Which era in human history directly follows the Neolithic Period?

The era that directly follows the Neolithic Period is the Ancient era. Following the Neolithic, which was characterized by the development of farming, permanent settlements, and the domestication of animals, human societies transitioned into the Ancient era marked by the rise of civilizations. This period saw the establishment of complex societies, written language, and advancements in technology, culture, and governance, particularly as people began to form city-states and organized governments.

In contrast, the Paleolithic Period precedes the Neolithic and is characterized by hunter-gatherer societies. The Medieval era comes after the Ancient era and is distinguished by its unique social and cultural developments in Europe, while the Modern era follows the Medieval, bringing about rapid changes due to industrial advancements, globalization, and various sociopolitical transformations throughout the world. This chronology aids in understanding the progression of human societies and their developmental milestones.