Prehistoric anthropology is the scientific study of human evolution and cultural development before recorded history. There are many synonyms for this term, including paleoanthropology, ancient anthropology, and early human studies. Other related fields include archaeology, which focuses on the study of material remains left behind by past societies, and physical anthropology, which examines the physical characteristics and genetics of humans and primates. Prehistoric anthropology is an interdisciplinary field that draws on information from a wide range of sources, including fossils, artifacts, and written records. By studying our prehistoric past, we gain a better understanding of our evolutionary origins and the diverse cultural traditions that have shaped human societies throughout history.