Assam, a northeastern state of India, holds a significant place in the history of human civilization due to its unique geographical and cultural setting. Its lush green valleys, mighty rivers, and hilly terrain created a conducive environment for early human habitation. This article explores the prehistoric period in Assam, covering the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age, shedding light on the region's archaeological, cultural, and anthropological aspects.
1. Stone Age in Assam
1.1 Early Human Settlements
The Stone Age in Assam dates back to the Paleolithic period. Evidence of early human life has been found in the region's river valleys, especially the Diyung Valley, Dhansiri Valley, and parts of the Brahmaputra Valley.
Early humans were hunter-gatherers and depended on stone tools for hunting and daily activities.
1.2 Paleolithic Period
Tools and Implements: Paleolithic tools such as hand axes, scrapers, and choppers have been discovered in regions like Rani-Kamrup Hills and Diphu Hills.
Way of Life: Nomadic humans of this period primarily hunted animals and gathered fruits and tubers.
Rock Shelters: Evidence of rock shelters, such as those in the hills of Meghalaya (close to Assam), suggests that similar structures might have existed in Assam.
1.3 Mesolithic Period
Microlithic Tools: The Mesolithic period saw the development of microlithssmaller, more refined tools made from flint and chert.
Sites in North Cachar Hills and parts of the Karbi Anglong Plateau have yielded microlithic tools, showing a transition toward a semi-sedentary lifestyle.
Domestication: There is evidence of early domestication of animals and basic agriculture, though hunting-gathering remained predominant.
1.4 Neolithic Period
Settled Communities: The Neolithic period in Assam marked the advent of agriculture, with settled communities forming near fertile riverbanks.
Stone Tools: Polished stone tools such as celts, hoes, and axes have been found in places like Daojali Hading, Sarutaru, and Khaspur.
Pottery: Neolithic sites reveal rudimentary pottery, often handmade and used for storing grains and water.
Cultural Significance: Daojali Hading, a prominent site, unearthed tools and ceramics suggesting interactions with early Southeast Asian cultures.
2. Bronze Age in Assam
2.1 Limited Evidence
Unlike the Stone Age, the Bronze Age in Assam lacks extensive archaeological evidence, primarily due to the scarcity of bronze artifacts. However, it is believed that the region was influenced by the broader Bronze Age cultures of the Indian subcontinent.
2.2 Cultural Connections
Indus Valley Influence: Some scholars suggest indirect connections between the Indus Valley Civilization and prehistoric Assam through trade routes.
Neighboring Cultures: Proximity to regions like Bengal and Southeast Asia implies the possibility of cultural diffusion, though direct evidence is sparse.
2.3 Metal Usage
Early bronze artifacts, though rare, have been discovered in nearby regions, indicating a gradual transition to metallurgy in Assam during this period.
Tools and ornaments made of bronze might have been limited to elites or ceremonial purposes.
3. Iron Age in Assam
3.1 Advent of Iron Technology
The Iron Age in Assam is marked by the use of iron tools and weapons, significantly advancing agricultural practices and warfare.
Sites like Ambari (in Guwahati) and Daojali Hading show the presence of iron implements such as ploughshares, sickles, and spearheads.
3.2 Early Societies
Agriculture: The use of iron tools allowed for more effective clearing of forests, leading to expanded agricultural activities.
Social Organization: Iron technology facilitated the development of organized societies and trade networks in Assam.
3.3 Megalithic Culture
The Iron Age in Assam is closely associated with megalithic structures found in regions like Karbi Anglong and North Cachar Hills.
Burial Practices: Megaliths served as burial sites, showcasing elaborate funerary customs.
Anthropological Significance: These structures indicate a hierarchical society with distinct cultural practices.
3.4 Trade and Interaction
Iron Age Assam was part of a larger trade network involving the Gangetic plains and Southeast Asia.
Artifacts: Beads, pottery, and iron implements found at archaeological sites suggest thriving trade and cultural exchanges.
Archaeological Discoveries in Assam
Several archaeological sites have provided valuable insights into the prehistoric period of Assam: