Overview of the Stone Age

Which of the following is NOT a stone age era?

What was a significant consequence of climate changes during the Paleolithic era?

What is the primary reason for the naming of the Stone Ages?

How did stone tools change from the Paleolithic to the Mesolithic?

What significant change occurred in human societies during the Neolithic period?

Overview of the Stone Age

The Stone Age lasted 2.5 million years
It's the earliest known time humans lived on Earth
Humans used stones for tools
There are three Stone Ages: Paleolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic
Lithic is another word for rock or stone

Paleolithic or Old Stone Age

Lasted from 2,500,000 BCE to 10,000 BCE
This was the longest Stone Age
Early humans used simple stone tools
Many early human species lived during this time
Neanderthals, a subspecies of humans, existed
Climate changes caused sea levels to fluctuate
Land bridges allowed migration to continents like the Americas, Australia, and the Middle East

Mesolithic or Middle Stone Age

Lasted from 10,000 BCE to 8,000 BCE
Stone tools improved, polished for better feel and function
Microliths (tiny sharp rocks) became tools
Serrated knives made from chipped rocks
Neanderthals became extinct
Human communities focused on hunting and gathering

Neolithic or New Stone Age

Lasted from 8,000 BCE to 3,000 BCE
Stone tools advanced with molding and specific uses
Domesticating plants and animals meant communities could be permanent
Food could be grown and harvested from crops

This quiz explores the Stone Age, the earliest period of human history spanning 2.5 million years. It covers the three distinct eras: Paleolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic, highlighting key developments in tool usage and human lifestyle. Test your knowledge on early human species, technological advancements, and climate influences during this significant time.