Target Exam

CUET

Subject

History

Chapter

Ancient India: Bricks, Beads and Bones

Question:

The Harappan civilization stands out for its remarkable development of urban centers, with Mohenjodaro being one of the most prominent sites. Although Mohenjodaro is widely known, the first discovered site was Harappa.

The settlement of Mohenjodaro is divided into two distinct sections: the Citadel and the Lower Town. The Citadel, smaller in size but elevated, features buildings constructed on mud brick platforms. It was fortified by walls, creating a physical separation from the Lower Town. Similarly, the Lower Town was also enclosed by walls. Numerous buildings in this area were erected on platforms, serving as sturdy foundations. Archaeological calculations suggest that the construction of these foundations alone would have required a massive mobilization of labor, estimating around four million person-days if each laborer moved approximately one cubic meter of earth daily.

Why does the Citadel in Mohenjodaro have an elevated height?

Options:

It was constructed on mud-brick platforms

It was located on higher ground geographically

It was fortified with walls

It was physically separated from the Lower Town

Correct Answer:

It was constructed on mud-brick platforms

Explanation:

The correct answer is Option 1 - It was constructed on mud-brick platforms

The settlement is divided into two sections, one smaller but higher and the other much larger but lower. Archaeologists designate these as the Citadel and the Lower Town respectively. The Citadel owes its height to the fact that buildings were constructed on mud brick platforms. It was walled, which meant that it was physically separated from the Lower Town.