Archaic Period
The Archaic period started around 10,000 years ago. This large period of time was divided into three segments. The three sections were the Early, Middle, and Late Archaic Periods. The Early Archaic Period was made up of people that were hunters and gatherers. They lived in groups (bands) of 50 people. At this time, Georgia was mostly made up of hardwood forest. These people would move based on seasons and the amount of food available. Next was the Middle Archaic Period. The climate became very warm and dry at this time, and as a result the Archaic people lived in the Piedmont and Blue Ridge regions. They were still hunters and gatherers, but they created many stone tools to use and make life easier. Last, was the Late Archaic Period. The population decreased dramatically during this time, because of natives traveling long distances to trade. The Archaic people who stayed built permanent settlements near rivers. During this time, the Archaic people evolved in their ways of cooking because they used tools and vessels. These were the three periods of the Archaic people.