What's Happening?
Researchers have uncovered a 2,400-year-old fingerprint on the Hjortspring boat, Scandinavia's oldest plank boat, which was discovered in the Hjortspring Mose bog in Denmark. The fingerprint likely belonged to someone who repaired the vessel, providing
new insights into the origins and activities of ancient sea raiders. The boat, part of a fleet used in attacks during the 4th century B.C.E., was studied using advanced techniques such as 3D modeling and carbon dating. The research revealed that the boat's caulking was made from a mix of animal fat and pine pitch, suggesting a Baltic Sea origin rather than the previously assumed region near modern-day Hamburg, Germany.
Why It's Important?
This discovery sheds light on the technological and navigational capabilities of ancient seafarers, suggesting they undertook long maritime raids across the Baltic Sea. The fingerprint and the chemical analysis of the boat's materials provide a more detailed understanding of the cultural and geographical origins of these ancient warriors. This research not only enhances historical knowledge of prehistoric maritime activities but also challenges previous assumptions about the movement and interactions of ancient European populations. The findings could lead to a reevaluation of the historical narratives surrounding early seafaring and trade routes in Northern Europe.
What's Next?
Researchers plan to further analyze the boat's planks using tree ring data to pinpoint its exact origin. They also aim to extract ancient DNA from the caulking tar, which could offer more detailed information about the people who used the boat. These future studies could provide deeper insights into the social and cultural dynamics of ancient seafaring communities, potentially influencing historical interpretations of early European maritime history.
