Madison Lemons - Paleolithic to Early Civilizations Notes

Vocabulary flashcards covering the Paleolithic Age, Neolithic Revolution, river valley civilizations, geography, and foundations of civilization.

Paleolithic Age

The period from 2,500,000 to 11,000 years ago during the Stone Age, characterized by nomadic culture, hunting and gathering, and mobile communities with no permanent homes.

Nomads

People who live in mobile communities with no permanent homes and are in a never-ending search for food.

Neolithic Revolution

A major transition occurring 11,000 years ago where people learned to farm and control their food supply, leading to permanent settlements and population growth.

Civilization

Complex societies involving the interaction of several elements, which grew out of permanent settlements, towns, and cities.

Irrigation

A method used in river valleys to water crops, enabling stable food production and permanent settlements.

Silt

Fertile soil left behind in a valley after a flood, providing excellent conditions for agriculture.

Four Parts of Geography

The four fundamental environmental elements: Land, Water, Climate, and Natural Resources.

Mesopotamia

Identified in the notes as the 'First Civilization', situated along the Tighris and Euphrates Rivers.

Harappan Innovation

The construction of sewers to adapt to the environmental challenge of negative flooding during wet seasons.

Government

A foundation of civilization that provides people with security and order, protecting them from outside forces and each other to prevent chaos.

Trade

A foundational component of civilization that provides for the needs of the people.

Social Classes

A foundational aspect of civilization based on status and/or wealth.

Learning & Achievem

A foundational element of civilization that drives progress.

Empire

A unified land and people conquered and controlled by a single government, such as in ancient Egypt.

City-State

A political structure where each city has its own independent government, resulting in a civilization that is not united.