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New Study Of Cahokia Mound Shows Mixed-Sex Graves

Steve Moses/Flickr

A new study was completed on one of the mounds at Cahokia State Historic Site.  It shows human remains dated at 900 years old belonged to both men and women.

This contradicts earlier theories that the mound was for elite warrior men, and, according to one professor, shifts the narrative more toward fertility symbolism.  

The five square mile complex represents North America's "first city", an ancient American Indian civilization.  Much of it lies deep underground, and is awaiting further study.  Rachel Otwell spoke with Thomas Emerson, head of the Illinois State Archeological Survey, about the new findings.  

 

Rachel's reports currently focus on education and equity. She's also reported extensively on arts, community & diverse culture.