As an expert in the field of anthropology and human evolution, I have a deep understanding of the timeline of human existence on Earth. The question of how old man on Earth is, is a fascinating topic that has been explored through various scientific disciplines, including archaeology, paleontology, and genetics.

The earliest evidence of anatomically modern humans, or Homo sapiens, dates back to approximately 200,000 years ago. This is based on the discovery of fossils from the Middle Paleolithic period. One of the most significant finds is the Omo remains from Ethiopia, which have been dated to around this time. These fossils provide crucial insights into the early stages of human evolution and the development of modern human characteristics.

Another important discovery is the Herto fossils, sometimes classified as Homo sapiens idaltu, found in the Middle Awash region of Ethiopia. These fossils are also around 200,000 years old and contribute to our understanding of early human migration and adaptation.

However, the timeline of human existence extends far beyond the emergence of anatomically modern humans. The hominin lineage, which includes all species of the family Hominidae, has a much longer history. The earliest known hominins are from the Miocene epoch, around 6 to 7 million years ago, with the discovery of Sahelanthropus tchadensis in Chad, Africa.

The journey of human evolution is marked by several significant milestones. The genus Homo, which includes modern humans and our immediate ancestors, first appeared around 2.8 million years ago with the emergence of Homo habilis. This species was followed by Homo erectus, which lived from about 1.9 million to 70,000 years ago and was the first to migrate out of Africa.

The Neanderthals, or Homo neanderthalensis, are another branch of the Homo genus that coexisted with early Homo sapiens. They lived from around 400,000 to 40,000 years ago and were well adapted to the cold climates of Europe and Western Asia.

The Cro-Magnon people, who are considered the first anatomically modern humans in Europe, appeared around 40,000 years ago. They are known for their advanced stone tools, cave paintings, and sophisticated social structures.

Genetic studies have also contributed significantly to our understanding of human evolution. By analyzing the DNA of living humans and comparing it with ancient DNA, scientists have been able to trace the migration patterns and population dynamics of early humans. These studies suggest that modern humans have a common African origin and have migrated to different parts of the world over time.

In conclusion, the age of man on Earth is a complex and multifaceted topic. While the anatomically modern humans emerged around 200,000 years ago, the history of our lineage extends back millions of years. The study of human evolution is ongoing, with new discoveries and technologies continually refining our understanding of our past.

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The earliest fossils of anatomically modern humans are from the Middle Paleolithic, about 200,000 years ago such as the Omo remains of Ethiopia and the fossils of Herto sometimes classified as Homo sapiens idaltu.read more >>