The shift to an agricultural economy in early history fundamentally transformed societies. As people transitioned from nomadic lifestyles to settled farming communities, it led to the establishment of stable food sources, enabling population growth. Agriculture fostered social stratification, as surplus food allowed for specialization of labor, leading to the development of social hierarchies, trade, and complex political structures. These changes laid the foundation for civilizations, fostering advancements in technology, governance, and culture. Consequently, societies began to prioritize land ownership, leading to disputes and the establishment of property rights.