Which development is most closely linked with the Neolithic Age?

The development most closely linked with the Neolithic Age is the domestication of plants. The Neolithic Age, which is often referred to as the New Stone Age, marks a significant turning point in human history characterized by the transition from nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyles to settled agricultural communities. During this period, people began to cultivate and selectively breed plants, leading to the establishment of agriculture. This shift allowed for the creation of permanent settlements and a stable food supply, ultimately laying the foundation for the development of complex societies.

The domestication of plants enabled humans to cultivate crops such as wheat, barley, and rice, which were essential for sustaining larger populations. This agricultural revolution facilitated advancements in technology, social organization, and economic systems, significantly impacting human civilization.

While the other developments mentioned are important in the broader context of human history, they are not as specifically tied to the Neolithic Age. The human use of fire is much older and predates this period, as it can be traced back to the Paleolithic Age. The first use of stone chipping instruments is also associated with earlier periods, particularly the Old Stone Age. The development of metallurgical alloys occurred later, marking advancements in the Bronze Age and the subsequent Iron Age, which followed the Ne