How did climate change impact human evolution?

The impact of climate change on human evolution is significant, particularly in how it drove hominins to adapt to new environments. As the climate fluctuated, various ecological habitats changed, forcing early human ancestors to leave their original environments in search of food, shelter, and survival. This movement into diverse settings, such as savannas, woodlands, and eventually more extreme climates, led to a range of adaptations. For instance, changes in temperature and resource availability likely influenced dietary habits, foraging strategies, and even social structures.

Such adaptations could include physical changes, such as changes in body size and shape, or behavioral adaptations, such as the use of tools and the development of social strategies for hunting and gathering. This adaptability is a key factor in the survival and evolutionary success of hominins, allowing them to thrive in varying climates and terrains. Overall, climate change acted as a significant driver of evolutionary pressures, fostering the development of traits that were advantageous in new environments.