Early man survived by hunting wild animals and by using forest products. In those days, availability of food was always uncertain, early man had to roam in search of food. So, he was a wanderer. Gradually, with intellectual development, man began to rear useful animals and to live in groups. In order to get fodder for his animals, he started adopting seasonal migration. His basic needs began to be fulfilled through animal products. Agriculture inspired man for making permanent residence.

Economic progress accelerated with discoveries and technological growth during Renaissance period. Economic activities like mining and industry expanded after discovery of fossil fuel in 18th century. With development in trade and industry, a variety of services also started. In this way, human occupations developed in sequential order which can be divided into following parts:

1. Pre – historic Age: In this period, man was in the primitive state and hunted wild animals with sharp stones and gathered root – tubers from forests. During this period, dogs helped him in hunting. Gradually man started rearing animals for milk, meat, skin, wool, etc. He was still a wanderer in the course of time. He invented agriculture which motivated him for permanent settlement. In the Neolithic period (new – stone – age) he invented the wheel and the art of making earthen utensils.

2. Ancient Period: In this period, stability and permanency came into human life with the progress in economic activities. Availability of food became easier. Man started using his spare time in developing other arts and so the metals like iron, copper and bronze were invented which were used for making weapons and other useful things.

He also learnt to irrigate his crops and to plough the field with the help of bullocks and harrow. In this period, civilizations like Mohanjodaro and Harappa developed in the valley of Indus river in around 2500 BC. The Pyramids of Egypt are the indicators of technical development of this period. Along with agriculture, cottage industries also developed rapidly during this period.

3. Medieval Period: Human occupations became more diversified in this period between 600 to 1500 CE. Feudal and Jagirdari systems were prevalent in this age. Large cities developed due to development of education, trade and culture. Commodities were exchanged in trade. Agricultural products were supplied in urban areas and manufactured products were sent to villages. In this period, India led the world trade, agriculture, cottage industry and commerce and was known as “Golden Bird.”

4. Modern Age: The period after 15th century is considered to be modern age. Human occupations reached at their zenith during this period. Modern advanced human occupations emerged due to technological development, discoveries and inventions. During this age, man came to be engaged in secondary tertiary, quaternary and pentanary occupations. Due to using advanced technology in primary occupations, industrial revolution occurred in this period on account of obtaining energy from various sources. Various types of products started to be manufactured at large scale.