Beginning about 7000 B.C.E., people in the Fertile Crescent began to domesticate what crop?Group of answer choicesSquashRiceYamsWheat

Analysis of the Options

To address the question effectively, we should examine each of the provided options in relation to the historical context of the Fertile Crescent around 7000 B.C.E.

1. Squash: While squash was indeed cultivated in various regions, it is more closely associated with the Americas rather than the Fertile Crescent.

2. Rice: Rice cultivation primarily began in Asia, particularly in China and Southeast Asia, much later than 7000 B.C.E.

3. Yams: Similar to squash, yams have a significant history in West Africa, not in the Fertile Crescent.

4. Wheat: Wheat is one of the earliest crops domesticated in the Fertile Crescent around 8000 to 7000 B.C.E. The region’s environment was conducive to the growth of wild cereals, which led to the domestication of wheat and barley.

Conclusion

Based on the analysis, the crop that people in the Fertile Crescent began to domesticate around 7000 B.C.E. is Wheat. This crop played a significant role in the development of agriculture and subsequent human civilizations in this region.