Neanderthals harnessed fire 350,000 years earlier than previously thought

'This is the most remarkable discovery of my career.' Breakthroughs, discoveries, and DIY tips sent every weekday. Evidence uncovered in a field in Suffolk, England indicates that ancient humans intentionally harnessed fire more than 350,000 years earlier than previously believed. According to a British Museum-led study published on December 10 in the journal, our Paleolithic Neanderthal ancestors utilized technology like hearths and campfires as much as 400,000 years ago. "The implications are enormous," British Museum project curator and study coauthor Rob Davis said in a statement .