Which animal was first domesticated by human.? dog or cattle.?
Introduction:
The process of animal domestication by humans played a crucial role in the development of human civilization. It allowed humans to secure a reliable food source, transportation, and companionship. The domestication of animals was a gradual process that occurred over thousands of years. While both dogs and cattle were among the first animals to be domesticated, the exact order in which they were domesticated remains a topic of debate among scholars.
The Domestication of Dogs:
- Dogs are often regarded as the first animal to be domesticated by humans.
- The domestication of dogs is believed to have started around 15,000 to 20,000 years ago.
- Early humans likely encountered wolf pups and began nurturing and taming them.
- Wolves were attracted to human settlements due to the availability of food scraps and protection.
- Over generations, humans selectively bred the tamer and more useful wolves, leading to the emergence of distinct dog breeds.
- Dogs played various roles in human society, such as hunting companions, guards, and eventually, pets.
The Domestication of Cattle:
- The domestication of cattle is believed to have occurred around 10,000 to 15,000 years ago.
- Early humans initially hunted wild cattle for their meat, but eventually, they began to capture and tame them.
- Wild aurochs, the ancestors of modern cattle, were gradually domesticated through selective breeding.
- Domesticated cattle provided humans with a reliable source of milk, meat, hides, and labor.
- They also played a crucial role in the development of agriculture by providing draft power for plowing fields.
- The domestication of cattle allowed for the establishment of settled agricultural communities.
Conclusion:
While both dogs and cattle were among the first animals to be domesticated by humans, the exact order in which they were domesticated remains uncertain. Dogs were likely among the earliest domesticated animals, with evidence dating back thousands of years. On the other hand, cattle were domesticated slightly later but played a vital role in the development of human civilization. The domestication of both animals revolutionized human society and set the stage for further advancements.
Which animal was first domesticated by human.? dog or cattle.?
Dog
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed UPSC study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in UPSC.