The settlers in Virginia were cannibals? New research - Gazeta.pl

about cannibalism in Jamestown, scientists have speculated for a long time, but has only just turned up convincing evidence that the winter 1609 years the oldest settlers of the American colonies actually ate people. Earlier, during excavations in Jamestown discovered many bones eaten by humans dogs, cats and horses. A year ago, found the skeleton of a young girl, named by scientists Jane.

Historical and anthropological studies have shown that Jane probably belonged to a relatively affluent, prosperous family. – She might be the daughter of a British aristocrat or a maid – tells anthropologist Douglas Owsley of the Smithsonian. Age and origin of the girls identified, on the basis of studies that have shown that they do not have molars yet, her bones are much nitrogen – this means that the diet was rich in meat.

“desperate enough to eat people,”

What proves that the 14-year-old has been eaten by the death of the settlers? – It is clear that the body was dismembered posthumously – says the scientist. The girl’s body was divided into portions by one or more rather untrained butchers. – The cuts were very uncertain, hesitant – says anthropologist. – Do not do this one specializing in the work of the kitchen or butcher. Work, knowing that doing what needs to be done – he added.

video about the making of discovery

How to inform researchers, it seems the brain, tongue, cheeks and leg muscles Jane were eaten. Probably the first settlers ate the brain, because it is a part of the body, after death, which breaks down quickly. Scientists say that in winter 1609 years the settlers were living in such extreme conditions, they were pretty desperate to eat human flesh.

It is not known whether Jane was murdered or died of natural causes. The scientists said they did not find any evidence to suggest murder. According to Jane Owsley may have been “chosen” because no one in her house was already dead, so there was no one to bury her.