Which of the following is NOT a name used to refer to the Indus-Sarasvati Civilization?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Correct Answer: Mesopotamian Civilization
Explanation:
- The name 'Mesopotamian Civilization' is not used for the Indus-Saraswati Civilization (Indus Valley Civilization) because it was a distinct and contemporary civilization.
- Harappan Civilization: The first city of this civilization to be discovered was 'Harappa'; hence, it is referred to as the Harappan Civilization.
- Indus Civilization: Since its early sites were found along the banks of the Indus River and its tributaries, Sir John Marshall named it the 'Indus Civilization'.
- Mesopotamian Civilization: This civilization developed in present-day Iraq, situated between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. Although the people of the Indus Civilization engaged in trade with Mesopotamia, these two were civilizations belonging to distinct geographical regions. In Mesopotamian texts, the Indus region is referred to as 'Meluha'.
Key Points:
- Bronze Age Civilization: The Indus Civilization is also known as a 'Bronze Age Civilization' because it was here that bronze—an alloy of copper and tin—was produced for the first time.
- Urban Civilization: It was the world's first planned urban civilization, renowned for its grid system and drainage infrastructure.
- Extent: This civilization spanned parts of present-day India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.
Important Questions for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: Who was the first person to discover the Indus Valley Civilization?
Answer: Dayaram Sahni (Discovery of Harappa in 1921).
Question: Which term is used to refer to the Indus Civilization in Mesopotamian records?
Answer: Meluha.
Question: Which is the largest Indian site of the Indus Civilization?
Answer: Rakhigarhi (Haryana).
Question: Which Indus site was known as the 'Port City'?
Answer: Lothal (Gujarat).