Researched and edited by Alan A Sandercott

Not intended for publication

  Part One              


PART ONE - WHAT WAS IT LIKE BACK THEN


Depiction of a group of Australopithecus afarensis about 3 million years ago


Busy researching



 
WAY BACK WHEN

What were living conditions like for our ancient ancestors
and other early Homo sapiens in North East Africa prior to their exodus from Africa?
  • Approximately 80,000 years ago, early Homo sapiens, or anatomically modern humans, were present in various parts of Africa, including Kenya. While our understanding of their exact living conditions is limited, researchers have pieced together some information based on archaeological evidence and studies of the environment during that time period.

  • Shelter and Housing: Early Homo sapiens likely lived in simple shelters, such as caves, rock overhangs, and makeshift structures constructed from wood, animal hides, and vegetation. These shelters provided protection from the elements and predators.

  • Technology and Tools: These early humans were proficient toolmakers. They used stone tools, such as blades, scrapers, and points, for tasks like hunting, cutting, and processing food. These tools were essential for their survival and adaptation to their environment.

  • Hunting and Gathering: Early Homo sapiens were likely hunter-gatherers, relying on a combination of hunting, fishing, and gathering wild plants for sustenance. They would have hunted animals like antelope, gazelle, and other game, as well as gathered fruits, nuts, and edible plants from their surroundings.

  • Social Structure: These early humans likely lived in small groups or bands, engaging in cooperative activities for hunting, gathering, and protection. Their social structure would have been relatively simple compared to later agricultural societies.

  • Fire and Cooking: Control of fire was a significant advancement during this time period. Early Homo sapiens used fire not only for warmth and protection but also for cooking food, which made it easier to digest and increased the nutritional value of their diet.

  • Clothing: As temperatures could vary widely, especially in a region like Kenya, it's likely that these early humans crafted clothing from animal hides and plant fibers to provide insulation and protection.

  • Art and Expression: While direct evidence is limited, it is believed that early Homo sapiens engaged in artistic and symbolic expression. They might have created cave paintings, rock engravings, and possibly used body adornments and personal decorations.

  • Migration and Adaptation: Early Homo sapiens in Kenya were part of a larger African population. They were mobile and adapted to various environments, moving in response to changing climate conditions and resource availability.

It's important to note that researcher's understanding of this time period is based on fragmentary evidence, and that knowledge is continually evolving as new discoveries are made and technologies improve. Archaeological sites, such as those found in the Omo Valley and other regions of Ethiopia, provide valuable insights into the lives of my ancient ancestors and their interactions with their environment.



 
HUNTER GATHERERS

Roughly 33,000 years ago during the beginning of the Last Glacial Maximum northern portions of Europe & Asia were under a coat of thick ice. It appears obvious that our ancestors skirted the ice fields. These nomads were Hunter Gatherers and relied upon the large herds of animals that provided their main food source, clothing, shelters, weapons and tools. Depending on regions they passed through, wildlife consisted of giant elk, wooly mammoths, wooly rhinoceros, lena horse, bison, ibex and wild boar. They sometimes focused on trapping small game or on fishing. Hunter Gatherers used stone, wood, bone and antlers for their weapons and implements. The survival of their family groups depended on their skills.

     

It's hard to say when these migration groups first started wearing rudemary cloting clothing. Chances are as they spread out into colder regions it became necessary to survive. People wore clothing made from animal skins, which they sewed together using intricately-crafted bone needles. Their weaponry included spears, bows and arrows, and harpoons. They lived in small mobile groups, normally of about ten or twelve adults plus children. They were regularly on the move, searching for nuts, berries and other plants and following the wild animals which the men hunted for meat. The groups made use of caves for shelter or areas of high ground giving them a good all-round vision of the countryside. While the men hunted, the women foraged for wild plants and other edibles.
Part 2 will explore the incredible journey of our paternal ancestors, tracing the evolution and migration of ancient hominins. From the first upright walkers to modern humans, their story is one of resilience, adaptation, and innovation.



Depiction of a group of Homo sapiens on their migration west about 5000 years ago in central Europe.


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