The axe is one of the oldest tools used by mankind. The oldest axes were hand axes used by Homo ergaster as far back as 1.6 million years ago.

The hand axe was a pear-shaped and roughly chipped stone tool brought to an even point, with a broad handle. The hand axe was probably used for many different tasks, everything from butchering animals to digging up tubers.

Much later, the axe was given a wooden handle and several different types of axes were developed which can be divided into two main groups: Non-shaft-hole axes and shaft-hole axes.

The axe is an example of a simple machine, as it is a type of wedge, or dual inclined plane. This reduces the effort needed by the chopper. 

It is an implement that has been used for millennia to shape, split and cut wood, to harvest timber, as a weapon, and as a ceremonial heraldic symbol.

Whether made from stone, bronze, copper or iron, it has remained one of the most widely used tools for cutting down trees right into modern times.

Source: https://www.gransforsbruk.com/en/axe-knowledge/the-history-of-the-axe/