidance and unifying the people. Archaeologists have uncovered numerous artifacts depicting religious symbols and rituals, suggesting a sophisticated religious belief system. The worship of mother goddesses, animals, and nature was common.
7. Crafts and Technology: The Indus people displayed remarkable skills in various crafts, such as pottery, weaving, metallurgy, and jewelry making. They produced intricate pottery with painted designs, delicate gold and silver jewelry, and even manufactured tools and weapons from bronze. Their technological advancements, including the use of standardized weights and measures, further contributed to their success.
8. Administration: The Indus civilization displayed an effective system of administration, as evidenced by the well-organized urban planning and the presence of large public buildings. This efficient governance allowed for coordination of resources, trade, and infrastructure development.
In conclusion, the Indus people's survival and success can be attributed to their proficiency in agriculture, animal husbandry, trade, urban planning, cultural exchange, religion, craftsmanship, technology, and administration. These factors collectively facilitated the flourishing of one of the earliest civilizations in the world.