The evolution of human prehistory spans millions of years, beginning with primitive hominid species such as Homo habilis and Homo erectus in Africa around 2.5 million years ago. Modern humans emerged approximately 160,000 years ago in Ethiopia, subsequently migrating out of Africa around 50,000 years ago and populating continents. Key developments include the emergence of the use of stone tools, advanced language skills and artistic expression. Around 10,000 BC, humans transitioned from hunter-gatherer societies to agricultural communities, first in the Fertile Crescent, domesticating animals and cultivating crops. Metallurgy emerged around 6,000 BC in Anatolia and Mesopotamia, gradually spreading to Europe and Asia. Archaeological evidence, including cave paintings and artefact finds, provides insights into prehistoric human societies, demonstrating complex social structures, technological innovations and symbolic thought during the Mesolithic period.
A Prehistory corresponds to the period of history before the invention of the writingfrom the beginning of recorded history until around 3,500 BC. It is studied by anthropology, archaeology e palaeontology.
It can also be contextualised for a particular people or nation as the period of their history about which there are no written documents. Thus, in EgyptPrehistory ended approximately in 3,500 BCAlthough some cultures of the Stone Age have coexisted with civilisations since then and some agraphic tribes still exist in remote places.
The transition to "history proper" takes place during a period called proto-historywhich is described in slightly later documents or in external documents. The term prehistory therefore shows the importance of writing for the western civilisation.
Since there are no documents from this time of the human evolutionIts study depends on the work of archaeologists, anthropologists, palaeontology e geneticsThe study of human remains, signs of their presence and preserved utensils in order to try to trace, at least partially, their culture, customs and beliefs.
Many historians claim that prehistory is not part of history.
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