The Paleolithic Era lasted from about 2.6 million years ago to about 10,000 years ago. During this time, humans were hunter-gatherers and lived in small, nomadic bands. The population of the world during the Paleolithic Era is estimated to have been around 10 million people.
The Neolithic Era began about 10,000 years ago and lasted until about 3,000 years ago. During this time, humans began to settle in permanent villages and practice agriculture. This led to a significant increase in the population, which is estimated to have reached around 100 million people by the end of the Neolithic Era.