Definition

The study of cultures and societies that existed just before they began to keep written records of their history.

Example

Archaeologists often focus on protohistory to understand the development of early civilizations.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of protohistory?

Yeah, it's fascinating how it studies cultures before they were documented.

I find it interesting because it helps us understand human development.

Exactly! It gives us a glimpse into the lives of people long before written records.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Protohistory → It is formed from "proto-" (from Greek "protos", meaning first) and "history" (from Greek "historia", meaning inquiry or knowledge). The term protohistory refers to the period of human history that precedes written records, essentially the first stages of historical development.

Memory Tip

Think of 'first' ('proto-') knowledge or inquiry ('historia') — protohistory is about the earliest stages of human history before writing began.

Visually Confused Words