upscools
U.P.P.C.S. Prelims 1996

Historical Chronology

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Indus Civilization existed in-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept History is divided based on the presence and decipherability of written records.

Explanation Indus Civilization is 'Proto-historic' because it possessed a script, but we cannot yet read it. We rely on archaeology rather than their own written narratives.

Logical Breakup
Pre-historic (A): No writing at all (e.g., Stone Age).
Proto-historic (B): Writing exists but is undeciphered, or we know of them through the writing of others.
Historic (C): Clear, decipherable written records exist (e.g., 6th century BCE onwards).

Active Recall

Question

When does the 'Historic' period begin in India?

Answer

It generally begins in the 6th century BCE with the rise of Mahajanapadas and the availability of contemporary written records.

Core Insight

Classifying IVC as Proto-historic highlights the 'silence' of the Harappans; we see their cities but cannot hear their voices.

Practice Navigation