Corresponds to period of primarily nomadic hunting and gathering which preceded the adoption of domesticated plants and animals. The Neolithic appears independently in Southeast Asia and China. Early forms of writing appear in Egypt, Mesopotamia, and China during this period. Named for the widespread use of bronze technology, primarily for weapons and ritual objects.
Period is characterized by the rise of state societies, cities, and a great deal of warfare.
Ends roughly with the expansion of the Roman Empire into parts of Europe and Asia, but continues into late Medieval times in parts of Africa. Building of first wall and tower at Jericho ca. Plastered skull cult and more substantial architecture ca. Samarra - overlaps Halaf and Hassuna in time. Earliest irrigation in northern Mesopotamia.