Homo Neanderthalensis

Homo neanderthalensis, also known as Neanderthals, were a species of archaic humans that lived in Eurasia until about 40,000 years ago. They are our closest extinct human relatives, sharing a common ancestor with modern humans (Homo sapiens) around 500,000 years ago.

Physical Characteristics

• Neanderthals had a robust build, with a stocky and muscular physique adapted for cold climates.
• They had a prominent brow ridge, a large nose, and a distinctively shaped skull.
• Their brain size was similar to that of modern humans.

Lifestyle and Tools

Neanderthals were hunter-gatherers who lived in small family groups. They hunted large game such as mammoths and bison, and also gathered plants and other resources from their environment.

• They used stone tools, such as hand axes and spears, to hunt and process food.
• They lived in shelters, made clothing from animal skins, and used fire for warmth and cooking.

Culture and Symbolism

Recent evidence suggests that Neanderthals had complex cultural practices and symbolic behavior. They buried their dead and made decorative items such as jewelry from animal teeth and shells, indicating a capacity for symbolic thinking and expression.

Interaction with Modern Humans

There is evidence of limited interbreeding between Neanderthals and early modern humans when they coexisted in Eurasia. Modern humans of non-African descent carry a small percentage of Neanderthal DNA in their genomes, indicating interbreeding between the two species.

Study Guide

1. Describe the physical characteristics of Neanderthals and how they were adapted to their environment.
2. Explain the lifestyle and tools used by Neanderthals for hunting and gathering.
3. Discuss the evidence for complex cultural practices and symbolic behavior in Neanderthals.
4. Examine the interaction between Neanderthals and modern humans, including evidence of interbreeding.
5. Compare and contrast the similarities and differences between Neanderthals and modern humans.

Understanding the life and culture of Homo neanderthalensis provides valuable insights into human evolution and the diversity of our ancient relatives.