The Agricultural Revolution Essay Example
The Agricultural Revolution Essay Example

The Agricultural Revolution Essay Example

Available Only on StudyHippo
  • Pages: 4 (915 words)
  • Published: October 29, 2017
  • Type: Article
View Entire Sample
Text preview

Approximately 12,000 years ago, the Neolithic Revolution denoted a pivotal moment in history when humans shifted from hunting and gathering to agriculture.

The Neolithic Revolution, which began approximately 10,000 years ago after the last ice age, led to about 90% of humans transitioning from hunting and gathering to agriculture. This shift involved cultivating crops and domesticating animals and had a significant impact on their lives. The changing plant and animal patterns due to rising temperatures made it challenging for hunter-gatherer societies to maintain their traditional way of life as they were required to continually seek out food sources.

Moving frequently was challenging for them, and their domestic life was also problematic. Since men were stronger, they were responsible for hunting due to their speed and strength. Women, on the other hand, took care of children, cooked mea

...

ls, and performed household duties while also engaging in some gathering activities.

In the 1800s, the study of agriculture and farming emerged, replacing old ways of life. This led to a sedentary lifestyle and permanent settlements, which resulted in the growth of villages and increased population through more births. The shift also brought about new social structures and cultural values. Despite these advancements, men were seldom present at home while women tended to family matters day and night. The two key parts of the agricultural revolution were the domestication of plants and animals.

This resulted in individuals adjusting plant and animal existence to benefit human life. By farming crops in fertile flood plains, farmers were able to cultivate one area multiple times and reduce their reliance on rainfall. Choosing a particular type of grain, such as wheat, farmers could then selectivel

View entire sample
Join StudyHippo to see entire essay

breed it for larger size and improved edibility.

The reason for continuous wheat harvesting by farmers was due to the fragility and ease of wind dispersal in natural environments. This method helped prevent wind dispersal and kept the grain closer to the plant head. The result was tough and renowned crops thanks to timely harvesting. The domestication of plants was achieved by repeating crop sowing and harvesting. Domestication of animals required consideration of their size, temperament, diet, mating patterns, and lifespan to determine success. The animals were mainly domesticated for food purposes.

The impact of domesticating animals and plants on human lives was significant. In their natural habitat, pigs were slimmer as they had to forage for food. Nevertheless, when taken out of that environment, humans provided them with more nourishment leading to increased size, higher fat content and more meat. The domestication of animals not only supplied food but also other commodities including milk, wool and leather needed for clothing items. Additionally, cows and goats among others could be valuable resources in agriculture.

The Agricultural Revolution, or Neolithic Revolution, brought about substantial transformations in human existence. It allowed individuals to amass ample food for preservation and support their families over prolonged periods – a revolutionary concept. This epoch marked an important juncture for those impacted by it as it facilitated significant and dramatic alterations. Moreover, the Agricultural Revolution resulted in people forsaking their nomadic way of life to establish permanent settlements.

The inhabitants of villages would construct their homes in close proximity to one another as a means of safeguarding their stored food. Additionally, some individuals acquired expertise in specific trades – such as pottery and

basket weaving. The abundance of food and diversity of crafts facilitated trading among neighbors. As the population grew due to a more sophisticated way of life, various structures were established.

The success of the village was determined by the Gods who were worshipped as the religious structure. The people preferred those who professed a unique connection with the Gods as they believed that making the Gods happy was vital. Anyone claiming to have a special bond with the Gods would be appointed as the priest.

In the village, it was acknowledged that obedience to the priest was necessary for desired outcomes. The farmers relied on the Gods to bless them with sufficient and optimal rainfall to keep their crops healthy and free from pests. Similarly, the hunters needed the favor of the Gods to ensure they found enough deer to feed their families. When it came to matters of military defense, the society required guidance on tactics and strategy. As the population grew, fulfilling societal duties became more complex, thus necessitating a leader to lead them.

To maintain order and protect against external threats, a political system was established, which also involved taxation. As communities became more settled, artistic expression flourished in the form of statues, paintings, and buildings. Farmers used mathematics for measuring and weighing goods to pay taxes. Astronomy was utilized to create calendars to track the seasons and months with accuracy. These developments occurred around 3000 B.C.

Cuneiform, the foremost writing system, was originated by the Sumerians for the purpose of recording, storytelling, entertainment, and referencing archived data. The most crucial role played by this writing system was to facilitate knowledge transfer

from past to future generations.

The amalgamation of preceding components resulted in the development of a society based on farming. The term “Agricultural Revolution” aptly describes this initial revolution that brought about mass societal transformation. Such changes encompassed high population density, a permanent military, commerce, and crucially, human mastery over nature. It instigated a vital shift in the lifestyle of mankind.

The newfound way of living has greatly benefited and enlightened future generations. It is evident that the methods acquired during this period persist to enhance and, more significantly, flourish today.

Get an explanation on any task
Get unstuck with the help of our AI assistant in seconds
New