The relationship between red hair in humans and Neanderthals is an area of scientific investigation and speculation. While it is not entirely clear, some studies suggest that the gene responsible for red hair (MC1R gene) may have originated in Neanderthals and was passed down to modern humans through interbreeding. Neanderthals were an ancient human species that coexisted with early modern humans (Homo sapiens) for a period of time. Genetic studies have revealed that there was interbreeding between Neanderthals and early humans, and as a result, some individuals today carry small amounts of Neanderthal DNA in their genomes. The MC1R gene, which is associated with red hair, fair skin, and light eye color, is found in higher frequencies in populations of … Continue reading Does red hair in modern humans come from Neanderthals?