Recorded-history interval
The recorded-history interval is the span for which humans have kept written or documented records.
How big is it?
5 kyr · time
Time · reference interval
A little perspective
Recorded-history interval vs A century: duration comparison
The recorded-history interval is about 50 times a century.
ELAPSED TIME
The recorded-history interval is the span for which humans have kept written or documented records.
Measurements, assumptions & sources +
Recorded-history interval
Time: 5 kyr; reference interval.
A rounded 5,000-year reference interval, not a single worldwide starting date.
Defined examples — our methodology
The marked time is calibrated. Unmeasured illustration details are representative.
A century
Time: 100 years; reference interval.
One hundred Julian years for consistent conversion.
Defined examples — our methodology
The marked time is calibrated. Unmeasured illustration details are representative.
Use the visual comparison to explore its scale, then check the measurements and sources.
Change your perspective
Put it next to…
Choose a suggestion to redraw the comparison, or open its page to learn what it is.
Why this measurement?
Why we use 5 kyr
We compare the recorded-history interval. The measurement is labelled reference interval. Check the source notes for its basis.
A rounded 5,000-year reference interval, not a single worldwide starting date.
The picture identifies the subject; the diagram compares the recorded values. How calibrated comparisons work →
Recorded properties
Dimensions and measurements
| Property | Selected value | Recorded range | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kyr | Not recorded | reference interval |
Around this scale
Explore nearby values.
Compare examples with lower, similar and higher values. Each card names the measurement being compared.
Nearest lower valueTime and durationHuman lifetime80 yearsTimeA human lifetime is the span from a person's birth to their death.Nearest higher valueTime and durationSince the non-avian dinosaurs66 MyrTimeThe interval since the non-avian dinosaurs marks the time since these dinosaurs disappeared from Earth.Sources and method
Want to check the number?
The source records and measurement method remain available for inspection.
There’s always another scale
Follow your curiosity.
TimeBlink of an eye150 msA blink of an eye is the quick closing and opening of the eyelid, usually happening involuntarily.TimeHuman lifetime80 yearsA human lifetime is the span from a person's birth to their death.
TimeAge of Earth4.54 GyrThe age of Earth is the time that has passed since the planet formed from the solar nebula.TimeAge of the universe13.8 GyrThe age of the universe is the time since the Big Bang, marking the beginning of cosmic expansion.TimeA century100 yearsA century is a period of one hundred years.TimeSince the non-avian dinosaurs66 MyrThe interval since the non-avian dinosaurs marks the time since these dinosaurs disappeared from Earth.
PeopleRed-cell lifespan120 daysRed-cell lifespan is the average time a human red blood cell remains in circulation before being removed from the bloodstream.
TimeVenus solar day116.8 daysA Venus solar day is the interval between two successive sunrises at the same location on Venus, which is much longer than an Earth day.