Livestock Domestication

Domestication of animals was one of the most significant changes in human history, beginning with a long-term connection between hunter–gatherers and wolves more than 15,000 years ago. Between 11,000 and 4,000 years ago (approximately the Neolithic to the Bronze Age), when mixed-crop farming communities emerged, a variety of additional species, including sheep, goats, cattle, pigs, poultry, and horses, were introduced into human society. The domestication of livestock had a profound impact on human society. It allowed humans to produce more food and live in larger, more complex societies. It also led to the development of trade and commerce, as surplus animals and animal products could be exchanged for other goods. Animals have played various roles since their domestication, ranging from being tolerated to being revered in ceremonial activities to supplying humans with additional advantages, such as food, clothing, building materials, transportation, herding and hunting. The diversity of phenotypes, seen in various domesticated species has provided generations of scientists with a useful model for studying evolution. The domestication process has led to the development of many different breeds of livestock; each adapted to specific environments and tasks. In modern times, livestock domestication continues to play a significant role in food production and agriculture, and it remains an important part of many cultures worldwide.