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An iconic spear-throwing device likely wasn't used by prehistoric hunters until around 10,000 years ago

New archaeological research challenges long-held theories about the timing and methods of North America's earliest hunters.

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The brief

Archaeological findings indicate that the atlatl, a spear-throwing device, likely did not see use by prehistoric hunters in North America until approximately 10,000 years ago. This discovery contrasts with previous assumptions regarding the toolkits of the Clovis people.

Coverage from outlets including Phys.org, Popular Archeology, IFLScience, EurekAlert!, Nautilus, and Gizmodo highlights a debate concerning whether Clovis foragers hunted big game or operated as scavengers. Reports emphasize the lack of material evidence linking the atlatl to the earliest American cultures.

Future reports may focus on whether the Clovis people specifically contributed to the extinction of mammoths. Further investigation is required to clarify the exact hunting practices and technological capabilities of these early populations.

Synthesized by PULSE from the headlines below under a strict no-invention contract. ✓ fact-checked: all claims supported by sources Updated 42d ago.

Quick answers

What is the atlatl?

It is a device used for throwing spears, historically linked to prehistoric hunters in North America.

When did the atlatl appear in North America?

Evidence suggests the technology likely came into use around 10,000 years ago.

Did Clovis hunters use the atlatl to hunt mammoths?

Current research indicates that there is no evidence the device was part of the Clovis arsenal, leading to questions about their hunting methods.

Coverage (10)

Topics

Archaeology Clovis North America Atlatl Prehistory

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