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Chhattisgarh P.C.S. Prelims 2011

Ancient Metallurgy

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which metal has so far not been discovered in Harappan sites?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept Chronological knowledge of metallurgy is essential to distinguish between the Bronze Age (IVC) and the subsequent Iron Age (Vedic period).

Explanation Harappan archaeology shows proficiency in Copper, Bronze (an alloy of copper and tin), Gold, and Silver. However, there is zero archaeological evidence for the use of Iron in the mature Harappan period.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: The Indus Valley Civilization is categorized as a Bronze Age civilization.
Logic 2: Iron tools and slag only appear in India during the later Vedic period (c. 1000 BCE), long after the decline of the main Harappan cities.

Active Recall

Question

Why did the Harappans not use iron?

Answer

Smelting iron requires much higher temperatures and more complex kilns than those used for copper or bronze, which were not developed until the mid-1st millennium BCE.

Core Insight

The absence of iron explains the Harappans' reliance on chert blades and copper-bronze tools for agriculture and urban construction.

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