Under what circumstances does it appear that paleolithic humans first used boats?
Probably the earliest boats were used on rivers -- to cross them, transport goods and people, and for fishing.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_maritime_history
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_transport#Maritime_transport
http://www.historyworld.net/wrldhis/plaintexthistories.asp?historyid=aa14
Thanks!
You're welcome.
The question you have asked is related to the history of paleolithic humans and the usage of boats. In order to find an answer to this question, you can follow these steps:
1. Research paleolithic era: First, gather information about the paleolithic era, a period that lasted from about 2.6 million years ago to around 10,000 BCE. Understand the lifestyle, tools, and abilities of early humans during this time.
2. Study archaeological evidence: Look for archaeological evidence that suggests the use of boats by paleolithic humans. Archaeologists analyze ancient artifacts, such as cave paintings, carvings, and fossil remains, to understand the activities of early humans.
3. Explore coastal regions: Paleolithic humans are believed to have mainly inhabited areas near rivers, lakes, and coastal regions. Study the geographic locations where paleolithic settlements existed and determine if there are any indications of boat usage in these areas.
4. Consider migration patterns: Analyze the migration patterns of paleolithic humans. Look for evidence of settlements located on islands or distant shorelines, which could imply the use of boats for transportation and exploration.
5. Assess technological advancements: Consider the advancements in tool-making techniques during the paleolithic era. Look for evidence of improved stone tools such as blades, scrapers, and awls that might have been used for boat construction or repair.
6. Consult scholarly sources: Review research papers, articles, or books written by experts in paleolithic archaeology or human history. These sources often provide detailed information about the discoveries and theories related to early boat usage.
By following these steps, you should be able to gather sufficient information to understand the circumstances under which paleolithic humans first used boats.