The Neolithic ERA was a period of time that began around 10, 000 BCE and lasted until around 3, 000 BCE. It is characterized by the development of agriculture, the domestication of animals, and the use of STONE tools. The term 'Neolithic' comes from the Greek words 'neo' meaning 'NEW' and 'LITHOS' meaning 'STONE'. During this period, humans transitioned from a hunter-gatherer lifestyle to a more settled, agricultural lifestyle. This period saw the emergence of permanent settlements, the development of pottery, and the rise of complex societies.