Prehistoric times refers to the span of human history that predates written records or documented history, extending from the emergence of Homo sapiens roughly 300,000 years ago until the advent of written language around 5,000 years ago. It encompasses a vast period of time during which humans relied primarily on their immediate physical environment for survival. It is characterized by the absence of written records, making it challenging for historians to determine specific dates, events, or details.
During prehistoric times, humans led a nomadic lifestyle, depending on hunting, gathering, and fishing for sustenance. They developed stone tools, initially using simple handheld implements and later progressing to more sophisticated tools such as axes, spears, and bows. The development of fire and the ability to control it was a significant achievement during this era, enabling cooking, warmth, and protection.
Artifacts from prehistoric times, including cave paintings, sculptures, and carved tools, have provided valuable insights into the lives and beliefs of these early humans. Paleolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic are terms commonly used to categorize different periods within prehistoric times based on technological advancements, lifestyle transitions, and cultural developments.
The study of prehistoric times, known as prehistory, is a multidisciplinary field that combines archaeology, anthropology, paleontology, and other sciences to investigate and interpret the lives and cultures of early human societies. Researchers employ various methods, such as radiocarbon dating, stratigraphy, and DNA analysis of ancient remains, to reconstruct and understand the diverse and complex aspects of prehistoric times.
