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Not too long ago, our early human ancestors were under constant threat of attack from predators. And it turns out that this difficult chapter in our history may be responsible for the adaptations that allowed us to become so successful.

Thanks to Julio Lacerda and Studio 252mya for the illustrations of the Taung Child. You can find more of Julio's work here: https://252mya.com/gallery/juliolacerda

Produced for PBS Digital Studios.

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References:
http://humanorigins.si.edu/evidence/h...
http://humanorigins.si.edu/evidence/h...
http://humanorigins.si.edu/evidence/h...
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/na...
http://time.com/5424347/remainsneand...
http://scienceinpoland.pap.pl/en/news...
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