Prehistoric Era

Period of human history before written records.

Prehistory Era Antediluviana

The Prehistoric Era encompasses the vast span of time before written records. It is typically divided into three periods: Paleolithic (Old Stone Age), Mesolithic (Middle Stone Age), and Neolithic (New Stone Age). Characterized by human development from early hominids to the advent of agriculture and settled societies, it represents a fundamental period in Earth's history and humankind's evolution.

Etymology

The term 'Prehistoric Era' combines 'pre-' meaning before and 'historic' referring to the period of written records.

Explain Like I’m 5

The Prehistoric Era is like a really, really long time ago when people lived before anyone knew how to write things down, so we learn about them by looking at old tools and bones.

Fun Facts

Humans coexisted with dinosaurs for a short time
Early humans used tools made of stone, bone, and wood
Cave paintings provide insights into prehistoric art and culture

FAQ

What does 'prehistoric' mean? Before written records
When did the Prehistoric Era end? Around 3,000 BCE with the development of writing
How do we learn about prehistoric humans? Through studying fossils, tools, and cave paintings

Hypernyms — Broader Categories

Geological Time Scale

Hyponyms — Specific Examples

Paleolithic Era Mesolithic Era Neolithic Era

Holonyms — Wholes or Groups

History of Earth

Indexes

archaeological site developing nation evolutionary mechanism historical period

Built by Tim Jones