The Metal Age began around 4,500 BC and marked the last period of Prehistory. It was divided into the Copper Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age. During the Copper Age, copper and gold were the first metals used by humans and were hammered into tools and weapons. The Bronze Age followed, using an alloy of copper and tin to make stronger weapons, tools, and utensils for agriculture and domestic use. Finally, in the Iron Age, iron became popular as it was even stronger than bronze, and new techniques like casting in molds were developed. Trade expanded, agriculture continued, and social stratification increased during this time.
4. … and ended when the first
written texts began to be
used (that happened
depending on the area)
In Europe, the first written
texts appeared during the
first millenium BC
5. The Metal Age is divided into
three periods:
- Copper Age
- Bronze Age
- Iron Age
12. Then came bronze. Bronze is an alloy
(a mixture) of copper and tin.
Both were melted and mixed.
Bronze is much stronger than copper,
so it was used primarily for making
weapons, tools for agriculture and
domestic utensils.
20. Only few people knew how to
elaborate iron weapons and tools.
These peoples became powerful
21. Two processes:
1. Metal was heated in
the oven. Then, it was
hit with a hammer to
create the weapon or
another utensil.
2. Metal was heated
and melted. Then, it
was poured into a
mould. When the metal
cools, the weapon is
ready to be used.
mould
22. Of course, pots and objects made
of clay continued to be made
during the Metal Age
