A fascinating discovery in Estonia reveals a piece of ancient chewing gum, dating back 10,500 years. This gum, made from birch tar, shows signs of human use, including tooth impressions and traces of saliva. It was found by researchers at the University of Tartu’s Institute of History and Archaeology.
Birch tar can be both chewed for relief or used as an adhesive. Scientists extracted DNA from the saliva found on the gum, which suggests it belonged to a girl with brown hair and brown eyes. This finding challenges the common belief that early Northern Europeans mainly had light features. Historian Bettany Hughes emphasized the significance of this find, stating, “One throwaway item can bring us face to face with the people of the past.”
The gum also sheds light on the daily lives of ancient people. For example, studies show that early humans likely chewed birch tar to ease tooth pain or to stick tools together. Even today, birch tar continues to be used in various adhesive applications.
This discovery is part of a larger exploration of Estonia’s rich history. Other intriguing artifacts, like a unique metal cross from medieval times that makes noise, enrich our understanding of cultural integration between pagan and Christian beliefs. Prof Heiki Valk noted that it reveals how Estonians honored fertility symbols in their new faith.
Additionally, Tartu University is examining other ancient artifacts, such as the remains of a woman from a 12th-century burial site. Known as the “Kukruse lady,” she was buried with valuable items like jewelry and even a fertilized bird’s egg, hinting at possible religious beliefs surrounding fertility.
As we uncover more about our ancestors, these discoveries remind us of the complex lives they led. The relationship between past and present becomes clearer, showing how history continues to shape our understanding of humanity.
For more on this topic, check out Ancient chewing gum sheds light on stone age teenagers’ diet.
