10. Characteristics of H. ergaster
Return to History 8 Human Origins Concepts
1.9 million years ago, Homo Ergaster appeared. It was taller and more slender than earlier hominids, with longer legs. It had a rounded head and smaller teeth which were better adapted to its new diet of meat. The bones of its skull were thinner and it had no lunate sulcus. It had a larger brain than H. Habilis: 950cc in comparison to the earlier species' brain size of 800cc. Larger brains led to the advancement of tool making. Homo Ergaster went from making Oldowan tools to making symmetrical stone hand axes, a type of Achulean tool.
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Another important characteristic of Homo Ergaster was its lack of hair, which allowed it to sweat. Homo Ergaster became endurance runners because they could cool off very efficiently.
- Sophie Gillard
Sources
Australian Museum - http://australianmuseum.net.au/Homo-ergaster
History Manual (21-22)
"Walking with Cavemen" Video Notes
"Becoming Human" Video Notes
