Early Natufian remains: evidence for physical conflict from Mt. Carmel, Israel

J Hum Evol. 2004 Jul-Aug;47(1-2):19-23. doi: 10.1016/j.jhevol.2004.05.003.

Abstract

Prior to the establishment of farming communities direct physical evidence for human conflict was rarely reported from archaeological contexts. Here we present a case of an Early Natufian (14,500-13,000 cal B.P.) projectile, classified as Helwan lunate, embedded inside the seventh or eighth thoracic vertebra sequence of a mature middle age adult male. Due to calcareous concretion four vertebras were still in anatomical connection when uncovered by F. Turville-Petre, during his excavations at Kebara cave (Mt. Carmel) in 1931.

Publication types

  • Historical Article

MeSH terms

  • Archaeology
  • Conflict, Psychological*
  • Fossils
  • History, Ancient
  • Humans
  • Israel
  • Thoracic Vertebrae / injuries
  • Violence* / history
  • Wounds, Penetrating