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Ancient Rock Art Reveals Sahara's Lush Past

Newly discovered rock art in Sudan's Eastern Desert depicts a verdant Sahara, challenging current perceptions of the region.

  • Archaeologists uncover 16 new rock art sites in Sudan, dating back 4,000 years, featuring cattle and lush landscapes.
  • The artwork suggests the Sahara was once a grassy savannah, contradicting its present arid state.
  • Evidence from the art supports the 'African humid period' theory, indicating a wetter climate due to increased monsoon rains.
  • Following the humid period, drastic climate change led to the desertification of the Sahara around 3000 BCE.
  • The decline in rainfall had profound effects on local populations, shifting from cattle to smaller livestock due to survival needs.
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