1.2.d. The Neolithic Revolution and Early Civilizations

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What is the Neolithic Revolution?

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The Neolithic Revolution was the period when humans began to farm and domesticate animals, leading to the birth of agriculture.

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What are some characteristics of early civilizations?

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Early civilizations had complex societies, surplus food production, specialized labor, social hierarchies, and the establishment of cities.

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Where did the first civilizations typically develop?

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The first civilizations developed in major river valleys with rich soil and access to water for irrigation.

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What role did writing play in early civilizations?

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Writing helped keep records, manage complex institutions, and codify laws, which strengthened ties within societies.

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What is a state?

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A state is an organized community living under a single political structure, often with a government.

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How did religion contribute to early civilizations?

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Religion provided a shared belief system that helped unify people and establish social hierarchies.

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What is social stratification?

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Social stratification is the division of society into different levels of status or class.

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What is monumental architecture?

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Monumental architecture includes large structures built for political, religious, or public purposes, like pyramids and temples.

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What is the significance of agricultural surplus?

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Agricultural surplus allowed societies to support larger populations and enabled specialization of labor.

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What is the debate among historians about civilization?

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Historians debate whether civilization developed from bottom-up (people's needs) or top-down (imposed by leaders) processes.