Human ancestors created the oldest known bone tools 1.5 million years ago, made from hippo and elephant bones, as discovered in Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania, according to research published in Nature. This evidence represents systematic bone tool production by hominids and suggests a technological transition from stone to bone.
Research indicates that human ancestors crafted the earliest known bone tools approximately 1.5 million years ago, based on discoveries at Tanzania’s Olduvai Gorge. According to archaeologist Ignacio de la Torre and his colleagues, this marks the oldest evidence of structured bone tool production by hominids. Excavations from 2015 to 2022 revealed 27 bone tools within stratified sediment previously dated to this time frame.
The findings at Olduvai Gorge significantly expand our understanding of early human innovation, particularly in tool-making with bone as a material. This research highlights a potential transition in technology from stone to bone tools and underscores the adaptability and resourcefulness of ancient hominids in exploiting available materials for survival.
Original Source: www.sciencenews.org
