The early history of resource management.

Abstract

AbstractThis chapter provides a brief introduction to the history of natural resources through the ages. Four phases broadly demarcate the significant transitions in natural resource management throughout the prehistoric and historic periods. The first phase encompasses both the early and middle Stone Ages- Palaeolithic and Mesolithic periods. The second concerns the Neolithic, or New Stone Age period, the third refers to the so-called Historic period, while the fourth, rather broadly defined, examines the Modern period.