Early History: Classification & Prehistoric Period

Introduction

The early history of civilization is a tapestry of innovation, discovery, and societal development, shaping the foundation of human progress. From the ancient history of Mesopotamia to the rise of classical civilizations, these formative eras laid the groundwork for our modern world.

Classification of Early History

• Early history can be classified into three categories: 
  • Pre-History 
  • Proto-History
  • History. 
• Pre-history covers the events before writing was invented. The three Stone Ages usually represent it. 
• Proto-history, generally, refers to a period between prehistory and history when the knowledge of writing was there, but their scripts are yet to be deciphered.
  • The Harappan script has not yet been deciphered, but the civilization is mentioned in the writings of Mesopotamia.
  • Similarly, the Vedic civilisation from 1500–600 BC had an oral literary tradition.
• History is the study of the past after writing was invented and the study of societies based on written and archaeological sources.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

Prehistoric Period

• The Indian Stone Age is divided into three main categories. These are:
  • Old Stone Age, or Palaeolithic Age
  • Late Stone Age, or Mesolithic Age 
  • New Stone Age, or Neolithic Age
• Palaeolithic Age: The Old Stone Age, marked by primitive tool use and nomadic lifestyles, spans from approximately 2.5 million to 10,000 years ago, showcasing early human adaptation and survival strategies.
• Mesolithic Age: The Late Stone Age, or Mesolithic Age, followed the Palaeolithic, characterized by the development of more refined tools and the transition to semi-sedentary lifestyles, heralding cultural innovations.
• Neolithic Age: The New Stone Age, or Neolithic Age, witnessed the advent of agriculture and settled communities, fostering social complexity, technological advancements, and the dawn of civilization, around 10,000 to 4,500 years ago.

Conclusion

• Reflecting on the early chapters of human history illuminates the ingenuity and resilience of our ancestors, whose achievements continue to influence contemporary society. 
  • Their legacies endure, serving as a reminder of the enduring quest for knowledge and progress.

DOWNLOAD PDF