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Nature led the way as to the substance and design of primeval implements. Stone was chosen first, with little modification in the natural or accidental form. At length the evidences of selection of materials appear. The better qualities of stone are chosen. Obsidian and flint become favorable articles of primeval factory. Bone also is used, and the horns of animals in the making of utensils and weapons. At length, with the increase of intelligence and the gift of experience, the metals begin to be taken and employed in the primitive arts. Copper and bronze more and more take the place of the stone utensils and tools which had hitherto been employed. Bronze is succeeded by iron, and the age of war and nationality — the daydawn of the historical epoch — is ushered in.
— JOHN CLARK RIDPATH