Mesolithic Age

• The Mesolithic is the stage of transition from the Palaeolithic to the Neolithic. The word ‘Mesolithic’ is derived from two Greek words ‘mesos’ (middle) and ‘lithos’ (stone).

The difference between Palaeolithic tools and Mesolithic tools.

• These are smaller tools than the ones used in the Palaeolithic Age.
• This is the period when microliths (very small tools) were used.
• In India, this development is mainly seen during the Mesolithic Age. The works of art in the cave centres of Bhimbetka, Lakhajoar and Kathotia in Madhya Pradesh help us understand the ways of life of humans during that period.

The characteristics of this period are given below.

• Use of microliths or very small stone tools
• Apart from hunting and gathering, fishing also became a means of livelihood
• Indications of domestication of animals
• Amusements
• Division of labour based on gender

Mesolithic - centres

• Star Carr - England
• Fahien Cave - Sri Lanka
• Sarai Nahar Rai - India (Uttar Pradesh)
• Star Carr - the Mesolithic Site in Europe -It is a Mesolithic open-air settlement in northeast England. The main attraction of this site is the presence of organic remains. Tools made of stone and bone were found here. Evidences of early carpentry have also been found here. It is believed that early humans used this area as a temporary settlement.
• Sarai Nahar Rai: A Mesolithic Site in India - Sarai Nahar Rai is located on the banks of the Oxbow Lake in the Pratap Nagar district in Uttar Pradesh. Microliths, a major feature of the Mesolithic culture period, have been found here. The tall human bones found here are significant archeological evidences. The height of men is 180 cm and that of women is 170 cm. It is believed that bows and arrows were used for hunting. There is evidence to show that seeds were collected and stored, and animal hide was used as clothing.
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