Deep Dive
The Year Zero of Human History
Kurzgesagt suggests redefining Year Zero to 12,000 years ago, aligning with the Holocene's start. This era saw the emergence of stable climates and the dawn of agriculture. Karahan Tepe, an early village, hosted large gatherings and monumental constructions, indicating the birth of organized societies. These developments laid the groundwork for modern civilization.
From Bread to Living On Dead Ancestors
By 10,000 years ago, human settlements expanded, with Çatalhöyük showcasing unique architecture. Homes were accessed via roofs, and the community engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry. They practiced ancestral worship by burying and later exhuming family members, decorating their skulls. This period marked a shift towards more complex social structures and cultural practices.
From Gathering Grain To War and Domination
Around 8,000 years ago, farming spread across Asia and Europe, leading to interactions with hunter-gatherers. Some regions saw peaceful coexistence, while others experienced conflict, evidenced by mass graves. The era also faced climate challenges, like a massive lake draining in North America, prompting migrations and innovations in agriculture.
The End of the Dark Matter Era
By 7,000 years ago, mega-settlements like those in Ukraine emerged, with trade and technological advancements like the wheel and plow. Uruk became one of the first cities, introducing administrative roles and early writing systems. The dark matter period ended with Kushim's name on a clay tablet, symbolizing the transition to recorded history.