HÄSSLEHOLM, Sweden — A piece of birch bark tar, historically overlooked as mere remnants of tool-making, has become a remarkable window into prehistoric Scandinavia. This roughly 10,000-year-old artifact, discovered at the Huseby Klev site in western Sweden during the early 1990s, has now unveiled the oldest known human DNA in the region.
Advancements in DNA sequencing technology have breathed new life into this ancient chewed gum, which can be traced back to three individuals—two women and one man—whose genetic material was preserved within the residue. Initial thought to be just an example of Stone Age craftsmanship, the birch bark tar is now recognized for its significant cultural and historical insights.
During the early Mesolithic era, hunter-gatherer communities across Europe utilized birch bark tar not only as an adhesive for tools but also likely as a chewing gum. This dual use could indicate a social aspect to its consumption, as ancient people reportedly chewed the bark for leisure or while engaged in daily tasks, leaving behind traces of their genetic identities.
Researchers at Stockholm University highlighted the rarity of human remains from this period in Scandinavia, often presenting challenges in genetic preservation. A recent study published in Communications Biology underscores the transformative effects of modern methodologies in unlocking DNA that had long been thought beyond reach. “Much of our history is embedded in the DNA we carry,” said researcher Anders Götherström, emphasizing the importance of innovative techniques in archaeological science.
Analysis of the DNA from the birch bark revealed intriguing connections between the individuals and ancient populations across Ice Age Europe. Notably, tools excavated at the Huseby Klev site have roots tracing back to Russia, suggesting multiple migration pathways into Scandinavia from both Eastern Europe and Southern Europe. This finding supports existing theories of dual migration routes, further enriching our understanding of prehistoric human movement.
As Natalija Kashuba from the Museum of Cultural History in Oslo remarked, the work undertaken by archaeologists during the excavation has proven critical for preserving these fragile materials. She likened the meticulous study of this ancient gum to forensic research, illustrating the complexities of piecing together human history from remnants left behind thousands of years ago.
The implications of this research extend beyond migration patterns, offering insights into the daily lives of ancient peoples. From diet and health to social relationships, the genetic material provides a unique perspective on prehistoric societies. Per Persson, also from the Museum of Cultural History, emphasized the potential of these findings to trace not just human movement but also insights into social structures, diseases, and nutrition among early populations.
This birch bark tar, which bears distinct imprints of ancient teeth, encapsulates a fleeting moment from a time long past, shedding light on the lives of those who once roamed early Scandinavia. The role of this seemingly simple substance in preserving genetic history highlights the rich tapestry of human experiences that can be unearthed through careful archaeological study.