When and where is the oldest evidence of controlled fire by H. erectus found?

The oldest evidence of controlled fire by Homo erectus is indeed found in Wonderwerk Cave in South Africa, dating back to around 1 million years ago. This site is significant because it provides crucial archaeological evidence that Homo erectus not only used fire but did so in a controlled manner, which implies a level of cognitive sophistication and an understanding of fire's benefits, such as warmth, protection, and cooking food.

The context of Fire use is essential in the study of human evolution, as it played a pivotal role in the development of social structures, diet, and even migration patterns of early humans. Evidence from Wonderwerk Cave illustrates the earliest known instance of this control over fire, which is often seen as a landmark development in human survival and adaptation.

Understanding this site allows researchers to infer how fire might have influenced the behavior and lifestyle of early hominins, enabling them to survive in a range of environments and improve their quality of life through enhanced nutrition and social interactions.