Prehistory: The Dawn of Humanity
What is Prehistory?
Prehistory is the earliest stage of human history, spanning from the appearance of our first ancestors approximately 5 million years ago to the invention of writing around 5,000 years ago. The defining characteristic of prehistory is the absence of written records. It is broadly divided into three periods: the Paleolithic, the Neolithic, and the Age of Metals.
Studying Prehistory
Our knowledge of prehistory comes from surviving remnants, primarily fossils. Fossils are the preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms, often found in sedimentary rock. Archaeologists, specialists in the study of prehistory, excavate and analyze these fossils and other artifacts to reconstruct the lives of our ancestors.
The Evolution of Humans
Australopithecus
Australopithecus, our earliest known ancestors, lived around 5 million years ago. The key distinction of Australopithecus was their ability to walk on two legs habitually.
Homo habilis
Around 2 million years ago, a new species, Homo habilis, emerged in Africa. They were more slender and less ape-like than Australopithecus. Homo habilis is believed to have been the first hominin species to use tools, possibly creating sharp edges by striking stones together. They may have also been the first to control fire.
Homo erectus
Approximately 1.8 million years ago, Homo erectus appeared in Africa. They were fully bipedal and had larger brains than Homo habilis. Homo erectus was the first human species to migrate out of Africa, spreading to Europe and Asia. They were skilled toolmakers, used fire for warmth and cooking, and may have been the first to hunt large animals.
Homo sapiens
Our own species, Homo sapiens, originated in Africa around 300,000 years ago. We are characterized by our larger brains and more complex cognitive abilities. Homo sapiens developed sophisticated tools, created art, and engaged in symbolic thought. We were also the first humans to bury our dead deliberately.
The Paleolithic Era
The Paleolithic, or Old Stone Age, is the longest period of human prehistory, lasting from around 2.6 million years ago to the development of agriculture around 10,000 years ago. During this time, humans were hunter-gatherers, relying on wild plants and animals for sustenance.
Life in Warm Areas
In warmer regions, humans lived in environments similar to modern-day savannas. They shared their surroundings with dangerous animals like lions and hippos.
Life in Cold Areas
During periods of extreme cold, known as ice ages, humans adapted to survive in harsh conditions. They sought shelter in caves, used fire for warmth, and wore animal skins for clothing.
The Paleolithic in Andalusia
The final stage of the Paleolithic in Andalusia coincided with the arrival of Homo sapiens. Archaeological evidence suggests they lived in caves and near rivers, adapting to the local environment.
Tools of the Paleolithic
Paleolithic tools were primarily made of stone. The earliest tools were simple, but over time, humans developed more sophisticated techniques, creating hand axes, scrapers, and points. They also used bone, antler, and wood to make tools like needles, harpoons, and hooks.
Paleolithic Society
Community and Cooperation
Paleolithic people lived in small, nomadic groups called tribes. Tribal members cooperated to hunt, gather food, and raise children. Solidarity and mutual support were essential for survival. Childhood was an extended period of learning, with elders passing down knowledge and skills to the younger generation.
Relationships with Other Tribes
Different tribes interacted with each other, sometimes exchanging goods or intermarrying. However, conflicts could arise over resources or territory.
Housing
Paleolithic humans were nomadic, moving from place to place in search of food and resources. They did not have permanent settlements but sought temporary shelters in caves or built simple structures from branches and animal hides.
Clothing
In colder climates, early humans used animal skins and furs for clothing. They may have used bone needles to sew garments together.
Health and Disease
Life in the Paleolithic was challenging. Survival depended on strength and resilience. Exposure to the elements, injuries from hunting, and encounters with predators were common threats. Knowledge of medicinal plants was limited, and few individuals lived to old age.
Paleolithic Art
The first cave paintings appeared during the Paleolithic era. These paintings, often depicting animals, were created using pigments made from natural materials. Some cave art is remarkably realistic, demonstrating a keen observation of the natural world.