Question

Arrange the following tools in chronological order:
A. Ovate hand-axe
B. Flake cleaver
C. Blade tools
D. S-twist handaxe
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. D, B, A, C
• B. A, D, B, C
• C. B, A, D, C
• D. C, B, D, A

Hint:

In any Palaeolithic tool sequence, blade technology (Upper Palaeolithic) always comes after hand-axe technology (Lower Palaeolithic). Within the Acheulean, the trend is towards greater symmetry and refinement. The S-twist is a sign of very late, advanced workmanship.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question requires arranging stone tools in a chronological sequence based on their technological development. This involves distinguishing between different phases of the Palaeolithic.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- First, we must identify the period for each tool type. Hand-axes and cleavers are characteristic of the Lower Palaeolithic (specifically the Acheulean industry), while blade tools are the hallmark of the Upper Palaeolithic. Therefore, Blade tools (C) must be the last in the sequence. This eliminates option (D).
- Next, we need to order the Acheulean tools (A, B, D). The Acheulean period saw a long evolution in tool-making, from cruder early forms to highly refined later forms.
- B. Flake cleaver: Cleavers, large tools with a transverse cutting edge, are a fundamental part of the Acheulean toolkit, present from early to late stages.
- A. Ovate hand-axe: A symmetrical, oval-shaped hand-axe is a classic, well-made tool from the Middle Acheulean period, showing more control and planning than the earliest forms.
- D. S-twist handaxe: A hand-axe with a twisted or 'S'-shaped profile is a highly refined and specialized form. This feature is a marker of advanced flint-knapping techniques characteristic of the Late Acheulean.
- The logical technological progression is from a common, basic tool type (cleaver) to a classic, symmetrical form (ovate) and then to a hyper-refined, specialized form (S-twist).
Step 3: Final Answer:
The chronological sequence is: Flake cleaver (B) $\rightarrow$ Ovate hand-axe (A) $\rightarrow$ S-twist handaxe (D) $\rightarrow$ Blade tools (C). This corresponds to the sequence B, A, D, C.