Lecture Dynamic changes in genomic and social structures in third millenium BCE central Europe – May 12th, 2022, 2:30 p.m.

The Institute of Archaeology of the CAS, Prague, v.v.i., would like to invite you to a lecture delivered by a team of authors (L. Papac, M. Ernée, M. Dobeš, M. Langová, W. Haak et al.) Dynamic changes in genomic and social structures in third millennium BCE central Europe, which will take place on Thursday 12 May 2022 at 2:30 pm in the library of the Institute of Archaeology at Letná 4.

Abstract:
Europe’s prehistory oversaw dynamic and complex interactions of diverse societies, hitherto unexplored at detailed regional scales. Studying 271 human genomes dated ~4900 to 1600 BCE from the European heartland, Bohemia, we reveal unprecedented genetic changes and social processes. Major migrations preceded the arrival of “steppe” ancestry, and at ~2800 BCE, three genetically and culturally differentiated groups coexisted. Corded Ware appeared by 2900 BCE, was initially genetically diverse, did not derive all steppe ancestry from known Yamnaya, and assimilated females of diverse backgrounds. Both Corded Ware and Bell Beaker related groups underwent dynamic changes, involving sharp reductions and complete replacements of Y-chromosomal diversity at ~2600 and ~2400 BCE, respectively, the latter accompanied by increased Neolithic-like ancestry. The Bronze Age saw new social organizations emerge amid a ≥40% population turnover.

The lecture will be presented in the Czech language; you can ask questions about the genetics part of the research in English. The lecture will take place in a hybrid way, physically in the library of the Institute of Archaeology of the CAS, Prague, and at the same time, at ZOOM.

Join Zoom Meeting: https://cesnet.zoom.us/j/95661337073?pwd=cGdmUnZuRnlyVnVWbGJhemxmZFpBZz09

Meeting ID: 956 6133 7073

Passcode: 319491