1. Foundations
of Civilization

2. “Cradle of Civilization”
Four regions:
Nile River valley in Africa
Valley of the Tigris and Euphrates in SW Asia
Indus River valley in Southern Asia
Huang (Yellow) River valley in East Asia

4. Civilization
Civilization – complex culture that has at least three characteristics
People are able to grow a surplus of food
Establishment of large towns or cities with some form of government
People perform different jobs instead of each person doing every job

5. Climate Rivers rise and flood during heavy rain
Little rain throughout much of the year
Hot, humid weather
Led to innovations for farming year-round
Irrigation – system of ditches and canals
Improved farming techniques led to more and better food
Increase in population => villages => cities

6. Cities Cooperation amongst the population Irrigation and flood-control
Building of palaces, temples, and other public buildings

7. Government First governments made rules to guide behavior
Rules helped plan, direct, and regulate work
Leaders made and enforced the rules

8. Labor As farming improved, less people were needed in the fields
Division of Labor – specialization of jobs
Bartering (trade) became common practice
Artisans – skilled workers
Traders not only transported goods, but they also spread ideas
Cultural Diffusion – spread of ideas and culture from one area to another

9. Other Characteristics
Calendar
Developed by farmers
Needed to know when annual floods would start and stop
Year was divided by phases of the moon
11-days short of solar-year

10. Other Characteristics
Writing
Need for written language emerged through foundations of cities
Trading goods
Development of rules
Calendars
Share ideas
Began c BC
Records of cultures and societies (history!)