Class 6 Social Science - WEST-BENGAL
History: The Beginnings of Indian Civilisation
This chapter introduces Class 6 students under the West Bengal Board of Secondary Education (WBBSE) to the fascinating dawn of Indian civilisation. It explores how early humans transitioned from hunter-gatherers to settled farmers, leading to the rise of the magnificent Indus Valley Civilisation (Harappan Civilisation). Students will learn about town planning, drainage systems, daily life, trade, and the mysterious decline of these ancient cities. Understanding this chapter is crucial for board exams as it forms the foundation of ancient Indian history and regularly features in map-pointing and short-answer questions.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Nomadic Life to Settled Life
Early humans changed from wandering hunters and food gatherers to settled farmers and herders, which allowed them to build permanent homes and villages.
Indus Valley Civilisation (Harappan Civilisation)
One of the world's oldest urban civilisations that flourished around 2500 BCE along the banks of the Indus River and its tributaries.
Town Planning
Harappan cities were scientifically planned with grid systems, well-laid streets, and houses made of baked bricks divided into upper and lower towns.
Advanced Drainage System
Houses had covered drains connected to main street drains, showing an advanced understanding of public health and sanitation in ancient times.
Seals and Trade
Steatite seals featuring animal motifs and script were used for trade, indicating that Harappans traded with distant regions like Mesopotamia.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the WBBSE Class 6 History examinations, this chapter typically carries around 6 to 10 marks. Common question types include very short objective questions, map-pointing (locating Harappa, Mohenjodaro, and the Indus River), and descriptive questions about Harappan town planning or drainage systems.
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.
How was the drainage system of the Harappan cities unique?
Every house had its own drain connected to street drains, which were covered with stone slabs and had inspection holes for regular cleaning.
What caused the decline of the Indus Valley Civilisation?
Historians believe the civilisation declined due to various reasons like recurring floods, drying up of rivers, changes in climate, or foreign invasions.
Learn History: The Beginnings of Indian Civilisation with Your AI Tutor
10 different ways to study this chapter. Free for 3 chapters per day.
Lecture
Key Points
Interactive
Quiz
Flashcards