The map below shows the localities of first finds of the fossils of human species in Africa and Europe. As one can see, the oldest species were discovered in Africa. This argument in favor of the theory that humankind has come from Africa. In other words, Africa is our probable cradle. However, not all scientists agree in this point of view.

The circles in the map designate the sites in Africa and Europe where fossils of different species were first found. I do not take into account only some recent finds (like Australopithecus garhi, 1997). I hope that even the species, mentioned here, can give quite clear idea of human evolution.

You may also look at  the simple animation, demonstrating the hominid evolution timeline and read a summary of human origins.