The term "prehistoric" refers to the period of time before written records were kept and recorded, typically referring to events and eras that occurred prior to the development of written language and recorded history. It is a compound word, combining the prefix "pre-" meaning "before," and "historic" referring to the documented period of human history.
The prehistoric era is characterized by the absence of written records, leaving researchers to rely on other forms of evidence such as fossils, artifacts, archaeological findings, and geological data to understand the past. This period encompasses the vast span of time before the innovation of writing in different civilizations, which typically begins around 5,000 years ago but can vary across the globe.
Taking into account the diverse periods and regions of prehistory, it can be further subdivided based on significant transitions or cultural developments, such as the Paleolithic (Old Stone Age), Mesolithic (Middle Stone Age), and Neolithic (New Stone Age) periods. These periods are associated with distinct advancements in tools, lifestyle, social organization, and artistic expression.
The study of prehistory involves a range of scientific disciplines, including archaeology, anthropology, geology, and paleontology, among others. By piecing together available evidence and analyzing various sources, researchers strive to reconstruct and understand the chronology, cultures, and environmental conditions of the prehistoric past.
