The history of humans is closely related to the history of the earth. Palaeoanthropologists and archaeologists excavate soil and rock layers and scientifically date the layers and fossils to study human evolution and prehistory. This chapter traces human evolution from the Australopithecines to Homo sapiens, the prehistoric stone-tool cultures of the world, and prehistoric Tamilagam up to the Iron Age (Megalithic period).
1. Basic Definitions
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Archaeology | Study of the human past through the analysis and interpretation of material remains |
| Palaeoanthropology | Study of the human ancestors and their evolution by the study of fossil remains |
| Palaeontology | Study of fossils |
| Stratigraphy | Study of the origin, nature and relationships of rock and soil layers formed due to natural and cultural activities |
| Fossil | Prehistoric animal or plant that turns into stone over millions of years through chemical and physical processes; animal bones are preserved due to mineralization |
| Lithic technology | 'Lith' means stone; the methods and techniques involved in the production of stone tools |