The domestication of animals

The domestication of animals is a long and complex process that likely began during the Neolithic period, around 12,000 years ago. The dog is considered to be the first animal to be domesticated by humans, with evidence suggesting that this process began at least 15,000 years ago. It is believed that wolves began to scavenge around human settlements and those that were less fearful and aggressive towards people were more likely to survive and reproduce. Over time, these wolves evolved into a distinct subspecies known as the domestic dog.

The domestication of cats likely began around 10,000 years ago, when humans began to settle in agricultural communities. Cats were attracted to the settlements because of the abundance of rodents and other small animals that were attracted to the stored grain. As they hunted these pests, they were welcomed by the settlers and eventually evolved into the domestic cats we know today.

Sheep were probably domesticated around 8,000 years ago in the Near East. They were valued for their wool and meat, and the domestication process likely began when wild sheep were herded into enclosures to protect them from predators. Over time, these wild sheep were selectively bred for desirable traits, such as larger bodies or thicker wool, and eventually became the domesticated sheep we know today.

The domestication of cows, pigs, and horses also began during the Neolithic period. Cows were likely domesticated around 8,000 years ago in the Near East, while pigs were domesticated in China around 7,000 years ago. Horses were first domesticated around 4,500 years ago by the people of the Central Asian steppes. These animals were used for transportation, agriculture, and as a source of food.

Overall, the domestication of these animals played a crucial role in the development of human civilization, providing humans with food, clothing, transportation, and other essential resources.