Humans, perhaps in Europe, invent rope
Impressions of cordage found on fired clay provide evidence of string and rope-making technology in Europe dating back 28,000 years.
Prehistory (250000 - 10000 B.C.E.)
Rock paintings tradition begins in Bhimbetka rock shelters in India
The Bhimbetka rock shelters are an archaeological site in central India that spans the prehistoric paleolithic and mesolithic periods, as well as the historic period. It exhibits the earliest traces of human life on the Indian subcontinent and evidence of Stone Age starting at the site in Acheulian times.
Early humans of Austria create the Venus of Galgenberg
The Venus of Galgenberg is one of the earliest examples of figurative art in Europe. The sculpture was discovered in 1988 close to Stratzing, Austria.
Gravettian hunter-gatherers flourish in modern-day Europe
The Gravettian was an archaeological industry of the European Upper Paleolithic that succeeded the Aurignacian circa 33,000 years BP. It is archaeologically the last European culture many consider unified.
Homo sapiens settle the Korean peninsula for the first time
The earliest radiocarbon dates for the Paleolithic indicate the antiquity of occupation on the Korean peninsula is between 40,000 and 30,000 BP.
Humans discover and settle the island of Sri Lanka
Balangoda Man arrived on the island about 34,000 years ago and has been identified as Mesolithic hunter-gatherers who lived in caves
Humans invent dancing
Cave paintings in India and Europe dating back roughly 35,000 years include some of the earliest known depictions of humans moving together in rhythm. Researchers believe dance is almost certainly older than any painting — a social tool that helped our ancestors build trust, form communities, and survive long before the first civilizations appeared.
Humans begin using flutes – perhaps first melodic musical instruments ever – in modern-day Germany
Roughly 42,000 years ago in modern-day Germany, early humans crafted the world’s first known flutes from bird bone and mammoth ivory. This artistic leap reveals profound ancient ingenuity, suggesting our ancestors used melody as a powerful “social glue” to strengthen community bonds and thrive during the harsh Ice Age.
Humans in the Levant invent the mortar and pestle to grind ingredients for food or medicine
The invention of the mortar and pestle 35,000 years ago gave early humans an efficient way to process wild grains and medicinal herbs. This brilliant tool unlocked hidden calories within tough seeds, allowing communities to thrive in harsh environments. Ultimately, this simple engineering feat sparked the global transition to agriculture.
Humans settle in modern-day Japan for the first time
Japan was then connected to mainland Asia by at least one land bridge, and nomadic hunter-gatherers crossed to Japan.