The Neolithic

Origins of Agriculture Neolithic-”New Stone Age” (10K-2K BCE) End of Ice Age meant new sources of food were required Had a dramatic impact on the natural environment

Emerged in different parts of the world at different times (first M. E Emerged in different parts of the world at different times (first M.E., later Africa, Americas) Crops like wheat, rice, sorghum, etc. spread throughout Eurasia Crops like maize spread from Mesoamerica to N+S America

Members of one of the world’s last uncontacted tribes

The “evolution” of maize

Early Agricultural Society Year Human Population 3000BCE 14 million 2000BCE 27 million 1000BCE 50 million 500BCE 100 million

Agriculture led to permanent settlements Specialized labor developed (pottery, metallurgy, textiles) Control of property and land by a few led to the growth of a social elite