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Scientists suspect foul play in the death of a Neanderthal 75,000 years ago
CNN • • world
Key Points:
- Archaeologists discovered the remains of a Neanderthal, Shanidar A, from 75,000 years ago with a fatal wooden spear wound to the chest, potentially one of the earliest known homicides involving early humans.
- The skeletal evidence also shows prior injuries, including a healed tooth split from blunt-force trauma, suggesting Shanidar A received care and support from others in the group, such as preparation of soft food.
- The spear wound’s characteristics imply deliberate violence rather than an accident, though the exact circumstances and whether other humans were involved remain unknown.
- The Shanidar Cave site, known for Neanderthal burials, reveals repeated use for laying the dead to rest, indicating social rituals and care for individuals both in life and death.
- These findings contribute to growing evidence that Neanderthals exhibited complex social behaviors, including compassion and care, alongside instances of interpersonal violence.
