Ancient DNA Uncovers the Earliest Known Plague Outbreak
Recent archaeological findings from Siberia have revealed the earliest known victims of the plague, dating back 5,500 years. Excavations of ancient hunter-gatherer cemeteries at Lake Baikal have provided critical DNA evidence that suggests plague outbreaks occurred significantly earlier than previously believed, marking a grim chapter in human history. This discovery indicates that the plague was already a lethal disease long before the infamous outbreaks of the Black Death and Justinian Plague. The remains, particularly those of children, highlight the devastating impact of this ancient killer on vulnerable populations. This research not only rewrites the timeline of the plague but also enhances our understanding of its evolution and historical significance.
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