Researchers from Hebrew University have uncovered evidence of modern human cultural traits dated to 750,000 years ago. That’s three times older than previously estimated.
Under the direction of Naama Goren-Inbar, the Gesher Benot Ya'aqov site in northern Israel was excavated. Archeologists found not only extensive evidence of hearth and tool use, but also a division of living space into separate usage areas. That sort of compartmentalization is a hallmark of modern humans.
The two distinct areas that were uncovered include one that was primarily used for flint knapping and for processing fish, and a second that appears to have been put to more general usage. A variety of stone tools were found in the second area, including hand axes, awls, scrapers and chopping tools, some of which had clearly been used for processing nuts. Wood fuel was also found in the second area.
Does this indicate that homo sapiens have exist for more than 750,000 years? Or was this a different homonid?
ReplyDeleteVery interesting! I'm on the Skeptalk discussion list with you and just noticed the link to your blog.
Really interesting stuff here!
Excellent question!
ReplyDeleteNo, anatomically modern humans did not appear until closer to 100,000 years ago. However, stone tools have been manufactured by a variety of hominids extending back over 2 million years. Although the authors did not specify which species they found, I suspect that it was Homo erectus.
And thanks for the compliment!