Interbreeding with the neanderthals occurred 50,000 years ago in Northern Europe and the Middle East. Most Europeans as well as East Asians today have reminiscences of Neanderthal DNA in them. Interbreeding with the Neanderthals could have happened from peaceful exchanges amongst groups, forceful invades, or adopting abandoned babies.
Neanderthal genes have helped modern humans adapt to their new surroundings, affecting skin color, immunity, and their nervous system. Neanderthal genes might also be linked to hair color, being a morning person, and health conditions like diabetes.
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