AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Humans first evolved in Africa, and much of human evolution occurred on that continent. The fossils of early humans who lived between 6 and 2 million years ago come entirely from Africa. Most scientists currently recognize some 15 to 20 different species of early humans.

Detailed explanation-2: -During a time of dramatic climate change 300, 000 years ago, Homo sapiens evolved in Africa.

Detailed explanation-3: -The idea that humans evolved in Africa can be traced to Charles Darwin. In his 1871 book The Descent of Man, Darwin speculated that it was “probable” that Africa was the cradle of humans because our two closest living relatives-chimpanzees and gorillas-live there.

Detailed explanation-4: -The fossil record of the first possible bipeds dates back over 6 Myr ago in Africa. By 4.2 Myr ago, there is definite evidence of bipedal hominins in Africa (Australopithecus anamensis). These early hominins walked upright (at least on the ground), had ape-sized brains and larger protruding faces and teeth.

Detailed explanation-5: -Herto man is proof that modern humans (Homo sapiens) lived in Africa at least 160, 000 years ago. And they seem to have stayed there for a long time. Though it is unclear when some modern humans first left Africa, evidence shows that these modern humans did not leave Africa until between 60, 000 and 90, 000 years ago.