History Indus Valley Civilization Questions Medium
The evidence of trade with Africa in the Indus Valley Civilization is primarily based on archaeological findings and the presence of certain artifacts. Although direct evidence of trade routes or written records is limited, the discovery of African goods and materials in the Indus Valley region suggests a connection with Africa.
One significant piece of evidence is the presence of African-originated materials such as ivory and ostrich eggshells in the archaeological sites of the Indus Valley Civilization. These materials were not native to the region and had to be imported from Africa, indicating trade links between the two regions.
Additionally, the discovery of African-originated beads, specifically carnelian beads, in the Indus Valley further supports the existence of trade with Africa. Carnelian, a type of reddish-brown gemstone, was highly valued in the ancient world and was sourced primarily from Africa. The presence of these beads in the Indus Valley suggests that they were obtained through trade networks.
Furthermore, the depiction of African individuals in the art and iconography of the Indus Valley Civilization provides further evidence of contact and trade with Africa. These depictions, found on seals and figurines, show individuals with distinct African physical features, such as curly hair and broad noses. These representations suggest that there was a cultural exchange between the Indus Valley and Africa, possibly facilitated through trade.
While the evidence of trade with Africa in the Indus Valley Civilization is not extensive, the presence of African goods, materials, and depictions in the archaeological record strongly suggests that there was some level of trade and cultural interaction between the two regions during this ancient civilization.