when did humans first appear on earth

Humans, specifically anatomically modern humans (Homo sapiens), first appeared on Earth about 315,000 years ago in Africa. This is based on fossil evidence including skull fragments and jawbones, as well as genetic data supporting the origin of Homo sapiens in Africa. The evolutionary lineage leading to modern humans began millions of years earlier with various hominin ancestors, but Homo sapiens as a distinct species emerged roughly in this timeframe.