The Research Seminar Series in Archaeology and Environmental archaeology, together with The Research Seminar Series in History and History of Ideas, invites you to a seminar with Lotta Vikström and Erling Häggström Gunfridsson who will speak on the topic of "Patrilinear perspectives of a colonisation process using genetic genealogy".
Abstract: Analysis of colonization processes that occurred before the availability of written records has traditionally relied on methods from fields such as archaeology and linguistics. However, the rapid development of DNA testing has introduced a novel approach to investigating these historical processes. In this study, we utilize genetic testing to examine the colonization of Västerbotten, a region in northern Sweden. Although detailed written records exist from the 18th century onward through parish registers, the region's earlier history remains only partially understood. This study employs genetic analysis to explore the demographic and migratory patterns of Västerbotten’s early inhabitants. The primary objective was to trace the progression of colonization, including the demographics, migration routes, and ancestry of early settlers. By analyzing haplogroup patterns, we uncovered insights into the paternal lines that have shaped the region’s genetic landscape over the past two millennia, providing valuable implications for understanding the colonization process. Furthermore, this study underscores the significant potential of genetic genealogy as a tool for reconstructing complex historical demographic processes. Our findings demonstrate how analysing paternal lineages that contribute to the genetic makeup of the Västerbotten population can reveal clues about regional colonization dynamics. This work illustrates the broader applicability of genetic analysis in deepening our understanding of historical events, not only in this region but also in similar contexts worldwide.
About the seminar series
The Research Seminar Series in Archaeology and Environmental Archaeology presents and discusses current research in archaeology and environmental archaeology.
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