what caused the change in fertility and mortality during the hunting, agricultural revolution, and industrial revolution?
The changes in fertility and mortality rates during the hunting, agricultural, and industrial revolutions can be attributed to various factors. Let's break down each revolution and understand the causes for the changes:
1. Hunting (Prehistoric Times): During this era, fertility and mortality rates were heavily influenced by environmental factors, such as availability of resources and climatic conditions. Higher fertility rates were necessary to ensure the survival of the community due to uncertainties regarding food supply and high child mortality rates. Therefore, people tended to have more children to increase the chance of survival.
2. Agricultural Revolution (Neolithic Age): With the advent of agriculture, fertility rates increased due to the establishment of settled communities and a stable food supply. The transition from a nomadic lifestyle to settled agriculture allowed for better nutrition and reduced infant mortality rates. Increased fertility was also influenced by cultural and social factors, such as the need for labor on farms and the desire to have children as a sign of status and societal stability.
3. Industrial Revolution (18th and 19th centuries): The industrial revolution brought significant changes to society, including urbanization, technological advancements, and improved living conditions. Fertility rates initially remained high due to traditional values and societal expectations. However, mortality rates started to decline as advancements in healthcare, sanitation, and improved living standards reduced the prevalence of diseases and improved overall health.
As the industrial revolution progressed, socio-economic changes began to impact fertility rates. Urbanization, longer working hours, and changing social norms caused a decline in fertility rates. Access to contraception and the desire for smaller families also played a role in reducing fertility during this period.
To answer this question on a more detailed level, one can refer to historical research, data analyses, and demographic studies on each revolution. Examining primary sources, scholarly articles, and books from historians specializing in these eras will provide a comprehensive understanding of the causes and impacts of changes in fertility and mortality.