In a surprising turn of events, experts have shed light on the origin of mysterious mummies found in the Chinese desert. While the concept of mummification is commonly associated with Ancient Egypt, mummified remains have been discovered in various parts of the world. One intriguing find in Peru consisted of mummified 'non-human' remains with only three fingers, leaving researchers puzzled.
Similarly, the discovery of hundreds of human mummies in China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region's deserts perplexed experts. Located along the Silk Road in the Tarim Basin, these mummies defied expectations with their distinct traditions and appearances that seemed out of place for the region. Dating back to the period between 2,000 BCE and 200 CE, these mummies displayed features commonly associated with the West and adorned colorful wool clothing. Additionally, indications of a farming culture were found, such as domesticated animals like cattle, sheep, and goats, as well as agricultural products like wheat, barley, and cheese. These mummies were interred in boat-shaped coffins covered with cow hides.
To unravel the mystery, a recent study published in the Nature journal delved into the genetic data of 13 of the earliest known Tarim Basin mummies, dating back to 2,100 to 1,700 BCE. The results unveiled the origins of these intriguing individuals. It turns out that they were direct descendants of the Ancient North Eurasians, a group of hunter-gatherers who inhabited the north Eurasian steppe and Siberia. This particular group had vanished around 10,000 years ago, despite their once widespread presence. However, traces of their genetics can still be found in some indigenous populations in Siberia and the Americas today.
Interestingly, these findings contradicted previous theories suggesting that the Tarim Basin mummies were either herders from the Black Sea region of southern Russia, Central Asians, or early farmers on the Iranian Plateau. Instead, it appears that they had resided in the area for an extended period and had developed a distinct local ancestry.
Christina Warinner, one of the study's authors and a professor of Anthropology at Harvard University, as well as a research group leader at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, highlighted the cultural cosmopolitanism of the Bronze Age peoples of the Tarim Basin. Though genetically isolated, they incorporated foods from various regions into their cuisine. Wheat and dairy from West Asia, millet from East Asia, and medicinal plants like Ephedra from Central Asia all played a role in their dietary practices.
The unraveling of the origins of these enigmatic mummies deepens our understanding of ancient civilizations and the interconnectedness of cultures. It serves as a testament to the rich tapestry of human history and the blend of influences that have shaped our world.
