1.9 million years ago

Definition

1.9 million years ago marks a significant point in the timeline of human evolution, particularly associated with the emergence of Homo erectus. This period is crucial because it reflects the transition of early hominins into a more modern form, showcasing anatomical changes that allowed for better adaptation to various environments and a broader geographic distribution.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Homo erectus is often considered the first hominin to exhibit behaviors similar to modern humans, including the use of tools and possibly fire.
2. This species had a smaller brow ridge and a more elongated limb proportion compared to earlier hominins, indicating better adaptation for long-distance walking and running.
3. 1.9 million years ago is also around the time when evidence of early stone tool technology, such as the Acheulean hand axe, became widespread.
4. Fossils of Homo erectus have been found across Africa, Asia, and Europe, highlighting its ability to adapt to diverse environments.
5. The spread of Homo erectus is believed to have laid the groundwork for later hominin migrations and the eventual emergence of modern humans.

Review Questions

• How did the physical characteristics of Homo erectus contribute to its survival and adaptation during the period around 1.9 million years ago?
  • The physical characteristics of Homo erectus, including a more modern body structure with longer legs and shorter arms, facilitated bipedalism and long-distance travel. This adaptation was crucial for survival as it allowed them to exploit diverse environments for food and resources. Additionally, their larger brain size suggests cognitive advancements that would have supported complex social behaviors and problem-solving skills essential for thriving in varying habitats.
• Discuss the significance of tool development during the time of Homo erectus and how it relates to their geographic distribution.
  • The development of tools during the time of Homo erectus was vital for their survival and played a key role in their geographic distribution. The Acheulean tools enabled them to process food more efficiently, hunt larger animals, and build shelters. This technological advancement likely supported their migration out of Africa into new territories across Asia and Europe, as they could adapt to different environments by utilizing tools tailored to local resources.
• Evaluate the impact of climatic changes during the Pleistocene Epoch on the dispersal patterns of Homo erectus around 1.9 million years ago.
  • Climatic changes during the Pleistocene Epoch significantly influenced the dispersal patterns of Homo erectus. The alternation between glacial and interglacial periods created varied landscapes and ecological niches that prompted migration. As environments shifted, some populations may have followed animal herds or moved to more hospitable areas, facilitating the spread of Homo erectus across continents. This adaptability to climate fluctuations likely laid important foundations for later hominin migrations and adaptations.

Related terms

Homo erectus: An extinct species of hominin that lived from about 1.9 million years ago until as recently as 110,000 years ago, characterized by an upright posture and increased brain size.

Pleistocene Epoch: A geological epoch that lasted from about 2.6 million to 11,700 years ago, marked by repeated glacial cycles and significant changes in climate and habitat.

Migration: The movement of Homo erectus out of Africa into various parts of Asia and Europe, representing one of the first major expansions of hominins into new territories.