Homo erectus
Homo erectus, meaning "upright man" in Latin, is an extinct species of archaic human that lived throughout most of the Pleistocene geological epoch. Here are detailed insights into this fascinating species:
Discovery and Naming
- Eugène Dubois discovered the first Homo erectus fossil in 1891 in Java, Indonesia, which he initially named Pithecanthropus erectus. This fossil consisted of a skullcap, a thigh bone, and some teeth.
- In 1950, Ernst Mayr reclassified this species under the genus Homo to reflect its closer relationship to modern humans.
Physical Characteristics
- Homo erectus had a more robust build compared to earlier hominins, with a larger brain size ranging from 750 to 1225 cubic centimeters.
- They exhibited a pronounced brow ridge, a long, low skull, and a more vertical forehead than their predecessors.
- Body size was variable, but generally taller than earlier hominins, with some individuals reaching up to 6 feet in height.
Geographical Distribution
- This species was widespread, with fossils found from Africa to Java and Georgia, indicating a significant migration out of Africa around 1.9 million years ago.
- Evidence suggests that Homo erectus adapted to various environments, from savannahs to temperate forests.
Behavior and Culture
- They were the first known hominins to use fire for cooking, warmth, and protection, as evidenced by burnt bones and charred wood at several sites.
- Stone tool technology, known as the Acheulean Industry, was advanced during their time, featuring hand axes and cleavers.
- There is evidence of more complex social structures and possibly rudimentary language.
Extinction and Legacy
References
Related Topics