Neolithic Revolution

Neolithic Revolution

The Neolithic Revolution, 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, which allowed humans to make an increasingly large amount of their food with agriculture. The Neolithic Revolution started around 10,000 BC in the Fertile Crescent, a region of the Near East including parts of modern-day Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Israel and Jordan.

Overview

The Neolithic Revolution is considered a major turning point in human history as it greatly affected the way humans lived. The shift from hunting and gathering to agriculture led to permanent settlements, the establishment of social classes, and the eventual rise of civilization.

Agriculture

The development of agriculture during the Neolithic Revolution was likely driven by a combination of factors. These include climate change, population growth, and innovations in farming technology. The cultivation of cereal crops such as wheat and barley was among the first to take place.

Domestication of Animals

Alongside the development of agriculture, the Neolithic Revolution also saw the domestication of animals. This began with the taming of dogs, followed by sheep, goats, pigs, and cattle. The domestication of animals not only provided a reliable food source but also allowed for the development of new technologies, such as the plow.

Impact on Society

The Neolithic Revolution had a profound impact on society. It led to the development of social stratification, with a ruling class that controlled the community's surplus of food. It also led to a significant increase in population, as farming could support larger communities than hunting and gathering.

See Also

• History of agriculture
• Domestication
• Fertile Crescent
• Civilization