A Global Perspective of the Ancient World: A Comparison of the Indus Valley Civilization to Modern Western Civilization. International Baccalaureate

The Harappan Civilization: A Comparative Essay

Patrick Royle

Friday, June 08, 2007

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A Global perspective of the Ancient World

Patrick Royle

Why do some civilizations flourish and achieve greatness only to fall? The Indus River civilization was one of the 4 ancient river civilizations that is believed to have been established in 3000 BCE. Often referred to as The Harappan Civilization, it was very complex and advanced. Achieving a high level of advancement, the civilization gradually declined and eventually disappeared in around 1700 BCE. An analysis of the causes of the decline can provide useful information to contemporary society. A comparison of the two civilizations with regard to technology, religion, political structure, social stratification and art reveals similarities and differences.

The prosperity of the Harappan Civilization may be attributed to their technological advancement. Irrigation systems allowed for the control of water, resulting in the production of a food surplus.

English: Indus Priest/King Statue. The statue is 1...

English: Replica of 'Dancing Girl' of Mohenjo-daro...

English: Commons:Category:Mohenjo-daro Commons:Cat...

This allowed for an increase in population growth and specialization. Highly skilled artisans specialized in techniques in working with stone, ceramics and metals. Produced goods were traded both internally and externally in the Arabian Gulf, West and Central Asia and Peninsular India. Export to the Arabian Gulf was possible because of the construction of a series of docks and locks in settlements along the coast. The Harappans also developed a highly standardized system of weights and measures that was used to control trade. ��

Like the Harappan Civilization, technological advances in Modern Western Civilization have resulted in economic growth. The invention of electricity revolutionized the production process, subsequently increasing trade and profits. The growth of the auto industry increased internal trade, both locally and regionally. Moreover, developments in air transport boosted international trade relationships and created new markets. The markets were...