CreationSpot
History and Prehistory
It is important that we understand the difference between what is known and what is not known.
We understand history from both written records as well as the physical evidence that supports those records. Prehistory, on the other hand, provides no written account of the things that took place. There are many pieces of evidence demonstrating that something happened, but even the very best explanation without actual knowledge of the event can only be categorized as speculation.
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History
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Prehistory
To date, archaeological discoveries place recorded history at approximately five to seven thousand years ago. Clay tablets unearthed in Mesopotamia provide us with a glimpse of daily life, as well as some of the events that took place at the dawn of civilization.
Translating cuneiform impressions on clay tablets, as well as other ancient forms of writing presented a challenge. The discoveries of the Behistun Inscription and the Rosetta Stone, which were official proclamations written in the various languages of those ancient times, have enabled scholars to decipher the hieroglyphic and cuneiform texts. This new ability to read the texts of antiquity has increased our understanding of those times.
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Fossils
Pictured above is an insect that somehow became fossilized. Without any record of what happened to cause this, we can only speculate what might have happened.
The Rosetta Stone
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Artifacts
The artifact below is an arrowhead carved from rock. It tells of the presence of humans at some time in the past. Arrowheads are found all over the world. Along with other artifacts we can gain more information, but without a written record we are left to supposition regarding the details of its presence.
