Payload Logo

Scientists have finally pinpointed when humanity migrated out of Africa

By Hannah Yi
Published

We already knew humanity started in Africa. What we didn’t know was when our ancestors migrated beyond the continent and across the globe.

Three recent studies published in Nature have answered that question, identifying a single exodus that took place more than 50,000 years ago. The researchers collectively analyzed the genomes of 787 people from more than 280 populations that included Mayans, Sherpas, and African pygmies. This was unique because prior research sequenced the genomes of people primarily from Europe and China.

What the video above to see how the migration made its way across the globe.

📬 Sign up for the Daily Brief

Our free, fast and fun briefing on the global economy, delivered every weekday morning.