Indus Cilivization

Each topic shall be discussed in a minimum of two paragraphs. Use the questions listed below to guide you when discussing each topic.

Geography-Describe
the major river system of India and discuss the physical setting that supported the rise
of this civilization.How has geography
shaped different regions in India? How does geography affect the spread of ideas?What makes the Indus Valley Civilization a “civilization”?

Religion-What are the major beliefs and practices of Brahmanism and how did they evolve into early Hinduism? How can belief systems organize society? What are the moral teachings of Buddha? how did these teachings spread in India, Ceylon, and Central Asia? How have systems of belief shaped India? Compare and contrast different religions that have played a role in the history of India.

Economics- What role did trade play in the development of India? How did trade develop? What was treaded and how did trade spread throughout India?

Technology/Art-Discuss the important aesthetic and intellectual traditions: e.g. Sanskrit literature (including the Bhagavad-Gita, Ramayana, and the Mahabharate), medicine, metallurgy, mandala, and mathematics (including the zero). What can we learn about a culture from its literature, art, and technology?

Politics-Discuss the significance of the Aryan Invasion. Describe the growth of the Maurya Empire and the political and moral achievements or Emperor Asoka. What effects, in any, did the Guptan Empire have on trade in India? How do people organize themselves to create stability?

Social Structures- Describe the caste system and the different levels of social classes. Explain the affect of the caste system on everyday life in Indian society. What can we learn about a culture based on its social and racial structures? In what ways do morals and ethics develop societies and civilizations?