Stratigraphic, paleoclimatic and paleo-environmental studies of the Tertiary-Quaterny deposits of the Olduvai Gorg, Laetolil en Kilimandjaro areas, Tanzania

Numerical datings are requisite for correlation of Quaternary continental deposits with the astronomical quaternary curve, which already provides the principle for the interpretation of deep-sea sediments. In principle least this allows the establishment of a precise time-scale of human, climatic, and landscape forms evolution. In selected cases these informations are provided by the K-Ar method of datation, with important conclusions. This study is aimed at providing further informations on the palaeo-environmental (including paleoclimatic) evolution of the Upper Tertiary and Quaternary fossiliferons seqences of the Olduvai Gorge and Laetolil localities, which are among the important prehistoric sites in the world. The contineous continental sedimentary sequences observed in this area provide an exceptional opportunity for such reconstruction, which can also be related to the main steps of Hominid evolution. Attempts at palaeo-soils interpretation and careful sedimentologic study will provide the base for climatic reconstruction. In addition, the chronostratigraphic frame for these observations and interpretations will be provided by additional lithostratigraphic, magnetostratigraphic studies and Ar-Ar geochronology.