The Paleolithic Age (pælioʊˈlɪθɪk eɪdʒ) was a prehistoric era that lasted from about 2.6 million years ago to 10,000 BCE. The word "Paleolithic" comes from the Greek words "palaios," meaning "old" and "lithos," meaning "stone," reflecting the fact that humans of this era primarily used stone tools. The spelling of "Paleolithic" follows the English language's general rule of "e" following "i" in the second syllable of the word. The IPA phonetic transcription provides a more accurate representation of the word's pronunciation.
The Paleolithic Age, also known as the Old Stone Age, is a prehistoric period of human history that stretched from around 2.6 million years ago to approximately 10,000 BCE. It is characterized by the primary use of crude stone tools and the emergence of early human species, including Homo habilis, Homo erectus, and Homo sapiens. The Paleolithic Age is significant because it lays the foundation for human development and important milestones in cultural and technological advancements.
During this period, humans were primarily hunter-gatherers, relying on hunting wild animals and collecting edible plants for sustenance. They lived in small nomadic groups, constantly moving in search of food and shelter. The rise of fire use and the development of basic language also marked notable achievements during this era.
Furthermore, symbolic expression and culture started to evolve in the Paleolithic Age. Archaeological evidence shows that early humans created cave paintings and sculptures, suggesting the existence of artistic expression and a complex belief system. This period witnessed the emergence of human creativity and the dawn of spirituality.
The Paleolithic Age played a crucial role in shaping human history, setting the stage for future advancements and societal progress. It marks the beginnings of human adaptability, creativity, and innovation, laying the groundwork for the development of agriculture, settled communities, and other significant milestones in human civilization.
The word "Paleolithic" is derived from two Greek words: "paleo" meaning "old" or "ancient", and "lithos" meaning "stone". The term was coined in the 19th century by scholars to describe the earliest period of human prehistory characterized by the use of stone tools. It refers to a time when humans relied primarily on stone implements for hunting, gathering, and other daily activities. The Paleolithic Age is often called the Old Stone Age in English.