100 cats that changed civilization? - briefly
Throughout history, cats have influenced art, religion, and science, shaping human culture in ways both subtle and profound.
100 cats that changed civilization? - in detail
Cats have been intertwined with human civilization for millennia, their influence shaping cultures, economies, and even scientific advancements. From ancient Egypt, where they were revered as sacred beings and protectors of grain stores, to their role in medieval Europe, where they were both feared as familiars of witches and valued as pest controllers, cats have left an indelible mark on history. The domestication of cats began around 7500 BCE in the Near East, where they naturally gravitated toward human settlements to hunt rodents. This symbiotic relationship allowed agriculture to flourish, as cats protected crops from vermin, directly supporting the growth of early civilizations.
In ancient Egypt, cats were associated with the goddess Bastet, symbolizing home, fertility, and protection. Killing a cat, even accidentally, was punishable by death, and cats were often mummified and buried with their owners. This cultural reverence spread to other societies, influencing art, religion, and daily life. In Japan, the "Maneki-neko" or beckoning cat became a symbol of good fortune and prosperity, a tradition that persists in modern businesses.
During the Middle Ages, cats faced persecution in Europe due to superstitions linking them to witchcraft. This decline in their population may have contributed to the spread of the Black Death, as rats, unchecked by feline predators, carried fleas that transmitted the plague. The eventual resurgence of cats in the Renaissance period helped restore their status as valuable companions and protectors of food supplies.
In the modern era, cats have become cultural icons, inspiring literature, art, and even scientific exploration. T.S. Eliot's "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats" inspired the musical "Cats," while the internet has elevated cats to global stardom, with viral sensations like Grumpy Cat and Lil Bub capturing hearts worldwide. Scientifically, cats have contributed to advancements in genetics, neurology, and even space exploration, with Félicette, a French cat, becoming the first feline to travel to space in 1963.
Cats have also influenced economic systems, particularly through their role in controlling pests on ships during the Age of Exploration, ensuring the safe transport of goods and fostering global trade. Their presence in homes has been linked to improved mental health, reducing stress and fostering emotional well-being.
From ancient deities to modern internet celebrities, cats have shaped human civilization in profound ways. Their ability to adapt to human environments, their cultural symbolism, and their contributions to science and economics underscore their enduring impact on our world.