Human Origins & Evolution

Flashcards covering key terms related to human origins and evolution, including hominin characteristics and different Homo species.

Hominin

A group of primates characterized by bipedalism.

Bipedalism

The defining characteristic that makes a primate a hominin, involving walking on two feet.

Australopithecus afarensis

An early hominin species characterized by an average brain size of 500cc, adaptations for bipedalism (pelvis, skull location, big toe), and longer arms relative to legs.

Homo habilis

An early Homo species characterized by an average brain size of 650cc, small body size, and associated with Oldowan tools.

Oldowan

A tool industry associated with Homo habilis, characterized by simple stone tools.

Homo erectus

A Homo species characterized by an average brain size of 900cc, more modern body proportions, use of Acheulean tools (handaxes), and association with the use of fire.

Acheulean

A tool industry associated with Homo erectus, known for more complex tools like handaxes.

Fire

A significant advancement used by Homo erectus for warmth, cooking, and protection.

mya

Abbreviation for million years ago.

ya

Abbreviation for years ago.

Neandertals

A species of hominins characterized by an average brain size of 1400cc.