Question

Since 2000, the hypotheses that McBrearty and Brooks first presented about the Middle Stone Age (MSA) have been strengthened by archaeological evidence. According to this particular body of work, which of the following statements are true of MSA people? Select all that apply.

Answer 1

The Middle Stone Age people developed advanced stone tool technology, used pigments, and displayed modern symbolic thought and artistic expression, indicating a high level of cognitive and technological sophistication.

Step-by-step explanation:

According to McBrearty and Brooks and the archaeological evidence found, certain statements about the Middle Stone Age (MSA) people are true. Notably, these people developed stone tool technology using materials transported from different regions as evidenced by artifacts found in the Apollo 11 cave. Additionally, traces of red color on ostrich eggshell fragments indicate the use of pigments, potentially for ornamental purposes, suggesting a capacity for symbolic thought and creativity. Lastly, the artwork discovered in the form of the Apollo 11 cave stones reveals that humans had a capacity for modern symbolic thought and artistic expression, challenging previous notions about the timeline of behavioral modernity.

These findings contribute profoundly to our understanding of the complexities and capabilities of early humans, showing that they possessed not only advanced tool-making techniques but also engaged in creative and symbolic activities. The Middle Stone Age was thus a period marked by significant technological and cognitive advancements.