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10,000 BCE
Beginning of Agriculture
Humans shift from hunting and gathering to farming. This marks the start of cultivating crops like wheat and barley, allowing for more stable food sources. -
9000 BCE
Domestication of Animals
Early humans begin to domesticate animals, including sheep, goats, and cattle. This provides reliable sources of food, labor, and companionship. -
8500 BCE
Establishment of Permanent Settlements
With agriculture, communities become permanent, leading to the creation of villages. This shift supports larger populations and social structures. -
7500 BCE
Development of Pottery
The invention of pottery allows for improved food storage and cooking. This innovation plays a crucial role in daily life and trade. -
7000 BCE
Construction of Stone Structures
Large stone buildings are constructed, indicating social organization and community planning. These structures serve as homes and communal spaces. -
6500 BCE
Social Hierarchies
As communities grow, social roles become more defined, leading to hierarchies. Leaders and specialized roles develop, shaping governance. -
6000 BCE
Trade Begins
Surplus crops encourage trade, connecting different communities. This fosters cultural exchange and economic growth. -
5500 BCE
Development of Weaving
Advances in weaving techniques lead to the creation of textiles. This innovation enhances clothing and trade goods. -
5000 BCE
Creation of Religious Practices
Early religions and rituals arose, often tied to agriculture and nature. These practices reflect the community’s beliefs and values. -
4500 BCE
Construction of Big Structures
Monumental stone structures like Stonehenge are built for ceremonial purposes. These sites may also serve astronomical functions. -
4000 BCE
New Tools
Tool-making techniques improve, resulting in polished stone tools. These advancements facilitate agriculture and craftsmanship. -
3500 BCE
Population Growth
Increased food production leads to significant population growth. Larger communities emerge, fostering complexity in society. -
3200 BCE
Writing Systems
The need for record-keeping gave rise to early writing systems, which marked a significant step in communication and administration. -
3000 BCE
Development of Trade Routes
Trade routes are established, allowing for the exchange of goods and ideas. This connectivity enriches cultural interactions. -
2500 BCE
Complex Societies
As populations grow, societies become more organized with structured governance. This complexity sets the stage for advanced civilizations. -
2300 BCE
City-States
Some Neolithic settlements evolve into city-states, characterized by centralized authority. These urban centers become hubs of trade and culture. -
2000 BCE
Advancements in Agriculture
Innovations like irrigation and crop rotation boost agricultural productivity. This leads to more sustainable farming practices. -
1800 BCE
Cultural Exchanges
Increased interaction between neighboring cultures promotes the exchange of ideas and technologies. This enriches local customs and practices. -
1200 BCE
Bronze Age
The introduction of metalworking marks the transition to the Bronze Age. This shift transforms tools, weapons, and trade. -
1000 BCE
End of the Neolithic Period
The Neolithic era concluded as societies became more urbanized. This set the foundation for the rise of advanced civilizations and historical records around 1000 BCE/BC.