A study led by anthropologists from the University of California, Davis, has found that the rise of archery technology in the Andes Mountains dates back to around 5,000 years ago, earlier than previously believed. The research, based on the analysis of 1,179 projectile points from the Lake Titicaca Basin, suggests that the adoption of bow-and-arrow technology coincided with the expansion of exchange networks and the growth of village settlements. The study provides insights into the social complexity of ancient Andean societies and highlights the significance of quantitative analysis of stone tools in understanding societal changes.
The discovery of an ornate necklace in a child's grave in ancient Jordan provides insights into the social complexity and funerary practices of Neolithic culture. The necklace, composed of over 2,500 colorful stones and shells, along with exceptional amber beads and a stone pendant, belonged to an individual of high social status. The meticulous craftsmanship and import of exotic materials suggest complex social dynamics within the community. The findings highlight the significance of body adornments in communicating cultural values and personal identities.
Modern dog breeds, genetically farther from wolves, have relatively larger brain sizes compared to ancient breeds, likely influenced by urbanization and a more complex social environment. Despite domestication generally leading to a decrease in brain size, researchers found that the more a dog breed is genetically distant from wolves, the larger its relative brain size becomes. The increase in brain size is not related to the specific roles or life history characteristics of the breeds. This study provides new insight into the rapid evolution and diversity within the dog species, possibly due to their adaptation to human environments and social complexity.
