The Paleolithic and Neolithic eras demarcate transformative changes in human (defined broadly; genus "Homo") history, particularly the transition from nomadic hunter-gatherer bands to settled agriculture society. "-lithic" pertains to stone or geology. | | Paleolithic Era | Neolithic Era | | -------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **Meaning** | "Old Stone Age"<br> | "New Stone Age" | | **Species** | Archaic Homo (human) species; Homo sapiens evolved 300,000 to 200,000 years ago. | Homo sapiens (only surviving human species) | | **Time Frame** | 2.5 million years ago to around 10,000 BCE | 10,000 BCE to approximately 3,000 BCE | | **Lifestyle** | Nomadic; hunter-gatherers; small bands, relatively egalitarian | Settlements; agriculture, animal domestication; social hierarchy and specialized roles | | **Tools** | Simple stone tools; Mastery of fire | Polished stone tools, pottery, and farm technology |