Final answer:
Acheulian hand axes served as multifunctional tools, akin to the modern Swiss army knife, used for cutting, scraping, and chopping. They are symmetrical biface tools showing sophisticated craftsmanship, made using the soft hammer technique for better control and efficiency.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Acheulian hand axes, which emerged around 1.7 million years ago, are believed to serve a multifunctional purpose, similar to the modern Swiss army knife. These hand axes provided early humans with a significantly more advanced tool compared to the earlier Oldowan tools, offering better handling and versatility for a variety of tasks including cutting, scraping, and chopping. Unlike Oldowan tools, Acheulian tools show sophisticated workmanship and were modified on both sides, making them symmetrical or biface tools. The careful craftsmanship of these tools indicates enhanced cognitive abilities and motor skills among the toolmakers.
Acheulian hand axes were typically shaped to fit the hand, which allowed for a better grip and control. This increased efficiency allowed early humans to perform tasks such as hunting, butchery, wood hacking, and hide scraping more effectively. The tools were usually made using the soft hammer technique, which utilized a softer material to chip away at the stone and shape the sharp edges necessary for these tasks. Archaeologists have compared the hand axes to Swiss army knives due to their all-purpose usability in daily survival and various activities of prehistoric humans.
Overall, the function of Acheulian hand axes reflects an important step in human tool development, showing a move to more generalized, versatile tools from earlier, more specialized forms. This technological advancement represents significant cognitive and motor skill development and showcases the innovation of early humans.