Chronology of Prehistory

Prehistory refers to the period before written records, covering millions of years of human development. It is divided into three main ages: the Stone Age (characterized by the use of stone tools), the Bronze Age (when metalworking began with bronze), and the Iron Age (marked by the use of iron tools and weapons). The Stone Age itself is divided into the Paleolithic (early humans and nomadic lifestyles), Mesolithic (transition period with advances in tools), and Neolithic (agriculture and village life). Understanding this chronology helps us trace the evolution of human societies and technologies before documented history.