Producing Food: Domestication and Its Consequences in Southwest and East Asia

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the domestication of food and its consequences in Southwest and East Asia, touching on historical evidence, environmental impacts, and community roles.

What evidence do we have of early domestication in the ancient Near East?

Evidence of domestication and permanent settlements has been found, particularly in locations like Jericho.

What is Archaeobotany?

A subfield of archaeology that focuses on plant remains recovered from archaeological sites.

What impact did agriculture have on human populations?

Led to higher birth rates, population increases, and demographic changes, including increased family size.

What were the Natufians known for?

Were early hunters and foragers who built permanent settlements around Jericho before the development of agriculture.

What are the three pathways to animal domestication?

1. Commensal Pathway: animals join human environments; 2. Prey Pathway: formerly hunted animals become managed; 3. Directed Pathway: intentional management of wild species.

What led to the independent domestication of rice in China?

Research by Nikolai Vavilov identified regions with significant genetic diversity in crops, with evidence of rice domestication dating back to 6,000 years ago.

What environmental consequences arose from early agriculture?

Deforestation, the emergence of weeds, and overgrazing were significant environmental consequences.

How did community roles influence food production?

Played a critical role in establishing food production and village life, as resource depletion and social needs led to larger social groups.

What is the significance of Jericho in the history of food production?

Considered one of the first permanent settlements and a site of early food domestication, with evidence found through excavations.

How did the Younger Dryas affect the Natufians?

The cooling climate forced the Natufians back to mobile hunting and gathering due to fewer animals available nearby.