Jericho

Definition

Jericho is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, located in the Jordan Valley near the Dead Sea. Known for its ancient walls and significant archaeological findings, Jericho played a vital role in the development of early urbanization and agriculture during the Neolithic Revolution. Its strategic location made it a crucial point for trade and cultural exchange in the ancient Near East.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jericho is often referred to as the 'City of Palm Trees' and is known for its lush agricultural landscape due to its proximity to water sources.
2. The archaeological site at Jericho includes remains from various periods, with the earliest settlements dating back to around 9000 BCE, making it one of the first places where agriculture was practiced.
3. The ancient walls of Jericho are some of the oldest known fortifications, suggesting that it was a significant urban center with organized social structures.
4. Jericho's location made it an important stop for trade routes connecting Egypt and Mesopotamia, enhancing its role as a cultural melting pot in ancient times.
5. Excavations at Jericho have revealed significant artifacts, including pottery, tools, and figurines that provide insight into early human society and religious practices.

Review Questions

• How did the location of Jericho contribute to its significance in early agricultural development?
  • Jericho's location in the fertile Jordan Valley provided abundant water resources and rich soil, which were essential for early agriculture. The availability of these natural resources allowed ancient inhabitants to transition from a nomadic lifestyle to settled farming practices, marking a significant shift in human history. This agricultural development laid the foundation for permanent settlements, which eventually led to the emergence of complex societies and urbanization.
• What archaeological evidence from Jericho supports its status as one of the earliest urban centers?
  • Archaeological evidence from Jericho includes remnants of ancient walls, large storage facilities, and a variety of tools and artifacts that indicate organized social structures. The walls are among the oldest known fortifications, suggesting that Jericho was a center of power and defense. Additionally, findings such as pottery and ceremonial objects point to a developed culture with trade connections and religious practices, solidifying its status as an early urban center.
• Evaluate the impact of Jericho on the understanding of early city-states in the context of societal development during the Early Bronze Age.
  • Jericho's archaeological findings provide crucial insights into the evolution of early city-states during the Early Bronze Age. Its strategic location fostered trade and cultural exchanges that were essential for economic growth and social complexity. The transition from simple agrarian communities to more structured urban environments seen in Jericho reflects broader trends in societal development across the region, showcasing how environmental factors influenced governance, resource management, and community organization within emerging city-states.

Related terms

Tell: A tell is an archaeological mound created by the accumulation of human habitation and activity over time, often found in ancient Near Eastern sites like Jericho.

Neolithic Revolution: The Neolithic Revolution refers to the transition from nomadic lifestyles to settled farming communities, leading to the development of agriculture and permanent settlements.

City-state: A city-state is an independent political entity that consists of a city and its surrounding territory, often characterized by its own government and laws.