Homo neanderthalensis

Homo neanderthalensis was an exclusively European hominin that developed from Homo heidelbergensis gradually between ~400,000-300,000 years ago. It dominated the continent until modern Homo sapiens arrived, at which point they went into decline and eventually became extinct ~30,000 years ago.

Biology

• When compared to Homo sapiens they had differently shaped and organised brains.

Evolution

• Prior to their final extinction, the last neanderthals may or may not have lived near the Arctic.

Technology

• They used red ochre as early as 200,000 years ago. This was traded from far away but might not have been used for art.

Behaviour

• They lived in fission-fusion societies so a single population can search a wider area for food.
• They buried their dead, which is a sign they likely had spiritual beliefs.
• They were caring individuals who looked after their old and injured.