Explanation: Mohenjo-Daro, one of the largest cities of the Indus Valley Civilization, is located in present-day Pakistan. It flourished around 2600-1900 BCE and is renowned for its advanced urban planning and sophisticated infrastructure. Historians and archaeologists believe that Mohenjo-Daro had a strong government based on several key pieces of evidence.
Firstly, the city's layout is meticulously planned. The streets are laid out in a grid pattern, with a clear distinction between residential and commercial areas. This indicates a high level of urban planning and control, which would have required a strong central authority to implement and maintain.
Secondly, the standardization of weights and measures found in Mohenjo-Daro suggests a regulated economy. The uniformity in the size of bricks used in construction, for example, implies a centralized system of production and distribution. This standardization would have been difficult to achieve without a strong government overseeing the process.
Thirdly, the presence of public buildings such as granaries and public baths indicates a government that was concerned with the welfare of its citizens. The granaries, for instance, suggest a system of food storage and distribution, which would have been managed by a central authority. The public baths, known as the Great Bath, were likely used for religious or social purposes and required significant resources to construct and maintain, further pointing to a strong government.
Additionally, the drainage system in Mohenjo-Daro is one of the most advanced of its time. The city had a sophisticated network of covered drains running along the streets, with manholes for cleaning. This level of sanitation would have been impossible without a government that prioritized public health and hygiene.
While there is no direct written evidence of the government's structure, the archaeological findings strongly support the presence of a strong government. The complexity of the city's infrastructure and the level of standardization in construction and economic activities suggest a centralized authority capable of planning and managing a large urban center.
In conclusion, the evidence from Mohenjo-Daro points to a strong government that was responsible for the city's advanced urban planning, economic regulation, and public welfare. This government likely played a crucial role in the development and maintenance of one of the most sophisticated urban centers of the ancient world.