Which statement supports the author’s original statement that the beads found in South Africa “have provided evidence that humans engaged in symbolic or modern thought over 75,000 years ago”?

A - Before this discovery, many scientists believed that humans did not engage in symbolic or modern thought until 45,000 years ago.
B - There were forty-one beads that were discovered in Blombos Cave, South Africa, that surprised many of the scientists.
C - These beads were made from the shells of small snails, which were similar to the shells found in other digs in South Africa.
D - The beads were decorated and had human-made holes in them, indicating that people wore them, which is an example of symbolic thinking.

The study and analysis of the artefacts and older historic items during excavation by a person is called an archaeologist. These studies and findings provide evidence of early prehistoric civilization.

The statement that best describes the human engagement in symbolic beliefs is option D.

Symbolic evidence through archaeology:

Archaeologists studies and analyses the remains, artefacts, building structures, cultural practices and religious beliefs of prehistoric people.

Symbol is important in archaeology as they tell about the communication, cultural practices and ways of living of older civilizations.

Therefore, the beads were decorated and had human-made holes in them, indicating that people wore them, which is an example of symbolic thinking.

Learn more about symbolic beliefs and archaeology here:

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