Difference Between History and Prehistory

Introduction

Studying both prehistory and history offers valuable insights into the world we inhabit. History, often regarded as our past, encompasses the documented events and developments of human societies.

On the other hand, prehistory refers to the era preceding recorded history, providing a glimpse into the times before written records existed.

History

Examining the past equates to delving into history, especially when it pertains to human affairs. History represents the timeframe where written evidence can be employed for validation. In essence, history marks the era subsequent to the advent of writing.

The records in question encompass diverse formats, including manuscripts inscribed on sheets, dried animal hides, and foliage. Written documents and rock engravings may also be present.

Prehistory

Prehistory is the informal designation for the period before recorded history. Put differently, it signifies the age before the invention of writing or the epoch devoid of written documentation. Thus, prehistoric epochs commenced with the emergence of humanoid beings on Earth and concluded with the advent of writing.

Even in the absence of written records pertaining to this era, one can glean insights by examining ancient relics, engravings, artworks, and various artefacts.

Difference Table: History vs. Prehistory

	History	Prehistory
1	After prehistory comes the era known as history, which begins with the development of writing systems and the maintenance of written records.	Studying prehistory involves delving into the time before recorded history when written documentation was absent.
2	History entails examining past events and is sourced from written accounts documenting historical incidents.	It encompasses the period between the inception of writing systems and the utilization of stone tools, offering insights into humanity's early development.
3	Historians research various historical subjects, utilizing materials such as papers, dried animal skins, and rare manuscripts written on leaves.	In prehistoric research, valuable sources of information include artefacts, rock carvings, and various relics. These remnants provide crucial clues about ancient cultures and societies.
4	The study of history encompasses a wide array of domains, including people's history, intellectual history, political history, military history, cultural history, economic history, and historical context based on diverse geographic regions.	Archaeologists and anthropologists employ diverse methodologies to explore prehistory, including excavation, geological analysis, molecular genetics, and palaeontology. This multidisciplinary approach enhances our understanding of prehistoric civilizations.
5	Additionally, history can be categorized into ancient, contemporary, modern, political, and military history.	Prehistory is segmented into three distinct epochs: the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age. Each era represents significant milestones in human technological and cultural advancement, shaping our collective history.

Conclusion

Prehistory is the epoch preceding the Historic Period. Within this timeline, there exist discrepancies across various domains. Concerning written documentation, this era diverges from its predecessor in significant ways. History denotes the period characterized by recorded events, whereas prehistoric times precede the establishment of writing systems. Apart from this fundamental contrast, differences in methodologies for comprehending both epochs, as well as the scholars engaged in their study, contribute to a holistic understanding. Consequently, the delineation of historic and prehistoric periods is now distinctly delineated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q 1. What are the resources employed for investigating history?

Answer: Given the availability of written records throughout this period, a plethora of resources is at one's disposal for historical inquiry. A diverse array of historical documents is accessible for scrutiny, encompassing manuscripts inscribed on leaves, sheets, or dried animal skins. Additionally, written materials and rock inscriptions may also be extant.

Q 2. What are the resources utilized to explore the Prehistoric epoch?

Answer: Despite the absence of written documentation during prehistoric periods, several avenues exist for studying prehistoric times. It is customary to seek further insights through the examination of ancient artefacts, engravings, paintings, and similar artefacts.

Q 3. In what manner and based on what criteria can prehistoric epochs be segmented?

Answer: Primarily guided by the technological advancements in tool-making during respective epochs, prehistoric periods could be categorised into three distinct phases. Prehistory can be differentiated into three distinct epochs: the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age.

Q 4. Who specializes in the study of prehistory, and who concentrates on history?

Answer: While prehistoric archaeologists and physical anthropologists predominantly focus on prehistory, historians dedicate their attention to the study of history.

Next TopicDifference between 3G and 4G Technology

← prev next →