There are
indeed a number of similarities between the ancient Mesopotamian and Harappan civilizations.
Much more is known about the Mesopotamian civilizations than Harappa as the former left
decipherable textual histories. All we know about the Harappan people must therefore come solely
from archaeological interpretations.
Both civilizations relied heavily on
rivers. They used rivers for transportation as well as irrigation. Having a relatively reliable
source of water meant that they were able to support large-scale agriculture that allowed them
to feed a large population. In order to best make use of the available water, both civilizations
developed irrigation and water storage techniques and technology.
Agriculture
requires complex divisions of labor. Both the Mesopotamians and the Harappans had a large farmer
class which was responsible for growing the food to feed centralized urban populations. City
dwellers, free from the burden of growing food, were employed as merchants and artisans. This
gave rise to trade, manufacturing, and commerce. Indeed, the Mesopotamians and the Harappans
even engaged in trade with each other.
There is some evidence to suggest that
early in these civilizations' history, women were relatively empowered for the ancient world. In
Mesopotamia, written records indicate that women could make their own business and trade
contracts and own property. The large number of shrines to female deities in the Indus River
Valley suggests that women there had a certain degree of independence as well.
Both civilizations were ruled by a king who also likely had a religious function. The
king made laws, conducted treaties, headed the bureaucracy, led the military, and settled
disputes.
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