Neolithic

Neolithic

The Neolithic period, also known as the New Stone Age, was a period in human history marked by the transition from nomadic hunting and gathering communities to agriculture and settlement. This period is traditionally considered the last part of the Stone Age.

Overview

The Neolithic period is significant for its megafaunal hunting which was replaced by agriculture. This change involved the gradual domestication of plants and animals and the formation of settled communities. These developments allowed humans to increase their population densities, to experiment with new forms of societal organization, and to alter their environment in ways they never had before.

Neolithic Revolution

The Neolithic Revolution refers to the first agricultural revolution. It was a period when humans first started to practice systematic agriculture, providing a reliable source of food. The revolution was achieved by creating agricultural opportunities with the use of a "slash and burn" approach. The Neolithic Revolution greatly reduced the amount of nomadic hunting communities, leading to a more sedentary lifestyle.

Culture

Neolithic cultures varied widely from region to region. However, there were some common characteristics, including the use of pottery and more sophisticated tools, such as sickles and grinding stones. The development of Neolithic culture appears to have been a gradual rather than a sudden change.

See also

• Prehistoric religion
• Domestication
• History of agriculture

External links

• Britannica Online Encyclopedia: Neolithic Period

Neolithic Resources
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