This period marked a significant shift in human history, transitioning from hunter-gatherer societies to settled agricultural ones. Here's a breakdown:
* Herding: Domestication of animals like sheep, goats, and cattle started around 10,000 BC in the Fertile Crescent (modern-day Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan). This provided a stable source of food, milk, and wool.
* Agriculture: The cultivation of crops like wheat, barley, and lentils also began around the same time in the Fertile Crescent. This allowed for the production of surplus food, leading to population growth and the development of villages.
While the exact date varies slightly depending on the region, the Neolithic Revolution was a gradual process that spanned several thousand years, and its impact on human civilization was profound.