😲 MESOLÍTICO o EPIPALEOLÍTICO ✅ Prehistoria ⚡ Historia universal

Mesolithic: An Overview

Definition and Context

• The Mesolithic is defined as an intermediate period between the Paleolithic and Neolithic eras, occurring between the Ice Age and the Holocene.

• The term "Mesolithic" emerged in the 19th century but faced criticism for implying a negative connotation of being merely an intermediate stage.

• In the 20th century, "Epipaleolithic" was introduced to emphasize continuity between the Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods.

Climate Change and Adaptation

• The transition into the Mesolithic was primarily driven by climate change, necessitating human adaptation to new resource availability.

• Many species, such as mammoths, began to go extinct during this time due to climatic shifts affecting both fauna and flora.

• Despite these changes, humans adapted effectively thanks to technological advancements made during the Paleolithic era.

Societal Changes

• Different societies worldwide adapted heterogeneously to climatic changes; each group developed unique responses based on their environment.

• While maintaining many Paleolithic customs, Mesolithic groups began developing new technologies indicating a shift towards different lifestyles.

Distinction Between Groups

• There is a significant difference between Epipaleolithic groups (which retained traditional Paleolithic practices with minimal change) and Mesolithic groups (which started showing technological advancements).

• During this period, cave dwellings continued alongside emerging outdoor settlements; burial practices became more common linked with sedentary living.

Notable Settlements