Unit 5 - Agriculture and Rural Land Use

Unit 5 - Agriculture and Rural Land Use: About 12,000 years ago, people living in Southwest Asia began to grow crops and raise animals intentionally. From the beginning of agriculture in that region, and later in a few other regions, agriculture diffused throughout the world. Since 1750, mechanization, the use of chemicals, and research have dramatically increased agricultural productivity. This increase has allowed more people to work outside of agriculture but has increased the amount of stress on the environment. What people have grown and raised has always been shaped by the climate, soils, and the landforms found in a place. In addition, the types of agricultural products that farmers produce, whether it be dairy or vegetables or grain, has traditionally been heavily influenced by the distance to market. Farmers have also shaped the landscape by cutting down trees and draining wetlands. Improvements in technology have shifted the industry towards larger enterprises and more interdependence to take advantage of efficiencies .  Changes in technology and our society influence how people produce and consume food. Women are no longer in charge of cooking and food is increasingly prepared outside the home; providing women with more time, flexibility, and opportunities. (79 Slides with videos)