Final answer:
Fossil finds at sites like Irhoud Cave, Omo, and Herto provide key evidence supporting the existence of Homo sapiens, such as fossils from around 300,000 years ago that show the use of tools, control of fire, and the likely presence of social practices like intentional body disposal.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fossil Evidence Supporting the Existence of Homo sapiens
The evidence supports the existence of Homo sapiens through various significant archaeological and palaeontological finds. One prominent discovery was made in 2017 in Morocco, where fossils dating back to about 300,000 years ago were uncovered, suggesting that modern humans, biologically identical to us, emerged around this period. These early Homo sapiens are known to have used complex stone and bone tools, harnessed fire for cooking which allowed for meat consumption, and utilized animal skins for clothing and shelter, adapting to diverse climates.
Beyond tools and evidences of advanced cognitive abilities, some fossil evidence comes from the Irhoud Cave, Omo, and Herto sites, where various hominid remains have been discovered. The Irhoud fossils are currently among the oldest known specimens of Homo sapiens. In Omo, Ethiopia, fossils have been found that serve as a critical connection between Homo erectus and modern humans.
The Herto remains also in Ethiopia, have further pushed back the timeline for Homo sapiens and are notable for showing a mixture of archaic and modern features. The discovery of the Homo naledi fossils in the Rising Star cave system in South Africa suggests advanced behaviors such as intentional body disposal, which challenges earlier assumptions that such activities were exclusive to Homo sapiens. However, there is ongoing debate among scientists concerning whether similar practices occurred with Homo naledi, as some argue that natural causes could explain the preservation of these remains.