Just over three million years ago, an ape in Africa began to walk on two legs and took the first step on the long road to civilisation. Along the way, we discovered flint tools, fire and farming. But what is it that makes us truly human?
The evolution of man
In 1974, one fossil changed our understanding of our past. Follow our three million year journey out of the treetops in Africa and around the world.
Cavemen facts
Could you tell a Neanderthal from a Gigantopithecus? How much do you know about your ancestors and their relatives?
On Horizon: The mystery of the human hobbit
Could the recently discovered Flores 'hobbit' really be a new species of human?
On Horizon: The day we learned to think
70,000 year old art hints at the very start of human intelligence.
On Horizon: Neanderthal
Their bodies were well equipped to cope with the Ice Age, so why did the Neanderthals die out when it ended?
Caveman challenge
Are you a chimp or a champ? Put your skills to the test in our interactive challenge.