2.5 million BCE - 10,000 BCE. The Paleolithic period marks the earliest known stage of human history. This era is characterized by the development of rudimentary stone tools by early human species like Homo habilis and Homo erectus. Nomadic hunter-gatherer societies prevailed, with humans living in small groups, moving seasonally to find food and resources. Caves and temporary shelters were commonly used.During the Paleolithic, early humans created some of the earliest forms of art, such as cave paintings and carvings. These often depicted animals like mammoths and lions, reflecting the creatures they encountered. This period laid the foundation for all subsequent human development.