October 20, 2017
Skeletal Remains at the Site of Pacopampa in Peru Exhibit Signs of Ritual Violence
Skeletal remains from a ritual platform at the site of Pacopampa in Peru, show the individuals in the grave died of blows to the head that appear to be from ritualized violence, and that the blows probably did not kill them. The studies at this platform began in 2005. To date, they have found 104 people, 66 adults, 38 children whose remains date from 1200 BCE-500 BCE. Many had injuries to the head, limbs, and elbows. There were repeated blows to the heads of many, but signs of healing as well, showing they did not all die from the head blows. They were found on a ceremonial platform and do not exhibit defensive wounds. These may have been controlled acts of violence for elites to show dominance. The site is related to the early Chavin culture.
The research is published in the peer reviewed journal;
Nagaoka et al, PLoS One, 2017
And the report is in Business Insider, with photos;
http://www.businessinsider.com/andean-civilizations-pacopampa-ritual-violence-study-2017-10
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