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DNA analysis reveals gendered human sacrifice in ancient Shimao civilization

DNA analysis has shed new light on the ancient Shimao civilization in China, which flourished between 2300–1800 BC in the Shaanxi region. Previously, their impressive walls were mistakenly thought to be part of the Great Wall of China. A recent study published in Nature revealed evidence of ritualistic human sacrifice, with distinct practices based on gender. Male sacrifices were found concentrated near an eastern gate, while female sacrifices were located near elite cemeteries. AI

RANK_REASON The cluster reports on findings from a scientific paper published in Nature, detailing new insights into an ancient civilization. [lever_c_demoted from research: ic=1 ai=0.1]

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DNA analysis reveals gendered human sacrifice in ancient Shimao civilization

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The cluster reports on findings from a scientific paper published in Nature, detailing new insights into an ancient civilization. [lever_c_demoted from research: ic=1 ai=0.1]
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COVERAGE [1]

  1. SCMP — Tech TIER_1 English(EN) · Kevin McSpadden ·

    From gendered sacrifice to ancient politics: DNA lifts shroud on early Chinese civilisation

    Thousands of years ago, a handful of burgeoning civilisations were forming the earliest cultures of what would evolve into China. Among these peoples were the Shimao, who constructed majestic walls that were mistakenly believed to be part of the Great Wall of China until jade art…