#AP World History: Modern Study Guide

#Unit 1: Global Tapestry

#1.1 The Neolithic Revolution and Early Agricultural Societies

#<subtopic_name>The Neolithic Revolution</subtopic_name>

The Neolithic Revolution marks a significant turning point in human history and is a cornerstone of the AP World History: Modern curriculum.

Let's break down this monumental shift:

What was the Neolithic Revolution?

This period, roughly from 10,000 BCE to 3000 BCE, witnessed the domestication of plants and animals, leading to:

• Agriculture: Cultivating crops like wheat and rice provided a surplus of food, which was key to population growth and societal development.
• Sedentism: People settled in one place, forming villages that grew into larger communities and, eventually, cities.
• Specialization of Labor: With more food came the need for fewer people involved in food production. This led to the emergence of artisans, priests, and other specialized roles.

Where did it happen?

The Neolithic Revolution didn't occur overnight or in one location. It sprang up independently in various regions across the globe, including:

• Mesopotamia (Fertile Crescent): Often called the "cradle of civilization," this region saw early agriculture develop along the Tigris and Euphrates rivers.
• Ancient Egypt: The Nile River's annual floods provided fertile soil for agriculture, leading to a thriving civilization.
• Indus Valley Civilization: Located in present-day India and Pakistan, this civilization developed sophisticated agricultural practices and urban centers.
• Ancient China: Along the Yellow River (Huang He), millet farming emerged, followed by rice cultivation along the Yangtze River.
• Mesoamerica: Societies in Central America independently developed agriculture, cultivating maize (corn), beans, and squash.

Why is it important for the AP Exam?

• Cause and Effect: Be prepared to analyze the causes of the Neolithic Revolution and its profound effects on human societies.
• Comparison: You might be asked to compare and contrast the Neolithic Revolution in different regions, highlighting unique features and commonalities.

Practice Question

1. Which of the following is NOT a direct consequence of the Neolithic Revolution? (A) Increased population density (B) Development of writing systems (C) Specialization of labor (D) Rise of settled villages

2. Compare and contrast the development of agriculture in TWO of the following regions:

   • Mesopotamia
   • Mesoamerica
   • Indus Valley