Ancient Humans Were Making Fire 350,000 Years Earlier Than Scientists Realized

Scientific American12/10/2025 • Last cited 12/14/2025

Summary

A new study suggests that ancient humans were capable of making fire on demand as early as 350,000 years earlier than previously believed, according to Scientific American. This finding challenges existing timelines regarding the development of this crucial skill among early ancestors.

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Lindy Score Breakdown

35
Age (0-35)
36 days
8
Velocity (0-40)
2 sources (low traction)
6
Tier (0-10)
Scientific American
3
Breadth (0-15)
2 unique
Total Score52/100

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Score BreakdownRisk 35

Source Reputation: Low-trust source (6/20 pts)
Consensus: Emerging consensus: 2 sources
Age: 36 days - proven survivor

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