What's Happening?
Researchers have uncovered two ancient wooden tools at a lakeshore in Greece, believed to be the oldest of their kind, dating back approximately 430,000 years. The discovery includes a long stick potentially used for digging and a smaller piece of wood possibly
used for shaping stone tools. These findings were published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The tools were preserved due to the wet environment of the Megalopolis basin, where sediment quickly buried them. This site has previously yielded stone tools and elephant bones, but human remains have not yet been found, leaving the identity of the tool users uncertain.
Why It's Important?
The discovery of these wooden tools provides a rare glimpse into the technological capabilities of early humans or their ancestors. Wooden tools are seldom found due to their tendency to decay, making this find significant for understanding the evolution of tool use. The tools suggest a complex use of materials beyond stone and bone, indicating advanced skills in crafting and survival. This contributes to the broader understanding of human evolution and the development of technology, offering insights into the daily lives and survival strategies of ancient populations.
