During the last glacial period, and until about 10,000 BC, most of Ireland was periodically covered in ice. Sea levels were lower and Ireland, like Great Britain, formed part of continental Europe. By 16,000 BC, rising sea levels caused by ice melting caused Ireland to become separated from Great Britain.[16] Later, around 6000 BC, Great Britain became separated from continental Europe.[17] The earliest evidence of human presence in Ireland is dated at 10,500 BC, demonstrated by a butchered bear bone found in a cave in County Clare.[14] By about 8000 BC, more sustained occupation of the island has been shown, with evidence for Mesolithic communities around the island.[18]
During the last glacial period, and until about 10,000 BC, most of Ireland was periodically covered in ice. Sea levels were lower and Ireland, like Great Britain, formed part of continental Europe. By 16,000 BC, rising sea levels caused by ice melting caused Ireland to become separated from Great Britain.[16] Later, around 6000 BC, Great Britain became separated from continental Europe.[17] The earliest evidence of human presence in Ireland is dated at 10,500 BC, demonstrated by a butchered bear bone found in a cave in County Clare.[14] By about 8000 BC, more sustained occupation of the island has been shown, with evidence for Mesolithic communities around the island.[18]