Watch NOVA: Becoming Human

NOVA: Becoming Human is a thought-provoking and insightful documentary series that explores the origins of human existence. Produced by PBS, the series blends cutting-edge scientific research with compelling storytelling to offer a comprehensive understanding of how we evolved from our primate ancestors to become the dominant species on Earth.

The series is divided into three parts, each episode examining a different aspect of our evolutionary history. The first episode, titled "First Steps," takes viewers on a journey through the African savanna, where our earliest ancestors lived nearly 4 million years ago. Through meticulous reconstructions and simulations, the episode shows how these early hominids developed unique adaptations such as bipedalism and larger brains, which allowed them to survive in their changing environment.

The second episode, "Birth of Humanity," follows the story of our more direct ancestors, the Homo genus, who lived between 2.5 million to 200,000 years ago. The episode examines how these hominids evolved a greater capacity for tool-making, language, and culture, all of which contributed to their eventual dominance over other primates. Scientists reveal how recent discoveries have shed light on the complex social and cognitive abilities of these early humans, as well as their migration patterns from Africa to other parts of the world.

The final episode, "Last Human Standing," explores the story of our species, Homo sapiens, who emerged nearly 300,000 years ago. It delves into how we developed unique traits such as symbolic thinking and communication, which enabled us to create more sophisticated societies and technologies. The episode also examines how our ancestors adapted to new environments, such as those in Europe and Asia, and the consequences of their interactions with other hominid species, such as the Neanderthals.

Throughout the series, viewers are taken on an immersive journey through time, as the latest scientific research is presented in a visually stunning and engaging way. From the dry bones of our earliest ancestors to the groundbreaking discoveries in genetics and archaeology, the series provides a rich and dynamic exploration of our past, helping us to better understand our present and future.

The series features interviews with some of the world's leading scientists and researchers in the field of human evolution, who share their insights and expertise. They explain the latest theories and research findings in accessible language, shedding new light on the complex and fascinating evolution of our species.

What sets NOVA: Becoming Human apart is its ability to make complex scientific ideas accessible to the general public. The series uses a range of visual techniques and storytelling methods to keep viewers engaged, from computer-generated simulations of our earliest ancestors to reenactments of key moments in human history. This makes it a compelling and informative watch for anyone interested in the origins of humanity and where we might be headed in the future.

In conclusion, NOVA: Becoming Human is a fascinating and thought-provoking series that offers an in-depth and comprehensive exploration of our evolutionary history. Through engaging storytelling and cutting-edge scientific research, the series provides a unique insight into where we came from and how we got here. Whether you are a scientist or just curious about our past, this is a must-watch series that will take you on an informative and unforgettable journey.

NOVA: Becoming Human is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between November 3, 2009 and on PBS