Mesolithic (Middle Stone Age) is a period between the Paleolithic and Neolithic. It began around 10,000 BCE, though dates vary by region. People still hunted and gathered but began to change their lifestyles.

New tools, such as microliths (small stone tools), were developed. Some groups started living near rivers or coasts for easier access to food. Fishing became more common in many areas.

Mesolithic sites have been found in Europe, Asia, and other regions. This period shows gradual changes toward more settled ways of living.