Part 2/7:

Mining is woven into the fabric of human history, driving civilizations forward throughout the ages. From the Neanderthals of Paleolithic Europe, who sought flint for weaponry, to the early Mesoamerican societies mining obsidian, and the ancient Egyptians dazzling their kings with gold, the quest for materials—both essential and precious—has spurred progress.

Historically, the pursuit of valuable resources came with immense challenges. Early miners had to navigate difficult terrain and often relied on rudimentary tools, such as hammers and chisels. However, the quest for efficient techniques led to several groundbreaking innovations, ranging from fire-setting, which utilized thermal shock to crack rocks, to water-powered tools that allowed for deeper mining.