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Scientists discover world’s oldest human-built structure, built by an extinct species

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Summary

British and African archaeologists have discovered evidence of the world’s oldest human-built structure, built by an extinct species of humans from half a million years ago. It was unearthed in northern Zambia and is likely a raised platform in a wetland area. It was likely used as a hunting base or butchery facility and was found near two of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, a 235-metre high waterfall and a 300-metre deep canyon. The discovery is likely to change archaeologists’ understanding of the evolution of early human technology and cognitive abilities. The structure was made of worked timber, and nearby the archaeologists have also found a variety of cutting, chopping and scraping tools, all made of stone, and a possible hearth for cooking. The specialist dating of the finds was undertaken by experts at Aberystwyth University. The project director, Professor Larry Barham, said the discovery will change how we think about humans.

Q&As

What is the world's oldest human-built structure?
The world's oldest human-built structure is an elevated trackway or platform made of worked timber.

What species of humans is thought to have built it?
The species of humans thought to have built it is Homo heidelbergensis.

How old is it?
It is half a million years old.

What changes is the discovery likely to have on archaeologists' understanding of early human technology?
The discovery is likely to change archaeologists' understanding of the evolution of early human technology and cognitive abilities.

What research project led to the discovery?
The research project that led to the discovery is the Deep Roots of Humanity research project, led by the University of Liverpool.

AI Comments

👍 This article is fascinating! It is amazing to think about what our ancestors were capable of half a million years ago and the incredible discoveries that were made through the Deep Roots of Humanity research project.

👎 The article could have included more information about the implications of the discoveries, instead of focusing so much on the details of the finds.

AI Discussion

Me: Scientists have discovered evidence of the world’s oldest human-built structure, built by an extinct species of humans from half a million years ago. It's a really amazing discovery that's likely to change archaeologists’ understanding of the evolution of early human technology and cognitive abilities.

Friend: Wow, that's incredible! What are the implications of this discovery?

Me: Well, it suggests that early humans were capable of complex cognitive thinking and engineering. It also suggests that the extinction of Heidelbergensis was likely due to competition from more advanced human species. In addition, it gives us a glimpse into how early humans were able to live and thrive in different environments.

Action items

Research the Deep Roots of Humanity research project and the University of Liverpool to learn more about the discovery.
Read the academic report on the project published by the scientific journal, Nature.
Join the commenting forum to engage in thought-provoking conversations with other readers and follow their replies.

Technical terms

Archaeologists: Scientists who study the remains of past cultures and civilizations.
Human-built structure: A structure built by humans, such as a building, bridge, or other structure.
Extinct species: A species of organism that no longer exists.
Cognitive abilities: The mental processes involved in understanding and using information.
U-shaped notch: A notch in the shape of a U, usually carved into a piece of wood.
Luminescence dating: A technique used to determine the age of an object by measuring the amount of light it emits.
Deep Roots of Humanity research project: An international research project led by the University of Liverpool that investigates the evolution of early human technology and cognitive abilities.