Final answer:
Neanderthal behavior suggests active hunting with the risk of injury, and evidence of interbreeding with modern humans. Advances in DNA research reveal a shared genetic history, underscoring the complexity of human evolution and the various interactions between different human species.
Step-by-step explanation:
Our knowledge of Neanderthal behavior is derived from fossils and archaeological evidence, such as those from Shanidar Cave in Iraq. These remains show signs of trauma, hinting at the dangers of hunting, which was likely a group activity, including participation by both males and females, although men seemed to suffer more injuries. Moreover, comparisons between Upper Paleolithic modern Homo sapiens and Neanderthals indicate that while similar injuries occurred, they were less fatal for H. sapiens. This might suggest technological or tactical advancements gave modern humans an edge for survival.
DNA evidence has shown that modern humans carry Neanderthal DNA, implying interbreeding. This genetic legacy allows us to track our ancestral story, enhancing our understanding of human evolution. The fact that Neanderthals contributed to the genetic makeup of contemporary humans is evidence for the intermingling between different human species, including potentially Neanderthals mating with Homo sapiens.
Lastly, Neanderthals created and used tools that would have been beneficial for surviving in cold environments and had religious traditions that might be interpreted from the arrangement of their burials and the existence of possible ritual objects. With regard to the question of their extinction, many hypotheses exist, including competition with modern humans, climate change, or a combination of factors that led to their demise.