Humans survived the Ice Age through a combination of biological evolution, cultural innovation, and adaptability to harsh environments:

• Evolutionary Adaptations : Human brains grew larger, and they developed upright walking, which enhanced their ability to plan and strategize for survival

• Food Strategies : Early humans foraged for nuts, berries, and edible plants, and importantly, they hunted migratory herds of animals, providing a reliable food source

• Shelter and Fire : They built shelters using natural materials like rock, wood, animal hides, and even mammoth bones to protect against cold and predators. Controlled use of fire provided warmth, light, a means to cook food, and deterrence against predators

• Clothing : Humans developed tailored clothing from animal skins, using tools like bone needles to sew layered garments that insulated against freezing temperatures. They also used plant fibers for thread and natural dyes

• Tool Innovation : Sophisticated tools such as stone knives, spears, harpoons, and chisels were created and improved, aiding in hunting, processing hides, and building shelters

• Language and Social Cooperation : Communication allowed sharing of critical survival knowledge about food sources, animal migrations, and dangers. It fostered social bonding and community formation, which improved survival chances in extreme conditions

• Geographical Distribution and Resilience : Contrary to earlier beliefs that humans retreated to warmer refuges, research shows humans remained spread across Europe during the Ice Age, similar to resilient animals like wolves and bears. Their cultural innovations and adaptability likely contributed to this resilience

• Genetic Contributions : Interbreeding with Neanderthals and Denisovans introduced genetic traits beneficial for immune function and skin adaptation, enhancing survival in cold climates

In summary, humans survived the Ice Age by evolving cognitively and physically, innovating culturally with tools, clothing, and fire, cooperating socially through language, and adapting ecologically to diverse and harsh environments. These factors combined allowed Homo sapiens not only to endure but to thrive during and after the Ice Age