Consider the following statements about the archaeological findings in Harappan towns: I. There is wide occurrence of spindle-whorls in the houses but absence of spinning wheels. II. Weights and measurement scales, complete with graduations have been discovered. III. There are houses built in large part with baked bricks, around relatively spacious courtyards, with their own wells, bathing platforms, and large rooms. Which of the following inferences can be drawn from the above statements? 1. Statement I suggests that spinning was a laborious activity done at home. 2. Statement II suggests the extent of the scientific knowledge that the Harappans possessed. 3. Statement III suggests the emergence of a common property system.

Question

Accepted Answer

1 and 2 only. Spindle-whorls without spinning wheels indicate that spinning yarn was done manually at home — a slow, labour-intensive household activity, so inference 1 is valid. Standardized weights (in binary and decimal ratios) and graduated measuring scales reflect advanced scientific and mathematical knowledge of the Harappans, supporting inference 2. However, inference 3 is incorrect — houses with their own private wells, bathing platforms, courtyards and large rooms actually suggest individual/private property and social differentiation, not a common property system. Hence only 1 and 2 are valid inferences.

Explanation

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