Unlocking the Secrets of the Past: Scientists Reveal the Genetic History of 400 Medieval Skeletons

Scientists recently extracted DNA from 400 skeletons found in Sint-Truiden, Belgium. These remains date back to between the eighth and eighteenth centuries. This study is significant because it offers a large-scale look at how populations changed over time.

One of the surprising discoveries came from the earliest skeletons. Some showed genetic links to regions like Scotland and Ireland. This is important because historians thought people mainly traveled short distances back then. The DNA evidence suggests that migration routes were broader than previously thought.

After the eleventh century, the genetic diversity in Sint-Truiden decreased. This means that over time, the locals became more similar genetically. One reason could be that fewer long-distance travelers settled in the area, leading to more intermarriage among local families.

A shocking find was DNA from Yersinia pestis, the bacterium that causes the plague. While past city records don’t mention the plague in the fourteenth century, bones showed traces of it in several individuals. This points to the idea that written documents can sometimes overlook major events, even those that significantly affected communities.

Examining the cemetery revealed that Sint-Truiden’s residents likely came from a diverse mix of ancestors. The presence of individuals from the British Isles hints at cross-border interactions. This supports the notion that medieval societies were more connected than previously believed, with both cultural exchanges and genetic mixing happening regularly.

Findings also indicated differences in traits among individuals based on their ancestry, which could relate to long-term adaptations.

This research sheds light on how people lived and interacted in medieval times. It emphasizes the value of genetic studies in understanding our history, especially when written records fall short. As scientists improve their techniques for analyzing ancient DNA, more discoveries will likely reshape our understanding of past societies.

The full study can be found in Genome Biology here.

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