Mohenjo-Daro

Definition

Mohenjo-Daro is one of the most prominent archaeological sites of the Indus Valley Civilization, located in present-day Pakistan. Known for its advanced urban planning, including a grid layout and sophisticated drainage systems, Mohenjo-Daro exemplifies the technological and cultural achievements of the society that flourished in South Asia during the Bronze Age. This site provides critical insights into early urban life, trade, and social organization within the context of the Indus Valley Civilization.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mohenjo-Daro was built around 2500 BCE and is one of the best-preserved urban sites of the Indus Valley Civilization.
2. The city featured a well-planned layout with streets arranged in a grid pattern, showcasing remarkable urban design for its time.
3. Mohenjo-Daro's drainage system was highly advanced, with covered drains along streets that connected to larger sewage systems, reflecting an understanding of sanitation.
4. Artifacts discovered at Mohenjo-Daro include seals, pottery, and tools that suggest a thriving trade network with other cultures in the region.
5. The decline of Mohenjo-Daro around 1900 BCE is still debated among scholars, with theories ranging from climate change to invasions or internal societal collapse.

Review Questions

• How does the urban planning of Mohenjo-Daro reflect the social organization of the Indus Valley Civilization?
  • The urban planning of Mohenjo-Daro reveals a highly organized society that prioritized public health and civic order. The grid layout allowed for efficient movement and administration, while sophisticated drainage systems demonstrate a commitment to sanitation and hygiene. These features suggest that the inhabitants had a complex social structure capable of coordinating large-scale construction projects and maintaining public utilities.
• Discuss the significance of trade in Mohenjo-Daro's economy and how it connected to other cultures.
  • Trade played a crucial role in Mohenjo-Daro's economy, as evidenced by artifacts like seals that indicate commercial exchange with distant regions. The city's strategic location facilitated access to resources such as metals and agricultural products, allowing it to thrive economically. This interconnectedness with other cultures underscores the importance of Mohenjo-Daro as a hub in the broader network of the Indus Valley Civilization and beyond.
• Evaluate the potential reasons for the decline of Mohenjo-Daro and its implications for understanding ancient civilizations.
  • The decline of Mohenjo-Daro remains a complex issue, with multiple factors possibly contributing to its fall. Climate change may have led to reduced agricultural productivity, while potential invasions or internal strife could have destabilized the society. Understanding these factors is essential for grasping the vulnerabilities of ancient civilizations, highlighting how environmental changes and social dynamics can significantly impact urban centers throughout history.

Related terms

Indus Valley Civilization: An ancient civilization that emerged around 2500 BCE in the northwestern regions of South Asia, characterized by advanced urban centers, trade networks, and a unique script.

Urban Planning: The design and organization of city layouts, which in Mohenjo-Daro included grid patterns, public baths, and complex drainage systems that indicate a high level of civic organization.

Harappa: Another major city of the Indus Valley Civilization, often studied alongside Mohenjo-Daro to understand the cultural and economic aspects of this ancient society.