What best describes the impact of agricultural development on social stratification?

The impact of agricultural development on social stratification is primarily characterized by the creation of surplus and class distinctions. As agriculture allows communities to grow more food than they need for subsistence, it produces a surplus that can be stored, traded, or sold. This surplus is pivotal because it enables some individuals or groups to accumulate wealth beyond what is necessary for survival.

With the ability to generate surplus, different roles and occupations begin to emerge in society. Some individuals might take on agricultural production, while others might specialize in trade, craftsmanship, or administrative roles. This specialization leads to a hierarchy where those who control the surplus have more power, influence, and resources, resulting in distinct social classes based on wealth and access to resources.

Over time, this stratification can become more pronounced, with certain families or groups holding more social status and economic power, leading to a structured society where inequality becomes a defining feature. Thus, the understanding of agricultural development in relation to social stratification is essential, emphasizing how food surplus can fundamentally alter social dynamics.