History Indus Valley Civilization Questions Medium
The evidence of trade with Europe in the Indus Valley Civilization can be seen through various archaeological findings and artifacts. One of the key pieces of evidence is the discovery of Mesopotamian seals and pottery in the Indus Valley region. These artifacts suggest that there was a trade network established between the Indus Valley and Mesopotamia, which was a region in present-day Iraq and Iran.
Additionally, the presence of certain raw materials and goods in the Indus Valley that were not naturally found in the region further supports the idea of trade with Europe. For example, the discovery of lapis lazuli, a blue stone used for jewelry and decorative purposes, which was sourced from Afghanistan and other parts of Central Asia, indicates long-distance trade connections.
Furthermore, the Indus Valley Civilization had a well-developed urban infrastructure, including a sophisticated drainage system, standardized weights and measures, and a system of seals. These features suggest a highly organized society engaged in trade and commerce.
Another piece of evidence is the presence of Indus Valley artifacts in other parts of the world, including Europe. For instance, terracotta figurines and pottery from the Indus Valley have been found in sites such as Susa in present-day Iran and in the ancient city of Ur in Mesopotamia. These findings indicate that there was a two-way exchange of goods and cultural influences between the Indus Valley and Europe.
In conclusion, the evidence of trade with Europe in the Indus Valley Civilization is supported by the discovery of Mesopotamian artifacts in the region, the presence of foreign raw materials, the advanced urban infrastructure, and the exchange of artifacts between the Indus Valley and Europe. These findings highlight the extensive trade networks and cultural interactions that existed during this ancient civilization.