1001 Space Earth Nature History Human World Prehistoric People Human Body: Systems Human Body: Organs Religions and Festivals Architecture and Buildings Sports and Pastimes Russia and the Middle East Asia Africa Europe North America South America Australasia Polar Regions Science and Technology

When did humans first use fire? <I>Homo erectus or 'upright man', who lived from about 1.5 million years ago in Africa, was the first creature to stand fully upright. By about 500,000 years ago, these early humans had spread to southern Asia and Europe. They were probably the first to use fire. This was useful for cooking food, keeping warm, and scaring animals away from shelters. We think that Homo erectus built campfires and may have made simple ovens with hot stones.   Previous: Back Book: 1001 Section: Human World Chapter: Prehistoric People