Settled agriculture was first practised by

Options

A. Aryans
B. Romans
C. Chinese
D. Sumerians

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Settled Agriculture**: Settled agriculture refers to the practice of cultivating crops and raising livestock in a permanent location, as opposed to the nomadic lifestyle of hunter-gatherers.

2. **Historical Context**: The transition from nomadic lifestyles to settled agriculture began around 10,000 to 8,000 BC. This period marked the beginning of human societies establishing permanent settlements.

3. **Geographical Significance**: The first known area where settled agriculture was practiced is Mesopotamia, often referred to as the Fertile Crescent. This region is located between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, in present-day Iraq.

4. **Identifying the People**: The inhabitants of Mesopotamia who are credited with the development of settled agriculture are known as the Sumerians. They were among the earliest civilizations to engage in farming and develop agricultural techniques.

5. **Conclusion**: Based on the information, the correct answer to the question "Settled agriculture was first practiced by" is option D: Sumerians.

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