Paleolithic Era The Paleolithic Era was the era of hunter gatherers Early humans could utilize fire, and wooden / stone tools They moved in small bands, adapting to their new environments, and sharing people, ideas, and goods Societies were egalitarian—women and men had a roughly equal role

Neolithic Revolution Around 8000 B.C.E., agriculture changed human history changed forever Permanent villages and settlements were established Domestication of local animals also began Humans began to manipulate the environment for irrigation Experienced a massive population growth with surplus

Neolithic Impact on Society Permanent settlements created the need for specialized labor Artisans, soldiers, and elites The call for efficiency and specialization would also lead to improved tech. Plows, pottery, metals Patriarchy became the dominant form of social organization in both ag/past societies Villages grow to cities, and entire civilizations with rising population and innovation

Pastoralism Some civilizations remained nomadic, particularly in the Eurasian grasslands (steppes) They mastered horse-riding and moved cattle The would often trade with permanent settlements, and spread language and culture Also invaded, raided, and conquered