JOURNAL ARTICLE

Tally of bones, artifacts reveals 2000 years of population swings among Indigenous Americans.

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2025. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Pattison, Kermit 3 of 3

Abstract

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences analyzed tens of thousands of radiocarbon dates from bones, textiles, and other artifacts to track population fluctuations among Indigenous Americans before European arrival. The research revealed that the population of North America peaked around 1150 C.E. before declining by at least 30% by 1500. Different regions experienced population shifts at varying times due to factors like climate changes, disease, and warfare. The study challenges colonialist narratives and emphasizes that the decline in Indigenous populations prior to European contact should not be used to justify historical injustices. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2025/02, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:History
  • Publication Date:2025
  • Accession Number:182797847
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