Original: The Paleolithic era ended with the Mesolithic, in Western Europe, and with the Epipaleolithic in areas not affected by the Ice Age (such as Africa).
Simplified: Contributed by Kathy Schick, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. and Nicholas Toth, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. The age began when hominids (early humans) started to use stones as tools for bashing, cutting and scraping. The Paleolithic Age ended with the Mesolithic Age in Western Europe, and with the Epipaleolithic Age in warmer climates such as Africa.