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Ancient Humans Reached Australia 60,000 Years Ago
29 Nov
Summary
- Genetic study suggests humans arrived in Sahul at least 60,000 years ago.
- Ancient migration to Australia likely used two distinct routes, primarily northern.
- DNA analysis supports the 'long chronology' of human settlement in Australia.
Recent genetic research provides compelling evidence that ancient humans reached the landmass of Sahul, encompassing present-day Australia and New Guinea, at least 60,000 years ago. This significant period of migration, supporting the 'long chronology' of settlement, appears to have involved two distinct routes. While both northern and southern paths were utilized, the northern route, likely via the Philippines and Sulawesi, shows stronger support in the new findings.
The study analyzed nearly 2,500 genome sequences from Indigenous Australians, Papua New Guineans, and surrounding populations. This genetic mapping allowed researchers to date the dispersals, concluding that settlement occurred around 60,000 years ago, challenging theories suggesting a later arrival around 45,000 years ago. The findings also suggest migration was not a one-way street, with ancient genetic lineages found across different islands.
This palaeogenetic evidence aligns with archaeological discoveries, such as ancient rock art in Sulawesi dating back over 51,200 years and activity at Australia's Madjedbebe site exceeding 60,000 years. These combined insights paint a more detailed picture of sophisticated seafaring capabilities and early human presence in Sahul, reshaping our understanding of prehistoric migrations across the ancient continent.
