Neanderthal

A Neanderthal is an extinct relative of modern humans that lived in Europe and Asia prior to the spread of modern humans, from Africa.

In the 21st century genetic analysis of DNA from Neanderthals shows they interbred with modern humans and Denisovans.

In contrast to Homo sapiens, Neanderthals were stronger and more robustly built, and had larger brains.

The first fossils were found in Germany, along the banks of the Neander River. Neanderthal is German for "Neander valley".

There are various theories as to how Neanderthals became extinct, ranging from warfare, to interbreeding, to disease. It is unknown what enabled Homo sapiens to outcompete them.