The art of expression can be traced back to early periods in which simple cave dwellers spat paint upon the walls. Some would argue that modern art is sometimes no better; however, this archaic art form allows us to get a glimpse into our ancestors. The first period that left us hints into their world was the Paleolithic Period, which lasted from 40,000 to 8,000 BC. Cave drawings are characteristic of the Paleolithic Period, also known as the Old Stone Age. Drawings found in Lascaux, France show, exaggerated bulls superimposed upon one another to show supposed depth perception. Simple sculptures are also found from the Paleolithic period. The objects found are usually pregnant women with enlarged breasts and thighs, which were perhaps used for their magical qualities to ease childbirth. The next period called the Neolithic, or New Stone Age lasted from about 8000-2300 BC. Starting in the New Stone Age, man began to change the earth to accompany him, which is seen at the famous Stonehenge. These megalithic sculptures are the earliest of architecture and show the mysticism and knowledge the ancients possessed, for the stones are arranged in astronomical positions.
             The earliest view of civilization is seen in ancient Mesopotamia. Before even the Egyptians, the Sumerians ruled the world. The Sumerians, who lived between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, benefited from the irrigated fields they created. The Sumerians were the first to use writings and make large buildings. Their report, called cuneiform, was used to record contracts and track money since Mesopotamia was such a booming metropolis at the time. The Sumerians also penned down their religion, giving us insight into ancient beliefs. Their temples, large stepped pyramids called ziggurat, were often made of brick and were used as alters many times.
             [Editors note: I just rebooted my computer from locking up after losing about 150 words, so if this seems rushed, it's because...