Neanderthal 1
Neanderthal 1 showed us that Neanderthals had a caring society. The bones of Neanderthal 1 indicate a strong social structure and compassion among their peers. They had physical deformities that would have removed their ability to help in typical ways, yet the care they received from their community speaks volumes about the bonds they formed. Archaeological findings suggest that they were not only capable of empathy but also engaged in behaviors that promoted group well-being, such as sharing food and providing shelter. These acts of kindness imply a depth of emotional intelligence and social cooperation that challenges the stereotypical view of Neanderthals as primitive beings. It becomes evident that their society valued each member, recognizing that every individual contributed to their collective survival and success. Through the discovery of Neanderthal 1 and, similarly, Shanidar 1, the ‘primitive’ views of Neanderthals began to shift.
Kharaysin figurines
The Kharaysin figurines are some of the world’s only flint figurines of people, showcasing intricate craftsmanship that reflects the artistic skills of prehistoric societies. These remarkable artefacts, discovered in Jordan by Ibáñez et al (2020), provide invaluable insights into the cultural and social practices of the communities that created them. Made from flint, the figurines display a variety of shapes and sizes, and were potentially involved in ritualistic uses. The craftsmanship involved in creating these figures not only highlights the technological capabilities of their makers but also offers a fascinating glimpse into the human experience of the time, linking past generations to the present through these enduring symbols of creativity and expression.
Neanderthal Cave Art
Hoffman et al (2018) found conclusive evidence for Neanderthal Cave Art, significantly reshaping our understanding of these ancient humans and their cognitive abilities. Although studies in the past had suggested it, there was not concrete evidence supplied as of then, leaving many questions about the cultural and artistic capabilities of Neanderthals unanswered. The discovery of well-preserved artworks within caves, along with meticulous dating techniques, indicates that these early humans were not just survivalists but also engaged in complex forms of expression and communication through art. This revelation opens new avenues for research into the social structures of Neanderthals and their possible interactions with early Homo sapiens, highlighting how artistic expression may have been a shared trait among early human species.
Honourable mention: Piltdown Man
The Piltdown man temporarily changed how we saw the past through being a hoax, as it not only misled scientists and the public for decades but also significantly influenced the study of human evolution by creating a false narrative that shaped early anthropological theories. This remarkable deception, unveiled in the early 20th century, highlighted the vulnerability of scientific inquiry to biases and the eager acceptance of evidence that fit prevailing beliefs, ultimately serving as a cautionary tale about critical thinking and the need for rigorous scrutiny in scientific research.
Bibliography:
Oakley, K.P. and Weiner, J.S., 1955. Piltdown man. American Scientist, 43(4), pp.573-583.
Knots and Trowels 
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