New Imaging Techniques Reveal Humans Crafted Complex Hunting Weapons from Wood 300,000 Years Ago
In a groundbreaking discovery, new imaging techniques have unveiled that humans were already crafting intricate hunting weapons from wood over 300,000 years ago, challenging the traditional view of the Stone Age. Archaeologists have long suspected that wooden tools were in use alongside stone ones, but most evidence has deteriorated over time due to wood’s fragility.
By utilizing 3D microscopy and micro-CT scanners to analyze 187 wooden artifacts from Schöningen in Germany, archaeologist Dirk Leder and his team have confirmed these suspicions. The artifacts, including spears, throwing sticks, and domestic tools, were all crafted from flexible and hard woods like spruce, pine, and larch.
The wooden tools exhibited signs of a splitting technique previously thought to be exclusive to modern humans, as well as evidence of carving, scraping, and abrasion. University of Reading archaeologist Annemieke Milks expressed amazement at the level of expertise displayed in manufacturing these tools.
The discovery sheds light on the sophistication of woodworking during the Paleolithic period and highlights the slow, meticulous process required to achieve such craftsmanship. These advancements in toolmaking coincided with the rise of Neanderthals in Europe, showcasing their dominance over other early human species.
Furthermore, the researchers found evidence of up to 25 butchered animals at the site, primarily horses. This suggests that early humans not only fashioned tools for hunting but also coordinated in capturing and processing large game.
The study, published in PNAS, emphasizes the significance of hunting in human evolution, providing insights into Pleistocene woodworking techniques and the interplay of technology, behavior, and evolution. It also underscores the sustainable practices of early humans by repurposing broken tools for new purposes.
The findings offer a glimpse into the innovative capabilities of our ancestors and their profound impact on human history.
Vocabulary List:
- Intricate (adjective): Very detailed or complex.
- Fragility (noun): Quality of being delicate or easily broken.
- Microscopy (noun): Investigation of minute objects through a microscope.
- Abrasion (noun): Process of scraping or wearing away by friction.
- Sustainable (adjective): Capable of being upheld or maintained for an indefinite period.
- Sophistication (noun): Quality of being refined or complex in style or design.
