From Fox News · Andrea Margolis · · 1m
Ancient DNA reshapes North America human arrival timeline
Ancient DNA suggests humans reached North America 14,000-20,000 years ago, challenging 'Clovis First' theory.
In brief
Ancient DNA suggests humans reached North America 14,000-20,000 years ago, challenging 'Clovis First' theory. Ancient DNA research indicates humans arrived in North America between 14,000 and 20,000 years ago, earlier than the previously accepted 'Clovis First' timeline of 13,500 years ago. Originally reported by Fox…
Ancient DNA study
Researchers reviewed ancient DNA and archaeological evidence to narrow human migration timeline into North America.
“Genomic data show us that the dynamics of the peopling of the Americas were quite different”
Timeline revision
Genetic evidence suggests humans reached North America between 14,000 and 20,000 years ago, earlier than previously thought.
“Genetic evidence most strongly supports humans reaching the Americas between 14,000 and 20,000 years ago”
Clovis First theory
The 'Clovis First' theory claimed humans arrived in North America 13,500 years ago, a timeline challenged by new evidence.
“The long-standing 'Clovis First' theory held that humans arrived in North America roughly 13,500 years ago”
Early human evidence
23,000-year-old human footprints at White Sands National Park suggest humans inhabited North America earlier than genetic evidence indicates.
“The footprints suggest humans may have inhabited North America earlier than the timeline supported by currently available genetic evidence”
Population split
Ancestral Native American populations split into northern and southern groups roughly 15,500 years ago, likely south of ice sheets.
“The researchers also highlighted evidence that ancestral Native American populations split into northern and southern groups roughly 15,500 years ago”
Remaining questions
Researchers acknowledge uncertainty about exact timing and geographic location of early population divergence events.
“The timing and geographic location of key divergence events mentioned above remain uncertain”
Here's the gist
Ancient DNA research indicates humans arrived in North America between 14,000 and 20,000 years ago, earlier than the previously accepted 'Clovis First' timeline of 13,500 years ago.
