Final answer:
The Dong Son culture, known for creating intricate bronze drums that spread throughout Southeast Asia, arose in northern Vietnam around 600 BCE to 200 CE. These drums indicate strong cultural influence and extensive trade practices of the Dong Son people.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Early Culture Known for Bronze Drums
The early culture known for its bronze drums that spread widely across Southeast Asia is Dong Son. The Dong Son culture, dating from around 600 BCE to 200 CE, arose in northern Vietnam and is particularly famous for its intricately decorated bronze drums, which are considered a significant contribution to world history. The presence of these drums in various parts of Southeast Asia indicates the vast influence and reach of the Dong Son people. Despite debates about the exact origins of the Dong Son culture, whether in Vietnam or southeast China, the evidence supports a stronger cultural and linguistic link to Southeast Asia. These drums, adorned with cords and images such as frogs, have been discovered across Southeast Asia, suggesting the widespread distribution and interaction of the Dong Son people in the region.
This culture was also characterized by wet-field rice cultivation, body tattoos, and extensive trade via boats along the seas and the Red River, which further emphasizes the sophistication and diversity of their society.