Indus Valley civilization was one of the world's oldest from "summary" of India: The Ancient Past by Burjor Avari
The Indus Valley civilization, also known as the Harappan civilization, is considered to be one of the oldest in the world. Its origins can be traced back to around 2500 BCE, making it contemporaneous with other ancient civilizations like Egypt and Mesopotamia. This ancient civilization flourished in the northwestern regions of the Indian subcontinent, encompassing parts of present-day Pakistan and northwest India. The Indus Valley civilization is known for its advanced urban planning, sophisticated architecture, and complex social organization. The cities of Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, two of the largest settlements of the civilization, were meticulously planned with well-laid-out streets, public buildings, and residential quarters. The presence of advanced drainage systems and public baths indicates a high level of civic planning and engineering prowess. One of the most remarkable features of the Indus Valley civilization is its writing system, known as the Indus script. While the script has not yet been deciphered, its existence suggests a high level of literacy and intellectual sophistication among the ancient Harappans. The presence of seals and other artifacts with inscriptions further attests to the importance of writing and record-keeping in this ancient society. Trade was another key aspect of the Indus Valley civilization's economy. Archaeological evidence suggests that the Harappans engaged in long-distance trade with regions as far away as Mesopotamia, Afghanistan, and Central Asia. This trade network facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural practices, enriching the civilization and fostering a sense of cosmopolitanism. Despite its many achievements, the Indus Valley civilization eventually declined around 1900 BCE for reasons that are still debated among historians and archaeologists. Climate change, environmental degradation, and possibly internal strife have been proposed as potential factors contributing to the civilization's collapse. Nonetheless, the legacy of the Indus Valley civilization endures in the cultural and historical heritage of the Indian subcontinent.
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