Scientist classify Artifacts made before the invention of writing into which time period?
To classify artifacts made before the invention of writing, scientists categorize them into different time periods based on archaeological research and analysis. These time periods are commonly referred to as prehistoric or preliterate periods. They include:
1. Paleolithic Period: This period covers the earliest known human culture, dating from approximately 2.6 million years ago to around 10,000 BCE. Artifacts from this time include stone tools, cave paintings, and figurines.
2. Mesolithic Period: Following the Paleolithic era, the Mesolithic period dates from around 10,000 BCE to 8,000 BCE. It is characterized by the transition from hunter-gatherer societies to more settled communities. Artifacts from this period may include pottery, early forms of agriculture, and more advanced tools.
3. Neolithic Period: The Neolithic period spans from around 8,000 BCE to 2,000 BCE. It is characterized by the development of agriculture, domestication of animals, and the establishment of permanent settlements. Artifacts from this period include tools, pottery, stone carvings, and megalithic structures like Stonehenge.
It's important to note that these periods may vary across different regions of the world, as different cultures developed at different times. Additionally, the exact dates and divisions between these periods may be subject to ongoing research and revision as new discoveries are made.