DNA Testing of Ancient Man’s Skeleton OKd
- Share via
SPOKANE, Wash. — Despite the objections of Indian tribes, the federal government said Friday that DNA testing of one of the oldest skeletons found on the North American continent will go forward.
On Jan. 31, the Interior Department announced a preliminary decision to conduct the tests to try to pinpoint the origin of Kennewick Man, who is more than 9,000 years old and an early Native American.
Friday’s final decision follows days of discussions involving five tribes and federal officials.
Francis McManamon, chief consulting archeologist for the Interior Department, said DNA analysis may be time-consuming and ultimately inconclusive, but is worth the effort.
The Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, one of the tribes that claims Kennewick Man is an ancestor, criticized the decision. The tribes want the bones reburied.
Sign up for Essential California
The most important California stories and recommendations in your inbox every morning.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
