Were Ancient Humans Actually Smart?

Were Neanderthals ( Ancient Humans) actually dumb… or were we asking the wrong question? For a long time, Neanderthals were shown as brute cavemen: strong, hairy, and not very smart. But the evidence tells a much more interesting story. In this animated visual essay, we explore Neanderthal intelligence through their tools, fire use, hunting skills, diet, care for injured group members, possible symbols, and the small amount of Neanderthal DNA still carried by many people today. Maybe Neanderthals were not failed versions of us. Maybe they were smart for a different world.