Human Inventions in 15 Minutes

vol.006:Tool Revolution by Fire


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The document comprehensively analyzes how the invention and control of fire revolutionized Paleolithic human existence, specifically focusing on its profound impact on tool-making technology. It details the evolution of fire use, from initial dependence on natural fire (around 1.5 million years ago) to the development of controlled fire hearths and eventually artificial ignition techniques like striking flint, enabling humans to overcome physical limitations in material processing. Crucially, the text explains that heating materials improved tool quality, facilitated the use of formerly difficult materials such as silcrete and bone, and accelerated the creation of new tools like composite weapons and fire-hardened wood, ultimately leading to the standardization of manufacturing processes and the foundation for subsequent technological advancements like metallurgy.

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Human Inventions in 15 MinutesBy Quest for Knowledge Team