Human Origins 101 | National Geographic


Summary

Human evolution traces back about seven million years, with over 20 early human species showing key characteristics like large brains, tool use, and bipedality. Australopithecines, the earliest relatives of humanity, shared common ancestors and exhibited human-like traits but were not primarily hunters. The earliest Homo species further developed cranial capacity and sophisticated stone tool technology, leading to significant physical and behavioral adaptations.


Introduction to Human Evolution

The story of humanity's evolution began about seven million years ago with over 20 early human species or hominins exhibiting various characteristics like large brains, small teeth, bipedality, and tool use.

Humanity's Earliest Relatives

Humanity's earliest relatives, such as australopithecines, shared a common ancestor, showing human-like characteristics and not primarily used for hunting or fighting.

Australopithecines

Australopithecines were early hominins across the African continent with some ape-like traits that indicated a shift towards very human-like traits.

Homo Species

The earliest Homo species, contemporary with some australopithecines, had a growing cranial capacity and developed sophisticated stone tool technology, leading to physical and behavioral adaptations.

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