key term - Sedentism

Definition

Sedentism refers to the practice of living in one place for an extended period, as opposed to a nomadic lifestyle. This shift was crucial during the Neolithic Revolution, marking the transition from hunter-gatherer societies to agricultural communities. Sedentism allowed for the establishment of permanent settlements, leading to the development of complex societies, cultural advancements, and population growth.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sedentism emerged around 10,000 BCE during the Neolithic Revolution when humans began to transition from nomadic hunting and gathering to agriculture.
2. Permanent settlements allowed for the accumulation of surplus food, leading to population growth and the development of complex social structures.
3. Sedentism contributed to advancements in technology, such as pottery and weaving, as people had more time to innovate due to stable food sources.
4. The Bantu migrations were partly driven by sedentary agricultural practices, as settled communities expanded and sought new lands for farming.
5. Sedentism led to increased interaction among communities, fostering trade networks and cultural exchanges that shaped early civilizations.

Review Questions

• How did sedentism influence social structures in early agricultural societies?
  • Sedentism greatly influenced social structures by allowing for the accumulation of resources, which led to social stratification. As people settled and began to store surplus food, certain individuals or groups gained wealth and power, resulting in the development of hierarchies within these communities. This shift also encouraged specialization of labor, as individuals could focus on specific trades rather than just survival.
• Discuss the relationship between sedentism and the development of trade networks during the Neolithic period.
  • Sedentism facilitated the establishment of trade networks as permanent settlements created opportunities for surplus production. Communities that practiced agriculture could produce more food than they needed, which allowed them to trade excess goods with neighboring groups. This exchange not only supported economic growth but also led to increased cultural interactions and innovations as different societies shared ideas and resources.
• Evaluate how sedentism impacted the migrations of peoples like the Bantu and their cultural practices.
  • Sedentism significantly impacted the Bantu migrations by enabling Bantu-speaking groups to establish stable agricultural communities. As these groups settled and adapted their farming techniques, they were able to expand into new territories effectively. Their sedentary lifestyle also allowed them to develop rich cultural practices and technologies that they carried with them during their migrations, influencing the regions they settled in through agriculture and social organization.

Related terms

Agriculture:

The cultivation of plants and rearing of animals for food, which played a vital role in the establishment of sedentary communities.

Domestication:

The process of adapting wild plants and animals for human use, a key factor that enabled sedentary lifestyles.

Social Stratification: The organization of society into hierarchical layers, which became more pronounced in sedentary societies due to settled living and resource accumulation.