History Indus Valley Civilization Questions Long
The Indus Valley Civilization, also known as the Harappan Civilization, had a well-developed system of weights and measures that played a crucial role in their economic and trade activities. The system of weights and measures used by the Indus Valley Civilization was highly standardized and can be observed through the archaeological findings of various artifacts.
The primary unit of measurement in the Indus Valley Civilization was the cubit, which was a linear measurement based on the length of a person's forearm from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger. This cubit was divided into smaller units such as the handbreadth, fingerbreadth, and thumbbreadth, allowing for precise measurements.
In terms of weight, the Indus Valley Civilization used a standardized system based on the unit known as the "shatamana." The shatamana was equivalent to approximately 28 grams and was further divided into smaller units such as the karsha, which was equivalent to 16 grams, and the mashaka, which was equivalent to 4 grams. These smaller units allowed for more precise measurements in trade and commerce.
Archaeological excavations have also revealed the presence of various measuring tools used by the Indus Valley Civilization. One such tool is the balance scale, which was used to measure weight. These balance scales were made of stone or bronze and consisted of two pans suspended from a central beam. Objects of known weight were placed on one pan, while the item being measured was placed on the other. The balance scale allowed for accurate comparisons and ensured fairness in trade transactions.
Another measuring tool used by the Indus Valley Civilization was the graduated ruler. These rulers were made of ivory, bone, or terracotta and had markings indicating different units of length. These rulers were used to measure the dimensions of buildings, streets, and other structures, ensuring precision in construction.
The standardized system of weights and measures used by the Indus Valley Civilization indicates their advanced level of urban planning, trade, and commerce. The uniformity and precision of their measurements suggest a well-organized society with a strong emphasis on fairness and accuracy in economic transactions.
In conclusion, the Indus Valley Civilization had a highly developed system of weights and measures that played a crucial role in their economic and trade activities. The use of the cubit as a linear measurement and the shatamana as a unit of weight, along with the presence of measuring tools such as balance scales and graduated rulers, demonstrate the advanced nature of their civilization and their emphasis on precision and fairness in trade.