Since what time in history have humans been harvesting honey from bees?

Humans have been harvesting honey from bees since around 9000 BC. Archaeological evidence suggests that early humans in the region of the Fertile Crescent, which includes parts of modern-day Middle East, were not only foraging wild honey but also beginning to domesticate bees. This practice is one of the earliest forms of agriculture and signifies humanity's long history with bees, as honey provided a valuable source of food and sweetness.

The choice of 9000 BC marks a time when there was a noticeable shift towards a more settled way of life, allowing for the domestication of various plants and animals, including bees. This historical context underscores the significance of honey in human culture, dietary practices, and its roles in various traditions and medicinal uses throughout history.

In contrast, the other dates—such as 2000 BC, 5000 BC, and 1200 AD—reflect periods much later than the initial evidence of honey harvesting, making them inaccurate representations of the timeline regarding when humans began this practice.