What was the Iron Age?

Human beings have used tools of some type for centuries. Archaeologists and others have defined certain periods of time in human history by the materials used to make these tools. In the case of the Iron Age, tools for cutting and shaping, as well as for fighting, were made of iron or steel.

In most cases, the change to a specific material for tools was gradual but so complete as to define human life. Changes in tool materials were often part of wider changes in art, agriculture, religion and other parts of society.

Final Age?

For most archaeologists and historians the Iron Age was the last of three major periods in the development of human technology. Human beings used stone tools during the Stone Age, bronze during the Bronze Age and then iron during the Iron Age. Members of the general population may view this period as being defined by the same dates around the world. However, the Iron Age was of various lengths, depending on location on the planet.

Traditionally, we measure the Iron Age from the 12th century B.C., when the change from bronze to iron took place in India, Greece and some locations in what we now call the Middle East. Iron was used for tools in West Africa in the 12th century B.C. as well.

Scientists and historians date the European Iron Age from the 8th century before Christ and a century or two later in the north of Europe. The differences were usually due to the time it took for new technology and habits to travel long distances.

Not only does history separate certain periods of time by materials used but it also divides the larger ages into smaller parts. For example, discoveries in various parts of the world have led scientists to label one period the Near Eastern Iron Age, which overlapped with the Late Bronze Age. Some research shows that the Bronze Age continue strongly, even when other areas of the planet were in the Iron Age.

It must also be mentioned that the various social, agricultural and military changes defined by types of metal were closely associated with the rise and fall of major religions. Long-distance travel by religious leaders and groups had a lot to do with the spread of new tools and new technology.

What About Now?

Though archaeology lists stone, bronze and iron as three major “ages” in human history there are some who propose that we exited the Iron Age long ago. We may in fact be in a silicon age, as this is the primary ingredient used in the production of computers and computer memory components. The decline of large-scale manufacturing in many countries may signal the end of the Iron Age.

How will future generations view the 21st century and beyond? Will they uncover the plastic, silicon and fiberglass of our time and assign an appropriate name to this “age?” It is certainly a possibility, since that’s how the three major ages of ancient history were defined.