Let's Illuminate the Past / Discovery of Fire

First Time Use

It is not known exactly when early humans first controlled fire. However, evidence suggests that our ancestors may have started using fire around 1.5 million years ago. The earliest known controlled use of fire is generally attributed to Homo erectus, the ancestor of modern humans. Archaeological finds at sites such as Wonderwerk Cave in South Africa suggest that early humans were using fire for cooking and heating around a million years ago.

The First Artificial Light Source

Before the controlled use of fire, humans encountered natural fires, probably started by lightning. Fire was the first artificial light source used by humanity. Having a light source beyond natural sunlight allowed humans to be active not only during the day but also at night. This made hunting, preparing food, doing crafts, and social interactions possible at night.

Security and Sociality

Fire became a natural center for people to come together. Gathering around a fire was important not only for physical warmth and cooking, but also for storytelling, sharing knowledge, and strengthening social bonds. Communities gathering around fires helped develop social structures and cultural traditions. Fire was also used as a security tool to protect against wild animals at night. The illumination provided by fire allowed early human societies to protect themselves and live in safer areas.