Study Notes on Prehistoric Eras and Early Civilizations

Flashcards covering the Paledithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic eras, resource management, domestication, Neolithic towns such as Jericho and Catlahouk, and the characteristics of civilizations.

What was the Paledithic era, and what lifestyle did people lead during this time?

It was the Old stone ages, where people were nomadic (hunters, gatherers) and moved from place to place to find food.

What is recognized as one of the earliest forms of communication during the Paledithic era?

Cave art

How is the Mesolithic era defined in terms of lifestyle?

It was the middle stone age, where people were semi-nomadic—they moved around but not as much, staying in one place for longer periods of time.

What did resource management involve during the Mesolithic era?

It combined hunting, gathering, and early forms of agriculture, beginning to domesticate animals and plants while using more advanced tools and weapons crafted from stone, bone, and wood.

What shift in settlement occurred during the Neolithic era?

People shifted from being nomadic to permanent settlers.

What was discovered during the Neolithic revolution?

People discovered how to domesticate animals and grow crops, which led to a food surplus.

How is domestication defined in the notes?

To tame an animal.

What significance do Jericho and Catalhouyk hold?

They are two best known examples of the remains of Neolithic towns.

What population did Catlahouk house, and why was it notable?

It once housed a population of 5,000 to 10,000 people, making it exceptionally large for its area.

How do the notes define civilizations?

A complex way of life that came about as people began to develop networks of urban settlements.