Fire... fire, fire!

Recent discoveries from the Levant suggest humans had control over fire approximately 790,000 years ago. Much earlier than previously thought. Fire not only provided warmth and light but as Gonen Sharon, archaeologist at The Hebrew University in Jerusalem, (and also my brother in-law!) said in a recent email, "It can chase away the lion and make food much easier to digest (and taste better as well!)."

My 13 year old nephew Bill would make your typical Homo ergaster envious for the thoroughly impressive bonfire he builds. In the accompanying photo his dad and Uncle John enjoy warmth and protection from predators on Xmas night.