Explanations:The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, is one of the earliest urban civilizations in the world, dating back to around 3300 BCE. However, the systematic study of this civilization by archaeologists did not begin until the early 20th century. This is a crucial point to understand because it reflects the timeline of archaeological discoveries and the development of archaeological methods.
Archaeology as a scientific discipline began to take shape in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Prior to this period, the study of ancient civilizations was more speculative and less systematic. The discovery of Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, two of the most important sites of the Indus Valley Civilization, occurred in the early 20th century. The first excavations at Harappa began in 1920, and Mohenjo-Daro was discovered in 1922. These discoveries were pivotal in understanding the extent and complexity of the Indus Valley Civilization.
The early 20th century was a period of significant archaeological activity worldwide. The development of new methods and techniques in archaeology, such as stratigraphy and carbon dating, allowed for more precise and accurate studies of ancient sites. The study of Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro was part of this broader trend in archaeology, which saw the systematic excavation and analysis of ancient sites to uncover the history and culture of past civilizations.
It is important to note that while the Harappan civilization itself is much older, the archaeological study of it is a relatively recent phenomenon. This distinction is crucial for understanding the timeline of archaeological discoveries and the development of our knowledge about ancient civilizations. The 20th century marked a significant turning point in the study of the Indus Valley Civilization, leading to a wealth of information about this ancient culture.