Prehistory 1
Explain one major differences between the Paleolithic and Neolithic Ages.
The Paleolithic Age was based on hunting and gathering, and people were nomadic. In the Neolithic Age, people practiced farming and lived in permanent settlements.
How did land bridges influence human migration?
When sea levels dropped during Ice Ages, land bridges formed between continents. These allowed early humans to walk to new areas in search of food and better living conditions.
What conditions are necessary for a civilization to form?
A civilization forms when people settle in one place, work together to grow food, and build cities. Cooperation, organized government, and stable food production are key factors.
Why is the Fertile Crescent called the “cradle of civilization”?
The Fertile Crescent is called the cradle of civilization because some of the first civilizations developed there due to its fertile soil and access to water.
Why was the control of fire a turning point in human history?
Fire allowed humans to cook food, which improved nutrition, and to stay warm in cold climates. It also provided protection from wild animals and allowed people to migrate to colder regions.
Why did farming lead to population growth?
Farming created a stable food supply. With more reliable food sources, more people survived, and communities could support larger populations.
Why was life difficult for early humans before civilizations developed?
Life was difficult because early humans had to move frequently to find food and avoid danger. They did not have permanent homes or stable food supplies.
What does the name “Mesopotamia” mean, and why is this name appropriate?
Mesopotamia means “between rivers,” which is appropriate because the region is located between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers.
How did specialization change Neolithic societies?
Specialization allowed people to focus on different jobs such as farming, toolmaking, or metalworking. This made societies more complex and organized.
Why are Neanderthals important in human history?
Neanderthals are important because they showed signs of culture, such as burying their dead, which suggests they had beliefs and emotions.
How did irrigation improve farming in Mesopotamia?
Irrigation allowed farmers to bring water to dry farmland, increasing crop production and making farming more reliable.
How did cuneiform writting contribute to Mesopotamian society?
Cuneiform writting allowed Mesopotamians to record laws, trade, stories, and important events. It helped organize society and preserve information.
What does the existence of cave paintings suggest about Cro-Magnons?
Cave paintings suggest that Cro-Magnons had symbolic thinking, religious beliefs, or early forms of communication and artistic expression.
How did permanent settlements change social structures?
Permanent settlements required leadership and organization. Chiefs and councils were formed to solve disputes and manage resources.
Why were the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers important to Mesopotamia?
The Tigris and Euphrates Rivers provided water for farming, transportation, and trade. They made agriculture possible in an otherwise dry region.
What was the purpose of a ziggurat in Mesopotamian cities?
A ziggurat was a tall temple built to honor the gods. It was a religious center, and only certain people, such as priests, could enter the top because it was considered sacred.
Why was clothing made from animal skins important for human expansion?
Animal skin clothing allowed humans to survive in colder climates, which helped them expand into new regions.
Why is the Neolithic Revolution considered one of the most important events in history?
It marked the shift from hunting and gathering to farming, leading to permanent settlements, population growth, specialization, and the development of complex societies.
What does it mean that Mesopotamians were polytheistic?
Being polytheistic means they worshipped many gods, each responsible for different aspects of life and nature.
Why was Sargon important in Mesopotamian history, and how did he maintain control?
Sargon was important because he created the Akkadian Empire, one of the first empires in history. He maintained control mainly through the strength of his army.