A new genomic study suggests that the capacity for human language emerged at least 135,000 years ago, coinciding with the initial geographic divergence of Homo sapiens. This capacity likely transitioned into social use around 100,000 years ago, as indicated by symbolic activities in the archaeological record.
Moudhy Al-Rashid's book "Between Two Rivers" delves into the intricate history of Mesopotamia, a region in modern-day Iraq that has often taken a backseat to the more commonly discussed civilizations of Greece, Rome, and Egypt. Through the lens of ancient tablets inscribed with the world’s oldest script, Al-Rashid’s narrative illuminates the rich tapestry of Mesopotamia, highlighting its profound contributions to the development of the modern world. This detailed and engaging work by Al-Rashid brings to light the often-overlooked story of this ancient civilization.
Archaeologists have discovered a 3,000-year-old fort in northwestern Egypt that defended against invading 'sea peoples' tribes. The site includes military barracks, storage rooms, and various artefacts revealing insights into the daily lives and beliefs of the soldiers.
Cave paintings in Sulawesi, Indonesia, date back at least 51,200 years, making them some of the oldest figurative depictions in the world.
