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

Reconstruction of the Past

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The source of knowledge about Harappan culture is:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept In the absence of deciphered literature or monumental inscriptions, physical remains are the only windows into a civilization's past.

Explanation Harappan history is reconstructed entirely through 'Archaeological excavations'—analyzing pottery, tools, city layouts, and skeletal remains.

Logical Breakup
Archaeological excavations (C): The only verifiable source of data.
Writing in seals (B): While these exist, they provide no 'knowledge' currently because the script is undeciphered.
Rock edicts (A): These are associated with Ashoka (3rd century BCE), not the Harappan period.

Active Recall

Question

What is the most common artifact used to date Harappan layers?

Answer

Pottery is the 'alphabet' of archaeology; specific styles and techniques help date different phases of the civilization.

Core Insight

The 'mute' nature of Harappan artifacts requires archaeologists to act as detectives, inferring social and political systems from physical arrangements.