Jan
02

Thousands of species of birds have flown the sky; how many species of humans have walked the Earth?

Australopithecus Afarensis

Most scientists agree that there have been at least 18 separate species of humans through time, including Homo habilis, Homo neanderthalensis and us—Homo sapiens. Smithsonian scientists are conducting research to learn more about how these early humans lived and why we are the only remaining humans.

Standing, hunting, cooking—how did it all begin?

The Smithsonian asks and answers questions about science, art, history and culture, exciting the learning in everyone, every day. Seriously Amazing.

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Posted: 2 January 2013
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About the Author:

Alex di Giovanni is primarily responsible for "other duties as assigned" in the Office of Communications and External Affairs. She has been with the Smithsonian since 2006 and plans to be interred in the Smithson crypt.