Humans make fire nearly 790 000 years ago
Jerusalem, Oct 27 – A new study shows that humans had the ability to make fire nearly 790 000 years ago, a skill that helped them migrate from Africa to Europe.
By analysing flints at an archaeological site on the bank of the River Jordan, researchers at Israel’s Hebrew University discovered that early cultures had learnt to light fires, a turning point that allowed them to venture into unknown lands.
A previous study of the site in 2004 showed man had been able to control fire – for example transferring it by means of burning branches – in that early period. But researchers now say ancient man could start fire, rather than relying on natural phenomena such as lightning.
That independence helped promote migration northward, they say.
Archaeologist Nira Alperson-Afil said the patterns of burnt flint found in the same place throughout 12 cultures was evidence of fire-making ability, though the methods used were unclear.
And because the site lies on a key route from Africa to Europe, it provides evidence of the human migration, she says.
“Once they mastered fire to protect themselves from predators and provide warmth and light, they were secure enough to move into and populate unfamiliar territory.”
Reuters
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