Rethinking Gender Roles in Prehistoric Times: New Evidence Challenges Assumptions

The traditional narrative of "Man the Hunter" in prehistoric times is being challenged by a growing body of evidence. Physiological, anatomical, ethnographic, and archaeological research suggests that women not only hunted alongside men but may have been better suited for endurance-dependent activities. Female bodies have certain advantages, such as higher estrogen levels that enhance endurance, a greater proportion of type I muscle fibers that metabolize fats for sustained energy, and faster post-exercise recovery. There is no evidence of gendered labor roles in the Paleolithic era, and both men and women likely participated in hunting and gathering activities. The myth that women were limited to gathering due to reproductive capabilities perpetuates existing power structures and ignores the diverse roles played by our ancestors.