ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Anatomically modern human

An anatomically modern human is a type of human that looks like the ones we see around us today. They have the same basic body structure, with arms, legs, a torso, a head, and all the parts that make up our bodies. They also have all the same internal organs, such as the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys.

However, anatomically modern humans are different from some other types of humans that lived a long time ago. For example, they are not the same as the Neanderthals, who were a different species of human that lived in Europe thousands of years ago.

Anatomically modern humans first appeared in Africa about 200,000 years ago, and over time they gradually spread out to other parts of the world. They evolved from earlier hominids, which were ape-like creatures that lived millions of years ago.

One of the key features that distinguishes anatomically modern humans from earlier hominids is their large brain. Our brains are much bigger than those of any other primate, and this has allowed us to develop complex language, culture, and technology.

Anatomically modern humans also have a number of other physical characteristics that make them different from earlier hominids. For example, we have smaller teeth and a more vertical forehead than our ancestors. We also have a more efficient mode of walking and running, which allows us to move quickly and efficiently over long distances.

Today, there are more than 7 billion anatomically modern humans on Earth. We come in many different shapes and sizes, but we all share the same basic anatomy and physiology that makes us human.