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How do we know that early humans had culture, and what does this tell us about them?

Option 1: Early humans left behind cave paintings and sculptures that depict their beliefs and rituals.
Option 2: Archaeological evidence shows early humans used tools and had burial practices.
Option 3: Early humans had written records detailing their cultural practices and beliefs.
Option 4: Modern anthropological studies suggest early humans had complex social structures and language.

User Shanette
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Final answer:

We know that early humans had culture through their art, burial practices, and tool-making. These artifacts, such as cave paintings, sculptures, and tools, give insights into their cognitive and social abilities, suggesting complex cultural practices including language and spirituality.

Step-by-step explanation:

We know that early humans had culture because they left behind various forms of art, tools, and burial practices. For example, the cave paintings and sculptures found in sites like southern France showcase their ability to express themselves and possibly their spiritual beliefs. Moreover, these artistic expressions, like handprints and animal depictions, suggest they were communicating ideas and shared meanings within their communities.

Early hominins' development of stone tool technologies indicates they had complex social and cognitive abilities, which also hint at the emergence of early human language. Language would have further allowed for the transmission of cultural practices and beliefs, strengthening the idea of an elaborate early human culture.

Additionally, archaeological evidence of burial practices involving grave goods suggests a belief in an afterlife, indicating a profound sense of spirituality and cultural sophistication. These combined facets of early human life, such as artistic expression, language development, and spiritual beliefs, collectively reveal a textured and rich early human culture.

User Sean Stopnik
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