Question

Write notes on the origin and evolution of man.

Answer 1

Study of the origin of human beings is called human evolution. Through the study of fossils and other proofs, it is said that the human species have originated in Africa and spread to different parts of the world.

Complete answer:

Parapithecus: It is an Oligocene fossil obtained from Fayum province in Egypt. The animal fossil is of the size of a squirrel and was adapted to running and leaping. It is found to be the ancestors of old world monkeys.

Aegyptopithecus:- It is found to be the predecessor of Dryopithecus. It was a canopy dweller and body with tail.

Dryopithecus:- these fossils proved that it is a common ancestor of humans and apes and had semi-erect postures with same sized hind limbs and forelimbs. They have monkeys- like hands and skulls whereas the forehead was like humans.

Ramapithecus:- Ramapithecus is the earliest man like primates who walked on legs. Fossils of Ramapithecus were reported from Africa, Hungary, Greece.

Australopithecus:- fossils were obtained from Australia. They were more human-like than ape-like. Cranial capacity was 400-600 cubic cm. Head size was larger compared to the rest of the body. They have arched feet indicating bipedalism and running.

Homo habilis: These are known as early true men who had perfect bipedal locomotion, with approximately 150 cm height and 40 to 50 kg of weight. Their cranial capacity was 680 cc. They used stone tools.

Homo erectus: These are the First hominids who moved out of Africa. They showed a prognathous face with prominent eyebrow ridges., a massive jaw, and large teeth.

Homo sapiens:- It is a modern man. They evolved into subspecies as Neanderthal man, Cromagnon, and modern man. Modern man evolved around 25000 years ago. They moved to different parts of the world about 10000 years ago. They have undergone cultural evolution.

Note: Human evolution has been studied so for through obtained fossil records, and through similar and dissimilar morphological, physiological and embryological characteristics studies.