Growth and Diffusion of Agriculture

Practice flashcards covering key concepts related to the growth and diffusion of agriculture, subsistence and commercial agricultural production, and rural land use.

What key impact did the Neolithic Revolution have on human society?

The Neolithic Revolution led to the transition from nomadic lifestyles to settled agricultural communities.

What are the major agricultural hearths identified in the lecture notes?

The major agricultural hearths are SW Asia, East Asia, SE Asia, Sub Saharan Africa, and Mesoamerica.

What climatic conditions are typically associated with agricultural hearths?

Each agricultural hearth varies in climatic conditions, influencing the types of crops that can be grown.

Which crops originated in Mesoamerica?

Crops such as maize (corn), beans, and squash originated in Mesoamerica.

How does latitude affect the diffusion of crops from their hearths?

Latitude influences temperature and growing seasons, impacting where crops can thrive and be cultivated.

What does the term 'Columbian Exchange' refer to?

The Columbian Exchange refers to the widespread transfer of plants, animals, culture, human populations, and diseases between the Americas and the Old World.

What characterizes subsistence farming?

Subsistence farming focuses on producing enough food to feed the farmer's family, typically involving small farm size and low agricultural density.

What are intensive and extensive agricultural production types?

Intensive agriculture uses small areas of land to produce high yields, while extensive agriculture relies on large areas of land for lower yields.

What is pastoral nomadism?

Pastoral nomadism is a form of subsistence agriculture where herders move with their livestock to find pasture.

What is shifting cultivation?

Shifting cultivation is an agricultural practice where land is cleared for cultivation and then abandoned after a few years to allow soil recovery.

What are some characteristics of commercial farming?

Commercial farming is typically associated with larger farm sizes, higher agricultural density, and significant economic development.

What is market gardening?

Market gardening refers to the commercial production of vegetables and fruits sold directly to consumers.

What are the three forms of rural land division mentioned?

The three forms of rural land division are metes and bounds, township and range, and French Long Lot.

What are the advantages of metes and bounds land division?

Metes and bounds allow for more irregular shapes of land that follow natural features, but can lead to disputes over boundaries.

What is the purpose of different land division systems?

Different land division systems aim to organize land ownership and usage for effective management and cultivation.