Researchers Thought Competition Drove Neanderthals To Extinction—But Genetic Evidence Now Shows Some Survived And Interbred With Humans
From Myths To Understanding
For many years, people held on to myths and suppositions about the Neanderthals. However, recent findings have unearthed the truth about our ancient relatives.
Discovering The Neanderthals
In 1856, some fossils were found in Germany's Neander Valley. At first, people believed these bones belonged to a physically challenged contemporary human. However, further discoveries started to shape the Neanderthal narrative.
Physical Attributes
Neanderthals had strong, muscular bodies ideal for surviving in frigid settings. Unlike the slimmer forms of modern people, their heavy-set, stocky bodies were designed to retain heat.
They also possessed a body type that would put today’s bodybuilders to shame.
Brain Size And Structure
Neanderthals' brains were likely larger than ours. But, intelligence is not just determined by brain size; it is also caused by the organization and structure of the brain. Their brains were tuned for functions like vision and motor control.
Neanderthal-Museum, Mettmann, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Postcranial Features
Their bones, too, were thicker and stronger to adapt to their physically demanding lifestyle. Living in adverse conditions would have been deadly without these features.
If Neanderthals were around today, they’d probably be the ones showing off their biceps at the gym.
