Domestication of Animals
Domestication of animals during the Neolithic period marked a significant shift in human society, transitioning from nomadic hunter-gatherers to settled agricultural communities. People began to breed and raise certain animals, like sheep, goats, pigs, and cattle, for food, labor, and companionship. This process involved selecting animals with desirable traits, such as docility and productivity. As a result, humans benefited from a steady supply of meat, milk, and other resources, which allowed for population growth and the development of permanent settlements, ultimately paving the way for modern civilization.
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Domestication of animals refers to the process by which humans selectively breed and train wild animals for companionship, work, or agricultural purposes. This process alters their behavior, traits, and life cycles over many generations to make them more suited to living alongside humans. For example, wolves became dogs, adapting to human needs for companionship and assistance in hunting. Domesticated animals typically exhibit traits such as reduced aggression and greater sociability compared to their wild ancestors, enabling them to thrive in human environments and create mutually beneficial relationships.