Archaeogenomic evidence reveals prehistoric matrilineal dynasty
Kennett DJ, Plog S, George RJ et al.
Publication Details
Comprehensive information about this research publication
Abstract
Summary of the research findings
For societies with writing systems, hereditary leadership is documented as one of the hallmarks of early political complexity and governance. In contrast, it is unknown whether hereditary succession played a role in the early formation of prehistoric complex societies that lacked writing. Here we use an archaeogenomic approach to identify an elite matriline that persisted between 800 and 1130 CE in Chaco Canyon, the centre of an expansive prehistoric complex society in the Southwestern United States. We show that nine individuals buried in an elite crypt at Pueblo Bonito, the largest structure in the canyon, have identical mitochondrial genomes. Analyses of nuclear genome data from six samples with the highest DNA preservation demonstrate mother-daughter and grandmother-grandson relationships, evidence for a multigenerational matrilineal descent group. Together, these results demonstrate the persistence of an elite matriline in Chaco for ∼330 years.
Ancient DNA Samples
5 ancient DNA samples referenced in this publication
| Sample ID | Date/Era | Country | Locality | Sex | mtDNA | Y-DNA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| I2718 | 885 CE | USA | New Mexico. Pueblo Bonito | F | B2 |
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| I2715 | 991 CE | USA | New Mexico. Pueblo Bonito | F | B2 |
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| I2719 | 993 CE | USA | New Mexico. Pueblo Bonito | M | B2 |
Q-Z780 |
| I2716 | 992 CE | USA | New Mexico. Pueblo Bonito | M | B2 |
Q-Z780 |
| I2717 | 1026 CE | USA | New Mexico. Pueblo Bonito | F | B2 |
|
Analysis
Comprehensive review of ancestry and genetic findings
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