Chapter 2. Prehistory and the First Humans

Early humans. Our species, Homo sapiens, emerged in Africa at least 300,000 years ago, and later groups spread across the world. Earlier humans and relatives include Homo erectus and the Neanderthals [6][7].

Paleolithic (“Old Stone Age”). Small groups of hunter-gatherers used stone tools, controlled fire, and developed language, art and burial practices. Cave paintings, such as those at Lascaux, are well-known examples.

Neolithic Revolution. Beginning around 10,000 years ago, people in several regions independently began farming and herding. Southwest Asia, China, Mesoamerica, the Andes and parts of Africa and New Guinea were early centres of agriculture [6][7].

Consequences of farming

Settled villages and population growth

Surplus food and specialized jobs

Property, inequality and social hierarchies

Early towns, such as Çatalhöyük in Anatolia and Jericho in the Jordan Valley

New diseases from close contact with animals

Metals. The use of copper, then bronze (copper and tin) and later iron, changed tools, weapons and trade.

Review: Name two major changes that came with the shift to farming. (Answer: for example, settled villages and specialized jobs.)