The Stone Age

The Stone Age is the earliest known period of human history, characterized by the use of stone tools and weapons. It is divided into three main phases: the Paleolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic. The Paleolithic, or Old Stone Age, saw early humans as hunter-gatherers using basic tools. The Mesolithic marked a transition with advances in toolmaking and a shift towards settled communities. The Neolithic, or New Stone Age, introduced agriculture, leading to permanent settlements, pottery, and the domestication of animals. This era laid the foundation for the rise of civilizations and significant social development.