A new study published in Nature has shed light on two long-debated aspects of Easter Island’s history. The research analyzed the genomes of 15 ancient Rapanui individuals who lived between 1670 and 1950, housed at the Musée de l’Homme in Paris.
The study challenges the theory of population collapse due to “ecocide” or environmental mismanagement. Contrary to the idea that a growing population led to resource depletion, warfare, famine, and cannibalism, causing a catastrophic population decline, the genetic analysis shows a stably growing population from the 13th century through European contact in the 18th century.
The research also sheds light on the possibility of transpacific contact between Polynesian ancestors of the Rapanui people and Indigenous Americans before European arrival. The study found that around ten percent of the Rapanui gene pool has Indigenous American origins, suggesting a contact occurring between the 13th and 15th centuries.
The findings suggest that the ancestors of the Rapanui may have reached the Americas before Columbus, potentially undertaking even more formidable voyages than previously thought. The research team engaged directly with the Rapanui community to ensure the study addressed questions of interest to both scientists and islanders.
The study’s conclusions refute the ecocide theory and provide evidence of pre- European contact between Rapanui and Indigenous Americans. Moreover, it opens the door to discussions about repatriating the remains of Rapanui ancestors and preserving their legacy for future generations. The Rapanui community will retain control over who has access to the genetic data of their ancestors and how it is used.
Source: https://www.earth.com/news/easter-island-dna-proves-the-population-did-not-collapse/