Ancient DNA reveals human sacrifice evidence at China's 4,000-year-old Shimao city
Genetic analysis shows males were predominantly sacrificed at Shimao's East Gate.
1The mystery of Shimao
The 4,000-year-old Shimao settlement in China's Shaanxi province was one of the most important Neolithic centers. The massive stone-walled city with functional divisions had an organized political and social structure. Archaeological findings indicate widespread rituals and human sacrifice practices.
2What DNA tells us
Nuclear DNA analysis of 169 ancient human samples shed light on Shimao's population origins. Results show the population largely descended from local people who lived in the region 1,000 years earlier. Genetic and cultural connections with Yangshao Culture and other Neolithic communities were also identified.
3Family structure and social hierarchy
Genetic analyses revealed family pedigrees spanning four generations at Shimao. The society had a patrilineal social hierarchy where status passed from father to son. This patrilocal system, where women relocated to their husbands' families, provides crucial clues about early state formation processes.
4Shocking discovery at East Gate
Eighty human skulls found near Shimao's East Gate were long believed to be female sacrifices. However, DNA analysis showed 90% of examined burials were male. This finding supports theories that sacrifice rituals were organized by gender.
5Organization of rituals
The distribution of sacrificial remains indicates highly organized practices at Shimao. Male sacrifices concentrated near East Gate, while female remains were found in elite cemeteries. This separation suggests different genders were selected for distinct rituals.
6Insights into early state formation
The Shimao study provides critical data for understanding early state formation processes in East Asia. The population showed genetic continuity over a millennium while maintaining connections with agricultural and pastoral communities across a wide geography. These findings will help develop new theories about the origins of early political structures.