Mesolithic period people (homo sapiens )were hunters and herders .so they started herding sheep's and goats at the earliest time first of all .

The earliest domesticated animals were sheep and goats. This means that humans began to tame and breed these animals for their own use and benefit. This process of domestication occurred thousands of years ago and was a significant development in human history.


Sheep were one of the first animals to be domesticated by humans. This occurred around 10,000 years ago in the Near East, which includes modern-day Turkey, Iraq, and Iran. The process of domestication involved selecting wild sheep with desirable traits, such as a docile temperament and the ability to reproduce in captivity. Over generations, these selected sheep were bred together, leading to the development of domesticated sheep with specific characteristics.


The domestication of sheep had several important implications for early human societies.

1. Food Source: Domesticated sheep provided a reliable source of food in the form of meat and milk. They were also a source of wool, which could be used for clothing and other purposes.

2. Agricultural Development: Sheep domestication played a crucial role in the development of agriculture. The ability to raise and herd sheep allowed early humans to settle in one place and engage in farming activities. This led to the establishment of permanent settlements and the transition from a nomadic lifestyle to a sedentary one.

3. Social and Economic Impact: The domestication of sheep led to the emergence of a more complex society. The ownership and management of livestock became an important aspect of social and economic life. It allowed for the development of trade networks and the specialization of labor.

4. Cultural Significance: Sheep have also played a significant role in various cultures and religions throughout history. They have been used in religious rituals, as symbols of wealth and status, and in the production of textiles and crafts.


Goats were domesticated shortly after sheep, around 9,000 to 8,000 years ago. The exact location of this domestication is still debated, but it is believed to have occurred in the same region as sheep domestication. Like sheep, goats were selected for desirable traits and bred over generations to create domesticated populations.


The domestication of goats also had significant implications for early human societies.

1. Food and Milk: Domesticated goats provided a source of meat, milk, and cheese, which were important components of the human diet. They were adaptable to different climates and could be raised in a variety of environments.

2. Agricultural Development: Goats played a role in the development of agriculture similar to that of sheep. They could be herded and used for grazing, which helped clear land and prepare it for cultivation. They also provided valuable manure for fertilizing crops.

3. Economic Value: The ownership and trade of goats became an important economic activity. They were valuable commodities and could be exchanged for other goods and services.

4. Cultural Significance: Goats have cultural significance in many societies. They have been used in religious ceremonies, folklore, and traditional practices. Their milk and wool have also been used in the production of various products.


The domestication of sheep and goats marked a significant milestone in human history. It allowed for the development of agriculture, the establishment of settled communities,