The Evolution of Early Humans and Agricultural Societies

Gendered Division of Labor

Men focused on agricultural work, women on domestic tasks during Neolithic Age

Hominid

Earliest humanlike creatures, originated in Africa 3 to 4 million years ago

Australopithecines

First to make simple tools among early humans

Homo habilis

Had larger brains, capable of handling complex ideas and making tools

Homo erectus

Emerged 1.5 million years ago, first to leave Africa and develop sophisticated tools

Homo sapiens

Our specific subset of humanity, emerged around 250,000 years ago

Neanderthals

Extinct hominids, disappeared through violent means or interbreeding with homo sapiens

Paleolithic Age

Era of early human societies, primarily nomadic with small bands of 20-30 individuals

Hunting and Gathering

Primary task of early humans, both men and women participated

Control over Fire

Developed 500,000 years ago during the Paleolithic Age

Cave Paintings

Found in France and Spain, displaying cultural and artistic elements

Neolithic Period

Shift from hunting and gathering to systematic agriculture

Systemic Agriculture

Began independently in different areas 8000-5000 BCE, allowed settled communities

Agricultural Revolution

Transition from hunting-gathering to food production, ending continuous struggle

Patriarchy

Society dominated by men, seen in many historical societies

Fixed Dwellings

Emergence during Neolithic Age, transition from nomadic lifestyle

Writing

Allowed record-keeping, crucial for trade and communication

Bronze Age

Period from 3000 to 1200 BCE, characterized by the use of bronze tools and weapons