1. Stone Tools:
- Hand Axes: These were versatile tools made by shaping stones to create a sharp cutting edge. They served multiple functions, including chopping, slicing, scraping, and hammering.
- Flint Knapping: This technique involved controlled fracturing of flint stones to produce sharp-edged flakes. These flakes could be used for cutting, slicing, and scraping tasks.
- Scrapers: Early humans made scrapers by shaping and sharpening stones with one or more flat edges. These tools were used to scrape animal hides, remove bark from wood, and perform other scraping activities.
- Points and Drills: Stone points and drills were crafted by shaping stones to form pointed or chisel-like edges. These tools were essential for hunting, piercing holes, and creating precise engravings.
2. Wooden Implements:
- Clubs and Spears: Early humans used heavy, wooden clubs for hunting and protection. Spears were created by attaching sharp stone points or sharpened wooden tips to long wooden shafts, making them effective weapons for hunting.
- Digging Sticks: Modified wooden sticks were used for digging in the soil to harvest roots and tubers. These tools aided in gathering plant foods.
- Fire-Making Tools: Early humans used wooden sticks or bow drills to create friction and produce fire. Wooden tools were also employed to carry embers or create fire by friction.
3. Bone and Antler Tools:
- Bone Scrapers: Tools made from animal bones were commonly used as scrapers for various tasks, such as working on hides and wood.
- Bone Needles: These tools were essential for sewing animal hides together to make clothing, bags, and shelters.
- Harpoons and Fishhooks: Some early humans used carved bone or antler points attached to wooden or bone handles to create hunting implements like harpoons and fishhooks.
4. Composite Tools:
- Hafted Axes and Adzes: By attaching stone axe blades to wooden handles or shafts, early humans created more efficient cutting and shaping tools known as hafted axes and adzes.
These tools were fundamental in allowing early humans to perform a wide range of activities crucial to their survival, including hunting, gathering food, crafting shelter, clothing, and other essential items. The gradual development and refinement of tools marked significant advancements in human technology and capabilities throughout prehistory.