Humans evolved to run faster

Scientists used advanced computer modeling to determine that a prehistoric human ancestor couldn’t run as well as Homo sapiens (modern humans). The findings are helping them learn more about how humans evolved (changed very slowly over time) to run in order to survive. The species, called Australopithecus afarensis, lived in East Africa about 3.7 million years ago. It was first discovered in 1974, when the skeleton of a small female was found. Named Lucy, she was the most complete fossil of an early human. Australopithecus afarensis gave scientists insight into the evolution of humans from apes to Homo sapiens. It had a small skull and long arms like an ape, but its spine and knees were more like a human’s. That meant Australopithecus afarensis could still swing from trees but…

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The Week Junior US (Digital) - 1 Issue, Issue 251

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