Preindustrial societies refer to the social, economic, and technological systems that existed before the advent of industrialization. These societies were primarily based on agriculture and manual labor, with limited use of machinery. They relied heavily on traditional methods for production, such as handcrafting and subsistence farming. Social structure in preindustrial societies was often hierarchical, with clear divisions of labor and limited social mobility. Communication and transportation were slower and less efficient compared to modern times. Overall, preindustrial societies offer invaluable insights into the foundations of human civilization and the gradual progress towards industrialization and modernization.