Which of the following best describes the Neolithic Period's primary characteristics?

The Neolithic Period, often referred to as the New Stone Age, is primarily characterized by the advent of agriculture and the establishment of settled communities. This transformation marked a significant shift in human history as societies moved from a nomadic lifestyle reliant on hunting and gathering to one that embraced farming and the domestication of animals. The development of agriculture allowed for surplus food production, which in turn facilitated population growth and the formation of permanent settlements. As communities became more stable, social structures began to develop, leading to advancements in technology, culture, and eventually, complex societies.

While the other options touch upon aspects of human development, they do not accurately represent the primary defining features of the Neolithic Period. Metallurgy and trade emerged later, and the expansion of empires and written language are more aligned with subsequent periods, such as the Bronze Age and historical civilizations. The notion of military conflicts is also more characteristic of later societies that had established resources and territorial disputes. Therefore, the focus on agriculture and settled communities encapsulates the essence of the Neolithic transition in human history.