Neandertals

Neandertals, scientifically known as Homo neanderthalensis, were an extinct species of archaic humans who lived in Eurasia from approximately 400,000 to 40,000 years ago. They are closely related to modern humans, with genetic studies indicating that non-African human populations share between 1% and 4% of their DNA with Neandertals, suggesting interbreeding occurred.

Fossil evidence shows Neandertals were robustly built with a distinctive cranial morphology, including a prominent brow ridge, a receding chin, and a large nose. Their average height was slightly shorter than that of modern humans, but they were more muscular. They inhabited a wide range of environments across Europe and Western Asia, adapting to cold climates.

Neandertals were skilled hunters and toolmakers, creating sophisticated stone tools known as Mousterian implements. Evidence also suggests they possessed the ability to control fire, use symbolic objects, and likely had some form of language. There are indications of burial practices, which could imply a degree of ritualistic behavior or social complexity.

The reasons for Neandertal extinction are still debated among scientists. Theories include competition with anatomically modern humans, climate change, disease, or a combination of these factors. Their disappearance marks a significant event in human evolution, paving the way for the dominance of Homo sapiens.