Introduction & Timeline of the Palaeolithic Period
The Palaeolithic Period, also known as the Old Stone Age, is the earliest phase of human history. It spans roughly from 30,000 BCE to 10,000 BCE and is characterized by the use of simple, chipped stone tools. Due to the absence of written records, most information about this era comes from archaeological excavations, especially cave sites.
The Palaeolithic Age is divided into three sub-phases—Lower, Middle, and Upper Palaeolithic—although exact boundaries are hard to establish.
Key Features
Humans lived as hunter-gatherers, relying on animal hunting and collecting fruits, roots, firewood, and other materials.
People were nomadic, moving frequently and living in caves, rock shelters, or temporary huts.
Towards the Upper Palaeolithic, creativity flourished—seen in cave paintings, rock art, jewellery, and early forms of ritual practices.
Early humans began religious activities, including burials.
The emergence of language enabled trade, social interaction, and cultural development.
Art
Cave paintings from this era—like those at Bhimbetka—depict animals such as horses, bison, deer, foxes, and lizards, along with geometric shapes and stick-like human figures. Colors like black, red, and white were used in layered compositions.
Difference From Later Stone Ages
Palaeolithic: Used naturally available stones; fully hunter-gatherer lifestyle.
Mesolithic: Sharpened tools; semi-settled communities.
Neolithic: Agriculture begins; grinding stones and permanent settlements.
Conclusion
The Palaeolithic Period marks the foundation of human evolution—characterized by stone tools, mobility, hunter-gatherer economy, early art, burial traditions, and the beginnings of communication.
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