The Archaic period refers to a time in ancient history, particularly in North America, that lasted from around 8000 BCE to 1000 BCE. During this era, people transitioned from nomadic lifestyles to more settled communities, often relying on hunting, gathering, and early forms of agriculture. This period is marked by the development of tools and pottery, as well as the beginnings of social organization. In the context of ancient Greece, the Archaic period spans from approximately 800 BCE to 500 BCE. This era saw the rise of city-states, known as polis, and significant advancements in art, architecture, and philosophy. Notable figures from this time include the poet Homer and the philosopher Pythagoras, whose contributions laid the groundwork for later developments in Western civilization.