Homo habilis or the “handy man” is an extinct species of human that lived around 2.8 to 1.5 million years ago in East Africa. It was the first of the hominin species to use stone tools, hence its nickname “handyman”. It was also the first member of the human lineage. The discovery of Homo habilis was significant in the study of human evolution as it provided the link between the australopithecines and the Homo genus.

Discovery and Naming

Homo habilis was first discovered in 1960 by Louis and Mary Leakey at Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania. They found several fossils of a new species different from the australopithecines. The fossils consisted mainly of a partial cranium, teeth and limb bones. The skull was found to be more advanced than the australopithecine skull.

Due to these differences, the Leakeys named the new species Homo habilis, which means “handy man” in Latin. This was because of the discovery of the first stone tools found in the area, believed to have been created by Homo habilis.

Physical Characteristics

Homo habilis stood at an average height of 4 feet 5 inches (1.35 meters) tall and weighed around 70 pounds (32 kilograms). They had a slightly larger brain compared to the australopithecines, averaging around 500 to 800 cubic centimeters. Their faces were less prognathic or protruding, their brows less prominent and their teeth smaller.

Their physical characteristics suggest that Homo habilis was bipedal, which means they walked on two legs. They also had longer legs, which allowed them to walk further distances.

Tool-Making Ability

Homo habilis’ ability to make tools was significant in the study of human evolution. Their tool-making shows that they were capable of intentional behavior and the ability to plan ahead.

Their stone tools were mostly made from volcanic rock and were simple compared to modern tools. The tools consisted of sharp flakes, choppers, and scrapers, used for cutting, slicing and chopping meat and plant materials. Stone tools were essential for Homo habilis as it improved their chances of survival by allowing them to access more food resources.

Overall Impact

The discovery of Homo habilis was crucial in the scientific community, as it provided the link between the australopithecines and the Homo genus. This allowed scientists to understand the evolution of hominids better. Furthermore, the discovery of stone tools showed that Homo habilis was capable of intentional behavior and was a significant milestone in human evolution.

Homo habilis also paved the way for the emergence of other Homo species, such as Homo erectus, Homo heidelbergensis, and ultimately Homo sapiens.

In conclusion, Homo habilis was an important evolutionary step in the human lineage. Their tool-making ability and physical characteristics were significant contributions to human evolution. Their discovery enabled scientists to understand the link between the australopithecines and the Homo genus, paving the way for further discoveries in human evolution.

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