From Villages to Cities

From Villages to Cities

• Early settlements formed near water sources and farms
• As populations grew, settlements expanded into villages, which are smaller groups of houses and farms.
• Villages were built in easily defensible locations, safe from flooding and enemies.
• Villages can transition to towns and then cities, in a process called urbanization
• Urbanization involves population growth, economic development, infrastructure expansion, and more access to resources
• Communities may seek town status to gain more local control and access to resources

Comparing Villages, Towns, and Cities

• Villages:
  • Smallest settlement, typically with 100-3,000 people.
  • Located in rural areas.
  • Limited services; might have a post office, small shop, and sometimes a place of worship or doctor's office.
  • Many people move to towns and cities.
• Towns:
  • Mid-sized settlement, with 1,000-100,000 people.
  • More services than villages, including primary/secondary schools, train stations, hospitals, shopping centers, and supermarkets.
  • At least one place of worship.
• Cities:
  • Large settlements, typically over 100,000 people.
  • Wide variety of services like universities, sports stadiums, a large array of shops, restaurants, and places of worship.
  • Many transport links and job opportunities.
  • Many people move to cities for better employment prospects and leisure options.