1. Features of

2. Rise of Civilization READ! DON’T WRITE!
About 5,000 years ago, the first civilizations began to develop along river valleys.
The rich, fertile farmlands of river valleys helped these civilizations to thrive.

5. 1. Cities MORE FOOD=MORE PEOPLE
Cities emerged as farmers produced surplus (extra) food.
Agriculture (farming) increased population
MORE FOOD=MORE PEOPLE

6. Irrigation
Moving water from its source to farm

7. A city and the surrounding area
City-state
A city and the surrounding area

8. 2. Central Government Gov’ts ensured the food supply and protection.
A bureaucracy is a system of managing gov’t through departments run by officials

9. When a single authority rules many territories or nations
Empire
When a single authority rules many territories or nations

10. 3. Public Works Rulers built things all people could use.
Ex: roads, bridges, and defensive walls

11. 4. Religion Ancient people were polytheistic, believing in many gods.
Cities had temples and priests to gain the favor of gods through rituals to ensure plentiful crops.

12. 5. Writing Systems Scribes (trained writers) kept needed records.
Documents for tax collections, laws, and the storage of grain.
Pictograms (picture writing)
Cuneiform (wedge-shaped writing) was invented around 3000 B.C. by the Sumerians.

13. 6. Job Specialization
People specialized in certain jobs. No one person could master all skills.
Artisan- skilled craftworker

14. 7. Social Classes
People became ranked in classes according to their job.
Hierarchy- a system of ranks

15. 8. Art and Architecture These were expressions of beliefs and values
Buildings showed religion and strength in gov’t.