Pompeii DNA Evidence Contradicts Long-Held Assumptions About Victims Buried in Ash
New DNA analysis on victims buried in the volcanic eruption of Pompeii has revealed surprising findings that challenge long-held assumptions about the disaster.
Key Findings:
* DNA analysis of 101 individuals buried in the eruption showed that two-thirds were slaves, contradicting earlier theories that suggested most victims were wealthy citizens. * The research, published in the journal Science Advances, also found that the victims were buried in family groups, indicating that they attempted to flee together. * The study provides new insights into the social and economic structure of Pompeii, as well as the tragic events of the eruption itself.Pompeii, an ancient Roman city, was buried in volcanic ash and pumice after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The eruption killed thousands of people and preserved the city in remarkable detail, providing valuable insights into Roman life.
Previous assumptions about the victims of the eruption were based on the discovery of wealthy homes and artifacts in the city. However, the new DNA analysis suggests that the majority of victims were slaves or lower-class citizens, including children and the elderly.
The study also revealed that the victims were buried in family groups, indicating that they attempted to flee the eruption together. This finding challenges the traditional narrative of individuals fleeing alone or in small groups.
The research was conducted by a team of scientists from the University of Copenhagen and the University of Naples Federico II. They analyzed DNA from the bones of 101 individuals found in various locations in Pompeii, including public buildings and private homes.
The findings of the study provide new insights into the social and economic structure of Pompeii, as well as the tragic events of the eruption itself. They suggest that the disaster had a greater impact on the lower classes of society than previously thought, and that the victims may have experienced a sense of community in their final moments.
The study also highlights the potential of DNA analysis to shed light on historical events and challenge long-held assumptions. By unlocking the genetic secrets of the past, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of human populations and the societies they lived in.
The findings of the study have been published in the journal Science Advances. The research team is continuing to analyze the DNA of additional victims from Pompeii to further explore the genetic diversity and social structure of the ancient city.
