Classical Civilization: India

Agenda 1. Bell Ringer: How does a government system form? How are people kept in line? What is the purpose of a centralized authority? 2. Thesis Statements, Early River Comparison 3. Brief Lecture: Indian Civilization 4. Map Activity, Classical Civilization 5. Looking at POV, The Caste System HW: Read Jared Diamond Article, and Chapter 2 and 3 in the text. Quiz #1 on 9/10-9/11. Jared Diamond Response 9/11-9/14.

Arrival of Aryans Aryans arrive circa 1250 BCE. There was a King within Tribes, and he gained power through the ability to protect his people. (Maharaja) The Hellenistic Empire would temporarily have dominance around 330 BCE.

Mauryan Dynasty Chandragupta Maurya advised through the Arthasastra. Emphasizes ends rather than means. A highly centralized government structure, large secret police to deal with any issues. He was a little paranoid… Division of Empire is similar to Persia, Provinces and Districts.

The Caste System Hierarchal division that defined a person’s occupation and status. Lighter skin exemplified a higher class. It was a strict system that had no movement or interaction between castes. “Untouchables” not considered part of the caste system.

Life in Ancient India The family often had several generations under one roof. Male dominated society. Polygamy occurred rarely in higher castes. Sati- the ritual in which the wife throws herself onto husbands funeral pyre.

Trade and Economy Agriculture expands throughout the empire. Unpredictable monsoons make it difficult. Became an advanced trading and manufacturing area. Spices, perfume, textiles, ivory. Mauryan Dynasty would tax the trade sector, and controlled sections of trade.