The most recent and direct prehistoric ancestor

Options

A. Cromagnon
B. Pre-Neanderthal
C. Neanderthal
D. None of the above

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question:**
- The question asks for the most recent and direct prehistoric ancestor of modern humans.

2. **Identifying the Options:**
- The options may include various prehistoric human species such as Cro-Magnon, Neanderthal, Homo erectus, and others.

3. **Analyzing Cro-Magnon:**
- Cro-Magnon is also known as Homo sapiens fossilis.
- It existed approximately 34,000 years ago.
- It had a brain capacity of about 1650 cc, which is relatively large.

4. **Analyzing Neanderthal:**
- The Neanderthal man arose from Homo erectus.
- Neanderthals existed around 100,000 years ago and had a brain capacity ranging from 1300 to 1600 cc.
- They are considered more ancient than Cro-Magnon.

5. **Comparing the Two:**
- Since Cro-Magnon existed more recently than Neanderthals, it is a more direct ancestor.
- Cro-Magnon had advanced features such as a height of approximately 1.8 m, a well-developed chin, and a face that was orthognathous (no projection of the jaw).

6. **Conclusion:**
- Based on the analysis, Cro-Magnon is the most recent and direct prehistoric ancestor of modern humans (Homo sapiens sapiens).

**Final Answer:**
- The most recent and direct prehistoric ancestor of modern humans is Cro-Magnon (Homo sapiens fossilis).

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