Prehistoric Era History Timeline and Biographies

The Prehistoric Era refers to the period of time before written records were kept, spanning from the earliest known use of stone tools by hominins approximately 3.3 million years ago, to the advent of writing systems around 5,000 years ago. This era is divided into three main periods: the Paleolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic, each characterized by significant developments in human technology, culture, and society. The study of the Prehistoric Era relies heavily on archaeological findings, including fossils, artifacts, and cave paintings, which provide insights into the lives and evolution of early humans.

Creation Time:2024-06-30

3.3 million years ago

Earliest Stone Tools

The oldest known stone tools, attributed to the Prehistoric Era, were discovered in Kenya and date back to approximately 3.3 million years ago. These tools mark the beginning of the Paleolithic period.
2.5 million years ago

Homo habilis Emergence

Homo habilis, one of the earliest members of the genus Homo, appeared around 2.5 million years ago. Known as "handy man," this species is believed to have used stone tools extensively.
1.8 million years ago

Homo erectus Emergence

Homo erectus emerged around 1.8 million years ago and is notable for its use of more advanced tools and the control of fire, a significant milestone in the Prehistoric Era.
1.6 million years ago

Acheulean Tools

The Acheulean tool culture, characterized by large bifacial handaxes, began around 1.6 million years ago and is associated with Homo erectus.
800,000 years ago

Controlled Use of Fire

Evidence suggests that early humans began to control and use fire around 800,000 years ago, greatly impacting their ability to cook food, stay warm, and protect themselves.
300,000 years ago

Neanderthals

Neanderthals, a distinct group of hominins, appeared around 300,000 years ago in Europe and parts of Asia, known for their robust build and sophisticated tool use.
200,000 years ago

Emergence of Homo sapiens

Homo sapiens, the species to which all modern humans belong, first appeared around 200,000 years ago in Africa, marking a significant point in the Prehistoric Era.
100,000 years ago

Migration Out of Africa

Around 100,000 years ago, Homo sapiens began migrating out of Africa, spreading across Asia, Europe, and eventually to other parts of the world.
40,000 years ago

Upper Paleolithic Revolution

The Upper Paleolithic period, beginning around 40,000 years ago, saw a significant increase in the complexity of tools, art, and cultural practices among early humans.
30,000 years ago

Cave Paintings

Some of the earliest known cave paintings, such as those in Lascaux, France, and Altamira, Spain, date back to around 30,000 years ago, showcasing early human artistic expression.
12,000 years ago

End of the Last Ice Age

The last Ice Age ended around 12,000 years ago, leading to significant environmental changes and the beginning of the Mesolithic period.
10,000 years ago

Agricultural Revolution

The Neolithic period began around 10,000 years ago with the advent of agriculture, leading to the establishment of permanent settlements and the rise of civilizations.
9,000 years ago

Domestication of Animals

The domestication of animals such as sheep, goats, and cattle began around 9,000 years ago, playing a crucial role in the development of early agricultural societies.
7,000 years ago

Development of Pottery

The invention and widespread use of pottery around 7,000 years ago allowed for better storage and cooking of food, significantly impacting Neolithic communities.
5,000 years ago

Emergence of Writing Systems

The development of writing systems around 5,000 years ago marks the end of the Prehistoric Era and the beginning of recorded history, with early examples found in Mesopotamia and Egypt.
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