How Early Men Survived: The Role of Community and Communal Care for Babies

Humans are a highly social species that have relied on social structures to thrive and survive. Even in the earliest stages of our evolution, survival depended on the support and cooperation of our clans and tribes. This was particularly important for the survival of our offspring, as childcare played a crucial role in the continuation of our species.

The Division of Parenting Duties in Early Human Societies

Just as apes and their offspring share parenting duties with older siblings, many early human societies adopted a similar approach. In these societies, the responsibilities for raising children were distributed among the family members, including both parents and older siblings. This division of labor was a foundational aspect of early human societies and was essential for the survival and well-being of the young.

The Significance of Gender Roles in Early Human Societies

While in modern times, gender roles can sometimes be enforced, early human societies did not have the luxury of rigid role definitions. In these times, survival was the primary concern, and EVERYONE contributed to the care of the younger members of the clan or tribe. This included the care of infants and young children, which required a communal effort rather than a family affair.

Casualties of Infant Care in Early Societies

While most infants were cared for by their parents, there were unfortunate instances where infants were taken in and raised by wolves or other animals. This phenomenon, known as ritual or natural orphans, where children were separated from human society and raised by wildlife, has been documented in various historical and anthropological accounts. These unfortunate cases highlight the vulnerability of infants and the importance of human care in early societies.

Modern Day Impression of Early Human Caregivers

It is truly awe-inspiring to consider the resilience and adaptability of early humans. The ability of individuals and families to care for and raise infants in a communal setting is a testament to the strength and community spirit of our ancestors. The expression “it takes a village” is perhaps nowhere more apt than in the context of early human societies. These communities demonstrated a remarkable level of care and cooperation, laying the foundation for the complex social structures that characterize modern human civilization.

Conclusion: The Importance of Community in Early Human Survival

In summary, the survival of early human societies was closely tied to the ability to care for and protect their most vulnerable members, particularly infants. The division of childcare responsibilities, the cooperative efforts of family and community members, and the dedication to raising the next generation ensured the continuation of our species. The impressive resilience and communal caring seen in early human societies continue to inspire and inform our understanding of human society and survival.