Ancient DNA Reveals Rapa Nui Reached Americas Before Columbus

New genetic study also debunks the long-held theory of Easter Island's population collapse due to ecological suicide.

DNA analysis of 15 ancient Rapa Nui individuals indicates contact with Indigenous American occurred around 1300 A.D., two centuries before Columbus's arrival.
The study found no evidence of a dramatic population collapse on Easter Island in the 1600s, contradicting the 'ecocide' theory.
Researchers discovered that approximately 10% of the Rapa Nui genome is of Indigenous American origin, supporting pre-European contact.
The findings challenge the narrative that European colonial activity introduced American DNA to the Rapa Nui population.
The study emphasizes the resilience of the Rapa Nui people and calls for the repatriation of the analyzed remains to Easter Island.