Final answer:
Early hominins, according to fossil and archaeological records, were bipedal beings. Species like Australopithecus, Homo erectus, and Homo habilis show skeletal features supporting bipedal locomotion, marking a pivotal step in human evolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fossil and archaeological records indicate that early hominins were bipedal beings. The transition to walking upright, or bipedalism, is a significant milestone in human evolution. This transition is evident from the earliest members of our lineage, like Australopithecus, and is further developed in early Homo species such as Homo erectus and Homo habilis. These early hominins showcased adaptations in their skeletons that supported bipedal locomotion, such as broader pelvises, longer legs, and arched feet. The hallmark of Homo habilis, known for its association with stone tools, exhibits a larger brain and more human-like features compared to its australopith predecessors, illustrating a trend towards the characteristics of modern humans. The genus Homo appeared around 2.5 to 3 million years ago, and over time, species within this genus evolved traits that increasingly reflected an efficient bipedal gait and enhanced manual dexterity.