Early humans reach and settle South Africa for first time
Southern Africa was first reached by Homo sapiens before 130,000 years ago, possibly before 260,000 years ago.
Before 10th Millennia B.C.E.
Y-chromosomal Adam, the most recent common ancestor of all males, is born
Y-chromosomal Adam is the name scientists give to the most recent common paternal ancestor of all living men. Genetic studies show that every Y chromosome today traces back to this individual, who lived in Africa around 200,000 to 300,000 years ago. His story is not about one man alone, but about the shared roots of humanity. By studying haplogroups and Y-chromosome mutations, researchers continue to refine when and where he lived. Y-chromosomal Adam reminds us that beneath all differences, we are deeply connected—a single family bound together across time by shared ancestry.
Humans intentionally use adhesives for the first time, perhaps in modern-day Italy
This groundbreaking innovation profoundly improved early human hunting and survival capabilities. The invention of glue allowed for the creation of superior composite tools. It laid the foundation for complex engineering and materials science thousands of years later.
Humanity learn to make their own fire, kindling a new era of possibility
While early members of the genus Homo had used fire opportunistically for ages (e.g. in the aftermath of a lightning strike), the ability to create it on their own using flint vastly expanded its availability and usefulness.