Event of 1868: Discovery of the first identified skeletons of Cro-Magnon early modern humans by

Background. The Cro-Magnon rock shelter is an Aurignacian site in Les Eyzies, Dordogne. In 1868, workmen found animal bones, flint tools, and human skulls there. Louis Lartet, a French geologist and paleontologist, was called to conduct excavations. His father, Édouard Lartet, had played a key role in finding evidence of human existence during the Quaternary period, and Louis continued this research into human prehistory.

Excavation and Findings. Lartet excavated the site and found partial skeletons of four prehistoric adults and one infant. The remains were apparently buried at the site and dated to about 28,000 years ago. Associated artifacts included perforated shells used as ornaments, an ivory object, and worked reindeer antler. The skeletons showed features similar to modern humans, such as a high forehead and slender build.

Classification and Legacy. The Cro-Magnon humans were identified as a new prehistoric race distinct from Neanderthals. Lartet proposed the subspecies name Homo sapiens fossilis in 1869. The term Cro-Magnon, derived from the rock shelter's name, was later used broadly for early modern humans found elsewhere, including in Israel and the Americas.