bioarchéologia

Bioarchéologia is a term that has been used to describe the study of past human populations through the analysis of skeletal remains. It is a field that bridges the disciplines of archaeology and biological anthropology, focusing on the biological and cultural aspects of human life in antiquity. Bioarchéologists examine bones, teeth, and other biological evidence to understand various facets of past societies, including diet, health, disease patterns, mobility, social status, and violence.

The primary source material for bioarchéologia is human skeletal remains recovered from archaeological sites. Through meticulous excavation and laboratory analysis, researchers can glean information about an individual's age at death, sex, and sometimes even their genetic relationships. Further examination can reveal evidence of nutritional deficiencies, infectious diseases, trauma from injuries or violence, and evidence of habitual activities that may have shaped bone and joint structure.

By studying patterns within a population's skeletal remains, bioarchéologia can reconstruct broader aspects of their lives. For instance, changes in diet can be inferred from dental wear or isotopic analysis. The prevalence of certain diseases can shed light on living conditions and hygiene. Evidence of warfare or interpersonal violence can inform us about social dynamics and conflict. Bioarchéologia thus provides a unique biological lens through which to understand the human experience in the past, complementing the material culture often studied by archaeologists. It contributes to a more holistic understanding of how past peoples lived, interacted, and adapted to their environments.