Neanderthals harnessed fire 350,000 years earlier than previously thought

Popular ScienceWednesday, December 10, 2025 at 4:00:00 PM
PositiveScience
Neanderthals harnessed fire 350,000 years earlier than previously thought
  • Neanderthals have been found to have harnessed fire approximately 350,000 years earlier than previously believed, marking a significant advancement in their technological capabilities. This discovery highlights the sophistication of Neanderthal culture and their ability to manipulate their environment for survival.
  • The ability to control fire is a crucial milestone in human evolution, as it not only provided warmth and protection but also enabled cooking and social gatherings. This finding reshapes the understanding of Neanderthal life and their interactions with other hominins.
  • This revelation about Neanderthals' use of fire adds complexity to the narrative surrounding their survival strategies, contrasting with evidence of cannibalism found in other studies. It suggests a multifaceted approach to survival that included both cooperation and competition, reflecting the diverse social dynamics of ancient human groups.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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