The Neolithic Era, also known as the New Stone Age, began around 10,000 BCE and lasted until approximately 3,000 BCE. This period marked a significant transition in human history as people shifted from a nomadic lifestyle of hunting and gathering to settled farming communities. The domestication of plants and animals, such as wheat and sheep, allowed for more stable food sources and the development of permanent settlements. During the Neolithic Era, humans began to create tools and pottery, leading to advancements in technology and culture. This era also saw the construction of significant structures, such as Stonehenge, which reflect the growing complexity of social organization and spiritual beliefs. The changes in lifestyle during this time laid the foundation for the rise of civilizations.