* Evolutionary process: Language likely evolved gradually over a very long period, not suddenly appearing in one year.
* No written record: Early humans didn't write down their language, so we have no direct evidence of when specific languages developed.
* Different forms: We can't define what exactly constitutes "language." Was it the first simple sounds, gestures, or more complex grammar?
Here's what we know:
* Early hominids: Scientists believe that early hominids, such as *Homo habilis*, may have had basic communication systems around 2.5 million years ago.
* Neanderthals: Neanderthals, who lived alongside early humans, likely had their own complex language.
* Modern human language: The development of language that resembles modern human language is thought to have happened somewhere between 100,000 and 50,000 years ago.
Evidence and research:
* Fossil record: Studying the anatomy of our ancestors' skulls and vocal tracts provides clues about their communication abilities.
* Archaeological evidence: Tools, cave paintings, and other artifacts suggest early humans used language for complex tasks.
* Genetics: Researchers analyze DNA to trace the evolution of language-related genes.
* Linguistics: Scientists study existing languages to understand their common origins and how they developed.
So, while we can't pinpoint an exact year, language has been evolving and developing over millions of years.