Final answer:
The domestication of plants and animals occurred in at least seven regions around the world: the Fertile Crescent, China, Middle America, the Andean region of South America, Sub-Saharan Africa, the Eastern Woodlands of North America, and Thailand, and it had a profound impact on the development of human civilizations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The domestication of plants and animals played a crucial role in human history, marking a transition from nomadic hunter-gatherer societies to settled agricultural communities. Domestication occurred independently in various parts of the world, with seven areas notable for the domestication of different species.
- The Fertile Crescent in South-Western Asia where the domestication of wheat, barley, goats, and sheep began around 12,000 years ago.
- South-Eastern Asia, particularly in modern-day China, where the domestication of rice, millet, and beans occurred around 9,000 years ago.
- Middle America, where maize (corn), beans, squash, and peppers were cultivated starting around 8,000 years ago.
- South America's Andean region, with the domestication of potatoes about 5,000 years ago, along with llamas.
- Sub-Saharan Africa, where sorghum was likely first cultivated around 6,000 years ago, followed by other crops such as peanuts and sesame.
- The Eastern Woodlands of North America, which is recognized as an independent center of plant domestication, particularly for indigenous crops.
- Thailand, where around 9,000 years ago, various roots and fruits like taro, yams, and bananas were domesticated, alongside pigs and poultry.
These areas demonstrate the variety of plants and animals that were selected for domestication based on regional conditions and human needs. The domestication process allowed for more stable food sources, contributing to the rise in human populations and the development of civilizations.