Ancient Pakistan was home to one of the world's earliest civilizations, the Indus Valley Civilization, which flourished around 2500 BCE. This civilization was known for its advanced urban planning, including well-organized cities like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa, featuring sophisticated drainage systems and standardized brick sizes. The people engaged in agriculture, trade, and crafts, contributing to a vibrant economy. The region also saw the rise of various cultures and empires, including the Achaemenid Empire and later the Maurya Empire. These empires influenced the area through trade, culture, and governance, shaping the historical landscape of what is now modern-day Pakistan.