Scientists discover what kept ancient campfires burning for generations
Archaeologists studying the Gesher Benot Ya'aqov site in Israel have discovered that early humans 800,000 years ago used driftwood as a reliable fuel source for campfires. This finding suggests that ancient hominins possessed advanced environmental planning and resource management skills.
Why it matters
This research provides new insights into the cognitive evolution of early humans and their ability to manipulate their environment for survival.
For early humans living nearly 800,000 years ago, access to fire may have influenced where they chose to settle. New research suggests these ancient communities relied on an abundant and dependable source of fuel: driftwood that naturally accumulated along a lakeshore. Rather than spending time searching for particular types of wood, they appear to have made practical use of materials that were readily available.
The article reports on scientific findings based on peer-reviewed research without political or social agenda.
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