Archaeologists have made a remarkable discovery at the Kalambo Falls in Zambia, unearthing the most ancient known example of a wooden structure. The construction, estimated to be approximately 476,000 years old, pre-dates the emergence of Homo sapiens as a species, suggesting that our ancestors began establishing settlements earlier than previously believed. The structure, made from two logs joined together in a cross-like formation, exhibits clear signs of intentional craftsmanship using stone tools. Researchers speculate that it may have served as a foundation for a platform or shelter [1].
The age of the wooden structure was determined using luminescence dating, a technique that calculates the last exposure to sunlight to estimate the duration of burial and provide a minimum age approximation. While earlier discoveries have shown that early humans crafted tools and weapons from wood, this is the oldest evidence of architecture employing this material [1].
The find challenges previous assumptions about Stone Age humans being primarily nomadic, suggesting that they were more settled than initially thought. Professor Larry Barham, the corresponding author of the study, remarks on how this discovery alters our understanding of our early ancestors, highlighting their creativity, intelligence, and ability to adapt their environment for improved living conditions. The findings were published in the Nature journal [1].
This article is 90% likely factual news based on my current analysis. Although the information provided is supported by scientific techniques such as luminescence dating, certain interpretations, such as speculations about the function of the wooden structure and the lifestyle of Stone Age humans, are subjective in nature. However, the article overall presents the archaeological discovery in a neutral manner, without any discernible political agenda or bias [1].
Original article by: Michael Irving [1].
