Chapter 6: Early India Section 1: India’s First Civilizations

The Land of India India is a subcontinent because it is separated from the rest of Asia by the Himalayas (highest mountain range in the world). Contains 5 Nations: India, Pakistan, Bhutan, Bangladesh, & Nepal. 2 Fertile river valleys: Ganges River & Indus River.

The Land of India Monsoon – strong wind that blows one direction in the winter and the opposite direction in the summer. Winter – cold dry air Summer- warm wet air

The Land of India The 1 st civilization arose near the Indus River B.C. till 1500 B.C. Harappa & Mohenjo-Daro were large well planned cities in India. The cities had wells, drains for waste, garbage chutes, & organized government. Houses were made from Mud- brick. Most people were farmers: wheat, barley, peas, cotton. City dwellers were artisans: jewelry, pottery, tools, & cloth.

The Aryans Invade The Aryans were hunters who also raised cattle. Expert warriors with metal tipped spears & wooden chariots. Conquered all of India except the southern tip. Invented an iron plow, and built canals to improve farming. Written language: Sanskrit Tribes were led by a raja, or prince.

Society in Ancient India Caste – a social group that someone is born into and cannot change. Believed in 4 levels of society.

Society in Ancient India Men's lives were considered more important than women's. In most cases only men could inherit property. Only men could go to school or become priest. Parents arranged marriages, and divorce was not allowed.

Farming Subtopics Details CH. 6 Sect. 1Objective Organization The Aryans Bring Change Use the chart to show how the Aryans changed the lifestyles of the Indians. Language Cruse 8 th Grade World History OMS11/7/2008