Key Evidence Supporting a Wet and Humid Sahara:

 Yes, that's correct! During the Age of Leo (approximately 10,936 BCE), the Sahara was not the hot, arid desert we know today. Instead, it was part of what is referred to as the "Green Sahara" or the "African Humid Period".

Key Evidence Supporting a Wet and Humid Sahara:

1. Climate Conditions:

   • The Earth's orbital configurations during that time caused a stronger monsoon system in North Africa.
   • This resulted in increased rainfall, making the region lush and fertile.

2. Archaeological and Geological Evidence:

   • Fossilized remains of crocodiles, hippos, and fish have been found in areas of the Sahara that are now arid.
   • Cave and rock art discovered in the region depict animals such as giraffes, elephants, and antelope, indicating a savanna-like environment.

3. Lakes and Rivers:

   • The Sahara was dotted with massive lakes and rivers during this period. For example:
     • Lake Chad was much larger, extending into parts of present-day Libya and Niger.
     • Ancient river systems, such as the now-extinct Tamanrasset River, carried water across the region.

4. Human Habitation:

   • The wet Sahara supported early human populations, evidenced by the remains of settlements and tools.
   • These populations likely thrived on fishing, hunting, and early forms of agriculture.

Implications:

This shift from a lush, wet environment to the arid desert we see today was caused by gradual changes in Earth's orbital dynamics (precession) and the weakening of the African monsoon system around 6,000-5,000 years ago. The Age of Leo coincided with a pivotal time in Earth's history, where thriving ecosystems in the Sahara supported diverse life, including early humans.