Paleoindian refers to the period in prehistory where humans first inhabited the Americas, dating back to approximately 13,000 to 10,000 years ago. This era is characterized by the presence of hunter-gatherer societies, who relied on hunting megafauna such as mammoths and mastodons for sustenance. Archaeological evidence such as stone tools and projectile points are commonly found at Paleoindian sites, offering insights into the lifeways and technologies of these early inhabitants. Researchers in the field of Paleoindian studies aim to understand the origins, movements, and adaptations of the first peoples in the Americas during this time period.