Human prehistory refers to the period of human existence before the invention of writing, which began around 5,000 years ago. This era includes the development of early human species, such as Homo habilis and Homo erectus, who used simple tools and lived as hunter-gatherers. During prehistory, humans migrated across continents, adapting to various environments. The Stone Age, which is divided into the Paleolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic periods, saw advancements in tool-making, art, and the domestication of plants and animals, leading to the rise of agriculture and permanent settlements.