Hgap 6.1

MODULE 44 The Origin and Influences of Urbanization

Cities are a relatively new phenomenon in human history.
Imagine human existence over 2 million years as a 24-hour day; significant settlements emerged only in the last half hour.
A city is defined as a large, densely populated settlement, serving as commercial, governmental, and cultural hubs.
The term "urban" refers to anything related to cities.
Urbanization indicates the movement of people from rural areas to urban centers.

Cities originated from permanent settlements of agricultural villages formed when humans began to farm.
Early settlements were often located near fertile river valleys to support agriculture.
Population sizes in these villages rarely exceeded 200 people, often consisting of close-knit family relations.
As populations grew, some villages evolved into early cities as residents became less engaged in agriculture.

Agricultural Surplus
- Improved farming techniques resulted in surplus production, allowing populations to grow.
- Surplus enabled some villagers to pursue non-agricultural occupations (e.g., pottery, trade).
Socioeconomic Stratification
- Society structured into distinct classes, leading to more complex social interactions.
- Increased complexity necessitated early forms of governance and management.
- The first urban revolution encompasses the agricultural and socioeconomic changes leading to cities.

Earliest cities emerged in regions like:
- Mesopotamia: Between Tigris and Euphrates rivers (modern-day Iraq).
- Nile River Valley: Development of Egyptian cities (Thebes, Memphis).
- Indus & Yellow River Valleys, Mesoamerica, Andean Highlands, West Africa.
Urban centers varied in size and population density, with Mesopotamian cities reaching up to 30,000 inhabitants.
Jenne-Jeno in West Africa illustrates early urbanization focused on trade.

Site: Absolute location with physical attributes (terrain, rivers).
Situation: Relative location concerning surrounding features or connections (trade routes, resources).
Historical examples: Pittsburgh's growth influenced by its site (river confluences) and situation (proximity to coal and iron resources).
Recognition of both site and situation is crucial for understanding urban dynamics.

Cities have diffused globally in two main ways:
1. Spontaneous Evolution: Cities developed independently as populations grew and learned new agricultural techniques.
2. Cultural Diffusion: Techniques spread through empires, trade, and conquest.

Greek Empire: Spread urban life around the Mediterranean, with Athens as a key center.
Roman Empire: Conquered areas introduced urban concepts; cities served as military and trading posts.
Infrastructure like aqueducts was vital for urban functioning.
Post-Roman Empire, urban life in Europe declined due to the fall of centralized governance.

After the Roman decline, cities rose in places like:
- Spain: Flourished under Moorish rule post-Roman Empire.
- China: Cities developed around sacred sites and governmental structures (e.g., the Forbidden City).
- Americas: Indigenous cultures established complex urban centers pre-colonization.

Urban growth driven by:
1. Migration from rural areas to cities.
2. Natural population increase.
Historical migrations significantly changed urban population dynamics, particularly during industrialization.

The second urban revolution arose with industrialization, significantly altering urban landscapes and social structures.
Urban land value grew due to proximity to urban centers; segregation by economic class became prevalent.
Job migration patterns affected urban populations, as seen in 19th-century cities like Chicago.

Prior to 1978, China was predominantly rural, with restrictions on urban migration.
Reforms post-1978 enabled mass rural migration to cities, growing urban populations significantly.
Forecasts predict approximately 1 billion urban residents by 2030.

Many individuals migrate to cities due to economic instability, conflict, or environmental issues.
Jobs often found in low-paying sectors; urban growth can occur despite poverty.
Future urban growth expected predominantly in Africa and Asia due to rural migration.

Innovations in transportation (e.g., subways, streetcars) significantly shaped city layouts.
Automobiles increased personal mobility and led to the rise of suburbs.
Communication advancements (telegraph, telephone) facilitated business operations and city growth.

Historically, men occupied public spaces while women managed domestic roles, a division shaped by industrialization.

Early leaders in cities organized agricultural surplus distribution.
Colonial cities emerged from European governance post-Roman Empire.
Government policies now address rapid urban growth challenges, including social issues and infrastructure management.
Redevelopment efforts aim to revitalize struggling urban areas in modern times.

Cities have evolved significantly, from early agricultural settlements to modern urban areas influenced by technological and economic changes.
Future discussions will focus on megacities and urban land-use practices.