Neanderthals (Homo neanderthalensis) were a distinct species of archaic humans who lived in Eurasia from approximately 400,000 to 40,000 years ago. They evolved in parallel to modern humans (Homo sapiens), diverging from a common ancestor between 700,000 and 300,000 years ago. Neanderthals were adapted to colder climates, possessing a robust build, large nose, and strong physique. Their remains are primarily found in Europe and parts of Western and Central Asia, with notable fossil discoveries in locations like the Neander Valley in Germany, where they were first recognized as a distinct species in 1856. Recent discoveries continue to refine our understanding of Neanderthal genetics and their place in human evolution.
Neanderthals are known for their sophisticated toolmaking abilities, including the Mousterian stone tool industry. They were skilled hunters of large animals, and there is evidence they controlled fire, built shelters, wore clothing, and occasionally created symbolic or ornamental objects. Recent findings suggest Neanderthals were the first to make fire. They also buried their dead, sometimes with offerings like flowers, demonstrating complex social and symbolic behaviors. Genetic studies reveal that Neanderthals interbred with modern humans, with most non-African modern humans carrying 1-4% Neanderthal DNA. Although Neanderthals went extinct around 40,000 years ago, their genetic legacy continues to influence modern human traits, such as skin color, immune system function, and susceptibility to certain diseases.
