World History Ms. Lasater POD 1

As farmers settled in fertile river valleys, they began to grow extra or surplus food. This extra food increased the population of the settlements. The settlements grew into cities over time.

As cities developed and expanded, food supply and irrigation systems needed to be maintained. Governments (councils and religious leaders) began to oversee the cities. Gov’t types were: monarchy, theocracy, dynasty, empire

Religious leaders would conduct elaborate religious ceremonies to appease the gods (polytheism) and insure a bountiful harvest. Floods and droughts were blamed on the gods’ anger so rituals were conducted in temples. The leader was often a man of religious power (theocracy).

As civilizations became more complex, artisans and craftsmen were needed to maintain specific items and tasks. Individuals could no longer do all the work. Some concentrated on one trade: teaching, scribing, stone-cutting, etc.

As jobs became specialized, so did the status and needs of certain individuals. The need for a knowledgeable and educated religious leader was more respected than an unskilled worker. Herders were needed and respected for food, while masons were needed for building. The slave was the lowest rung of the social ladder while warriors and the king were on top.

Records were needed to keep accounts on trade and food storage Express common ideas such as ‘belief’ and ‘social order’- pictures and words wouldn’t do

This expressed the beliefs and values of a civilization. Different styles were developed and copied by societies. (cultural diffusion) Often the art was used to impress visitors and people about the beauty and power of a king or community.

The government would order public works to aid and benefit the community. Examples: A wall to protect from attacking invaders A canal to aid in irrigation king.blogspot.com/2012 /07/irrigation-methods- in-ancient-egypt.html king.blogspot.com/2012 /07/irrigation-methods- in-ancient-egypt.html A well to ensure water for the public