Introduction: History of Stone Age Archaeology and Paleoenvironmental Framework for Hominin Evolution in Africa

Abstract

Today, there is a broad consensus on an African beginning of the human story as confirmed by the fossil and archaeological evidence accumulating from the continent. But, before the twentieth century, Africa was the region that was least expected to be the source of relevant evidence related to the hallmarks of human history. Early European explorers and settlers that set foot on the continent frequently attributed the artistic and technological achievements of the Indigenous inhabitants to influences from outside cultures. Unsurprisingly, at times, Africa was labeled the “Dark Continent.” Such an attitude led to viewing it (especially the sub-Saharan region) as devoid of relevant history, justifying its fall under Europeans’ colonial rule.