Contact with Distant Lands
Recent archaeological discoveries suggest that copper used by the Harappans may have also been sourced from Oman, located on the southeastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula. Chemical analyses of both Omani copper and Harappan artifacts have revealed traces of nickel, indicating a common origin for the copper. Additionally, distinctive Harappan vessels, such as large jars coated with a thick layer of black clay, have been found at Omani sites. These vessels, with their thick coatings, were likely used to transport liquids, although the specific contents remain unknown. It is plausible that the Harappans exchanged the contents of these vessels for Omani copper.
Mesopotamian texts dating back to the third millennium BCE mention copper coming from a region called Magan, possibly a reference to Oman. Interestingly, copper found at Mesopotamian sites also contains traces of nickel, further supporting the connection between these regions. Mesopotamian texts also mention contact with regions named Dilmun, likely referring to the island of Bahrain, and Meluhha, possibly indicating the Harappan region. These texts describe products from Meluhha, including carnelian, lapis lazuli, copper, gold, and various types of wood.
Depictions of ships and boats on Harappan seals suggest that communication and trade with Oman, Bahrain, or Mesopotamia likely occurred via sea routes. Mesopotamian texts describe Meluhha as a land of seafarers, reinforcing the notion of maritime trade connections between these ancient civilizations. Additionally, Mesopotamian myths mention the haja-bird in association with Meluhha, with some archaeologists speculating that this bird may refer to the peacock, possibly named after its call. Overall, these archaeological and textual findings highlight the extensive and complex long-distance trade networks that existed during the Harappan civilization.
Also Read:
- Harappan Sites In India
- Who Destroyed Mohenjo-Daro?
- Architecture in Harappan Civilization
- Harappan Civilization : History, Sites, and Culture
- Describe the houses built in Harappan Civilization
- Mohenjo Daro Archaeological Sites and Discoveries
- Indus Valley Civilization: Characteristics & Facts to Know
Chapter 1: Strategies for Procuring Materials| Class 12 History
“Strategies for Procuring Materials” is a subpart of the Class 12 history that is defined under the chapter called “Bricks, Beads, and Bones”. This part gives us a proper description of the different Strategies for Procuring Materials of the Indus Valley Civilization. They established different settlements, sent so many expeditions to find the natural elements, and also contacted other countries to extend their Procuring Materials Strategies. In this way, the Indus Valley Civilization started and maintained craft production at their times.
In this article, we will discuss the Strategies for Procuring Materials of the Indus Valley Civilization in detail.