24. Human Age

Stone Age

The earliest period of human history characterized by the predominant use of stone tools. Approximately 3.4 million years ago (mya) to 3300 BCE.

Stone Age Characteristics

Marked by the development of stone tools, discovery and use of fire, and beginnings of art and toolmaking.

Paleolithic Period

The earliest and longest period of the Stone Age, characterized by hunting and gathering, basic stone tools, and the use of fire. Approximately 3.4 million years ago (mya) to 10,000 BCE.

Paleolithic Lifestyle

Humans lived mainly as hunter-gatherers and relied on basic stone tools and fire.

Paleolithic Culture

Known for cave paintings, carvings, and early burial practices.

Mesolithic Period

A transitional period of the Stone Age between the Paleolithic and Neolithic periods. Approximately 10,000 BCE to 8,000 BCE.

Mesolithic Tools

Characterized by the use of microliths, or small stone tools.

Mesolithic Domestication

Marked by early domestication of plants and animals.

Mesolithic Settlements

Semi-permanent settlements began to emerge, particularly near lakes and rivers.

Neolithic Period

A period of the Stone Age marked by the development of agriculture, permanent settlements, pottery, weaving, and megalithic structures. Approximately 8,000 BCE to 3300 BCE.

Neolithic Agricultural Revolution

The development of farming and agriculture that transformed human societies from primarily hunting and gathering to settled food production.

Neolithic Settlements

Humans built permanent villages and established settled communities.

Neolithic Technology and Culture

Marked by the development of pottery, weaving, and megalithic structures.

Bronze Age

A period marked by the widespread use of bronze tools and weapons, along with the development of complex societies. Approximately 3300 BCE to 1200 BCE.

Bronze Age Technology

Bronze tools and weapons improved agriculture and transformed warfare.

Bronze Age Society

Marked by the rise of city-states, writing systems, and long-distance trade.

Iron Age

A period characterized by the widespread use of iron tools and weapons and the development of increasingly complex societies. Approximately 1200 BCE to 600 CE.

Iron Age Technology

Widespread use of iron tools and weapons increased efficiency in agriculture, crafts, and warfare.

Iron Age Society

Marked by expanding empires, organized armies, and advanced urban societies.

Artifacts

Movable material remains made or modified by humans.

Ecofacts

Material remains of flora and fauna that provide information about past environments, diets, and human activities.

Features

Non-movable material remains or structures associated with human activity.