Mitochondrial Eve

Mitochondrial Eve refers to the most recent common ancestor of all living humans through maternal lines. She lived approximately 150,000 to 200,000 years ago in Africa. This concept arises from studying mitochondrial DNA, which is passed down uniquely from mothers to their children. By tracing genetic variations in this DNA, scientists can identify relationships among different human populations. It’s important to note that Mitochondrial Eve wasn’t the only woman alive at her time, but her lineage is the only one that has survived to today in an unbroken maternal line.