Who was domesticated and tamed after the dog by humans? - briefly
The first animals domesticated by humans after dogs were likely cats. This process began around 10,000 years ago, as cats were attracted to human settlements by rodents and gradually became tamed. The domestication of cats was a gradual process that occurred independently in several regions, including the Fertile Crescent, China, and Egypt. Cats were valued for their ability to control pests, and over time, they became beloved companions. The process of domestication involved selective breeding, which led to the development of various breeds with distinct characteristics. Cats were often depicted in ancient art and literature, highlighting their significance in human societies. The domestication of cats has had a profound impact on human history, influencing agriculture, culture, and even religion.
Who was domesticated and tamed after the dog by humans? - in detail
The domestication of animals by humans has been a pivotal process in the development of civilization. After the dog, which is widely recognized as the first animal to be domesticated, the next significant species to be tamed and integrated into human societies were various types of livestock and other animals. These animals were domesticated for a multitude of purposes, including agriculture, transportation, and companionship.
One of the earliest animals to be domesticated after the dog was the goat. Archaeological evidence suggests that goats were first domesticated around 10,000 years ago in the Fertile Crescent, a region that includes parts of modern-day Iraq, Iran, and Turkey. Goats were valued for their milk, meat, and hides, making them an essential part of early human diets and economies. Their ability to thrive in harsh environments also made them ideal for nomadic and agricultural societies alike.
Sheep were another early domesticate, following closely behind goats. Like goats, sheep were first domesticated in the Fertile Crescent around the same time. Sheep provided humans with wool for clothing, meat for sustenance, and milk for nutrition. Their docile nature and ease of herding made them a valuable asset for early agricultural communities.
Cattle, including oxen and cows, were also domesticated relatively early in human history. The domestication of cattle began around 8,000 years ago in the Near East and later in other regions such as Africa and Europe. Cattle were primarily domesticated for their meat, milk, and labor. Oxen, in particular, were used for plowing fields and transporting goods, significantly enhancing agricultural productivity.
Pigs were another animal that humans domesticated for their meat. The domestication of pigs began around 9,000 years ago in the Near East and China. Pigs were valued for their ability to reproduce quickly and their adaptability to various environments. Their meat was a staple in many early human diets.
In addition to livestock, humans also domesticated animals for transportation and labor. Horses, for example, were domesticated around 6,000 years ago in the steppes of Central Asia. Horses revolutionized transportation, warfare, and agriculture, providing humans with a fast and reliable means of travel and labor.
Camels, another important animal for transportation, were domesticated around 4,000 years ago in the Arabian Peninsula and the steppes of Central Asia. Camels were particularly valued for their ability to travel long distances in desert environments, carrying heavy loads and providing milk and meat.
The domestication of these animals significantly transformed human societies. Livestock provided a stable food source, enhancing nutrition and supporting population growth. Animals like horses and camels facilitated trade and communication over long distances, fostering the development of complex civilizations. Moreover, the labor provided by domesticated animals allowed humans to focus on other activities, such as craftsmanship and cultural development.
In summary, after the dog, humans domesticated a variety of animals for different purposes. Goats, sheep, cattle, pigs, horses, and camels were among the earliest and most significant species to be tamed. These animals contributed to the development of agriculture, transportation, and overall societal advancement, shaping the course of human history.