Chapter 12

The Emergence of Cities and States

Chapter Outline

When and where did the world’s first cities first develop?

What changes in culture accompanied the rise of cities?

Why did cities develop into states?

The World’s First Cities

Grew out of Neolithic villages between 6,000 and 4,500 y.a.

First in Mesopotamia, then in Egypt and the Indus Valley.

In China, the process began 5,000 y.a.

Early Civilizations

Four Culture Changes in Transition to Cities

1. Agricultural innovation2. Diversification of labor.3. Emergence of central government 4. Social stratification

Agricultural Innovation

Ancient Sumerians built an irrigation system that enabled them to control water resources and increase crop yields.

The ancient Maya constructed raised fields in seasonally flooded swamplands to supplement slash-and-burn farming.

Diversification of Labor

Some people could provide sufficient food and others could work as artisans and craftspeople.

Led to the development of new technologies and the beginnings of extensive trade systems.

Sciences such as geometry and astronomy were first developed.

Emergence of Central Government

Made sure that different interest groups did not infringe on one another’s rights.

Ensured that the city was safe from its enemies by constructing fortifications.

Levied taxes and appointed tax collectors.

Social Stratification

Ways archaeologists recognize stratification in ancient civilizations:1. The size of dwellings2. Written documents 3. Correspondence

Writing Was Independently Invented Five Times

Theories of Civilization

Hydraulic theory - effort to build and control an irrigation system required a degree of social organization that eventually led to civilization.

Trade networks - a system was needed to distribute food products throughout the population.

Theories of Civilization

Circumscription - civilization develops where populations are circumscribed by environmental barriers or other societies.

Religious theories - beliefs and values regulate interaction between people and their environment.

Action theory - focuses on the actions of leaders who play a role in social change.

Problems in Civilizations

Sanitation problems and a large number of people in close proximity made infectious diseases rampant.

Dense population, class systems, and a strong centralized government created internal stress.

Warfare was common; Cities were fortified, and armies served to protect the state.