During a class lecture on Neandertals, I became interested in the comparisons between beings in the genus Homo of that time, and the stereotypical caveman seen today. From what I have researched, the stereotypical Geico caveman is a great exaggeration of reality.
In one article, which I have linked to below, the author discusses how Neandertalensis often created sturdy and very functional brush shelters to use as homes. Caves are a rare geologic formation, and would not have been prevalent enough to house an entire species. This article blames bad press for perpetuating a false image.
Another article discusses why stereotypical cavemen are always Caucasian. The explanation seems to be that Cro-Magnon, from which our stereotypical caveman also grew, evolved in Europe, where a dark skin pigment was not necessary. Also, many early humans used caves for temporary shelter, blocking the sun, and artificially (as opposed to naturally) protected their skin. So, the idea that cavemen were white or light skinned is not a misconception at all.
Finally, a humorous history of bathrooms claims that Neandertals used eroded boulders with sizable indentations as sinks or wash basisns. If this is true, it is just more evidence how evolved the early human brain was, and that the jump to modern human was not a big one at all.
Caveman Shelters
Caveman Race
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