Human Origins in Africa Chapter 1.1

I will be able to: Describe key scientific findings about human origins List human achievements during the Stone Age Describe the emergence of modern humans

Archeologists at Work Records cover only the last 5,000 years or so of human life on earth. Archaeologists use special skills and tools to piece together things older than that

Artifacts vs Fossils Artifacts: Tools, jewelry, or other objects modified by human hands. Fossils: Bones preserved in stone

Out of Africa Evidence shows that the first hominids originated in Africa more than 3 million years ago. Mary Leakey found the footprints of humanlike beings in the region of Laetoli

“Lucy” In 1974, Donald Johanson discovered the nearly-complete skeleton of Australopithecus Afarensis, which he nicknamed "Lucy" Lucy walked upright, had an opposable thumb and was dated back to 3.5 million years BCE

The Amazing Opposable Thumb! Early hominids walked upright Could travel long distances Used free arms to carry food, tools, and children. Could move thumbs across the palms of their hands and touch other fingers.

Homo habilis The name means “man of skill.” First to make stone tools Lived about 2.5 million years ago.

Homo erectus, About 1.6 million years ago More intelligent, sophisticated tools First to use of fire Migrated out of Africa

Control over their Environment The invention of tools Mastery over fire Development of language

Homo Sapiens Homo sapien (wise man) is the name given to modern humans. Had the same physical build as homo erectus except for a larger brain.

Neanderthal Man The first modern humans, bigger and more powerful Resourceful hunters Had religious beliefs (ritual burials) Vanished about 20,000 years ago                

Cro-Magnons Emerge Competed with Neanderthals for land and food Had more skill at speaking; could plan large scale hunts – reason for survival? Developed art

The Fossil Record Scientists have only a vague picture of the origin of humans. More discoveries may lead to new ideas about early humans. What is clear is that humans had skills that helped them adapt to and survive in different lands and climates.