Episode 40 - Indian Antiquities Heist and an Archaeological Battle of the Sexes (via ancient DNA)

In this episode, we delve into one of the biggest antiquities heists of the last few decades based on how long it lasted, how much stuff was looted and how many different places it all wound up...everywhere from local flea markets to the most venerable museums in the world. This is a story of the wholesale looting of India's cultural heritage and the fight for justice and to bring back the stolen antiquities.We then review two recent ancient DNA studies - one of Iron Age Britain and the other of the Avars, Central Asian nomadic peoples who settled in Central Europe. These studies support the historical record that suggested a high status of women in "Celtic" Britain and the opposite in Avar society. Patrilocality vs. Matrilocality, and Patrilineality vs. Matrilineality. It's an archaeological battle of the sexes, thanks to Ancient DNA!For the video version, see: https://www.youtube.com/@Into_the-Dust_Arch#archaeology #ancientsocieties #antiquities #archaeologicaldiscoveries #archeology