Bronze Age

The Bronze Age is part of the three-age system (Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age) that categorizes prehistoric societies by the primary material used to forge tools, and thus, their sophistication. The Bronze Age marked when metal was widely used over stone. Its dates vary geographically since different civilizations entered the Bronze Age at different times, but it generally began around 3300 BCE in the Middle East, and ended around 1200 BCE with the advent of the Iron Age. Specifically, it started in the Mesopotamian region (modern-day Iraq) and spread to other areas such as Ancient Egypt, the Indus Valley, China, and eventually Europe.

During this period, societies became more organized and complex. The Bronze Age saw the emergence of the first cities, written languages, and significant advancements in art, agriculture, and architecture. Trade routes expanded, facilitating the exchange of goods (like spices), cultures, and technologies across vast distances. The ability to cast bronze led to the creation of more durable and efficient tools and weapons, which, in turn, had profound effects on warfare, farming, and daily life.

The end of the Bronze Age is marked by the beginning of the Iron Age, when iron and steel came into play and became favored over bronze. Again, it occurred at different times in various parts of the world, starting around 1200 BCE in the Eastern Mediterranean and spreading over the following several centuries.

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