Final answer:
Early humans demonstrated attempts to gain control over nature through cultivation, use and control of fire, and adapting to harsh environmental conditions for survival, which marked significant milestones in human progress.
Step-by-step explanation:
Early human attempts to gain control over nature are some of the most fascinating aspects of our ancestors' innovative behaviors. Historical examples of these attempts include the cultivation of plants, the discovery and harnessing of fire, and the adaptation to environmental challenges for survival and development.
The concept of cultivation signifies a pivotal moment where early humans began planting and growing their food sources rather than depending solely upon foraging. This proactive cultivation is considered one of the earliest forms of humans exerting control over the natural environment. Additionally, the mastery over fire was another revolutionary step, allowing humans to cook food, provide warmth, and protect themselves from predators, further evidencing their capacity to manipulate nature for their benefit. These innovations demonstrated a fundamental shift in how humans interacted with their surroundings, transitioning from passive inhabitants to active shapers of their environment.
Ultimately, these practices led to changes in social organization, settlement patterns, and resource management, which have influenced the direction of human progress. Adapting to the climatic conditions of an ice age, early humans formed tighter social bonds within their communities, leading to more significant collaboration and eventually setting the stage for the development of societies and cultures.