| Neolithic Revolution Writing Exercises |
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| www.studenthandouts.com > World History > Neolithic Revolution > Neolithic Worksheets |
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Answer each of the following questions using complete sentences. 1. Explain how the Neolithic Revolution was a turning point in human history. The Neolithic Revolution (10,000-4,500 B.C.E.) marked humanity's shift from nomadic hunting-gathering to settled farming, radically altering society. The domestication of plants and animals enabled food surpluses, supporting population growth and permanent villages. This led to specialized labor, trade, and technology like pottery and irrigation. Over time, these changes sparked social hierarchies, urban development, and early civilizations, laying the foundation for complex economies, governance, and culture—making it the defining turning point toward modern human society. 2. What impact did the change from hunter-gatherer societies to sedentary agricultural societies have on gender roles? The shift to sedentary agriculture profoundly altered gender roles. In hunter-gatherer societies, roles were relatively fluid, with women often contributing equally through gathering. With farming, men dominated plowing and herding, while women increasingly focused on child-rearing, food processing, and textile production—tasks tied to the home. This division of labor reinforced patriarchal structures, as land ownership and surplus accumulation became linked to male authority, laying the groundwork for enduring gender inequalities in early civilizations. 3. Describe a traditional economy. A traditional economy is based on customs, barter, and subsistence practices passed down through generations. It relies on farming, hunting, fishing, or herding rather than money or modern trade. Roles are often gender or caste-based, with little technological innovation. These economies are typically found in rural or indigenous communities, prioritizing community needs over profit. While stable, they are vulnerable to environmental changes and lack the growth potential of market-based systems. Click here to print (PDF file). Answers will vary. |
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| www.studenthandouts.com > World History > Neolithic Revolution > Neolithic Worksheets |
