Chalcolithic Ages – Key Features

The Chalcolithic period, also known as the Copper Age or Eneolithic period, was a transitional era between the Neolithic and Bronze Age. Chalcolithic age generally dates earlier, typically 3300-2300 BC (varies by region) while Bronze Age usually followed the Chalcolithic, roughly 3300-1200 BCE (this also varies).

Metallurgy

Chalcolithic marks the use of the copper and stone. This was the period in which stone tools were losing their significance and copper tools were finding grounds. Later, Tin was mixed with cooper and bronze appeared which was stronger than both tin and copper, leading to historic Bronze Age.

Settlement patterns

There was a growth of larger, more permanent settlements and early urbanization in some regions.

Agriculture

Intensification of farming practices and introduction of the plough in some areas happened in chalcolithic age. Expansion of irrigation systems was another feature.  Increased domestication of animals and use of animals for traction and transport grew.

Craft specialization

This age saw emergence of specialized craftsmen, especially metalworkers. Development of pottery techniques (e.g., potter’s wheel in some regions)

Trade:

Expansion of long-distance trade networks and exchange of raw materials, especially copper and other minerals.

Social stratification

Increasing social complexity and hierarchy and emergence of elite classes controlling resources started happening.

Cultural and religious practices

More complex burial rituals and grave goods and development of new religious symbols and practices.

Artistic expressions

New forms of art, often incorporating copper and more sophisticated pottery designs developed.

Warfare

Evidence of fortifications in some settlements and development of new weapons (copper daggers, maces) started.

Proto-writing

Early forms of record-keeping in some regions and use of seals and tokens for administrative purposes started, marking transition to historic era.

Thus, Chalcolithic period laid important foundations for the more dramatic changes that would occur in the subsequent Bronze Age, marking a significant step in human technological and social evolution.