The History of Agriculture

Antiquated Agriculture

Also called Neolithic agriculture; 10,000 B.C. dated the history of agriculture. Agriculture originated from Asia, specifically the Southwest Asia along Iran, India, Israel, and Iraq countries. The presence of many rivers such as Nile River, and the availability of vast lands made the people of this nation labor and toil of many crops. All agricultural development started from the prehistoric details. During this time, people relied on agriculture for profits and provisions.

Since farming was the main livelihood in the East, Asians created earthly tools for cultivation and practices for crop growing. The wooden plough was an important tool in this era. Moreover, the domestication of animals originated in these areas. For example, cow was the first animal used for land cultivation. Thus, tamed animals were utilized in crop growing.

Historic Agriculture

Dated between 2500 B.C. and 500 B.C.; the highlight of historic agriculture was the Roman era. During this time, agriculture became popular throughout the world due to the discovery of metals. The farming tools were made of metals making such devices durable and useful. Moreover, farmers discovered irrigation and trade which lead to the start of agribusiness still popular these days.

Meanwhile, the crop production became diverse in this time. In the 1st millennium, grapevine, olive oils, wine, and rye were prevalent. In the 3rd millennium, healthy farm products like apple, cucumber, tomato, melons, and onions were popular. Meanwhile, the animals became helpers in the field. They were tied in 2-wheeled chariots and 4-wheeled carts.

Feudal Agriculture

Heralded by the rise of the Byzantine Empire, feudal agriculture was focused on worldwide agriculture expansion. It had been named feudal because foods were served at the kings’ tables inside the castles. From Europe to Asia, agriculture became famous during 500 B.C. to 1700 A.D. due to several discoveries of farming methods and devices. Specifically, crops were protected with organic fertilizers and 4- year cycle fallow was implemented during this time.

The best highlight of this epoch was the expansion of farm lands. Even lands previously considered as sterile and wet were cultivated and used for farming. The discovery of products like woolen and leather was rampant during feudal agriculture. Meanwhile, the rise of International trade and commerce completed this era.

Scientific Agriculture

The era of modern discovery, scientific agriculture was a period filled with advanced techniques and equipments. It is called scientific agriculture because farming had been based on facts and tested theories. This history was distinctive from the rest due to its rise of colonial and industrial agricultures. The livelihood had expanded in many countries in Europe, Australia, Asia, Africa, and America which created profound opportunities for income generation and business opportunities to any person.

In 17th century, Biotechnology and genetic engineering governed the scientific agriculture. In particular, agriculture relied on biotechnology for the improvement of crops and livestock. Primary product of biotechnology was pesticides. Likewise, agriculture had been enhanced by genetic engineering. The growth of plants had improved due to such scientific breakthrough.