Humans may have existed far earlier than scientists once thought, ancient fossil research shows
CBSN
Scientists have uncovered new evidence showing that humans in the Americas may have existed several thousands of years earlier than once thought, according to a report published Thursday in the academic journal Science.
"This study illustrates the process of science — new evidence can shift long held paradigms," U.S. Geological Survey acting Rocky Mountain director Allison Shipp said in a statement Thursday.
Ancient fossilized footprints found in New Mexico's White Sands National Park displayed evidence suggesting that humans lived in North America during the Last Glacial Maximum, which dates back to around 21,000 to 23,000 years ago. Scientists have contested when the first humans lived in the Americas, with some finding evidence for life around 15,000 years ago, according to Smithsonian Magazine.
