Even before history was recorded, mankind was making ceramics. Ancient uses included bricks for shelter and pots for cooking. Over time, the ability to create shelters and cook foods without constant supervision gave mankind a better way of life. Settlements grew larger and populations soared as safe shelters were built. The ability to cook food thoroughly kept ancient people healthier and living longer. This, in turn, meant ancient populations had time to experiment and develop their own cultures. Ceramics, along with human innovation, made the world a safer place for humanity to grow and change.