STAGES OF HUMAN

EVOLUTION

Dryopithecus
Dryopithecus, an extinct primate from the
Miocene epoch (8 to 20 million years ago).
Dryopithecus was approximately the size of
modern chimpanzees, with an estimated body size
of around 3 to 4 feet (about 1 to 1.2 meters) in
height. It exhibited a blend of ape-like and
primitive human-like characteristics. With a
primarily quadrupedal mode of locomotion, it
occasionally walked upright. Dryopithecus
possessed a robust body, with a mix of features
resembling both apes and early hominids.
Homo Habilis
Homo habilis was an early hominin species that
lived around 2.4 to 1.4 million years ago in the
Early Pleistocene epoch. Discovered by the
Leakeys in Tanzania during the 1960s, Homo
habilis exhibited a smaller brain size (around 600-
750 cubic centimeters) compared to modern
humans but had more human-like body
proportions, likely walking upright. They were
known for their tool-making skills, which earned
them the nickname “handy man.” This tool use
contributed to their diverse diet, including both
plant material and meat, possibly through
scavenging and butchering. Homo habilis is a
significant species in human evolution,
representing a crucial transition toward more
human-like traits and behaviors.
Homo Sapiens
Homo sapiens, or modern humans, are the only
surviving species of the genus Homo. They
emerged in Africa around 300,000 years ago and
have since spread across the globe, becoming the
dominant species on Earth. With their unique
physical characteristics, high intelligence, and
complex social structures, Homo sapiens have
developed advanced cognitive abilities, cultural
practices, and technological advancements that
have shaped their history and allowed them to
adapt and thrive in diverse environments.
Homo Erectus
Homo erectus, meaning “upright man,” is an
extinct species of early humans that lived from
approximately 1.9 million to 143,000 years ago.
They were the first human ancestors to have a
modern human-like body structure, with a larger
brain size and a more efficient bipedal
locomotion. Homo erectus had a wide
geographical distribution, with fossils found in
Africa, Asia, and Europe. They were skilled
toolmakers, using stone tools for various
purposes, and were likely the first humans to
control and use fire. Homo erectus played a
significant role in human evolution, as they were
able to adapt to different environments and
demonstrate advanced cognitive abilities, paving
the way for future human species.
Homo Sapiens Fossils
Homo sapiens fossils are crucial archaeological
discoveries that reveal the evolutionary history of
modern humans. The oldest known fossils of
Homo sapiens date back to approximately
300,000 years ago and were found in Africa,
suggesting that our species originated on this
continent. Over time, early Homo sapiens
migrated out of Africa and settled in various parts
of the world, leaving behind a trail of fossils that
help trace their dispersal routes. These fossils,
along with associated artifacts and tools, provide
valuable insights into our species’ development,
adaptation to different environments, and the
emergence of complex cultures. They serve as
windows into the past, offering glimpses into the
origins and evolution of Homo sapiens on a global
scale.
Ramapithecus
Ramapithecus is an extinct hominoid species that
lived approximately 10 to 14 million years ago
during the Miocene epoch. It was once considered
a potential ancestor of modern humans due to its
dental and cranial similarities. However, the
classification and evolutionary significance of
Ramapithecus have been a subject of debate in
the field of paleoanthropology.
Australopithecus

Australopithecus was a genus of hominins that

lived between approximately 4.2 million and 2
million years ago. They were bipedal and had a
mixture of ape-like and human-like features. The
height of Australopithecus individuals is estimated
to have ranged from about 3.5 to 4.5 feet (1.1 to
1.4 meters), with some variation between species
and individuals.
Homo Sapiens Sapiens

Homo sapiens sapiens, commonly known as

modern humans, typically have an average height
ranging from 5 feet 4 inches (162.6 cm) to 6 feet
(183 cm) for adults, with variations across
populations. These humans are characterized by
their advanced cognitive abilities, complex
societies, and distinctive physical features,
including a high forehead, chin, and relatively
small teeth compared to earlier hominid species.