The human evolution began approximately 15 million years ago when humans walked on the surface of the Earth. Modern humans developed through multiple stages.
The primates have gone extinct for hundreds and thousands of years. The evolution process from the primates who used to walk to four limbs to the modern human who walks on two legs has taken a very long time.
Stages of Human Evolution
The modern human genus is known as Homo and modern humans are called Homo Sapiens. The simple life forms that were unicellular in nature gave birth to modern human beings with complicated multi-cellular organisms.
The evolution of vertebrates is the primary factor in development of the mammals. If we look closely into mammals, we will realize that humans are related closely to the primates such as orangutans.
The modern human beings come from the Hominidae family. During the Miocene age, the family group was split up from the Pongidac family.
Dryopethicus was the first member of Human Evolution and many scientists believe that they are the common ancestor of both apes and man.
Dryopethicus
Dryopethicus is the earliest known ancestor of humans. During their time of existence, there was another species known as Ramapethicus which was much more human-like than that of Dryopethicus.
Dryopethicus ruled throughout Europe and resided there as well as in a few locations in Africa and Asia. Human evolution started with him. After Ramapethicus and Dryopethicus, Australopithecus started emerging which continued to the Homo genus.
Australopithecus
The Australopithecus Ramidus species was 1.2 meters tall. Scientists found the fossils and stated that they had large foramen magnum, indicating that they used to walk upright. Unlike the earlier ape-like ancestors, their forelimbs were different. They also had teeth like humans.
Coming second is Australopithecus Afarensis. The famous fossil named “Lucy” belonged to this specific species. The Australopithecus Afarensis species are believed to inhabit the African mainland.
Unlike the Australopithecus Ramidus, they had a shorter height as well as a small skull with no chin and a flat nose.
Even though they used to walk on two legs, their legs were slightly bowed, indicating that they used to walk slightly ape-like.
The fingers, legs, and toes helped them climb trees effectively and live there. They had bigger jaws and teeth.
Australopithecus Robustus species was taller than their predecessors but still used to walk ape-like. They were also bigger and had more weight. They also inhabited the African and European mainland.
Homo
Homo Habilis had a face similar to their ancestors. The size of their brain and skull indicated that they could speak. The earliest tools in human evolution were discovered in this era.
The term “Handy Man” refers to Homo habilis, which was the first species to develop and use tools. They were 5 feet tall and erect.
After Homo Habilis, Homo Erectus came, who also had upright walking traits. Their face was smaller but longer with absent shin, prominent speech, and a larger brain size.
Apart from crafting and using tools, they also discovered fire and took control of its power. This species was carnivorous.
Final Thoughts
These are the stages of human evolution you need to know. If you have any other questions, make sure you let us know in the comment section below.
