Question

What accounts for the initial breakthroughs to civilization?

Answer 1

The initial breakthroughs to civilization were driven by the agricultural revolution, which allowed for sedentarization, food surplus, specialized labor, and social stratification. These processes founded early civilizations particularly in the 'cradles of civilization.' Inventions, trade, and cultural developments were also pivotal in this transformation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Breakthroughs to Civilization

The initial breakthroughs to civilization can be principally attributed to the development of agriculture, which began around 10,000 to 8,000 BCE. The transition from nomadic to settled life allowed humans to develop steady food supplies and increase their population. This, in turn, led to the growth of social structures, specialization of labor, governmental organization, and cultural advancements such as writing, art, and architecture. As a result, early civilizations formed in areas that history has come to know as the "cradles of civilization", including regions now known as Mexico, Peru, China, India/Pakistan, Iraq, and Egypt.

Settlements grew from the domestication of animals and the development of agriculture. These societal changes spurred the rise of more complex societies with diverse occupations including farmers, artisans, soldiers, merchants, and religious leaders. Specialized labor and the exchange of goods and services were hallmarks of these early civilizations. Innovations in tools and agriculture, such as stone sickles for harvesting grains, were central to this process.

In summary, these civilizations were characterized by urban settings, the specialization of labor, social stratification, technological advances, and cultural achievements. Moreover, these advancements often led to the creation of monumental structures, such as temples and palaces, which were built without modern equipment and demanded new artistic skills and raw materials, further driving trade and expansion.

However, it is important to acknowledge that the term 'civilization' has historically been used in biased and Eurocentric ways, and societies outside the so-called 'cradles of civilization' were also complex and innovative in their own right.

Answer 2

The correct answer is an agricultural revolution.

Agricultural revolutions permitted communities to generate food, which would support huge populations. This permitted for the establishment of technology, like writing and reading. This provided civilizations an advantage over gather hunters.

The agricultural revolution of the 18th century created the path for the industrial revolution. Novel farming techniques and bettered livestock breeding resulted in enhanced production of food. This permitted an upsurge in population and increased health.