Question 1 · 10 marks · 128 words written
How did the ancient trade routes connecting India to foreign countries contribute to the exchange and dissemination of culture? (Answer in 150 words) 10 marks.
Opening
India right from the Indus Valley civilisation was well connected with the foreign countries through trading relations. These trade routes promoted exchange and dissemination of culture.
Body · points and prose
Ancient Trade routes
* A map of the ancient world during Harappan times:
* Regions marked: Greece, Makan, Dilmun, Shortughai.
* Arrows show trade connections between these regions.
* A map of the ancient world during Post Mauryan and Gupta times; Cholas:
* Regions marked: Roman Empire, China, S-E Asia.
* Arrows labeled: silk route.
Exchange of culture
- (1) Achaemenian influence can be seen in Ashokan pillars eg 'Dipi and lipi'; Lotus bulge in capital.
- (2) Helped in growth of languages. eg Kharoshti script.
- (3) Potteries of Harappan and Persian seals were found in Mesopotamia and India respectively.
Dissemination of culture
- (1) spread of Hinduism in S-E Asia. eg Angkor Vat temple
- (2) Silk route helped in transmission of Buddhism in china and S-E Asia.
- (3) Influenced the development of astrology in western world.
Close · a summary
Even today, trading relations have promoted the growth of globalised world order.