How do themes differ from periods as tools for understanding history?

The difference is how the time can affect the concept of both.

In History a theme is a repeating moment, a common idea that keep repeating itself in the past. This is called theme.

A period is a time when the themes were set in. The period represents a specific time were something occurred, with a specific beginning and ending.

The theme can be found in different times.

the answer to your question is,

old stone age.

-mabel < 3

recent improvements in technology/telecommunication/internet have increased the pace of globalization.

explanation:

recent improvements in technology have enhanced the pace of globalization. it is not difficult to recognize that technology has created the human race one big issue. there are several aspects to technology but they all serve to meet us the further. i can beat and be friends with a fellow, thousands of miles away. technology has also bridged the knowledge gap and has presented for the ready transfer of ideas and values.