Paleoanthropology

Paleoanthropology is the branch of physical anthropology that focuses on the study of human evolution, tracing the anatomic and genetic linkages of pre-humans from millions of years ago, up to modern times. Based on recent data and predictions on human gene mutation rates, it is believed currently that hominids (pre-humans) split off from the lineage of the common ancestors to humans and the great apes about 6 million years ago.

Related Topics:
Physical anthropology - Human evolution

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The Science of Paleoanthropology arguably began in the late 1800s. These were important discoveries which began the study of human evolution. The discovery of the Neanderthal in Germany, Thomas Huxley Evidence as to Man's Place in Nature and Charles Darwin The Descent of Man where all important to early paleoanthropological research.

Related Topics:
Neanderthal - Thomas Huxley - Evidence as to Man's Place in Nature - Charles Darwin - The Descent of Man

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