History Indus Valley Civilization Questions Medium
The evidence of trade and commerce in the Indus Valley Civilization can be seen through various archaeological findings and artifacts. One of the most significant pieces of evidence is the presence of standardized weights and measures, which suggests a well-developed system of trade and commerce. These standardized weights, made of stone, were found across different sites of the civilization, indicating a uniform system of measurement.
Another piece of evidence is the discovery of seals made of steatite, a type of soft stone. These seals were intricately carved with various motifs and inscriptions, and they were used to mark goods and containers. The presence of these seals suggests a sophisticated system of trade, where goods were labeled and identified.
Furthermore, the discovery of a wide range of materials and artifacts from different regions indicates long-distance trade. For example, materials like lapis lazuli from Afghanistan, turquoise from Iran, and carnelian from Gujarat were found in the Indus Valley sites. These materials were not naturally available in the region, indicating that they were obtained through trade networks.
The presence of dockyards and granaries in cities like Lothal and Mohenjo-daro also provides evidence of trade and commerce. The dockyards suggest that the civilization had access to waterways and engaged in maritime trade. The granaries, on the other hand, indicate a well-organized system of storage and distribution of agricultural produce, which would have been essential for trade.
Lastly, the layout and planning of the cities themselves provide evidence of trade and commerce. The presence of wide streets, well-constructed houses, and public buildings suggests a prosperous and organized society. The cities were also divided into different sectors, possibly indicating specialization in different crafts and industries.
In conclusion, the evidence of trade and commerce in the Indus Valley Civilization can be seen through standardized weights and measures, seals, the presence of materials from distant regions, dockyards, granaries, and the layout of the cities. These findings suggest a well-developed and prosperous civilization engaged in long-distance trade and organized commerce.