What was "The Simpsons" evolution intro/couch gag based off of?

Question

I know that I saw this somewhere else before (discovery channel or an old PBS special). What did they base this couch gag off of and do you know where I can see the original video?

Answer 1

Particularly in family sitcoms, it's always been fairly common for there to be a shot of the entire main cast at the end of the opening credits, often with them doing something active. The Simpsons just used that convention.