Study of 1,500 ancient Peruvians finds everyday violence rare despite floods

 Researchers examined over 1,500 ancient Peruvian skeletons to understand societal responses to climate disasters. Findings reveal that violence was rare even during El Niño flooding events that severely impacted food availability. Interestingly, mass human sacrifices were observed without corresponding everyday violence among the population. This suggests that ancient societies may have adapted creatively to ecological crises. Overall, the study highlights the choices societies make in response to environmental challenges. Researchers examined over 1,500 ancient Peruvian skeletons to understand societal responses to climate disasters. Findings reveal that violence was rare even during El Niño flooding events that severely impacted food availability. Interestingly, mass human sacrifices were observed without corresponding everyday violence among the population. This suggests that ancient societies may have adapted creatively to ecological crises. Overall, the study highlights the choices societies make in response to environmental challenges.