Lessons can always be learned from the past, and history is relevant to any field because of precedent and experience. In regards to climate change, the patterns of ancient climate changes can help to predict present and future changes. In addition, the practices of humans during those climate changes can help us to predict what may cause current climate shifts, and provide possible remedies to unwanted change.

A recent study at the University of Virginia investigated ancient human agriculture, and came to the conclusion that certain agricultural practices staved off a global cooling event, therefore keeping the planet warm and habitable. The study refers to events 7,000 years ago – not quite as ancient as what was addressed in module one – but comparatively old in regards to human existence. Roughly 5,000 years after the beginning of the interglacial Holocene Epoch, Climate Scientist William Ruddiman identified a warming event which he and his fellow researchers say was caused by increased agriculture.

Such events can help to shape future Epochs, such as the current Anthropocene Epoch which has been primarily caused by human influences on the environment. Specifically, Ruddiman cites the forests that were burned to allow for crops to grow and livestock to graze. Such an increased release in methane and carbon dioxide altered the climate by keeping the natural cooling event at bay.

Understanding these climate trends and what may have caused them can allow policy-makers to counter such climate changes and provides scientists with a basis upon which to devote further research. While studies such as this may only be seen by scientists and students, it is important that research on ancient climate trends and their causes be included in the public discourse of how to react to climate change.

Article Published by the New Historian: http://www.newhistorian.com/ancient-human-agriculture-helped-keep-earth-warm/5823/