CARTA: The Savanna “Hypothesis”: Tracing an Enigmatic Idea Through Time with Kaye Reed

7/26/2024; 15 minutes

The savanna hypothesis suggests that early human ancestors evolved in open grasslands. Raymond Dart's 1925 discovery of Australopithecus africanus at Taung supported this idea. Lucy's 1974 discovery confirmed bipedalism in Australopithecus species but raised questions about their tree-dwelling habits. Studies since then have refined our understanding of ancient habitats and climates, showing that human evolution involved interactions with various environments, not just savannas. This requires a nuanced view of biomes, climates, and habitats to understand how early humans adapted and evolved. Recorded on 04/06/2024. (#39819)

Like what you learn?

Donate to UCSD-TV to support informative & inspiring programming.

Links & Resources

More Programs With

 

SIGN UP FOR EMAIL UPDATES
Subscribe to receive email notifications about featured videos.
(c)2020 Regents of the University of California. All right reserved. Terms and Conditions of Use.