Question

Explain the distinctive views of archaeologists and historians on the central authority of Harappa.

Answer 1

Archaeologists and historians have debated the nature of central authority in the Harappan Civilization (also known as the Indus Valley Civilization). While there is no direct evidence of a centralized political system, various interpretations exist based on archaeological findings.

• Archaeologists' Views: Archaeologists argue that the uniformity in the planning of Harappan cities, such as the standardized weights, measures, and brick sizes, suggests a central authority that coordinated construction and trade.
  • The presence of large, well-planned cities like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa points to a degree of administrative control, although no royal palaces or explicit symbols of kingship have been found.
  • The discovery of large public baths, granaries, and storage facilities suggests a well-organized bureaucracy overseeing the collection and distribution of resources.
• Historians' Views: Historians, on the other hand, are more cautious in attributing central authority to the Harappan Civilization. Some believe that the Harappan society may have been organized in a more decentralized manner, with city-states functioning independently or under a loose federation.
  • The lack of monumental inscriptions or evidence of royal insignia has led some historians to conclude that Harappa might have lacked a single centralized ruler or monarchy. Instead, a council of elites might have governed the cities.

Conclusion:
The debate continues, but most scholars agree that while a central authority may have existed, it was likely different from modern concepts of centralized states. The Harappan civilization may have operated under a collaborative governance system, rather than a singular monarch.