New archaeological evidence from two Neolithic cemeteries (4,750–4,500 years ago) on China’s eastern coast reveals that ancient communities may have practiced matrilineal kinship.
Key Findings
Genetic Evidence:
mtDNA (mitochondrial DNA):
Inherited only from mothers.
Uniform mtDNA across individuals within each cemetery indicated common maternal ancestry.
Different mtDNA between cemeteries confirmed distinct matrilineal clans.
Y-chromosome DNA:
Inherited only from fathers to sons.
Y-DNA was highly diverse, indicating non-paternal lineage focus in burial practices.
Isotopic Evidence:
Strontium isotope ratios (??Sr/??Sr):
Found in teeth and bones; matched with local soils ? individuals were non-migratory.
Carbon isotope ratios (¹³C/¹²C):
Diet was primarily millet-based agriculture, with pig domestication.
No dietary distinction between males and females ? equal food access.
Significance
Contradicts the assumption that ancient societies were exclusively patriarchal.
Provides rare concrete evidence of matrilineal social organization in prehistoric times.
Demonstrates the role of DNA and isotope analysis in reconstructing ancient social, dietary, and migratory patterns.
Examples of Other Matrilineal Societies:
Chaco Canyon Civilization, North America (800–1300 BCE)