History of Architecture I: Prehistoric Era

Vocabulary terms and definitions covering the Prehistoric era, architectural shelters, and cultural phases from the History of Architecture I course.

Prehistory

The period of human history before the beginning of written records, dating back tens of thousands of years.

Paleolithic

Meaning "Old Stone," it is the longest period of human history characterized by stone tools and a nomadic lifestyle.

Mesolithic

The "Middle Stone Age," a phase characterized by better tools and the use of seasonal camps.

Neolithic

The "New Stone Age," a phase focused on farming, the creation of villages, and megaliths.

Nomads

People who move from one place to another following food sources and water or escaping harsh weather.

Copper Age

A phase within the Metal Ages characterized by writing, trades, and early urbanization.

Bronze Age

A phase within the Metal Ages characterized by writing, trade, and the building of temples.

Iron Age

A phase within the Metal Ages characterized by stronger tools, weapons, and the rise of empires.

Lascaux Cave

A preserved cave in France that serves as an example of a natural shelter used by early humans, decorated with abstract art and featuring the Great Hall of the Bulls.

Mammoth-Bone huts

A form of semi-permanent hut adapted to extremely cold climates, using large bones for support and covered with hides.

Hide Tents

Temporary shelters constructed with wooden poles used as supports with animal skins stretched over the frame.

Portable art

Small items including carved figurines (statuettes), bone engravings, and jewelry made from shells or teeth, used for rituals or storytelling.

Windbreakers

A type of constructed temporary shelter used during the Paleolithic era.

Cave Art

Decorations found on cave interiors usually featuring drawings of animals, abstract symbols, and handprints made from charcoal, red mud, and plants.

Homo habilis

An early human ancestor associated with the Lower Paleolithic approximately $2.6$ million years ago.

Homo sapiens

Early humans who appeared around $120,000$ years ago and are associated with cave paintings around $24,000$ years ago (such as in Altamira, Spain).