The control of fire predates Homo sapiens and Neanderthals, as evidence suggests that earlier human ancestors, such as Homo erectus, were already using fire over a million years ago. However, Neanderthals are known to have utilized fire extensively. They were proficient fire users, often building hearths in caves and using fire for various purposes, including cooking, warmth, and protection. It is possible that early Homo sapiens populations learned from Neanderthals’ fire management techniques, as there is evidence of cultural exchange between the two groups.
A study found in a cave suggests that Neanderthals were able to control fire and use it for various purposes, including cooking and crafting tools[1][4]. However, there are also researchers who remain unconvinced and argue that Neanderthals may not have been able to start fires themselves, relying instead on capturing flames from natural wildfires[1][2][5]. The evidence regarding Neanderthals’ use of fire is still a subject of ongoing research and interpretation. Therefore, it is not definitively established whether Neanderthals learned to control fire before Homo sapiens.
Citations:
[1] https://www.bbcearth.com/news/did-neanderthals-learn-to-make-fire-before-us
[2] https://www.sapiens.org/archaeology/neanderthal-fire/
[3] https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/full/10.1086/692095
[4] https://www.chemistryworld.com/news/neanderthals-were-master-fire-starters-cave-chemistry-suggests/4010595.article
[5] https://www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2017/02/the-first-fire/515427/
