Life began in the oceans around 3.5 billion years ago as simple, single-celled organisms. Over time, some of these evolved into more complex life forms, eventually leading to early mammals.
2. Early Primates:
About 60 million years ago, the first primates appeared. They were small, tree-dwelling creatures with grasping hands and forward-facing eyes — traits that helped them survive in forests.
3. The Great Apes:
Around 14-7 million years ago, a group of primates split into different evolutionary branches. One branch led to chimpanzees and bonobos, our closest living relatives, while the other led to early humans — the hominins.
4. Australopithecus (4-2 million years ago):
One of the earliest human-like species, Australopithecus walked on two legs (bipedalism) but still had a small brain and ape-like features. "Lucy," a famous fossil from this species, showed that walking upright came before larger brains.
5. Homo habilis (2.4-1.4 million years ago):
Known as the "handy man," Homo habilis used simple stone tools. They had larger brains than Australopithecus and a more human-like face, marking the start of tool-based survival.
6. Homo erectus (1.9 million - 110,000 years ago):
This species spread out of Africa into Asia and Europe. They were taller, had bigger brains, and mastered fire — a huge leap for cooking food, staying warm, and defending against predators.
7. Neanderthals and Other Cousins:
Several human species lived alongside Homo erectus, including Homo neanderthalensis (Neanderthals) in Europe. They were strong, intelligent, and even buried their dead — suggesting a form of culture and belief.
8. Homo sapiens (300,000 years ago - present):
Modern humans evolved in Africa. We developed advanced tools, art, language, and complex societies. Our ability to cooperate in large groups and adapt to different environments helped us outlast other human species.
9. Interbreeding:
DNA evidence shows that early Homo sapiens interbred with Neanderthals and another group, Denisovans, meaning some people today still carry small traces of their genes.
10. Ongoing Evolution:
Humans are still evolving — though now, it’s shaped by technology and environment too. Traits like lactose tolerance, disease resistance, and even brain structures continue to adapt.
The Evolution Of Man(With Biology Perspective )