Question

Compare what scientists have discovered and/or inferred regarding the distinctive biological and cultural attributes and probable lifeways of Neanderthals and of early modern Homo sapiens when the two kinds of hominin cohabited Europe (around 40-45,000 years ago).

Please answer with atleast one paragraph.

Thanks!

Answer 1

Biological and cultural attributes and probable life style of Neanderthal and early Homo sapiens:

• As per the discoveries of several fossils, remains and skeletons, the evolution of modern Homo sapiens has been related to the Neanderthal. Researchers consider both as closest related cousins in terms of human evolution having 99.5% similar DNA match.
• It has been suggested that, Neanderthal dominated Europe (having originated and migrated from Africa), around 60,000 years ago. Around 40,000 to 45,000years ago, Homo sapiens evolved and co-existed with the Neanderthals.
• Researchers believe, that during that period of their, co-existence, they interacted and shared many similarities in terms of anatomical, physiological and intellectual features.
• However, eventually the Homo sapiens underwent several bottlenecks and evolved for better survival and outcompeted the Neanderthal.
• The biological attributes of Neanderthal compared to early Homo sapiens include:

1. Stocky torso, compact body, short limbs (especially short legs and forearms).

2. Distinctive facial structures, like protrusion of middle face, teeth set forward, enlarged cheek bones, broad nasal passages.

3. Larger boned, with heavily muscled body.

4. The skull was elongated and larger, having prominent bulge or projection called occipital bun.

5. Brain size were almost same.

• The cultural attributes and probable lifestyles of Neanderthal compared to early Homo sapiens include:

1. The researchers indicate that in both Neanderthal and early Homo sapiens, though cognitive abilities, manipulative skills may have developed, but speech may not have developed. Most communication were symbolic.

2. Food habits were omnivorous, stone tools indicated hunting.

3. Evidence suggest interbreeding between Neanderthal and early Homo sapiens.

4. In case of Homo sapiens, there existed some division of labor. Women, pregnant women and young children were not given strenuous or work ad they mostly indulged in work like gathering of fruits, nuts and vegetables, while the men went for hunting. Thus, occasional loss of men during risky jobs, would not limit the population growth and survival rates of children.

Where as in case of Neanderthal, both men and women indulged in hazardous jobs, restraining population growth.

5. Neanderthal habitat sites were proposed to be in warmer areas compared to early Homo sapiens, which made them less adaptive and vulnerable to colder climate. Thus, when there was a drastic drop in climatic condition, it was harsher for the Neanderthals to adjust and thrive.