Prehistoric, and Jomon (apr 7, 14500 BC – jan 1, 300 BC)

Description:

The Jomon period is the oldest historical era of Japan and is theorized to trace back at the earliest to 14500 BCE. While archaeological evidence suggests that there were individuals living in Japan during the Stone Age, the Jomon people were believed to have followed animal herds across the land bridge attaching Japan and Korea during the Ice Age; eventually the land bridge disappeared, leaving these animal herds and the Jomon people- of whom the indigenous Ainu people are believed to have descended from- cut off from the rest of the world. It is estimated that around the year 5000 BCE the Jomon began to form villages, and that with the fluctuating climate these villages would move further inland or closer to the sea. Rice farming was not introduced until approx. 900 BCE along with advanced metal working techniques, both of which were brought over by what is now Korea.

This period is particularly known for its unique pottery, as Jomon pottery and pottery sherds are the oldest pottery to have been dated.

Added to timeline:

Date: