Archaeologists Unearth Oldest Wooden Structure in Zambia, Dating Back 476,000 Years
In a groundbreaking discovery, archaeologists have announced the finding of the oldest wooden structure ever found. The team of scientists, including researchers from the University of Liverpool, stumbled upon well-preserved wood in Zambia that dates back a staggering 476,000 years. This makes the wooden structure even older than our own species.
The discovery was announced in an article on the website of the University of Liverpool, providing a link for further reading. Expert analysis of stone tool cut-marks on the wood suggests that early humans ingeniously shaped and joined two large logs to construct the structure. This wooden structure was likely either the foundation of a platform or part of a dwelling.
The significance of this finding lies in the fact that it provides the earliest evidence anywhere in the world of deliberate woodcraft by early humans. Previous evidence of human use of wood had only been limited to basic purposes such as making fire, crafting digging sticks, and fashioning spears. This discovery challenges our preconceived notions about Stone Age humans and their lifestyle.
Wood generally does not survive for such extended periods due to high susceptibility to decomposition. However, the exceptional preservation of the wood at Kalambo Falls, Zambia, was attributed to high water levels. These conditions played a crucial role in preventing the wood from rotting away, ultimately leading to its discovery.
The finding also challenges the prevailing view that Stone Age humans were solely nomadic. The presence of a perennial water source at Kalambo Falls and the surrounding forest, which provided abundant food, suggested that these early humans had the means to settle and construct structures.
Interestingly, the article specifies that the beings referred to as “humans” predate our own species, raising intriguing questions about the identity of these individuals. They could potentially be the previously discovered hominin species known as “Standing man.”
This remarkable discovery aligns with previous findings in the Rising Star cave system in South Africa. There, researchers unearthed evidence that small-brained hominins buried their dead, used fire, and created art approximately 300,000 years ago. These revelations hint at the possibility that non-“A wise man” hominin species possessed a culture and technology more advanced than previously believed.
The research documenting this monumental finding was published in the prestigious scientific journal, Nature. It not only adds another astounding chapter to our understanding of human history but also forces us to reconsider the complex capabilities of early humans.
The archaeological community has applauded this discovery for its invaluable contribution to our knowledge of ancient human civilizations. It opens up new avenues of exploration and raises further questions about the remarkable capabilities and milestones achieved by our distant ancestors.
H/T to Rick Mandler for sharing this fascinating discovery. As we eagerly await more information, one thing is certain: our perception of early humans and their achievements will never be the same again.