The Pre-historic Period

The correct answer to the question is option 'D', which refers to the pre-historic period. The pre-historic period is the time before written records were kept. It is a period of time when humans lived on Earth but did not have the knowledge or ability to write down information. Let's delve deeper into this period and understand its significance.

Explanation:

1. What is the pre-historic period?
- The pre-historic period refers to the time before the invention of writing systems and the recording of historical events.
- During this period, humans relied on oral traditions and passed down knowledge and stories through spoken language.
- The pre-historic period is divided into the Paleolithic (Old Stone Age), Mesolithic (Middle Stone Age), and Neolithic (New Stone Age) periods.

2. Duration of the pre-historic period:
- The pre-historic period covers a vast span of time, ranging from the emergence of early human ancestors around 7 million years ago to around 3500 BCE (Before Common Era).
- It is important to note that the exact duration of the pre-historic period can vary depending on the geographic region being considered.

3. Characteristics of the pre-historic period:
- Absence of written records: The most distinguishing characteristic of the pre-historic period is the lack of written records or historical documentation.
- Use of tools and development of technology: During this period, humans developed various tools and technologies to aid their survival, such as stone tools, fire, and rudimentary shelters.
- Hunter-gatherer lifestyle: Early humans relied on hunting, fishing, and gathering wild plants for sustenance.
- Cave paintings and rock art: Some of the earliest forms of artistic expression are found in pre-historic cave paintings and rock art, which provide insights into the lives and beliefs of early humans.
- Evolution of agriculture: Towards the end of the pre-historic period, humans began to transition from a nomadic lifestyle to settled agricultural communities, leading to significant societal changes.

4. Transition to the historic period:
- The transition from the pre-historic period to the historic period is marked by the invention of writing systems.
- The development of writing allowed humans to record historical events, document knowledge, and communicate across time and space.
- The ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, China, and the Indus Valley were among the first to develop writing systems.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the man lived on Earth for several hundred years before learning the art of writing during the pre-historic period. This period is characterized by the absence of written records and the reliance on oral traditions. The invention of writing systems marked the transition to the historic period, where historical events could be recorded and knowledge could be preserved for future generations.