From VICE · Luis Prada · · 40s
75,000-Year-Old Neanderthal Stabbing Reveals Empathy
A Neanderthal's 75,000-year-old stabbing wound shows they cared for each other.
In brief
A Neanderthal's 75,000-year-old stabbing wound shows they cared for each other. A Neanderthal with a 75,000-year-old spear wound needed communal help to survive, revealing empathy. Originally reported by VICE.
Neanderthal Stabbing Discovery
A 75,000-year-old Neanderthal skeleton found in Shanidar Cave, Iraq, shows a fatal spear wound.
Spear Wound Details
The wound likely came from a wooden spear that pierced the chest, lung, and heart before exiting the back.
Neanderthal Empathy Evidence
Severe facial trauma with mangled teeth suggests Shanidar A needed communal help to eat and recover.
Communal Care Need
Researchers say Shanidar A likely needed food mashing and rest from group members during recovery.
At a glance
A Neanderthal with a 75,000-year-old spear wound needed communal help to survive, revealing empathy.
