If I understand your question correctly, you're asking how and where people during the Stone Age lived. The Stone Age was a broad prehistoric period that lasted for millions of years. It is further divided into three main phases: the Paleolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic periods. Each of these periods had different living conditions and housing structures. Let's explore them briefly.
- Paleolithic Period: During the Paleolithic period, which began around 2.6 million years ago and lasted until about 10,000 BCE, humans were primarily hunter-gatherers. They lived in small, mobile groups and did not settle in permanent locations. Their main focus was food and shelter. Paleolithic people often lived in caves or rock shelters, using natural formations for protection from the elements. They would also construct temporary shelters using branches, animal skins, and other available materials.
- Mesolithic Period: The Mesolithic period, also known as the Middle Stone Age, occurred between the end of the Paleolithic period and the beginning of the Neolithic period. This was roughly from 10,000 BCE to 4,000 BCE. During this time, there was a shift toward a more settled lifestyle as humans exploited natural resources more efficiently. They continued to live in caves and rock shelters, but they also built semi-permanent settlements near rivers, lakes, and coastlines. These settlements often consisted of huts or tents made from wood, animal bones, and hides.
- Neolithic Period: The Neolithic period, beginning around 10,000 BCE and lasting until approximately 2,000 BCE, witnessed significant advancements in human civilization. It was characterized by the emergence of agriculture, animal domestication, and the development of pottery and more sophisticated tools. With the ability to cultivate crops and raise livestock, people established permanent settlements. Neolithic communities built houses made of mud, stone, and wood, often using timber frames and thatched roofs. These houses were larger and more durable than previous structures.
It's imperative to note that living conditions during the Stone Age varied depending on geographical location and climate. In some regions, people may have lived in tents, while in others, they might have constructed elaborate communal structures. Additionally, the available resources and cultural practices of different Stone Age societies would have influenced their housing styles and ways of life.