Final answer:
H. erectus, originating in Africa around 1.8 million years ago, is assumed to be the first hominin species to migrate out of Africa, due to later dating of non-African sites. They developed advanced features and behaviors, contributing to the creation of several different human species over time through evolution in new environments. Their migration patterns and adaptive successes remain crucial for understanding human prehistory.
Step-by-step explanation:
The presence of H. erectus sites outside of Africa that are dated later than those found in Africa has led paleoanthropologists to assume that H. erectus originated in Africa and migrated out of the continent. H. erectus first appeared approximately 1.8 million years ago and was the first hominin species to extend its range into Eurasia. They had a number of more human-like features, such as a larger body size and brain, reduced sexual dimorphism, and adaptations that suggest the ability to live in a variety of climates and environmental conditions. The use of fire, hunting, and having a home base were significant developments associated with H. erectus, suggesting that they had a more complex social structure and culture.
Populations of H. erectus evolved differently depending on their environment, contributing to the emergence of a spectrum of human species over time, including Homo heidelbergensis, the Neanderthals, Denisovans, and ultimately modern humans (Homo sapiens). As new fossil finds and genetic analyses are discovered, our understanding of these migrations and evolutionary relationships continues to evolve. H. erectus is of great interest as it provides insight into early human evolution and the expansion of human ancestors out of Africa—a key event in our prehistory.