Which ancient civilization moved directly from the Mesolithic to the Iron Age without a significant Bronze Age?

The ancient civilization that transitioned directly from the Mesolithic to the Iron Age without a significant Bronze Age is indeed found in Africa, particularly in certain regions where specific cultural practices and technological developments evolved.

In some areas of Africa, traditional societies utilized iron tools and weapons before the widespread adoption of bronze technology, which was more prominent in other ancient civilizations. The development of iron smelting and the use of iron for agricultural tools and weaponry were crucial for these societies, aligning with an early transition to the Iron Age. This direct shift allowed them to bypass the epoch characterized by bronze metallurgy, which was essential for many other civilizations around the Mediterranean and Near East.

Understanding this transition provides insight into how different environmental, social, and economic factors influenced technological advancements in various regions, showcasing the diversity in the development of early human societies.