Textbook: Introduction 3 Flashcards
Fill-in-the-Blank Questions
The _______ was a period when humans transitioned from using wood and biomass to fossil fuels like coal, marking the start of the Industrial Revolution.
Coal revolution
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Early humans migrated from Africa to other parts of the world due to _______ changes that impacted their natural habitats.
Climate
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The term _______ is used to describe the significant impact of human activities on Earth’s ecosystems and geology, particularly since industrialization.
Anthropocene
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World environmental history studies the relationship between _______ and _______ history, examining the impacts of human societies on nature.
Natural; human
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_______ refers to the total effect of human activities on the natural environment, including urbanization and resource depletion.
Human footprint
What role did agriculture play in the development of human societies?
Agriculture allowed for permanent settlements, food surpluses, larger populations, and eventually the growth of complex societies and civilizations.
How did urbanization affect environmental resources during the industrial period?
Urbanization increased demand on ecosystems, causing stress on resources like woodlands, water, and wildlife, as the human ecological footprint expanded.
What is the significance of the “human footprint” in environmental history?
It refers to the impact of human activities on the environment over time, illustrating changes in ecosystems due to human actions.
How does Big History view humanity’s relationship with the cosmos?
Big History emphasizes humanity’s connection to all life and natural elements, suggesting that humans are part of a larger cosmic narrative, with ties to the stars, rocks, and water.
What are the main greenhouse gases that have increased due to industrialization?
Carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O) are the primary greenhouse gases that have risen significantly since the beginning of the industrial age.
