Stuff You Should Know Selects: What Happened to the Neanderthals?
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Sep 10, 2022 Explore the fascinating world of Neanderthals, revealing them as more than just primitive beings. Discover the misconceptions surrounding their extinction and the complex relationship they had with early humans. Delve into groundbreaking genetic research on Neanderthal ancestry and the intriguing theories behind their disappearance. From their advanced tool-making skills to cultural depictions in modern films, challenge the stereotypes and reimagine what it meant to be a Neanderthal in a humorous and enlightening discussion!
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Neanderthal Discovery
- The first Neanderthal fossils were discovered in 1829 in Belgium and 1848 in Gibraltar, but their significance wasn't initially recognized.
- More substantial fossils found in Germany in 1856 led to the identification of Neanderthals as a distinct human species.
Early Misconceptions
- The discovery of Neanderthals conflicted with the prevailing Christian creation story of the time.
- Racist scientific practices like phrenology further distorted the image of Neanderthals, portraying them as inferior.
Racist Science's Impact
- Phrenology, a racist practice, influenced early interpretations of Neanderthal skulls.
- This led to the long-held misconception of Neanderthals as dim-witted brutes.