Early Humankind

1. Early Humankind

2. Prehistory • Prehistory is the time before written and recorded language • Archeology and anthropology are how we gain knowledge about early societies

3. Methods of Study Archeology Anthropology The study of man using methods ranging from studying fossils to traditional societies • The study of human activity in the past by studying artifacts and environmental data

4. Traditional Societies Hunting & Gathering Protein sources had to be hunted or snared Groups would gather other food sources as they ripened through the year • Early societies didn’t have a stable food supply so they had to go to where food supplies were

5. Beginnings of Agriculture Animals Plants Groups that found valleys with a variety of plant were able to stay in one place Having a permanent village gave people the chance to experiment with new and better crops • Animals with desirable traits were tamed and bred to strengthen those traits • Some societies became dependent on animals

6. Agriculture River Valleys Flood Plains When flooding rivers receded, they left moist fertile silt that was perfect for farming Nile River was an example • Farming societies needed fresh water sources • Mesopotamia developed advance irrigation methods

7. Agricultural and Culture Hearths Agriculture Hearths Culture Hearths Cities and civilizations developed where there stable food supplies. • Agriculture started in many places around the world that had the right conditions