 |
|
| Background Dating back to at least 5000 years, the Indus Valley Civilization is one of the oldest in the world. The invasion of the Aryan tribes from the northwest in about 1500 B.C., as well as the Dravidian inhabitants combined to create a classical Indian culture. Trade was begun by the Arabs in about 8th century followed by the Turks in 12th century and the Europeans in late 15th century. By the 19th century, virtually all of India was under the British rule. Indian forces played a vital rule for the British in both World Wars. In 1947, India got its independence from the British empire, and divided into three countries soon after: Muslim estate of Pakistan, Hindus in India, and a separate nation of Bangladesh. Despite a growing economy, India faces overpopulation, extensive poverty, environmental degradation, as well as religious strife. |
 |
Map of India courtesy of CIA Factbook |
|
