Ancient Bone Tool Discovery Indicates Sophisticated Thinking in Early Hominins
A Prehistoric Bone Tool “Factory”
About 500,000 years ago, early humans began creating tools from bones. These bone tools were not as common as stone tools, which makes it hard to study how they were made and used. However, new findings from the T69 Complex at Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania are shedding light on this topic. Excavations at this site between 2015 and 2022 revealed a rich collection of bones and tools.
What Was Found at Olduvai Gorge?
During the excavations, researchers uncovered more than 10,000 stone tools as well as the remains of various animals like fish, crocodiles, hippopotamuses, elephants, and rhinoceroses. Among all these fossils and bones, scientists discovered 27 pieces that were unmistakably bone tools. These tools showed clear signs of being shaped intentionally. The edges of the bones displayed modifications, suggesting they were worked on to create specific shapes.
While it is possible for animal activity, especially by carnivores, to cause similar flaking, the evidence indicates that less than 1% of the identified animal remains at this site were from carnivores. The tools in question did not display marks that would typically come from being gnawed by predators.
Understanding Early Human Technology
The early humans who created these bone tools showed a preference for large mammal bones, particularly those from elephants and hippopotamuses. According to the study’s authors, this choice points to a sophisticated understanding of bone structure and anatomy. They specifically selected thicker limb bones and used specific techniques to flake the bones consistently.
This insightful choice and method suggest that these hominins had advanced cognitive abilities. It appears they could adapt their knowledge from crafting stone tools to working with bone, expanding their technological toolkit. Co-author Ignacio de la Torre from the CSIC-Spanish National Research Council stated, “This discovery leads us to assume that early humans significantly expanded their technological options.” He emphasized that humans began to incorporate different materials into their tool-making processes, thereby showcasing intellectual progress.
The Shift from Bone to Stone Tools
As time went on, these heavy bone tools were likely replaced by larger stone tools, such as hand axes. This shift might explain why bone tools became less common after a certain period. The innovation brought about by the creation of stone tools may have made bone tools less necessary for early humans.
The Importance of This Discovery
The findings at Olduvai Gorge offer valuable insights into the way early humans lived and worked. By showing that hominins were not only skilled in making stone tools but also adept at using bone, this research suggests a more complex development of technology than previously thought. It highlights how adaptability and cognitive skills played a role in human evolution.
Overall, the work done at the T69 Complex allows us to piece together a clearer picture of early human life and the technological advancements they achieved. This understanding can provide us with important lessons about the innovation and adaptability that has characterized human history from the very beginning.
