Archaeology

Homer sapiensEnter Humans

Human Lineage (after dinosaurs)65 million yearsThe Primate ORDER, which includes prosimians, monkeys, apes, australopithecines and humans

30-20 million years prehistoric apes begin appearing in response to the changes in environment

Note what happens next is debated.

Human Lineage (after dinosaurs)10-20 million years Apes living in southern Africa spend more time on the ground due to receding forests

5-6 million yearsOne species of prehistoric ape started an evolutionary branch that led to all australopithecines and humans

Tracing Human Lineagesmaller brained upright walkerAustralopithecus africanus (southern ape of Africa)Estimated over 1 million years

Tracing Human Lineageheavyset human relative classified as Homo Erectus (human upright)Estimated at 0.5 million years old (relative dating)

The thing about datesRelative DatingItems found deeper in the ground are thought to be older

Absolute Dating 1950s (chronometric dating)

Measures the radioactive decay of potassium into argon gas in volcanic ash, surrounding a sample 9 Characteristics of HumansUpright Stance our branch developed this characteristic approx. 4.5 million years agoCaused a complete overhaul of our skeletonBeing on two feet freed our hands to make tools and brains to make culture

9 Characteristics of HumansSkull and Brain SizeBigger brains = bigger thoughts! The key to survival in an ever changing worldOur ancestors can now adapt much more quickly dont have to wait to evolve just put on a sweater!Brains reached approx. modern size around 150,000 ago

9 Characteristics of HumansFace and TeethFace and teeth shrank as new technology like tools and fire diminished our need for powerful jaws and sharp teethSmaller face and slender bones emerged 200,000 yrs. ago 9 Characteristics of HumansBody Hair Loss and Skin ColourIn hot dry climate swapped thick fur for dark skin and sweat glands 2 million years agoSweat keeps us cool and colour provides necessary sunscreenAs migration occurs away from equator skin becomes lighter to allow more sunlight in for vitamin D creation

9 Characteristics of HumansFeetLong narrow feet meant for lots of upright walkingSwollen heels with spongy tissue to absorb shock of walking and running3.5 million years ago

Discovered in 1976 by Mary Leaky in Laetoli, Africa

Evidence suggests a mother and child holding hands walking 9 Characteristics of HumansBurialOnly modern humans and Neanderthals buried their dead in graves100,000 years agoSuggests contemplation of deathNo ceremony with Neanderthals but humans often buried with grave goods like artifacts or ornaments

9 Characteristics of HumansArtAppeared suddenly approx. 40,000 years agoWall paintings, animal carvings, human figurines, neclacesSymbolic meanings suggest that complex language must have evolved at this time

Venus of Willendorf 27,000 yrs old 9 Characteristics of Humans

Lascaux Cave Paintings 17,000 years old 9 Characteristics of HumansNomadic Wandering

Wandering of Ancestors began as far backAs 1.8 million years ago

The map on the right showsHomo sapiens sapiens finalWave of migration replacingPrevious branches 9 Characteristics of HumansInnovative ThoughtAncestors have been using tools since hands were free Explosion of tool use began 50,000 years ago appearance of all kinds of specialized tools Materials varied (bone, stone, ivory)Hunting tools become sophisticatedNo more one-tool-does-it-all

Stay Tuned.Next Week: The Birth of Civilization, Archaeology Exercise, Writing and More