Camels originated from North America about 10 million years ago, but 2 million years ago became extinct. Domesticated camels exist today in North Africa, Middle East (dromedary) or Eastern Asia (bactrain.) Camels hauled cargo, transported people, provided food, and supplied wool for clothes, and dried manure for fuel. These cud-chewing animals once symbolized status and wealth, but are minor to modern travel or lamb and beef. But, camels still necessitate survival in the Sahara vastness.