How did Egypt’s grain surplus encourage people to become artisans?

Weavers and potters created containers for storing surplus crops.

Roads needed to be built to carry surplus crops to markets.

Farmers hired craftworkers to make new agricultural tools.

Rulers used the surpluses to buy goods such as cloth, jewelry, and luxury goods.

The last one.

any1

How did Egypt's grain surplus encourage people to become artisans?

With extra food, they were free to choose other jobs.

When their bellies were full of food, they were more inclined to make things.

It didn't. A grain surplus actually made more people want to become farmers instead of artisans.

People could only make things with their hands from the crops that they grew.

Egypt’s grain surplus encouraged people to become artisans in several ways:

1. Weavers and potters created containers for storing surplus crops: With a surplus of grain, there was an increased need for storage containers to preserve the excess crops for future use. Weavers and potters were able to capitalize on this demand by creating baskets, pottery jars, and other storage vessels, thus encouraging people to become artisans in these areas.

2. Roads needed to be built to carry surplus crops to markets: To transport the surplus crops to markets within Egypt and beyond, roads needed to be built or improved. The construction of roads required skilled laborers, blacksmiths, and other artisans who could help create and maintain the infrastructure necessary for the transportation of goods. This presented opportunities for people to become artisans in various fields.

3. Farmers hired craftworkers to make new agricultural tools: With surplus grain, farmers had the means to invest in improving their farming techniques and productivity. They could hire artisans to create new and more efficient agricultural tools, such as plows and irrigation systems, which would ultimately enhance their agricultural output. This led to an increase in the demand for craftworkers and encouraged people to become artisans.

4. Rulers used the surpluses to buy goods such as cloth, jewelry, and luxury goods: The rulers of Egypt, who had access to the surplus grain, used it to acquire various goods, including cloth, jewelry, and luxury goods. This trade and bartering system created demand for artisans skilled in crafting these products. As a result, more individuals were prompted to pursue these artisanal skills to meet the needs of the ruling elite and the market.

In summary, Egypt's grain surplus encouraged people to become artisans by creating a demand for various products and services, such as storage containers, improved infrastructure, agricultural tools, and luxury goods. This demand provided opportunities for individuals to develop and showcase their artisanal skills, leading to their increased involvement in artisanal craftsmanship.