African Origins

African origins refer to the scientific understanding that modern humans (Homo sapiens) first evolved in Africa around 200,000 years ago. Evidence from fossils, genetics, and archaeology shows that all living humans can trace their ancestry back to populations that originated on the African continent. Around 60,000 to 80,000 years ago, some groups migrated out of Africa and spread across the world, leading to the diverse populations we see today. This concept underscores Africa's central role in human history as the birthplace of our species.