AP World History - Stearns Chapter 3 ? Classical Civilization: India I. Introduction ? difference vs. China a. China focus on politics/related philosophies vs. India focus on religion/social structure b. Less cohesive political structure c. Both were agricultural societies, localist flavor, male ownership, patriarchal, trade II. The Framework for Indian History: Geography and a Formative Period Closer to other civilizations Influenced by Middle East/Mediterranean Persian Empires spilled over/Alexander also . Forced to react and adapt Topography Passes through Himalayas linked India Somewhat set apart Political unity difficult ? greater diversity than middle kingdom River civilizations ? Indus and Ganges Mountainous north ? herding society