Cro-Magnons

Question

General Resources - Reference Articles
Cro-Magnon is the popular name given to the first population of modern Homo sapiens in Europe. Cro-Magnons were noted for their increasingly sophisticated tools and burial customs. They coexisted with a population of Neanderthals as much as 30,000 years ago.
Physically, the Cro-Magnons were very similar to modern humans. The shape of their skull was long, with a high forehead. They had an erect stature, and their limbs were long, indicating that they may have evolved in a warmer climate than was present in ice age Europe. Some of the older skeletons have more robust features, with later ones becoming thinner and lighter.

Discovery of Cro-Magnons

In 1868, workers were constructing a railway in the Vezere Valley in southern France. Within the village of Les Eyzies, they discovered the skeletal remains of at least four humans. The skeletons were found in a rock shelter known as Cro-Magnon. Archaeologists quickly surveyed the site. Evidence of human habitation—including hearths, tools, and animal remains—was also found.

The human remains were determined to be up to 30,000 years old. They had been buried with some ritual, since the remains were decorated with ochre paint and had necklaces of pierced teeth buried with them. Although additional remains were found in other locations, the term Cro-Magnons became the popular name for the population of humans represented by those found at that location.

Culture and Spread through Europe

Cro-Magnon funerary objects
Click to Enlarge Cro-Magnons
Relics associated with the Cro-Magnons include blade technology and bone tools. They were also associated with Aurignacian culture, and they produced some of the first art in Europe to survive to modern times. Examples of their art and tools were often buried with the dead, indicating some belief in an afterlife.

Although the archaeological record is uncertain, it is believed that the Cro-Magnons spread throughout Europe in less than 10,000 years. They certainly coexisted with Neanderthals, with some cultural exchange between the two groups. However, the Cro-Magnons eventually became the dominant human species in Europe, replacing all others.

After reading the article, your group will create a list of 3 to 5 of the most important concepts or facts within that article.
4. You will repeat step 3 for ALL 3 ARTICLES
4. Each group will then create a visual graphic that clearly identifies the three separate groups.
Make sure you use the most important information and not randomness. Be prepared to explain how and why the chosen information is important.
5. Each group member is responsible for the information. Do not assign articles to break up assignment. All members work on the same article at the same time.
Exit Ticket: Located at the bottom of the Group Evaluation sheet..ow did you fulfill your designation group role?

Answer 1

Here are the most important concepts or facts from the article about Cro-Magnons:

1. Identification as Early Modern Humans: Cro-Magnons are the first population of modern Homo sapiens in Europe, distinguished by their sophisticated tools and burial customs.

2. Physical Characteristics: Cro-Magnons had physical similarities to modern humans, with long skulls, high foreheads, erect stature, and long limbs, suggesting they adapted to a warmer climate before migrating to ice age Europe.

3. Discovery and Significance: The skeletal remains were discovered in 1868 in the Vezere Valley, France, along with evidence of their habitation, indicating advanced social and ceremonial practices, including burial rites with ochre paint and adornments.

4. Cultural Contributions: They were associated with Aurignacian culture, producing some of the earliest known art in Europe, reflecting their cognitive abilities and beliefs regarding the afterlife.

5. Spread and Dominance: Cro-Magnons spread throughout Europe in less than 10,000 years and coexisted and culturally exchanged with Neanderthals before eventually becoming the dominant human species in the region.

Importance of Each Fact

• The identification of Cro-Magnons as early modern humans underscores their relevance in the study of human evolution and migration.
• Understanding their physical characteristics helps researchers trace the development and adaptation of early humans in various climates.
• The significance of their discovery reflects the complexities of human behavior, social structure, and ceremonial practices in prehistoric times.
• Their contributions to art and culture illustrate the cognitive and creative advancements characteristic of Homo sapiens.
• Recognizing their spread and dominance emphasizes the evolutionary success of Cro-Magnons over Neanderthals, marking a critical point in human history.

Group Roles Fulfillment

As you proceed with your group work and exit ticket, consider reflecting on your specific contributions—whether it was researching, taking notes, discussing important points, or participating in the creation of the visual graphic. Ensure that everyone in the group has a clear understanding of Cro-Magnons and can discuss the chosen important information effectively.