Everything Everywhere Daily The History of Farming
Dec 4, 2023
Explore the history of farming and the innovations that revolutionized agriculture, from early farming methods and the development of the hoe to the evolution of farming tools and techniques. Learn about the impact of tractors and the role of chemistry in farming. Discover advancements such as genetic engineering and precision farming that have the potential to increase productivity.
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Farming Productivity Evolution
- Early farms only produced enough food for a family and a bit more.
- Now, a single modern farmer can feed hundreds, showing massive productivity growth.
Hoe Revolutionized Early Farming
- Broadcasting seeds caused uneven distribution and poor growth as seeds stayed on soil surface.
- Turning over soil with a hoe improved nutrient access, aeration, and weed control significantly.
From Ards to Mold Board Plows
- The ard was a dragged stick cutting through topsoil, pulled by people or oxen.
- The Roman mold board plow introduced soil turning for better cultivation, a major advancement over the ard.