Date Posted:23:02:07 04/24/02 Wed Author:Drummond Subject: Evidence of socialism 36,000 years ago
Cracked skull shows aggressive, merciful nature of Neanderthals
Last Updated Tue, 23 Apr 2002 15:48:51 http://cbc.ca/stories/2002/04/23/neanderthals020423
ZURICH - A fractured Neanderthal skull that was partially healed suggests the pre-humans used their social ties to nurse their sick, scientists say.
Swiss and French researchers came to the conclusion after studying a 36,000-year-old skull that was found years ago at St. Césaire in France.
Using 3-dimensional computer imaging techniques, the researchers concluded the injury was likely caused by a sharp, stone weapon struck by someone from the victim's own group.
Signs of bone healing indicated the victim, who was likely an adult male, didn't suffer a fatal blow. But the authors think his life would have been in danger if it hadn't been for the support of his companions.
The researchers added that the type of fracture excludes other explanations such as disease, a hunting accident or a fall on a pointed object.
Christopher Zollikofer of the University of Zurich-Irchel led the research team, which deduced the use of weapons by members of the same group was probably a major factor in the evolution of Neanderthal and modern human social behaviour.
One other Neanderthal was injured by what appeared to be a weapon. Scientists say in that case, a sharp point - either a spear or arrow - penetrated the victim's ribs.
Neanderthals lived in Europe, central Asia, the near East and likely western Siberia until their mysterious demise about 30,000 years ago.
The findings appear in Tuesday's online issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Written by CBC News Online staff
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