Ancient Humans Adapt to Different Climates — Reading Comprehension

Throughout prehistory, early humans demonstrated remarkable ability to adapt to different environments, especially during the Ice Ages. The Ice Ages were periods of time, starting around 2.6 million years ago, when glaciers covered large parts of Earth. This era presented major challenges for survival, as temperatures were extremely cold and resources were scarce. Scientists study archaeological sites, such as caves and ancient campsites, to learn how early humans adjusted to these harsh climates.

One key example comes from the Neanderthals, a species of ancient human who lived in Europe and western Asia. Neanderthals survived cold Ice Age winters by making warm clothing from animal skins and building sturdy shelters. Archaeologists have found evidence of carefully constructed hearths and tools designed for scraping hides. In the Shanidar Cave in Iraq, researchers discovered the remains of Neanderthals alongside pollen from flowers, suggesting that these early people cared for each other and perhaps even practiced burial rituals. This reveals how social cooperation helped them survive.

Another example is the migration of Homo sapiens, our own species, out of Africa about 60,000 years ago. As climates changed, early humans traveled across deserts, mountains, and frozen tundra. They developed new technologies like tailored clothing, bone needles, and more effective stone tools. Archaeological finds at sites such as Dolní Věstonice in the Czech Republic show evidence of mammoth bone huts and clay figurines, indicating creative solutions to environmental obstacles. These adaptations allowed Homo sapiens to spread into Europe, Asia, and eventually the Americas.

Geography played a critical role in shaping daily life. In cold regions, early humans relied on large Ice Age animals for food, clothing, and materials. In warmer environments, they gathered plants and hunted smaller game. Archaeologists use artifacts like spear points and cave paintings to reconstruct how people lived. For example, the famous Lascaux Cave in France contains paintings of bison and horses, showing how humans recorded their surroundings and perhaps shared important knowledge.

The ability to adapt to different climates was essential for the survival and success of early humans. Through innovation, cooperation, and resourcefulness, our ancestors learned to overcome environmental challenges and thrive. Their story demonstrates how geography and climate shape human development, a theme that continues throughout world history.

This adaptability set the stage for the rise of agriculture and the founding of the first civilizations.

Interesting Fact: Some Ice Age humans made jewelry and artworks from mammoth ivory, showing that creativity existed even in harsh times.

When did the Ice Ages begin?

Where did Neanderthals mainly live?

What did Homo sapiens use mammoth bones for?

Why did early humans develop new tools?

How did geography affect daily life?

What does the Lascaux Cave show?

Neanderthals practiced social cooperation.

What is an artifact?