I Early Human Societies, 2.5 million–1000 B.C.E.: Origins and Development

These prehistoric paintings of animals, on the wall of a cave in Lascaux, France, date from 15,000 to 10,000 B.C.E. They show the centrality of meat, hides, and bones taken from wild animals in the economy and symbolism of hunting and gathering peoples. These prehistoric paintings of animals, on the wall of a cave in Lascaux, France, date from 15,000 to 10,000 B.C.E. They show the centrality of meat, hides, and bones taken from wild animals in the economy and symbolism of hunting and gathering peoples.

Bone tools show the increasing intentionality of tool use among hunting and gathering peoples, as implements were shaped for various purposes. Bone tools show the increasing intentionality of tool use among hunting and gathering peoples, as implements were shaped for various purposes.

Initial Centers and Spread of Agriculture

Early Centers of Civilization

TIMELINE 2.5 Million B.C.E. to 10,000 B.C.E.

TIMELINE 8,000 C.E. to 2,000 B.C.E. TIMELINE 8,000 C.E. to 2,000 B.C.E.