From BigGo Finance · BigGo Finance · · 1m 20s
Round Hole in Neanderthal Shoulder Blade Points to Wooden Spear Wound from 75,000 Years Ago
Neanderthal found with 75,000-year-old wooden spear wound on shoulder blade.
In brief
Neanderthal found with 75,000-year-old wooden spear wound on shoulder blade. A Neanderthal who lived 75,000 years ago died from a wooden spear wound that likely pierced the left lung and major blood vessels. Originally reported by BigGo Finance.
Neanderthal shoulder blade discovery
A fatal puncture wound likely from a wooden spear was found in a Neanderthal's shoulder blade 75,000 years ago.
Shanidar A remains analysis
The research team led by Professor Emma Pomeroy of the University of Cambridge analyzed the 'Shanidar A' remains from Shanidar Cave in Iraqi Kurdistan.
Round hole in shoulder blade
The hole was 1.5 cm in diameter with smooth edges, matching damage from a wooden spear more closely than stone-tipped weapons.
Spear wound impact
The spear likely pierced the left lung and major blood vessels, causing rapid death but the cause remains uncertain.
Earlier facial injury
The Neanderthal also had a severe facial injury that required care from group members to survive at least one year.
Dental damage evidence
The Neanderthal had one lower front tooth split vertically with half remaining, indicating prolonged survival after injury.
Mortuary practices
At least five Neanderthals were interred in Shanidar Cave over multiple periods, showing repeated use of a specific burial space.
In short
A Neanderthal who lived 75,000 years ago died from a wooden spear wound that likely pierced the left lung and major blood vessels.
