Prehistory began over 1 million years ago with the origins of humans and lasted until the invention of writing around 5,500 years ago. During this time, early humans lived as nomadic hunter-gatherers in family groups. The Neolithic Period saw humans transition to more sedentary lifestyles, cultivating plants and domesticating animals around 10,000 years ago. Villages and new technologies like pottery and weaving developed. The Metal Ages began approximately 6,000 years ago when humans started working with metals like copper, bronze and iron to make improved tools and weapons, leading to more advanced settlements and the rise of early cities.