Comparisons of two of our ancestors helps us to better understand the evolution of modern humans. Recall that we belong to the species Homo sapiens. Cro-Magnons were the first to evolve as members of this species, so basically Cro-Magnons are the same as us. Neanderthals were members of the species Homo neanderthalensis, and they were replaced by Cro-Magnons about 34,000-40,000 years ago. Scientists can only speculate as to why modern humans replaced the Neanderthals. Perhaps modern humans were more intelligent with better survival skills.
Here is an image comparing the skull of a modern human (Cro-Magnon) with the skull of a Neanderthal.
The skull on the left has more prominent cheekbones, a larger forehead, and a more prominent chin. Keep in mind that "prominent" means the structure sticks out more.
The skull on the right has a more prominent brow ridge, a larger and flatter skull overall, and a more pointed occipital contour. The occipital contour is the shape of the back of the skull.
Question
After comparing the two skulls, which skull do you think belongs to a Cro-Magnon?
