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Watersheds in human history: Why divide time into periods?
The division of time is not only for the convenience of academic research, but also to enable humans to understand themselves and the world around them more clearly.
In many research fields such as archaeology, history, and anthropology, the division of the past has become a basic method. The most well-known of these is "periodization" or period differentiation. The core of this concept is to divide human history into different periods through environmental changes, technological advances, and the evolution of social structures, so that we can analyze the context and evolution of history in a more systematic way. .
Division between prehistory and history
For the division of prehistoric periods, archaeologists developed the famous three-age system, namely the Stone Age, the Bronze Age, and the Iron Age. Each period has its own unique technological characteristics and social structure.
In the early Stone Age, humans mainly relied on natural resources. With the emergence of bronze and iron tools, lifestyles gradually changed, and fixed agricultural settlements began to replace nomadic life.
The evolution of human society
Social structures changed over time, from the earliest hunting and gathering societies to the development of agricultural societies. For example, with the improvement of productivity, social division of labor and class division emerged, which in turn gave rise to early civilization and political systems.
The Development of Writing Systems
Human history entered the recordable era when the development of writing systems began around 5000 BC. This transformation is not only a change in the way information is preserved, but also an important milestone in the inheritance of human culture.
The rise of ancient civilizations lies in the control of the power of writing, which allows knowledge to be preserved and passed on.
Cultural and technological revolution
With the advancement of culture and technology, several historical periods, such as the Renaissance and the Industrial Revolution, have become important divisions for analysis. These periods represent great changes in human society and have had a profound impact on later generations.
Every advancement in science and technology will lead to a readjustment of social structure and promote economic and cultural prosperity.
The continuity between the Middle Ages and the modern era
In the Middle Ages, the rise of Christianity and the consolidation of the feudal system marked a new normal in human society. In modern times, the rise of individualism and the process of globalization have redefined the way human society interacts.
Conclusion
The division of time by humans is not just a classification, it is more like a mirror that reflects the changes in culture, the progress of science and technology, and the development of society. By understanding these historical periods, we may be able to find some connection and basis in our current uncertain world. Have you ever thought about how these historical lessons will affect the future destiny of mankind?
