Ancient Seafarers: Evidence of Maritime Mastery in Southeast Asia 40,000 Years Ago 🚢
🌏 New archaeological discoveries suggest that the ancient inhabitants of Southeast Asia were pioneers in seafaring technology, challenging the long-held belief that such advancements originated in Europe or Africa. Researchers analyzing stone tools from sites in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Timor-Leste found evidence dating back 40,000 years, indicating that early humans in the region were already skilled in boatbuilding, open-sea fishing, and the use of sophisticated fiber-based technology for ropes and nets. The presence of fishing hooks, net weights, and remains of deep-sea fish like tuna and sharks further supports the idea that these ancient mariners navigated vast ocean distances with purpose and strategy, rather than drifting aimlessly on bamboo rafts as previously assumed. This groundbreaking research not only redefines the role of Southeast Asia in early technological advancements but also highlights the ingenuity of its prehistoric peoples, whose maritime...