Starting at the transition between the Middle to Upper Paleolithic period, some 80,000 to 70,000 years ago, some hunter-gatherers bands began to specialize, concentrating on hunting a smaller selection of (often larger) game and gathering a smaller selection of food. This specialization of work also involved creating specialized tools, like fishing nets and hooks and bone harpoons. The transition into the subsequent Neolithic period is chiefly defined by the unprecedented development of nascent agricultural practices. Agriculture originated and spread in several different areas including the Middle East, Asia, Mesoamerica, and the Andes beginning as early as 12,000 years ago. COUNT 4
QSN1 During what period did hunter-gatherers begin to focus food collection on a more limited range? ANS1 Middle to Upper Paleolithic QSN2 How many years ago did hunting-gatherers start specializing in their collection practices? ANS2 80,000 to 70,000 years ago QSN3 What was the change in gathering? ANS3 a smaller selection QSN4 When did the use of agriculture begin it's spread? ANS4 12,000 years ago