What's Happening?
Archaeologists have discovered evidence of deliberate fire-making by Neanderthals at a site in Barnham, Suffolk, UK. The findings, published in the journal Nature, reveal that Neanderthals brought iron pyrite to the site to create sparks for lighting
fires, marking the oldest-known evidence of controlled fire-making by prehistoric humans. The site, dating back approximately 415,000 years, includes a hearth, heated clay, and heat-shattered handaxes. This discovery pushes back the timeline for deliberate fire-making by Neanderthals, previously thought to have occurred around 50,000 years ago in northern France.
Why It's Important?
The ability to make fire was a significant milestone in human evolution, providing warmth, enabling cooking, and fostering social interactions. This discovery suggests that Neanderthals had developed the skills to create fire much earlier than previously believed, which would have allowed them to thrive in colder climates and improve their diets. The findings also contribute to our understanding of Neanderthal behavior and their cognitive abilities, challenging previous assumptions about their capabilities compared to modern humans.
