When Did the Paleolithic Age Begin and End?

The Paleolithic age started about 750,000 B.C. to 500,000 B.C. and ended around approximately 8,500 B.C. There is some disagreement among archaeologists concerning exactly when this era began and concluded. Some argue that it started as early 2.6 million years ago and only lasted until 10,000 B.C.

The Paleolithic age marked the first time that humans used stone tools. These tools allowed humans to have a steadier food supply and build sturdier shelters, enabling them to survive longer. They were able to use a technique known as flaking to create sharp points on their tools. People that lived during this time period were hunter-gatherers and had to constantly move to follow their food sources.