Final answer:
The strategic geographical location of the Harappan civilization along the fertile Indus River enabled successful agriculture, urban planning, and trade, which were vital to its success. However, the environmental changes due to intensive agriculture and deforestation eventually led to their decline. Geography played a crucial role in both the rise and fall of this ancient civilization.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, thrived due to its strategic geographical location. Situated in what is now Pakistan, the region's fertile plains and water from the Indus River were integral to developing large urban centers like Harappa and Mohenjo-daro. This environment facilitated intense agricultural endeavors, including crop cultivation such as peas, dates, and cotton. The use of draft animals like water buffalos enabled more efficient farming.
Moreover, the abundance of water resources led to sophisticated urban planning, including the construction of reservoirs, bathhouses, and well-organized streets. The Harappans' knowledge in areas such as mathematics and engineering further allowed them to create impressive water management systems and to erect buildings using uniformly shaped bricks. Trading was also a significant aspect of Harappan society, with trade routes extending over long distances, which was made possible by their access to the Indus River.
However, the environmental impact of their practices eventually contributed to their decline. Overuse of irrigation led to soil salinization, and deforestation for fuel exacerbated soil erosion, making the region uninhabitable around 1700 BCE. Despite this, the achievements of the Harappan civilization have left a lasting imprint, influencing the development of later Indian civilizations.