Hunter-gatherer societies lasted for many thousands of years, and were the main type of society before the advent of agriculture. This type of society endured until about 12,000 years ago (although some small groups still exist), and it presented several characteristics.
Hunter-gatherer societies tended to center on family. Groups were generally small and cohesive, with cooperation being essential. The members all offered protection to each other, and in particular to the most vulnerable members. These societies were also nomadic, and they often travelled along the same routes as animals, as these represented an important source of food. Finally, most of these societies were patriarchal.
