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Ancient Birch Tar Reveals Gender Roles in Prehistoric Diets

10/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Birch tar, dating to about 6,000 years ago, is the oldest-known synthetic material.
A study led by Anna White of the University of Copenhagen analyzed 30 birch tar artifacts from the European Alps, revealing insights into ancient diets and gendered practices.
Male DNA was found in stone tools, and female DNA appeared on pottery repairs.
The findings were published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B.

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Story summary

Birch tar, dating to about 6,000 years ago, is the oldest-known synthetic material.
A study led by Anna White of the University of Copenhagen analyzed 30 birch tar artifacts from the European Alps, revealing insights into ancient diets and gendered practices.
Male DNA was found in stone tools, and female DNA appeared on pottery repairs.
The findings were published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B.