Faded Jeans Living

* “This information was gathered from sources such as the Smithsonian Institution, National Geographic, Britannica, and Wikipedia. It is important to note that this is not intended to disrespect other beliefs on this topic.”

It’s believed that humans, Homo sapiens, emerged as a distinct species around 300,000 years ago. This is based on fossil evidence gathered from sites in Africa, particularly in Ethiopia and South Africa. Between 70,000 and 50,000 years ago, Homo sapiens began migrating out of Africa, eventually populating Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Americas.

How was their appearance different from ours?

They had a more robust build compared to us. Their brow ridges were more pronounced, and their faces appeared larger and more angular. The foreheads were more sloping, and their jaws were prominent, with less pronounced chins than ours. They also had larger teeth. These early humans were muscular, with long legs suitable for long-distance walking and running. Their bones were thicker and more durable, adapted to their physically demanding lifestyles. Males averaged a height of 5′6″ to 6′, while females ranged from 5′2″ to 5′6″.

What Else Was Different?

In terms of clothing, they wore garments made from animal skins and possibly wore necklaces made from bones or shells. Their tools were made from stone and wood, utilized primarily for hunting and gathering. Verbally, they communicated using a rudimentary form of language, possibly combining gestures with vocalizations.

What Type of Changes Took Place From Then to Today?

From up to only 10,000 years ago, they were foraging their food and then they started to cultivate crops and domesticate animals leading to an agriculture society. This led to individuals specializing in various trades.

Hunter-gatherers lived in small tribes, where the new agricultural societies lead to forming larger communities with broader rules.

Stages of Human Development

• Agricultural Societies (10,000 BCE): This period marked population growth and the development of villages and towns.
• Early Civilizations (circa 3,500 BCE): Complex societies, dynasties, and established religions emerged.
• Classical Societies (circa 500 BCE – 500 CE): This era saw the expansion of empires, cultural exchange, and advancements in arts, science, and philosophy.
• Medieval Societies (circa 500 – 1500 CE): Feudalism and structured societies based around land ownership became prevalent, along with the early emergence of the merchant class and the printing press.
• Renaissance and Enlightenment (circa 1300 – 1800 CE): A rebirth of arts and sciences occurred, characterized by explorations and a challenge to traditional authority, as well as the rise of individualism and political revolutions.
• Industrial Societies (circa 1760 – 1840 CE): This period signified a shift from agricultural societies to industrial production, leading to urbanization, factory work, and changes in family structures where men often worked outside the home. It also marked the beginning of capitalism.
• Modern Societies (20th Century – Present): We are now witnessing globalization, advanced technology, and interconnected economies with an increased focus on services and information.

So that little image there just fascinates me! For approximately 290,000 years we were hunter and gatherers. There is research that indicates that these early experiences have left psychological and behavioral remnants that influence our perceptions of threats in modern society, often exaggerating them to a degree that doesn’t align with actual risks. Additionally, there is this notion that we have become so removed from nature that it has heightened our anxiety and stress.

That 290,000 years is literally wild. It’s impossible not to be influenced by such a long history of living. In many ways, it brings me comfort, reminding me to be gentle with myself when my mind tends to freak!

Just imagine sitting across from a relative from 300,000 years ago and gazing into each other’s eyes. Our journey as a species is incredible! Life is certainly a trip.

Peace,

Dwight

Oh yeah, I almost forgot about T.Rex. If you’re impressed with our 300,000 year existence just remember the Tyrannosaurs rex is estimated to have existed for about 2 million years from 68 to 66 million years ago!