the Olduvai Gorge experimental program

The Olduvai Gorge experimental program was an archaeological project focused on understanding early human tool use by replicating ancient stone tools and techniques. Researchers studied how early humans selected, shaped, and used stone for various purposes, providing insights into their cognitive skills and technological development. The program combined field experiments with analysis of actual fossil and artifact remains from the gorge in Tanzania, helping to reconstruct prehistoric behaviors and cultural practices related to tool-making. Overall, it aimed to bridge the gap between ancient tool evidence and the behaviors that produced it, deepening our understanding of human evolution.