About 4700 years ago, some of the earliest cities flourished on the banks of __________ rivers?

• A. Ganges and its tributaries
• B. Indus and its tributaries
• C. Brahmaputra and its tributaries
• D. Godavari and its tributaries

Answer: (B)

The earliest cities, particularly those associated with the Indus Valley Civilization, flourished around 4700 years ago on the banks of the Indus River and its tributaries. This civilization, known for its advanced urban planning, architecture, and societal organization, encompassed major cities like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro.

The Indus River provided a fertile floodplain that supported agriculture, which was vital for the sustenance of these urban centers. The strategic location along the river facilitated trade and transportation, contributing to the overall prosperity and growth of these early cities. The archaeological findings in this area demonstrate a well-developed society with sophisticated drainage systems, standardized weights and measures, and a form of writing, which are indicative of a flourishing civilization.

While other river systems, such as the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Godavari, have supported significant civilizations in subsequent historical periods, they were not the primary locations of urban development during the early phase associated with the Indus Valley Civilization.