New Research Reveals: Ancient Europeans Had Dark Skin, Eyes, and Hair Until 3,000 Years Ago
New findings reveal that most prehistoric Europeans retained dark skin, hair, and eye pigmentation throughout the Iron Age, which concluded roughly 3,000 years ago. Researchers discovered that the genetic markers for lighter skin, hair, and eye colors appeared amongst early Europeans approximately 14,000 years ago, towards the end of the Paleolithic era—commonly referred to as the "Old Stone Age." However, according to the study’s lead author, these traits were not consistent until much more recent times. Silvia Ghirotto a geneticist affiliated with the University of Ferrara in Italy. Paleer skin might have provided an evolutionary benefit for Europeans as it allowed individuals to produce more vitamin D. vitamin D — essential for strong bones, teeth, and muscles — due to the reduced intensity of sunlight in Europe. However, having lighter iris colors such as blue or green doesn’t appear to have made a difference. major evolutionary advantages And thus, its appe...