Ancient spear wound suggests violence was common among Neanderthals
A 75,000-year-old injury may indicate lethal fighting occurred more frequently in early human populations.
At a glance
- A 75,000-year-old Neanderthal skeleton shows signs of a spear wound
- The injury may indicate violence was more common in early human populations than previously thought
- The discovery provides evidence that lethal fighting shaped human life in ancient times
Researchers have identified what appears to be a spear wound on a Neanderthal skeleton dating back 75,000 years. The injury provides potential evidence that violence may have been more prevalent in Neanderthal societies than previously understood.
The finding suggests that lethal conflict shaped human life during this ancient period, according to the analysis.
Why it matters
The finding challenges existing understanding of Neanderthal societies and suggests interpersonal violence may have been a significant factor in early human development.
Original reporting
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