The story of the first Alor people adapting to climate change 43,000 years ago reveals a fascinating tale of human resilience and innovation in the face of environmental challenges. Through meticulous archaeological research, supported by funding from the Australian Research Council and the Indonesian government, and with the invaluable assistance of local communities and experts, we have unearthed compelling evidence of early human habitation on the island of Alor.
Our exploration centered on Makpan Cave, nestled along Alor's southwest coast, where we uncovered a treasure trove of artifacts and remains shedding light on the lives of our ancient ancestors. The excavation team, comprising Australian and Indonesian archaeologists, meticulously cataloged stone tools, shell implements, and remnants of marine life, indicating human occupation dating back an astounding 43,000 years.
This groundbreaking discovery not only extends the timeline of human presence on Alor but also underscores its pivotal role as a stepping stone for migration between neighboring islands. As sea levels fluctuated during the last ice age, Alor's inhabitants navigated a dynamic landscape, adapting their lifestyles to suit changing environmental conditions.
During the early habitation phase, spanning from 43,000 to 14,000 years ago, lower sea levels facilitated easier access to coastal resources, fostering a marine-centric diet supplemented by terrestrial flora and fauna. The connectivity between Alor and Pantar Island expanded, transforming the region into a sprawling mega-island and reshaping marine currents.
With the onset of the Pleistocene-Holocene transition around 14,000 years ago, rising sea levels brought Makpan closer to the coast, prompting a resurgence in marine resource utilization. The sheltered bay and surrounding waters teemed with an abundance of seafood, evidenced by dense midden deposits and sophisticated fishing technologies, including shell fishhooks and coral sinkers.
However, as sea levels continued to rise in the Early-Middle Holocene, the landscape underwent further transformation, leading to the eventual abandonment of Makpan approximately 7,000 years ago. The reasons behind this exodus remain shrouded in mystery, but it likely coincided with shifts in settlement patterns driven by environmental changes.
Despite the temporary abandonment, Makpan experienced a resurgence in the Neolithic era, around 3,500 years ago, marked by the introduction of pottery and domestic animals. This resurgence reflects the adaptability and ingenuity of early human communities, as they navigated the complexities of climate change and forged new paths forward.
In essence, the story of the first Alor people offers profound insights into our shared human journey, highlighting our capacity to thrive in the face of adversity through innovation, adaptation, and community resilience. As we continue to unravel the mysteries of our past, let us draw inspiration from the resilience of our ancestors, forging a path towards a more sustainable and harmonious future.
