Which of the following is the most primitive ancestor of man?

Options

A. Homo neanderthafensis
B. Homo habilis
C. Ramapithecus
D. Australopithecus

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Human Evolution**: Human evolution is a complex process that traces the lineage of modern humans back to their most primitive ancestors.

2. **Identifying Primitive Ancestors**: The earliest known ancestors of humans are believed to be apes. Among these, the Dryopithecus is recognized as one of the most primitive ancestors, existing around 15 million years ago.

3. **Listing Subsequent Ancestors**: After Dryopithecus, other significant ancestors in the evolutionary line include:
- Ramapithecus: More advanced than Dryopithecus, existing around the same time.
- Shivapithecus: Another ancestor that followed Ramapithecus.
- Caeniopithecus: A further descendant in the lineage.
- Australopithecus: Known as the first ape-man, existing approximately 2 to 3 million years ago.
- Homo habilis: Existing around 2 million years ago.
- Homo erectus: Existing approximately 1.5 million years ago, with subspecies like the Peking man and Heidelberg man.

4. **Conclusion**: Based on the evolutionary timeline, the most primitive ancestor of man is identified as Dryopithecus, with Ramapithecus being a significant ancestor that followed.

**Final Answer**: The most primitive ancestor of man is **Dryopithecus**.

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