1. The Neolithic Revolution
Chapter 1.2

2. I will be able TO:
Describe technological and artistic achievements of the Paleolithic Age
Define and describe the Neolithic Revolution
Give examples of advantages and disadvantages of hunter-gatherer societies and farming villages

3. New Tool kits
Paleolithic hunter-gatherers developed sophisticated tool kits
Knives, fish hooks, chisels, needles
Specialized tools for specific purposes

4. Early development of writing!
Paleolithic Art
Stone Age artists create paintings and decorative objects
Represented significant ideas:
Religion
Celebrations
Informational lessons
Leadership
Early development of writing!

5. Hunting and Gathering Using wild animals and plants for food
Migrate seasonally
Live in family or tribal groups

6. H/G Advantages Land supplies whatever is needed
Movement is easier when food is scarce
Life encourages cooperation and language skills
Special weapons and tools develop for hunting and digging up plants

7. H/G Disadvantages People are always searching for new food sources
It is more difficult to store food
People must carry everything along when traveling
Only simple social organization is possible

8. Neolithic revolution
Warming climate and growing population lead to development of agriculture
Early farmers practice slash-and-burn farming
Domestication of animals
Breaks Malthus’ food v. population growth cycle

9. Neolithic Communities
Raise herds of tame animals
Plant seeds and raise crops
Live in permanent settlements

10. Neolithic advantages Crops provide reliable food supply
Population grows as life becomes more complex
Societies become more complex
Trade increases and commerce develops
Division of labor allows workers to specialize

11. Neolithic Disadvantages
Crop failures due to weather or pests
Floods, famine, or raiders could destroy villages
Disease spreads easily when people live together

12. Global Growth
Farming develops in many regions around the world as farmers learn to cultivate a variety of plants
Early centers of agriculture:
Africa
China
Mexico and Central America
Peru