Which metal was unknown to the Harappan people?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Correct Answer:
Option 1 (Iron)
Explanation:
The people of the Indus Valley Civilization did not have knowledge of iron. The Harappan Civilization was a Bronze Age civilization, where people knew how to make bronze by mixing copper and tin. The use of iron in India began around the late Vedic period (around 1000 BCE), long after the decline of the Harappan Civilization.
Additional Facts:
Bronze Civilization: The Harappans primarily used metals such as copper, bronze, gold, and silver.
Copper: This was the first metal used by humans, and the Harappans obtained it primarily from the Khetri mines in Rajasthan.
Tools: Due to the absence of iron, their tools and weapons were primarily made of stone, copper, and bronze.
Urban Civilization: Even without the knowledge of iron, the Harappans developed excellent town planning and drainage systems.
Possible questions for the upcoming exam:
The Harappan Civilization is considered to belong to which era?
(Answer: Bronze Age)
Where did the people of the Indus Valley Civilization obtain copper?
(Answer: Khetri, Rajasthan)
What period is considered to be the beginning of the Iron Age in India?
(Answer: Post-Vedic period)