Relevance: GS Paper I – Ancient History & Heritage; Source: WION News, National Geographic
Context
Ancient civilisations displayed early mastery of engineering, environmental adaptation, social organisation, and scientific innovation. Their legacies underline the universality of human progress and the deep roots of sustainable technologies.
Key Civilisations and Their Advanced Features
Civilisation | Period & Region | Distinctive Achievements / Features |
| Indus Valley (Harappan) | c. 2600–1900 BCE, India–Pakistan | Planned cities, underground drainage, water management, uniform weights and measures. |
| Ancient Egypt | c. 3000 BCE, Nile Valley | Monumental architecture (pyramids), advanced medicine, irrigation, and calendar system based on astronomy. |
| Mesopotamia (Sumerian–Babylonian) | c. 3500–1500 BCE, West Asia | World’s first writing system (cuneiform), wheel, codified laws, and irrigation-based agriculture. |
| Minoan Civilisation | c. 2700–1450 BCE, Crete (Greece) | Sophisticated plumbing, multi-storey buildings, maritime trade networks, and art-based culture. |
| Caral–Supe Civilisation | c. 3500–1800 BCE, Peru | Oldest known American civilisation; complex urban design and monumental architecture without warfare evidence. |
| Tiwanaku Civilisation | c. 500–1000 CE, Andes | Raised-field agriculture, precision stonework, and sustainable high-altitude engineering. |
Significance
- Demonstrates the non-linear nature of human progress — multiple centres of innovation existed independently.
- Ancient societies integrated science with sustainability, relevant to today’s SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
- Reaffirms that technological and cultural evolution is a shared global heritage.
UPSC Prelims Practice Question
With reference to ancient civilisations, which of the following statements are correct?
- The Indus Valley cities had planned layouts and underground drainage systems.
- The Minoans developed an early form of urban sanitation and maritime trade.
- The Caral–Supe civilisation is the oldest known in the Americas.
Select the correct answer:
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
One-line Wrap:
From the Indus to the Andes, ancient civilisations achieved remarkable scientific and social advancements that continue to inspire modern innovation and sustainability.
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