Agricultural Origins and Diffusions - AP Human Geography

The cultivation of crops and the raising of livestock for sustenance or economic gain. Forms the foundation of human civilization by providing food security.

The Fertile Crescent. Located in modern-day Middle East, where agriculture first developed around 10,000 BCE.

Transition from hunting and gathering to agriculture. Marked humanity's shift to settled life and food production around 10,000 years ago.

Maize (corn). Became a staple crop that supported large populations in the Americas.

Sheep. Provided wool, meat, and milk, making it valuable for early agricultural communities.

The Yangtze River Valley. One of several independent centers where agriculture developed around 9,000 years ago.

Reproduction of plants by direct cloning from existing plants. Used for crops like bananas and potatoes that don't reproduce well from seeds.

Slash-and-burn agriculture. Involves clearing forest, farming briefly, then moving to allow regeneration.

Seasonal migration of livestock between mountains and lowland pastures. Maximizes pasture use by following seasonal precipitation and temperature patterns.

Wheat. High-yield varieties dramatically increased food production in developing countries.

The spread of agricultural practices from one region to another. Occurs through migration, trade, and cultural exchange between societies.

Potato. Transformed European diets and agriculture after being brought from the Americas.

Introduction of new crops like potatoes and maize. These crops provided new nutrition sources and increased agricultural diversity.

A form of subsistence agriculture based on herding domesticated animals. Mobile lifestyle follows seasonal patterns to find pasture for livestock.

Southeast Asia. Climate and terrain ideal for intensive rice cultivation using flooding methods.

To produce food primarily for the farmer's family. Focuses on survival rather than profit, common in developing regions.

Commercial grain farming. Uses mechanization and large farms to produce grain for global markets.

Olives. Adapted to hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters of Mediterranean climate.

Cash crops like sugarcane, coffee, or cotton. Large-scale monoculture operations designed for export to global markets.

Developing countries, notably India and Mexico. Targeted regions with food security issues and potential for increased yields.

Technological advancements. Mechanization and scientific methods replaced traditional farming practices.

The seed drill. Allowed precise seed placement, improving efficiency and crop yields.

Soil degradation. Results from overuse of chemical inputs and intensive cultivation methods.

The Green Revolution. Dramatically increased food production through improved seeds and technology.

Sorghum. Drought-resistant grain adapted to semi-arid conditions of the region.

To meet current food needs without compromising future generations. Balances environmental protection with economic viability for long-term success.

Crop rotation. Different crops use different nutrients, preventing soil depletion.

Bt corn. Engineered to produce insecticide, reducing need for chemical pesticides.

No synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. Relies on natural processes and biodiversity to maintain soil health.