Class 6 Social Science - MAHARASHTRA
History: The Beginnings of Indian Civilisation
The chapter 'History: The Beginnings of Indian Civilisation' introduces Class 6 Maharashtra Board students to the ancient Harappan Civilisation, also known as the Indus Valley Civilisation. Students explore how early human settlements grew into well-planned cities with advanced town planning, drainage systems, and brick houses. The chapter highlights the daily life, trade, occupations, seals, and script of the Harappan people. Understanding this chapter is crucial for board exams as it forms the foundational base of Indian history, helping students trace the evolution of human society, culture, and urbanization in the Indian subcontinent.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Indus Valley Civilisation
One of the world's oldest urban civilisations that flourished along the river Indus and its tributaries around 2500 BCE.
Town Planning
The Harappan cities were meticulously planned with grid systems, wide streets, and dividing walls into upper and lower towns.
Drainage System
Houses had covered drains connected to street drains, showing an advanced sense of hygiene and public health.
Great Bath
A large, watertight brick tank found in Mohenjo-daro, likely used for special religious baths or public gatherings.
Seals and Trade
Steatite seals featuring animal figures and an undeciphered script were used for trade and marking ownership of goods.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
This chapter typically carries around 6 to 8 marks in the Maharashtra (MSBSHSE) Class 6 Social Science examinations. Common question types include fill in the blanks, map-based questions identifying Harappan sites, short notes on town planning or the Great Bath, and descriptive answers about the lifestyle of the Harappan people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Indus Valley Civilisation also called the Harappan Civilisation?
It is called the Harappan Civilisation because Harappa was the very first site to be discovered and excavated by archaeologists in 1921.
What were the main occupations of the Harappan people?
The main occupations included agriculture, animal husbandry, trade, pottery making, metalworking, and weaving.
Why do we not know much about the Harappan script?
We cannot read the Harappan script because it has not yet been deciphered by linguists and historians as it is written in pictographic symbols.
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