Final answer:
Modern humans developed in eastern and southern Africa around 200,000 years ago and migrated out of Africa approximately 100,000 years ago. They spread to other parts of the world, including Asia, Europe, Australia, and eventually the Americas. Modern humans had cognitive and social advantages that helped them outcompete other human species and adapt to new environments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Homo sapiens, the modern humans, first developed in eastern and southern Africa around 200,000 years ago. They began to migrate out of Africa around 100,000 years ago and spread to other parts of the world. They likely followed coastal routes and eventually reached Asia, Europe, Australia, and the Americas. By 40,000 years ago, modern humans had populated Africa, Asia, Europe, and Australia, while arriving in the Americas around 16,000 to 13,000 years ago.
Modern humans had an advantage over other human species, such as Neanderthals, primarily due to their cognitive abilities and social behavior. They were able to develop complex tools, language, and advanced cooperative strategies, which allowed them to adapt to new environments and thrive.