Geography of India
Why is India called a subcontinent?
Because it is a large landmass separated by natural barriers.
The two major cities of India’s first civilization.
Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro.
Where did the Aryans come from?
Central Asia.
What do Hindus believe connects all living things?
Brahman.
Who founded the Mauryan Empire?
Chandragupta Maurya.
What mountain range separates India from Asia?
The Himalayas.
What made these cities advanced for their time?
Grid-like streets and drainage systems.
What language did the Aryans introduce?
Sanskrit.
What is reincarnation?
Being reborn into a new life.
What major change did Asoka make after the Battle of Kalinga?
He embraced Buddhism and promoted peace.
What river supported India’s first civilization?
The Indus River.
What do we call the earliest Indian civilization?
The Indus Valley Civilization.
What is the caste system?
A social structure that divides people into classes.
Who founded Buddhism?
Siddhartha Gautama
What is a stupa?
A Buddhist shrine.
What seasonal winds bring rain to India?
Monsoons.
Why is Harappan writing difficult to understand today?
It has not been fully deciphered.
Who were the highest caste?
The Brahmans.
What is nirvana?
A state of perfect peace and freedom from suffering.
What was the Gupta Empire known for?
A golden age of learning, culture, and achievements.
Name one way the Himalayas affected life in ancient India.
Provided protection, shaped climate, limited outside contact.
Name one job specialization found in Harappan society.
Trader, farmer, craftsperson, potter, jewelry maker.
What is a guru?
A teacher.
What causes suffering according to Buddhism?
Desire and attachment.
What important math idea was invented in India?
Zero as a number.