Horizon Season 2015 Episode 8 First Britons

Horizon season 2015 episode 8, titled "First Britons," delves deep into an exciting archaeological discovery that could rewrite history. The episode explores the origins of the earliest humans in Britain, uncovering new evidence that suggests that the first inhabitants of the British Isles arrived much earlier than previously thought.

The show follows a team of scientists and archaeologists as they embark on a journey to uncover the truth about the first Britons. They use groundbreaking technology and advanced techniques to study the remains of the earliest inhabitants of Britain, including teeth, bones, and stone tools.

The episode begins by tracing the history of human migration across Europe and into Britain. The team examines the remains of a 10,000-year-old skeleton discovered in Gough's Cave in Somerset, which suggests that the earliest Britons were highly skilled hunters and had a complex society.

Further evidence comes from the excavation of a site in Happisburgh in Norfolk, which yielded tools and stone flakes that were used by the earliest humans in Britain over 800,000 years ago. This discovery challenged the traditional view that humans only arrived in Britain just over 500,000 years ago.

The team also travelled to the Isle of Wight to investigate the discovery of an ancient wooden platform dubbed the "British Pompeii." The preserved footprints of humans, animals, and plants provide a unique insight into the daily lives of the first inhabitants of Britain.

The program also follows the work of geneticists who examine the DNA of populations across Europe to track the migration of early humans. By comparing the genetic makeup of modern-day Britons with that of ancient populations, they were able to trace the lineage of early Britons back to the Iberian Peninsula.

The team also examine the impact of glaciation on the early populations of Britain. During the last Ice Age, Britain was covered in a thick layer of ice, making it impossible for humans to survive. The team discovers an area in Wales where human occupation dates back to before the last glacial period, proving that humans could have survived the extreme conditions.

The show is not just an archaeological and scientific investigation, but a historical and cultural exploration as well. The team examine the impact of early humans on the landscape of Britain, through the exploration of rock art and ancient burial sites.

Overall, Horizon season 2015 episode 8, "First Britons," is a fascinating examination of the earliest human inhabitants of Britain. The discovery of evidence that suggests that humans arrived far earlier than previously thought is a thrilling development that could significantly impact our understanding of human history. The show offers a compelling insight into the lives of early Britons and their pivotal role in shaping our world today.