What did Leakey find in Olduvai Gorge? The discoveries made by Mary and Louis Leakey at this iconic site transformed our understanding of human evolution. Their findings included fossils of early hominins and ancient stone tools that provided insights into the lives of our ancestors.

Mary Leakey’s 1959 discovery of Paranthropus boisei was a groundbreaking moment. This robust hominin species, dating back 1.8 million years, demonstrated the diversity of early human relatives. In 1960, the Leakeys unearthed Homo habilis, an early member of the human genus known for its association with tool use. Nicknamed “Handy Man,” Homo habilis revealed early cognitive abilities and adaptation to changing environments.

The Leakeys also uncovered numerous Oldowan tools, some of the earliest evidence of human technology. These discoveries positioned Olduvai Gorge as one of the most important paleoanthropological sites in the world.

Curious about the age of the oldest human remains? Read: How Old Are The Oldest Human Remains In Olduvai Gorge?