Neanderthal Basics and Misconceptions

The term Neanderthal originates from the Neander Valley in Germany, where the first Neanderthal skull was discovered in 1856. Neanderthals were once classified as a separate species from Homo sapiens, despite sharing a common ancestor over half a million years ago. They adapted to colder climates while Homo sapiens thrived in Africa, eventually coexisting before Neanderthals disappeared approximately 30,000 to 40,000 years ago. Understanding this history helps clarify the misconceptions surrounding Neanderthals, particularly their portrayal in media and culture.