Seven skulls vividly convey the long road of human evolution. From left they are: Adapis {50 million years ago}, Proconsul {23–15 million years}, Australopithecus africanus {3 million years}, Homo habilis {2 million years}, Homo erectus {1 million years}, early Homo sapiens {92,000 years} and Cro-Magnon {20,000 years ago}.
The seven skulls represent key milestones in human evolution, illustrating the extensive journey of our species over millions of years. They begin with Adapis, a primate from 50 million years ago, and progress through Proconsul and Australopithecus africanus, highlighting significant developments in brain size and social behavior. Each skull marks an important evolutionary stage, leading us towards more recognizable human forms.
The sequence continues with Homo habilis, known for its tool-making capabilities, followed by Homo erectus, which showcased advancements in mobility and use of fire. The timeline culminates with early Homo sapiens and Cro-Magnon, reflecting the modern human experience 20,000 years ago. This progression emphasizes the remarkable adaptability and evolution of humanity over time, as captured in Bill Bryson's book.
