A new DNA study reveals that one of the oldest and best-preserved skeletons Kennewick Man is a relative of Native Americans.
The genetic study recently published in the online journal Nature sheds light to the real identity of an ancient skeleton found in 1996 from a river in Washington State, closing the long-running debate about its custody and ancestry.
Led by paleogeneticist Morten Rasmussen of the University of Copenhagen, the study disclosed the findings that Kennewick Man displays the best genetic similarity to northern Native Americans, most especially with the Colville, Ojibwa and Algonquin.
The team of researchers have taken DNA samples from volunteered 22 current members of the Colville Confederated Tribes, one of the five claimer tribes. They discovered that one of the groups displayed a close inclination with the Man or at least to the population to which he belonged. However, they cannot pinpoint exactly which tribe he truly belongs with.
Eske Willerslev of the University of Copenhagen’s Centre for GeoGenetics said they have not obtained any DNA samples from other four tribes, but he recognized the possibility that Kennewick Man might be closely related to them. He added that tribes have been intermarrying with one another for many years, according to CBS News.
There is also a comparison between the DNA of Kennewick Man and Japanese Ainu and Polynesian populations, resulting that these tribes do not match with the genetics of contemporary Native Americans.
According to Francis McManamon, Park Service Chief Archaeologist, Kennewick Man has lived a vigorous life with robust stature and remained strong until his death around 45-55 years old. McManamon added that he was severely wounded in his hip by a spear during his teen years, but his bones grew and molded completely.
Researchers said that the new findings can help in establishing connection with Ancient One’s reburial under NAGPRA (the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act).