18th‑Century Siberian Shaman DNA Reveals Close‑Kin Parents
A new DNA study of ancient mummies from Siberia’s Yakutia region has revealed that one of the last Indigenous shamans, an 18th‑century woman, had parents who were closely related — a rare insight into Siberian genetic history and spiritual traditions.
🔹 The naturally mummified remains of a female shaman (nicknamed UsSergue1) were found buried in central Yakutia with rich traditional attire, including layered garments and ceremonial accessories.
🔹 Genetic analysis shows her parents were second‑degree relatives (e.g., uncle‑niece, half‑siblings), making her notably inbred compared with others in the burial cohort.
🔹 Shamanism persisted long after Russian conquest and Christianization efforts, suggesting cultural resilience among Yakut Indigenous communities.
🔹 The broader DNA study of over 100 Yakut mummies found genetic continuity in the population across centuries, indicating limited mixing with Russian settlers and long‑term cultural persistence.
Why This Matters:
This discovery offers rare insights into Indigenous Siberian biology, family structures, and belief systems before full assimilation into Russian‑dominated culture — revealing how genetics and tradition coexisted in a harsh, remote environment.
Expert Insight:
High‑quality DNA preservation in the permafrost allowed scientists to reconstruct ancient life, kinship, and cultural resilience — a window into social networks and spiritual leaders of past communities.
