IRON AGE - ANCIENT
HISTORY
News: Three new archaeological sites
discovered in Telangana
What's in the news?
●
Archaeologists recently announced the discovery of
a distinctive Iron Age megalithic site situated at Ooragutta near Bandala
village in SS Tadvai mandal of Mulugu district, Telangana.
Iron Age:
●
The Iron Age, succeeding the Stone Age and Bronze
Age, commenced between 1200 B.C. and 600
B.C., varying by region.
●
It was a significant period in human history,
occurring in Africa, Europe, and Asia during prehistoric times.
Geographical
Distribution:
●
The Iron Age was prevalent in Africa, Europe, and Asia, constituting the Old World.
●
It did not extend to the Americas due to the
geographical distinction as the New World, which had not yet been discovered.
Introduction of Iron:
●
Iron was discovered during this era, supplanting
bronze as the preferred metal for various purposes.
●
Its introduction brought about notable transformations in people's lives and
technological advancements.
Ironworking Origins:
●
The genesis of ironworking can be traced back to Turkey, from where it disseminated to
other parts of Europe.
Impact on Agriculture:
●
Iron tools, such as the 'ard' (iron plow), revolutionized farming practices, enhancing
efficiency compared to wooden or bronze implements.
Military Advancements:
●
Iron swords and weapons replaced their bronze
counterparts, leading to the formation of formidable armies.
●
The proliferation of iron weaponry rendered armies
more resilient and facilitated conquests of new territories.
Technological
Developments:
●
The Iron Age witnessed advancements in various
technologies, including the construction
of forts, bridges, and improvements in pottery and weaving.
●
Deep mining operations were initiated to extract
valuable minerals like salt.
End of the Iron Age:
●
Being a period of prehistory, the Iron Age
concluded with the widespread adoption of writing.
● Despite its conclusion, iron remains a prevalent material for crafting tools, weapons, and various structural components in modern times.