Why Early Humans Preferred Stones for Tools
Early humans primarily used stones for creating tools due to a combination of factors that made them superior to other materials available at the time.
Availability
Stone materials, such as flint and obsidian, were abundant in many regions, making them readily accessible for early humans. This ease of availability ensured that these materials could be easily procured and utilized in the creation of tools.
Durability and Efficiency
Stone tools, particularly those made from hard materials like flint and obsidian, were designed to be both durable and effective. Their hardness allowed for the creation of sharp edges, making them highly efficient for performing various tasks such as cutting, scraping, and pounding. Additionally, the durability of stone tools meant they could be used repeatedly over time, reducing the need for frequent replacement.
Workability and Skill Development
Certain types of stone, such as flint and obsidian, could be flaked or chipped to produce sharp tools. Techniques like knapping allowed early humans to shape stones into various forms, enabling the creation of specialized tools. Mastering these skills required a significant investment of time and effort, which helped develop a crucial survival strategy. These stone tool-making skills were refined and passed down through generations, becoming a fundamental part of early human culture.
Evolution of Technology
The development of stone tool technology was not static; it evolved over time, leading to the creation of more sophisticated tools such as hand axes, blades, and projectile points. These advancements significantly enhanced hunting and gathering efficiency, ultimately driving the development of more complex survival strategies.
Advantages Over Other Materials
While other materials like wood and bone were eventually incorporated into tool-making, stone remained a primary material for a prolonged period due to its inherent advantages. For instance, stones were more durable than wood and less prone to breaking, making them more reliable for tasks that required strength and precision. Additionally, their ability to withstand wear and tear made them ideal for carrying around while walking or running upright, which were necessary during hunting.
Furthermore, the process of creating and maintaining stone tools required a level of effort and resources that was unique among early human activities. Unlike wooden or bone tools, which could be found and used as-is, stone tools demanded intentional crafting and regular maintenance. This practice further solidified their importance in early human societies, where the deliberate creation and utilization of such tools played a pivotal role in the development of lasting survival strategies and technological advancements.
Compared to wooden tools, stones offered a range of advantages that made them indispensable for early humans. Their boldness and sharpness allowed for more effective and consistent performance in tasks such as hunting, while their durability made them a preferred choice over easily breakable materials like wood.
The consensus among archaeologists is that worked stone tools were the first 'human tools.' This is because the effort required to make and maintain these tools forced early humans to engage in a high level of planning and resource management. Unlike chimpanzees and bonobos, who use natural wood and twig tools without carrying them or planning for future use, early humans developed a culture of constantly carrying and using stone tools. This marked a significant step in the technological and social evolution of humans.