HEIDELBERG MAN Meaning and
Definition
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Heidelberg Man refers to an extinct hominin species classified as Homo heidelbergensis, a member of the Homo genus. This humanoid species is believed to have lived approximately 600,000 to 200,000 years ago during the middle Pleistocene epoch. Heidelberg Man is considered an important transitional species between Homo erectus and Homo sapiens.
The term "Heidelberg Man" is derived from the discovery of a mandible, or lower jawbone, found in 1907 near Heidelberg, Germany. This fossil remains one of the most significant and representative specimens of this species. Heidelberg Man was anatomically distinct from earlier Homo erectus, exhibiting characteristics that were more similar to modern humans. They possessed a larger brain capacity, with an average cranial volume of around 1200-1300 cubic centimeters. While their cranial features were primitive, evidence suggests they had more advanced cognitive abilities compared to earlier hominins.
Heidelberg Man exhibited a robust physical build, with a sturdy frame and thicker bones. Their height is estimated to have ranged between 5'9" and 6'1". They had a pronounced brow ridge and a large, elongated face.
This species is believed to have had a complex social structure, potentially engaging in communal activities and even burying their dead. They were skilled toolmakers, creating the Acheulean toolkit, which included symmetrical hand axes and other bifacial tools. These tools were used for various activities, including hunting and butchering animals.
Evidence of Heidelberg Man has been found in Africa, Europe, and possibly Asia, showcasing their wide geographic distribution. They played a significant role in human evolutionary history, possibly giving rise to later hominin species, including Neanderthals and Homo sapiens.
Common Misspellings for HEIDELBERG MAN
- geidelberg man
- beidelberg man
- neidelberg man
- jeidelberg man
- ueidelberg man
- yeidelberg man
- hwidelberg man
- hsidelberg man
- hdidelberg man
- hridelberg man
- h4idelberg man
- h3idelberg man
- heudelberg man
- hejdelberg man
- hekdelberg man
- heodelberg man
- he9delberg man
- he8delberg man
- heiselberg man
Etymology of HEIDELBERG MAN
The word "Heidelberg Man" comes from the name of a location, Heidelberg, in Germany, where remains of an early human species were discovered. The term "Heidelberg Man" was coined in 1908 by a Dutch anatomist, Eugène Dubois, who initially named the species "Homo heidelbergensis".
The name "Heidelberg" comes from the Old High German words "heidel" (meaning heath) and "berg" (meaning mountain or hill). It refers to the city's location near the River Neckar and the surrounding hills covered in heather.
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