Submerged Migration Routes Linked Early Humans to Regions Beyond Africa

Swift Summary:

• New research published in comptes Rendus Géoscience explores ancient human migration routes from Africa over the past 30,000 years, shaped by fluctuating sea levels and geological changes.
• During the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) 20,000 years ago, global sea levels dropped substantially (as low as -125 meters), exposing land that is now underwater.
• Jerome Dobson and his team used updated Glacial Isostatic Adjustment (GIA) models too identify submerged landscapes called “aquaterra,” which may hold archaeological importance.
• Northeast Sudan served as a likely starting point for migrations out of Africa into Europe and Asia via paths such as the Isthmus of Suez, Gulf of Aqaba, or Bab-el-Mandeb strait.
• A hypothetical city called berenice Aquaterra may have existed near Egypt’s eastern coast during low sea levels. Researchers speculate coral reefs atop the submerged area could conceal ancient structures below.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

This study provides valuable insights into humanity’s migratory history while emphasizing Earth’s dynamic geological processes. The findings open possibilities for archaeological discoveries within submerged areas across the globe-including India’s extensive coastline,which also experienced important historic shifts in sea level. For India specifically, similar studies could shed light on early coastal settlements or ancient trade routes connecting its shores to Africa and Southeast Asia.

India has diverse topography that could have served as migratory corridors during different climatic periods. Exploring underwater regions through advancements like GIA modeling might enhance understanding of early civilizations influencing India’s cultural development-and reveal how adapting to changing landscapes facilitated progress. This research underscores humanity’s resilience in navigating shifting environments-relevant even today amid rising concerns about climate change-induced coastline transformations.

read More: Discover Magazine – Ancient Migration Routes