Ancient stone tools found in Ukraine rewrite Europe’s history

Stone tools found in the area are the earliest evidence of early human presence in Europe, dating back to 1.4 million years ago, according to new research.
An interesting discovery in western Ukraine rewrites Europe’s earliest chapters of human history. Archaeologists have unearthed stone tools dating back over a million years, potentially the oldest evidence of human-like activity on the continent.

The chipped stones were found at a quarry in Korolevo and are carefully crafted from volcanic rock. Researchers used a few cutting-edge dating technologies to determine that the tools are astonishingly ancient.
Who could have made these tools?
“We can definitively state that these are among the earliest signs of any human presence in Europe,” remarked Mads Faurschou Knudsen, a geophysicist from Aarhus University and co-author of a study published by Nature.

The species’ exact identity is unclear. Scientists think that Homo erectus might have created the artifacts. Homo erectus was a species that stood upright and had good fire skills. Czech Academy of Sciences archaeologist and co-author Roman Garba said, “We lack fossil evidence to pinpoint the creators. But the tools hint at their ingenuity.”

Primitive yet powerful tools
Archaeologists suggest that the chipped stones were likely vital to daily life, aiding in butchering animals and treating hides for clothing.

The study indicates that the tools could be as old as 1.4 million years. However, some experts believe they are closer to over a million years old. Even at the younger end of the spectrum, this would align them with similar tool discoveries in Spain.

Adaptable ancestors spread across the continent
Rick Potts, Director of the Human Origins Program at the Smithsonian Institution, emphasized the Ukraine site’s significance: “It marks the northernmost extent of this ancient tool tradition.” This implies that early humans quickly mastered survival tactics for various climates after leaving Africa.

“Our adaptable ancestors spread from Spain to Ukraine, handling both the warmth of the south and the harsh, seasonal chills of northern Europe,” highlighted Potts. “Their resilience is astounding.”

A recent study also showed that the Neanderthals, our ancient human relatives who lived in Europe, had a more advanced culture than previously thought.

Researchers have found evidence that Neanderthals, like modern humans in Africa, could make tools using glues from various components. They also used a sophisticated multi-component adhesive to craft their stone tools.