Introduction
A recent discovery has revealed that ancient humans were constructing large wooden structures, possibly houses, nearly 476,000 years ago. This finding challenges the traditional belief that early humans were strictly nomadic and suggests that some ancient communities may have had more settled lifestyles. The discovery was made at the archaeological site Kalambo Falls in Zambia, where researchers uncovered evidence of wooden construction. The significance of this finding sheds light on the resourcefulness and ingenuity of early humans.
Uncovering the Evidence
Archaeologists from the University of Liverpool and Aberystwyth University excavated a sandbar at Kalambo Falls, uncovering a wooden tool believed to be a digging stick. Further excavation led to the discovery of two interlocking logs that appeared to be part of a larger wooden structure. It was determined that these structures were built approximately 476,000 years ago, suggesting that they were constructed by an earlier human species, possibly Homo heidelbergensis.
A Paradigm Shift
This discovery challenges previous assumptions about the mobility of early humans. While portable wooden implements have been found at other archaeological sites, the large-scale wooden structures at Kalambo Falls indicate that some early humans were choosing to settle in one place and improve their living environment. This suggests a level of sophistication and attachment to specific locations that was previously unrecognized.
Human Niche Construction
The ability to modify and shape the environment, known as niche construction, is not exclusive to humans. However, the techniques used by early humans at Kalambo Falls were far more advanced than those employed by other species. They involved the production of sharp-edged stone tools, the recognition of wood as a material, and collective effort to transport and modify the wood. Language likely played a role in coordinating these activities.
The Function of the Structures
The exact purpose of the wooden structures at Kalambo Falls remains unclear. Speculations range from dwellings to elevated walkways designed to keep early humans and their food dry. However, with only two pieces of wood unearthed, it is challenging to determine their exact function.
Implications and Re-evaluating the Stone Age
This discovery emphasizes the significance of wood in the lives of ancient humans. It challenges the notion that the Stone Age was solely defined by stone tools and suggests that it may have been more accurately described as a “wood age.” Furthermore, this finding highlights how early humans were capable of structurally altering the environment for their benefit, drawing a connection between Kalambo Falls and the human impact on the planet today.
Conclusion
The discovery of 476,000-year-old wooden structures at Kalambo Falls provides valuable insights into the resourcefulness and adaptability of early humans. It challenges existing ideas about their mobility and reveals their ability to construct complex wooden buildings. This groundbreaking discovery encourages a reevaluation of our understanding of ancient human civilizations and their relationship with their environment.
Journal references: Nature DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06557-9 and DOI: 10.1038/d41586-023-02858-1
