A recent study on ancient city Çatalhöyük in southern Anatolia, Turkey, suggests that females may have ruled the society more than 9,000 years ago. Researchers analyzed DNA from over 130 skeletons and found a strong connection between female lineage and household members.
The analysis revealed that maternal lineage played a key role in connecting family members, with most female offspring remaining connected to their building for generations. In contrast, male offspring often moved away upon marriage. The study also showed that females received preferential treatment, including more grave goods and social support.
These findings challenge the Western assumption that all societies are patrilineal, highlighting the importance of considering non-patriarchal systems. The research is consistent with other studies on ancient Celtic society in Britain, which found similar patterns of female control and social connection.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/ancient-city-ruled-by-females-catalhoyuk