Conversation:

Hello there Rhino,
I am wondering if it would have been possible for Neanderthal people to have build the standing stones, and put up the stones for Stonehenge. I know that Neanderthal people, and Homo Sapiens were on the Planet at approximately the same time, Neanderthals in decline, and Homo Sapiens in flourishing mode. I know that Neanderthals were short and stocky, and therefore, probably were stronger that we are, and so perhaps could manhandle large blocks of stone, by working as a team. What think you Lost. (BTW I would like the info on downloading you know whats) luv JB

Neanderthals & Standing Stones

Brief answer - no. Bit patchy on the dating of Stonehenge but I think it is dated 3000 BC, The Neanderthals died out about 30,000 years ago. If your questioning the dating of various stone circles then it gets a little more complicated. The dates of such ancient sites tend to jump about quite a bit based on what technology you use to measure them with. However on a more psychological level, we have very little in the way of art forms for the Neanders, best example is probably a pink stone hand axe. It's a huge mental jump from one person making a single pretty axe to a whole tribe over countless generations constructing a stone circle.

As regards the downloads, it been that long ago I've forgotten myself. However I want to track down some Native American stuff. So I'll have a play tonight or possibly tomorrow, remind myself then I'll drop you a line

Thanks Rhino,
As you know I am new to the h2g2 thingy, and so have only just realised that people actually reply to my posts. I was just chatting, and then leaving it at that. A bit of a surprise that you replied. Will check more often in future. BFN JB