Famed Pacific Rapa Nui island's population 'crash' debunked by ancient DNA

A recent study analyzing ancient DNA from Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, challenges the long-held belief that the island's population experienced a significant collapse due to environmental degradation before European contact. This theory, popularized by Jared Diamond's book "Collapse," suggested that overexploitation of resources led to a drastic decline in the population. However, the new genomic analysis indicates that after the initial settlement around 1200 AD, the population grew steadily until the 19th century, contradicting claims of a catastrophic drop from 15,000 to 3,000 people. The research also reveals that the ancient Rapanui had Native American ancestry, suggesting pre-colonial contact with Indigenous Americans, likely occurring in the 14th century. The study was conducted with input from Rapa Nui officials and community members, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in research involving Indigenous populations. The findings aim to reshape the narrative surrounding Rapa Nui's history and contribute to the repatriation of ancestral remains held in foreign institutions.

- The study debunks the theory of a population collapse on Rapa Nui due to resource overexploitation.

- Ancient DNA analysis shows a steady population growth after initial settlement, contradicting previous estimates.

- Evidence of Native American ancestry in ancient Rapanui suggests pre-colonial contact with the Americas.

- The research involved collaboration with Rapa Nui community members, highlighting the importance of Indigenous input.

- Findings aim to support the repatriation of ancestral remains from foreign institutions.