Tag

Middle Paleolithic

All articles tagged with #middle paleolithic

Unearthing the Origins of Human Burial Practices
anthropologyarchaeology2 years ago

Unearthing the Origins of Human Burial Practices

The earliest evidence of deliberate human burials dates back to the Middle Paleolithic period, around 120,000 years ago. These early burials were found in caves and involved placing the bodies in death postures, accompanied by human objects. While the origins of burial practices are not fully understood, it is believed that ancient humans sought to dispose of corpses to avoid the unpleasant process of decay and its associated risks. Burial practices varied over time and by region, with cremation burials appearing much later in human history.

Ancient Toolmakers: Homo Sapiens Were Not Alone
archaeology2 years ago

Ancient Toolmakers: Homo Sapiens Were Not Alone

Archaeologists have discovered evidence of Neanderthals making bone tools at a site in France, adding to the growing body of evidence that suggests other human variants besides Homo sapiens also made tools from animal bones. The research, published in PLOS ONE, found a collection of bone tools at the La Quina site, including retouchers, beveled tools, retouched artifacts, and a smooth-ended rib. The diversity of bone tools suggests a range of activities beyond butchering. The authors believe that the bone tools found in Siberia and France were made by Neanderthals, not early sapiens, based on DNA analysis and the absence of modern human remains in the context. This evidence sheds new light on Middle Paleolithic subsistence strategies and the resourcefulness of prehistoric hominins.