First Peoples

All Episodes Now Streaming

See how the mixing of prehistoric human genes led the way for our species.

All Episodes Now Streaming

See how the mixing of prehistoric human genes led the way for our species.

Classroom Resources

PBS LEARNING MEDIA

Classroom Resources

How did Homo sapiens populate the Earth? This interactive map highlights recent dramatic advancements in our understanding of early human history. Grades: 6-12

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About the Show

200,000 years ago we took our first steps on the African savanna. Today there are 7 billion of us living across planet Earth. How did our ancestors beat the odds?

This is a global detective story, featuring new fossil finds and the latest genetic research. It’s a story that revolves around a shocking revelation. In prehistoric times, we met and mated with other types of human – like Neanderthals, Denisovans and Homo erectus. This mixing of genes helped us survive - and ultimately thrive.

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