A recent study published in Nature reveals that the first systematic use of bone tools by hominins occurred 1.5 million years ago, which is a million years earlier than previously believed. Archaeologist Ignacio de la Torre led the research, underlining the possibility of discovering more ancient tools that may enrich our understanding of early human innovation. While earlier hominins primarily used basic rock techniques, advancements allowed for the production of complex tools like hand axes and cleavers, demonstrating a significant leap in cognitive and functional skill sets related to tool-making.
“We may be missing a whole world of tools made by early humans,” says Ignacio de la Torre, suggesting the potential for much more undiscovered innovation in human tool-making.
Dr. de la Torre's investigation in Tanzania revealed that after 1.8 million years ago, hominins started crafting a diverse array of stone tools, exhibiting advanced conceptual abilities.
Collection
[
|
...
]