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10,000 BCE
Mesopotamia
The earliest agricultural systems were developed in the Fertile Crescent in ancient Mesopotamia. This was where Wheat and Barley were first founded and are still todays most important crops. The major domesticated animals in the Fertile Crescent were sheep, goats, cattle and pigs. The region's diverse climates led to the development of many edible plants, and the domestication of several important animals. -
Period: 8000 BCE to 6000 BCE
China
Agriculture was next developed by the Chinese from the 8000-6000 BC. A major food crop that was grown in China at the time was Rice, mainly in the south point. The crop Millet was also domesticated by the 6000 BC by the Chinese people. Animals that were used for farming included horse, cow, sheep/goat, pig, chicken and dogs. Ancient China made many historical food developments including extraordinary farming techniques. They developed double-cropping, multi-cropping, and sugar-making techniques. -
Period: 8000 BCE to 6000 BCE
Peru
At the same time China started to practice agriculture, Peru did too. The major food crops in Ancient Peru were quinoa, maize, mashua, amaranth, and potatoes. People domesticated animals such as llamas, alpacas, guinea pigs, and dogs. These animals were used for transportation, food, and other purposes. Ancient Peruvians domesticated many foods that are still eaten today, and they developed advanced food preservation methods. -
Period: 7500 BCE to 5500 BCE
Indus Valley
Indus Valley was next to independently practice agriculture. The main food crops grown in the Indus Valley civilization were wheat, barley, rice, peas, beans, and millets. Animals such as Oxen,
Humped bulls and Shorthorn cattle were used for agricultural purposes in these lands. The people of the Indus Valley developed a variety of foods, including grains, pulses, and meat. -
5000 BCE
Mexico
The 5th country to independently start agriculture was the Mexicans. The main food crops in ancient Mexico were maize (corn), beans, and squash. Known as the practice "Three Sisters", these crops were grown together to maximize their yield. The main animals domesticated in ancient Mexico were the turkey, dog, and Muscovy duck. The Mexicans created chocolate from cacao beans, which was a sacred food to the Mayans and Aztecs and a favorite food in todays society. -
Period: 3000 BCE to 2000 BCE
Eastern North America
Eastern North America was the next region to practice agriculture. The major food crops in ancient eastern North America were corn, beans, squash, and sunflower. As the Mexicans did, these crops were grown together in the practice "The Three Sisters". The turkey was the main domesticated animal for farming in this region. Historical food developments in ancient eastern North America include the cultivation of corn, beans, and squash. Also the use of acorns, walnuts, and hickory nuts. -
Period: 1000 BCE to 500 BCE
Saharan
The second last region on this map to practice agriculture was the region of Saharan, Africa. The major food crops in Saharan were millet, sorghum, and wild cereals. People in ancient Sahara began domesticating sheep, goats, and cattle around 5000 BC. This occurred as the Sahara became drier and people transitioned from hunter-gatherer societies to herding and farming. Historical food developments included pastoralism and the cultivation of wild plants. -
Period: 200 BCE to 600
Rome
The last ancient region on this map to take part in the practice of agriculture is Rome. The major food crops in ancient Rome were grains, olives, grapes, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. The Romans domesticated animals for food, labor and to make wool and hides. They domesticated Cattle, Sheep, Pigs, Goats, Chickens, Horses, mules, and donkeys. Historical food developments from the Romans include new foods like, vegetables, grains, and spices. They also developed techniques for preserving food.