Ancient DNA Unravels Pre - historic Family Trees and Social Structures
Scientists have successfully reconstructed the kinship networks of multiple ancient settlements through the genetic analysis of a large number of ancient human DNAs, with the longest network extending up to eight generations. This research has revealed social - structural features such as matrilineal or patrilineal inheritance and the layout of kinship cemeteries. Some individuals have even been traced to relatives thousands of miles away.
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These achievements highlight that genetics is becoming an important tool for uncovering ancient social organizations and population migrations. By analyzing the genetic relationships among ancient human remains, researchers can gain in --depth insights into the family relationships and social structures of pre - historic times, which was difficult to achieve through traditional archaeological methods alone. For example, a recent study on the Fu Family Site in Shandong, China, confirmed the existence of a village organization composed of two matrilineal clans in the Dawenkou Culture 4,750 years ago1. Through the analysis of mitochondrial DNA and Y - chromosome haplotypes, it was found that the matrilineal inheritance was highly homogeneous, while the patrilineal inheritance was highly heterogeneous. This provides key evidence for the theory that the primitive matrilineal society was an important stage on the eve of civilization.
The research result has been selected as one of the top ten scientific breakthroughs of 2024 by Science, indicating its important position in the field of archaeological research. It not only opens up a new path for the study of pre - historic social structures but also provides a new perspective for understanding the origin and development of human civilization.
