Agriculture 9.2 Notes

What is agriculture defined as?

The deliberate modification of Earth’s surface through cultivation of plants and rearing of animals for sustenance or economic gain.

What significant change marks the start of the agricultural revolution?

The domestication of plants and animals, leading to a decline in reliance on hunting and gathering.

What are agricultural hearths?

Regions around the world where agriculture originated, including Southwest Asia, East Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and Latin America.

Which crops were first domesticated in Southwest Asia?

Barley, wheat, lentil, and olive.

What is the difference between subsistence agriculture and commercial agriculture?

Subsistence agriculture is for self-consumption, while commercial agriculture is for sale off the farm.

What is the Columbian Exchange?

The transfer of plants, animals, people, culture, and technology between the Western Hemisphere and Europe due to colonization and trade.

What percentage of the labor force in developed countries is typically involved in agriculture?

A small percentage, as commercial farmers use machinery for production.

How does mechanization impact agricultural productivity in developed countries?

It allows for larger fields to be cultivated, increasing productivity and efficiency in crop production.

What type of crops do commercial farmers primarily produce?

Cash crops that are grown primarily for sale, rather than for personal consumption.

When is it believed the agricultural revolution began?

Around the year 8000 B.C.E.