Prehistory

usgb/ˌpriːˈhɪstri/
noun

The period of time before written records.

The study of prehistory requires knowledge of archeology and anthropology.
Visual representation of "prehistory" - The period of time before written records

Often appears as...

  • study of prehistory
  • prehistory period

Usage tips

Academic

Definition 1 of 2
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Time Before Writing

Refers specifically to times before humans could record events in writing.

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Many artifacts from prehistory provide clues about early human life.
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No Exact Dates

Events in prehistory can't be dated precisely as there are no written records.

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The exact timeline of prehistoric cultures is often debated by scholars.
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Archaeology Based

Prehistory is studied through physical evidence, like fossils and tools, not books.

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Archaeologists interpret prehistory from ancient ruins and relics.
Visual representation of the word "Prehistory"

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