Bronze Age

The Bronze Age is part of the three-age system used to classify prehistoric societies (Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age). It almost goes without saying, but they are categorized by the main material used to forge tools, which is indicative of their sophistication. Bronze Age dates vary geographically since different civilizations started to use metal at different times, but it generally began around 3300 BCE in the Middle East, and ended around 1200 BCE

During this period, societies became more complex and organized. The Bronze Age saw the emergence of the first cities and written languages. 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, agriculture, and daily life. The Iron Age ushered in a new era, when iron and steel came were favored over bronze. It started around 1200 BCE and spread over the following several centuries.