Cradle of Civilization - History of South Asia
This geographic region is an area full of various cultures and strong prehistoric backgrounds. The history of empires, religious revolutions, and arts in South Asia is a gold mine for any history buff. It is one of the most historical continents, as evident from records available today. The Taj Mahal and other wonderful structures which the Mughals left to serve as their architectural mark on the land help substantiate these records.
Early Civilization
The existence of culture and civilization in South Asia goes as far back as thousands of years. Among the earliest that we can identify with the Indian subcontinent dates back to around 3300 BCE. It is specifically located around the Northwestern zones of the area known as the Indus Valley Civilization.
American archaeologists attest that Mohenjo-daro and Harappa were two great Indus Valley civilizations. These cities were urban complexes with large trading and farming sophisticated societies. The final phase of the Indus Valley Civilization around 1900 BCE opened a new cultural age.
Vedic Period and The Emergence of Hinduism
The Vedic period began in 1900- 500 BCE. This age saw the entry of the Indo-Aryan-speaking people who brought the Vedas, the first sacred books of Hinduism consisting of hymns. The caste system, as a part of social stratification, which was to become an important feature of the Indian social structure in the future, was also formed at this stage. Thus, powerful kingdoms appeared, such as Kuru and Panchala. New epochs in ancient Indian literature were opened with the creation of the epics Mahabharata and Ramayana.
Buddhism's Golden Age
The Mauryan Empire under Chandragupta Maurya established in the 4th century BC, is considered as a period of glory for India. Coordination never before witnessed was now an order of the day on the subcontinent. This led to the reign of stability in politics, economics and cultural affairs. Buddhism spread all over Asia with the help of Emperor Ashoka, who became a convert.
After the collapse of the Maurya empire, other empires emerged. For example, there are the Kushans and the Guptas. The Gupta Empire, especially under the leadership of Chandragupta II was marked with phenomenal progress in art and aesthetic sense. Excellence was also not limited to this area. Literature and, most of all, science also saw remarkable developments. This time is considered as classical in Indian history. The major characterization of this period is the creation of definite brilliance in mathematics, astronomy, and medicine.
The Mughal Empire
In the 16th century, a new page was flipped in the annals of South Asia. This was when Babur founded the Mughal Empire. The Mughals, who were of Central Asian origin, blended Persian, Timurid, and Indian influences in their administration and culture. Reigns of emperors like Akbar and Shah Jahan were marked by religious tolerance, artistic achievements, and architectural marvels like the Taj Mahal.
However, in later times, the Mughal empire saw decline and fragmentation. The rise of regional kingdoms like the Marathas in the 17th century further challenged Mughal authority. European colonial powers, particularly the British East India Company, began to exert their influence.
Conclusion
The 20th century began the new age in South Asia today. The highlights of this period include the rise of Indian nationalism and final independence from British rule spearheaded by Mahatma Gandhi in 1947. Although this region continues to grapple with issues of social inequality, religious conflict, and cross-border tensions, South Asia also boasts a vibrant democracy in India.