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While the earliest fossils suggest an African origin, with remains found in Ethiopia and South Africa dating back to around 2 million years ago, Homo erectus quickly expanded beyond Africa to regions including Western Asia, East Asia, and eventually Indonesia, demonstrating remarkable adaptability and resilience in diverse habitats.
Physical Characteristics: A Snapshot
Homo erectus bore several physical features that marked their evolution. With a flatter face compared to earlier hominins, a pronounced brow ridge, and a projecting nose, their skeletal structure represented significant adaptations to bipedalism. Their body sizes varied, hinting at regional differences shaped by local climates and environments.