Early Human Societies and Civilizations

Study Notes

How, When and Where

The earliest human-like species appeared around 2-3 million years ago.
Early humans migrated from Africa to different parts of the world.
The process of migration and settlement led to the development of different cultures and societies.

Early Societies

Hunter-Gatherers:
- Lived in small groups (20-50 people).
- Moved from place to place in search of food.
- Had a nomadic lifestyle.
Pastoralists:
- Raised animals for food and other products.
- Moved from place to place in search of grazing land.
- Had a nomadic lifestyle.
Agriculturists:
- Grew crops for food.
- Settled in one place for a longer period.
- Developed more complex societies.

The Emergence of Cities

The development of agriculture led to the production of surplus food.
Surplus food allowed for the growth of cities.
Cities became centers of trade, commerce, and culture.

The Development of Writing

Writing developed around 3500 BCE in Mesopotamia (present-day Iraq).
Writing helped in record-keeping, trade, and communication.
Writing also helped in the development of literature, art, and architecture.

Early Civilizations

Mesopotamia:
- Developed in the Tigris-Euphrates river valley.
- Known for its city-states, such as Ur and Babylon.
- Developed writing, laws, and governance.
Egypt:
- Developed in the Nile river valley.
- Known for its pyramids, mummies, and pharaohs.
- Developed a system of writing and governance.
Indus Valley Civilization:
- Developed in the Indus river valley (present-day Pakistan and India).
- Known for its urban planning, architecture, and water management systems.
- Developed a system of writing and governance.

Description

Explore the early human-like species, their migration, and the development of societies. Learn about hunter-gatherers, pastoralists, and agriculturists, and how they led to the emergence of cities. Discover the development of writing and early civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Indus Valley.