Prehistory Notes

Prehistory

  • Definition: Period of human development during the time before the discovery of writing.

  • Divided into Three Periods: 1. Paleolithic Age 2. Neolithic Age 3. Metal Age

Paleolithic Age

  • Also Known As: Old Stone Age.

  • Time Frame: Extends from our first ancestors up to about 11,000 years ago.

  • Lifestyle:

    • Humans lived through hunting and gathering.

    • Nomadic lifestyle, not settling in one fixed location.

    • Daily activities were primarily conducted outdoors, utilizing cave environments when available.

Neolithic Age

  • Also Known As: New Stone Age.

  • Time Frame: Began about 11,000 years ago.

  • Key Developments:

    • Groups of humans began to settle in villages.

    • Practiced agriculture, including the domestication of animals and the cultivation of plants.

    • Significant animals domesticated included goats, sheep, oxen, horses, and dogs.

    • Farming allowed people to settle in particular areas and store excess food.

    • Settlements often located near rivers to ensure access to water sources.

Metal Age

  • Start Time: Began about 7,000 years ago.

  • Development: Humans learned to use metals to create various objects, indicating advancements in technology and craftsmanship.

The Neolithic Revolution

  • Definition: Refers to the series of changes and innovations that arose from the development of agriculture.

  • Impact:

    • Led to the formation of specialized work roles as communities became more settled.

    • This period marks a pivotal transition from nomadic life to agricultural societies.