Summary
New research from the UK suggests that humans may have started making fire deliberately around 400,000 years ago, much earlier than previously thought. Scientists discovered evidence of controlled fire use at a site in Eastern England, which indicates early human technological and social development.
Key Facts
- Scientists found evidence of controlled fire use 400,000 years ago at Barnham in Suffolk, England.
- This discovery moves the timeline for fire-making back by about 350,000 years from previous estimates.
- Evidence included baked clay, heat-damaged hand axes, and iron pyrite, a mineral used for making sparks.
- Analysis showed repeated burning at temperatures over 700 degrees Celsius (1,292 Fahrenheit).
- The findings suggest early humans used fire to better adapt to colder climates, deter predators, and cook food.
- The use of fire might have contributed to social behaviors like storytelling and group planning.
- Researchers believe the findings indicate early Neanderthals' technological advancement and cognitive growth.
