Final answer:
Switching to an agriculture-based society allowed for the creation of permanent settlements, facilitated the production of food surpluses, and enabled labor specialization. These changes led to the development of towns, larger populations, and economic diversification, marking a significant advancement in human civilization.
Step-by-step explanation:
The transition from a hunting-gathering society to an agriculture-based society afforded several advantages:
- Permanent Settlements: Unlike hunter-gatherers who moved constantly to follow food sources, agriculturalists were able to establish permanent settlements. This stability led to the development of towns and cities, which became centers of trade and commerce. The static nature of these communities allowed for improvements in living conditions and the accumulation of more material goods.
- Food Surpluses: The ability to produce and store food surpluses was another significant advantage. Innovations such as crop rotation and the use of manure as fertilizer increased harvests. This not only ensured a more reliable food supply but also allowed communities to support larger populations and defend their settlements more effectively.
- Labor Specialization: As agriculture evolved, not everyone needed to be involved in food production, which allowed some individuals to specialize in other trades like artisans or traders, leading to social stratification and economic development. This specialization contributed to a diversification of skills and the creation of additional wealth within the society.
These agricultural advancements facilitated a dramatic transformation in human society, marking the start of civilization and the establishment of social structures that would pave the way for future developments in human history.