Current Biology
New Evidence Strengthens Case for Pre-Columbian Austronesian Contact with South America
2025-05-10
Genetic analysis of ancient plant DNA and human remains provides additional support for contact between Polynesian voyagers and South American populations centuries before European colonization.
Why It Matters
If confirmed, this suggests that Pacific Island navigators achieved one of the most extraordinary feats of exploration in human history—reaching South America and returning with sweet potato.
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