What is Chalcolithic age?a)An age in which arms and utensils of stone ...
The first metal age of India is called Chalcolithic Age which saw the use of copper along with stone. It was also called the Stone-Copper Age. Along with the use of copper and stone these people also used low grade bronze to make tools and weapons. Chronologically, there are several settlements. Some are Pre-Harappan or early Harappan (Kalibangan in Rajasthan and Bhanawali in Haryana) and some are Harappan and Post-Harappan. The Chalcolithic culture mainly had farming communities and they existed between 2000 BC and 700 BC. In India it was mainly found in South-Eastern Rajasthan, Western part of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, and in South and East India.
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What is Chalcolithic age?a)An age in which arms and utensils of stone ...
The Chalcolithic Age, also known as the Copper Age, is a period in human history that occurred between the Neolithic Age (Stone Age) and the Bronze Age. It is characterized by the use of both stone and copper or bronze tools and weapons. Let's explore this topic in detail.
The Chalcolithic Age:
The Chalcolithic Age is a transitional period in human history that marks the shift from the exclusive use of stone tools to the introduction and utilization of copper and bronze. It is an important phase in technological development, as it paved the way for the subsequent Bronze Age, during which bronze (an alloy of copper and tin) became the primary material for tools and weapons.
Key Points about the Chalcolithic Age:
1. Coexistence of Stone and Copper Tools:
During the Chalcolithic Age, humans started using copper for making tools, weapons, and ornaments, but they still continued to use stone tools alongside them. This coexistence of stone and copper tools is a defining characteristic of this period.
2. Technological Advancements:
The introduction of copper tools during the Chalcolithic Age brought about significant technological advancements. Copper tools were more durable and efficient compared to stone tools. They could be easily shaped, sharpened, and repaired, leading to improved agricultural practices, craftsmanship, and trade.
3. Transition to the Bronze Age:
The Chalcolithic Age laid the foundation for the subsequent Bronze Age, during which bronze tools and weapons became more prevalent. Bronze, being harder and more durable than copper, was better suited for various purposes. The discovery and utilization of bronze marked a major leap forward in human civilization.
4. Societal Changes:
The Chalcolithic Age also witnessed societal changes. The introduction of metal tools and weapons led to increased specialization of labor. People started engaging in specialized occupations such as metalworking, pottery, weaving, and agriculture. The surplus production resulting from these specialized activities led to the growth of complex societies.
Conclusion:
The Chalcolithic Age was a significant period in human history, characterized by the coexistence of stone and copper tools. It marked a crucial transition from the exclusive use of stone tools to the utilization of copper and bronze. This technological advancement brought about societal changes and paved the way for further developments during the Bronze Age.
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