All articles tagged with #ancient violence
A 15-millimeter hole in the shoulder blade of a 75,000-year-old Neanderthal, identified as Shanidar A, suggests the earliest known lethal attack with a wooden spear. Found in Shanidar Cave, Iraqi Kurdistan, the remains also show evidence of long-term care for a facial injury, highlighting complex social behaviors.
A 15mm hole in a Neanderthal shoulder blade found in Iraqi Kurdistan is identified as the earliest evidence of lethal violence involving a wooden spear. The wound, dated to 75,000 years ago, likely resulted from a spear entering the chest and exiting the shoulder, potentially damaging vital organs. While researchers debate whether this was a hunting accident or intentional killing, the finding adds to growing evidence that interpersonal violence existed in prehistoric societies long before the advent of farming.
A 1.5cm hole in a Neanderthal shoulder blade found in Shanidar Cave, Iraqi Kurdistan, is the oldest evidence of a human ancestor being killed by a wooden spear. The individual, who died over 70,000 years ago, also had a split tooth and was buried in a small depression with other Neanderthals. Researchers debate whether the fatal wound was a hunting accident or intentional violence.