The controlled use of fire, allowed people to cook food and survive in colder climates.
Fire provided lights, so that people could work and socialize for longer hours.
With the invention of agriculture, people could grow food and settle into communities.
By growing food, people could spend less time hunting and more time for other things, such as art.
The domestication of animals allowed people to raise and use animals for food and work.
By raising herds of animals such as sheep, humans had regular supply of meat and clothing.
The strength of animals such as horses and oxen was used for work and transportation.
The development of tools and machines, has resulted in more efficient manufacturing and construction.
With better tools and machines, work can be done with fewer people and at much lower costs.
The development of science and engineering has improved many things, including communications.
With an understanding of electricity, telephones and radios allow people to communicate over long distances.