Food surpluses significantly changed the way of life in early human settlements, primarily by allowing for the development of more complex social structures and economies. Among the options provided, the most accurate assertion would be:
Villages needed to organize governments.
With the advent of agriculture and the ability to produce food surpluses, populations began to grow larger and more sedentary. This shift from a nomadic lifestyle led to the establishment of permanent villages and communities. As these communities expanded, they required organized systems of governance to manage resources, land allocation, social interactions, and conflicts. This development was crucial for the transition from simple hunter-gatherer societies to more complex civilizations.
The other options do not accurately reflect the impact of food surpluses:
- More hunting and gathering was required. In fact, food surpluses meant that less hunting and gathering was needed, as communities could rely on agriculture for food.
- Humans needed fewer tools and possessions. On the contrary, the development of agriculture required new tools and led to an increase in possessions as people accumulated goods and resources.
- The population decreased. Food surpluses typically led to population increases, as more reliable food sources supported larger communities.
Overall, food surpluses were crucial in facilitating the rise of structured societies and the concept of governance in early civilizations.